Steer clear of Square at all costs.
I can’t believe I’m writing this, but it’s crucial for others to hear our story. After two years of smooth payment processing, Square unexpectedly closed our account without warning or explanation on a Saturday afternoon. Unfortunately, we’re not alone in this; many have shared similar experiences on the BBB, making me question the legality of their actions.
With customers waiting and no phone support available until Monday, we frantically tried to reach someone for answers. The response we received was shocking:
“After a comprehensive review of your account, we have determined that we are still unable to process payments for your business. Our decision to deactivate your account is final. We understand that it can be frustrating to have your account deactivated. However, due to security concerns and our obligations to card networks and other financial institutions, we cannot provide additional details. For more information about our policies on this matter, please review sections 12 and 13 of our General Terms of Service.”
My partner and I are devastated. Our funds are frozen until August, and we’re staring down the possibility of bankruptcy since we relied entirely on Square for our banking and savings. This has thrown our small business into chaos, and it’s hard to believe we find ourselves in this position.
I am in shock. How will we make payroll? How can we meet our rent obligations? After two years in business without a single chargeback, this feels completely unjust.
I want to spread the word so others can avoid falling into the same trap we did. If you’re considering Square, think twice! I’m now reading reviews and realizing I’m not alone in feeling betrayed by what I thought was a trustworthy service.
Does anyone have any advice on what steps we should take next?
2 Comments
I’m truly sorry to hear about your experience with Square. That sounds incredibly frustrating and stressful, especially for a small business that relies on steady cash flow. You’re definitely not alone in this; there are others who have faced similar issues, and it highlights the risks of trusting a single payment processor with everything.
Here are a few suggestions that might help you navigate this situation:
Reach Out to Customer Support Again: While you’ve already tried contacting Square, persistence can sometimes pay off. Try reaching out through different channels—social media, forums, or even visiting a local office if available. Sometimes, escalating the issue can lead to a more satisfactory response.
Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all communications with Square, including dates, times, and the names of the representatives you spoke with. This documentation might be useful if you need to escalate the issue further or pursue legal action.
Explore Alternative Payment Processors: Consider switching to a different payment processor as a backup. Look for options with better customer service, more transparent policies, and robust support for small businesses.
Financial Assistance Options: Look into financial assistance programs or lines of credit that could help you cover urgent expenses like payroll and rent while you navigate this situation. Crowdfunding or reaching out to family and friends could also be helpful.
Seek Legal Advice: If you believe your rights as a business owner are being violated, consider consulting with a legal professional who specializes in business law or consumer rights. They may be able to offer guidance on how to proceed or whether you have grounds for a complaint.
Revisit Terms of Service: Familiarize yourself with the fine print in Square’s Terms of Service. It might offer insights into their policies or help you understand your rights as a user.
Share Your Experience: Continue to share your story on platforms like the BBB, social media, and local business forums. The more awareness you create, the better chance you have of not only getting support but also preventing others from experiencing the same issues.
I hope that you find a resolution soon and that you can regain control of your business. Stay strong; asking for help is a sign of resilience, and there are many people and communities out there willing to support you.
This is truly a heartbreaking situation, and thank you for sharing your story—it highlights a critical issue many small business owners face with payment processors. Relying solely on one platform like Square can create significant risks, especially when sudden account closures happen without warning or detailed explanation.
I strongly recommend diversifying your payment solutions, perhaps by integrating multiple providers such as Stripe, PayPal, or traditional banking options, to mitigate the impact of any one stoppage. Additionally, establishing a clear cash flow contingency plan can help safeguard your operations during unforeseen disruptions.
On a broader level, it’s worth advocating for more transparent policies and better communication from companies like Square. Many users feel left in the dark, which erodes trust and adds unnecessary stress. Exploring legal avenues, such as seeking advice from a small business attorney or consumer protection agencies, might also be beneficial moving forward.
Your experience underscores the importance of building resilient financial systems and advocating for clearer oversight in payment processing services. Wishing you strength as you navigate this challenging situation—your story can motivate many to take proactive steps to protect their businesses.