All companies must have some form of electronic payment available to them and their customers. It is convenient, safe and it also allows local businesses in Trinidad and Tobago to access e-commerce solutions for their websites through services like those offered here at First Atlantic Commerce. However, the first step towards this goal is opening a merchant account at a local bank.
Consumer behaviour and expectations are always changing but perhaps not as quickly as we have seen this past year with the pandemic. COVID-19 has increased the demand for consumers to pay online on merchant websites and apps. Businesses that want to invest in e-commerce solutions for the benefit of both themselves and their clients in Trinidad and Tobago should first look into obtaining an online merchant account.
How do I get an Online Merchant Account?
Merchant services are offered by most banks in Trinidad and Tobago however, the documentation required varies depending on the bank chosen and the type of business that wants to obtain a merchant account.
Scotiabank and RBC Royal Bank (Trinidad & Tobago) Limited both ask that businesses contact their team to get the necessary information to take the next steps. Their contact information is as follows:
Scotiabank Trinidad & Tobago Limited:
- Phone:(868)-627-2684
- CustomerCareTT@scotiabank.com
Royal Bank (Trinidad and Tobago) Limited:
- (868) 625-7288 ext. 38172
- (868) 625-7288 ext. 80350
Other banks such as Republic Bank Limited Trinidad and Tobago or First Citizens Bank clearly outline what they need businesses to provide in order to access their merchant services online. The details are listed below:
Republic Bank (Trinidad and Tobago) Limited
Republic Bank has a Merchant Services Application available for download. Businesses just have to complete the form and email a scanned copy to this email: ecommerce@rfhl.com. Businesses can also go to their nearest bank to submit the document however, the online process is encouraged, especially due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Businesses can also contact the marketing representative for their area for more information on this process.
First Citizens Bank Trinidad and Tobago
First Citizens Bank has an extremely detailed web page that goes into the details for what documentation is required by each type of company (Sole Trader, Partnership, Limited Liability Company, Non-Profit Organizations Point of Sale). Businesses are asked to submit the necessary documents listed and as well as their online application for Merchant Services to posmarketingofficers@firstcitizenstt.com.
Customers can also call this number for more information:
- 1(868) 625-2893 Ext. 2314, 2315, 2317, 2267
First Atlantic Commerce provides online payment solutions and international credit card processing for merchants, banks, and partners all over the world. Our services allow merchants to accept and process credit and debit card payments online! Learn more about our online payment solutions and how you can implement it on your website today!