Ever looked at your monthly statement from your card payment provider and wondered where half the charges came from? You're not alone.

At Tillex, we speak to business owners across Galway and beyond who signed up for what looked like a straightforward deal, only to find a list of extra charges buried in the small print. It's one of the most common frustrations we hear, and it's usually avoidable if you know what to look for.

Why Hidden Fees Are So Common

Card payment contracts can be dense, and providers don't always make their full pricing structure obvious upfront. A quoted transaction rate might look competitive, but it often doesn't include everything you'll actually be charged.

Fees to Watch Out For

Before signing with any provider, it's worth checking for:

• PCI compliance fees charged separately every month
• Minimum monthly service charges, even in quiet months
• Early termination fees if you want to leave the contract
• Statement or paper billing fees
• Authorisation fees on top of the advertised transaction rate
• Equipment rental costs that increase after an initial period

How to Protect Your Business

The best way to avoid surprise charges is to ask for a full, itemised breakdown of costs before you sign anything, not just the headline rate. A provider that's upfront about pricing shouldn't hesitate to give you this in writing.

It's also worth reviewing your contract length. Long lock-in periods can leave you stuck paying fees you didn't expect, with no easy way out if the service doesn't live up to the promise.

How Tillex Keeps Things Transparent

At Tillex, we believe businesses should know exactly what they're paying for, with no surprises further down the line. Our pricing is straightforward from the outset, and our team is always available to walk you through your contract in plain terms before you commit.

Ready for a Clearer Picture?

If you're unsure what you're actually paying for with your current provider, get in touch with the Tillex team. We'll help you understand your options and show you what transparent, fair pricing looks like.