# Onboard merchant

Use an API-driven workflow to onboard merchants efficiently. This end-to-end process automates each step, from application submission to equipment activation. So merchants can start accepting payments faster.

The following is the high-level process that outline the merchant onboarding flow:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
**Merchant data collection**

Collect and submit business details through Integrator UI to start merchant onboarding. This interface integrates with Xplor Pay’s backend systems to create and manage merchant profiles. Once the data is submitted, the system validates the information and returns a response for verification.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Data validation and correction**

After the application is received, the system validates the submitted data. If corrections are needed, the Application Fixes Webhook notifies the integration system.

Key Validations Include:

* Business Contact Validation: Verifies business ownership details.
* Bank Validation: Confirms banking details to prevent transaction errors.

These checks ensure the merchant data is accurate before processing:

:white\_check\_mark: Implement webhook consumption to receive notifications.

:white\_check\_mark: Display notifications to merchants.

:white\_check\_mark: Collect the corrected information from merchants.

:white\_check\_mark: Submit the corrected data using the same APIs used during the Merchant Data Collection process.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Merchants can skip corrections to proceed.
{% endhint %}

:white\_check\_mark: Proceed with the Sign and Submit Application steps.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Merchant agreement and application Submission**

Merchants review the application, sign the agreement electronically, and submit it for processing. Xplor Pay logs the terms, IP address, and timestamp for transparency.

Submission options:

* Electronic signature – Merchants sign the agreement online.
* Document upload – A pre-signed agreement can be uploaded instead.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Automated underwriting and decision**

Xplor Pay triggers the Webhook URL to begin underwriting. The automated system reviews the merchant’s data for risk and compliance.

There are three possible outcomes:

* Approved – The merchant passes underwriting and moves to equipment setup.
* Manual review – Additional checks are needed, such as supporting documents or business verification.
* Declined – The application is rejected if it doesn't meet compliance or risk criteria.

Real-time status updates are sent through Webhook notifications.
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{% step %}
**Equipment setup**

For approved merchants, Xplor Pay configures the payment hardware and provides API keys for integration.

Automated Equipment Setup (Quest/TSYS):

* Configure devices like POS systems and card readers.
* Assigns API keys for merchants integrating with Xplor Pay’s payment system.

**Process card-not-present (CNP) transactions**

Merchants can begin accepting remote payments (online, phone, or virtual) after data validation and underwriting are complete.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Merchants *do not* require any device to process card-not-present transactions.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Equipment shipping and activation**

Once approved, the payment equipment is shipped pre-configured for immediate use. Merchants activate the devices and can begin in-person transactions.

**Process card-present (CP) transactions**

After setup, merchants can accept in-store payments using card readers or POS terminals.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Merchants *require* an active device to process card-present transactions. For more information, see [Devices](https://app.gitbook.com/s/ek5aF2vccbKrklw8djdB/devices "mention").
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}
