Credit vs. debit: how each is priced.

Debit: usually cheaper

Debit transactions, especially PIN debit, generally carry lower interchange than credit. High debit volume means a lower overall effective rate.

Credit & rewards: more expensive

Credit cards — particularly premium rewards cards — carry higher interchange, because someone has to fund those points and miles. A customer base that loves rewards cards quietly raises your costs.

Why it matters for zero-cost

Surcharging applies to credit, not debit, so your card mix affects how a program is structured. I'll look at your actual mix and recommend the approach that nets you the most. See the program options.