New regulations are reshaping the payments industry, and they could have a direct impact on your merchant services contract. Whether you’re a small retailer or an online business, staying informed is key to avoiding surprises.

One major area to watch is fee transparency. Lawmakers are pushing for clearer disclosures around payment processing fees, which could lead to changes in how providers present rates and terms. This may affect how your contract is structured, especially if you’re on a tiered or blended pricing plan.

Another issue is data privacy and security. With new laws emerging globally—like updates to GDPR in Europe and tighter data rules in U.S. states—merchants may be required to follow stricter guidelines when handling customer payment data. Your provider may update contract terms to shift more responsibility onto you.

There’s also increased oversight on high-risk industries and chargeback management. Some processors are tightening policies, raising reserve requirements, or limiting services to merchants in industries facing more scrutiny.

If your contract hasn’t been reviewed in a while, now’s a good time. Look for changes in fee structures, data responsibilities, and termination clauses. Staying compliant doesn’t just protect your business—it can also help you avoid unexpected costs or account issues down the line.