Adult toys are a taboo topic of conversation and often make people feel uncomfortable because of their intended use. Despite the fact that the adult toy industry rakes in billions of dollars each year, e-commerce merchants have a tough time finding credit card processing solutions.
However, what makes the adult toy industry high risk? Why do adult toys fall into the high risk category? The most obvious reason is that they are part of the sex industry, which carries a certain stigma all in itself. The sex industry has specific age restrictions, rules, and regulations that acquiring banks and payment processors consider when underwriting a merchant account application. If the acquiring bank does not feel comfortable undertaking the risk of processing credit cards for an adult business, they will decline the application.
The potential chargebacks for adult toy merchants also cause banks to consider the industry high risk. With strict return policies, customers wind up being stuck with their purchases. It is one thing for a customer to return an unopened product if the merchant accidentally shipped the wrong one. However, it is by far another story entirely to have a customer return used goods because he or she was not satisfied with it.
Adult Toy Website Requirements
Selling adult toys online is a discrete, private way for customers to see your products and browse your selection. Since they are not able to see your products in person, it is important to make sure you include plenty of images and detailed descriptions for each one.
Here are some additional website requirements adult toy merchants should include.
- Legal restrictions
- Acceptable payment types
(with full-color logos) - Processing currencies
- Shipping methods
- Return and refund policies
- Privacy policy
- Customer service contact information
Also, keep in mind that it’s not just women buying adult toys online—men are buying them too. Be sure you gear your website toward both men and women so everyone is comfortable purchasing from you.
Adult Toy Merchant Accounts from Instabill
Our professional and polished merchant account managers work with a large, trusted network of acquiring banks from around the world. Whether you’re looking for an adult toy merchant account with an offshore bank, or you are a U.S. merchant who would like to stick with onshore credit card processing, we can find the perfect solution for you. We are here to find you the most affordable rates and fees for your adult toy merchant account.
