Why underwriters look closely at firearms & ammo
Platform bans
Stripe, PayPal and Square prohibit firearms sales by policy, however compliant you are.
Federal and state rules
Federal licensing, transfer rules and state limits on what can be sold where all apply.
Bank appetite
Some banks exclude the category. The acquirers that accept it know it well.
A payment setup that fits
How we usually set up firearms and ammunition dealers. Your consultant tailors it to how you actually sell.
- 1
Online sales shipped to an FFL
Firearms bought online ship to a licensed dealer for transfer, and your checkout should make that clear.
- 2
State restriction checks
Block items and accessories the buyer’s state restricts.
- 3
Store and show payments
Terminals for your shop and mobile readers for shows, on the same account.
What you’ll need to apply
Have these ready and your application moves faster. Your consultant confirms the exact list for the processor you’re matched with.
- Government ID for every owner with 25% or more
- Voided business check or bank letter
- Recent business bank statements
- Recent processing statements, if you have taken cards before
- Articles of incorporation and EIN letter
- A website with clear pricing, refund, cancellation and contact details
- Federal Firearms License (FFL), where required
- State and local licenses
- Shipping and transfer policy
- Age verification process for ammunition
Why applications get declined, and how to avoid it
- Shipping firearms directly to consumers
- Selling items restricted in the buyer’s state
- No age verification for ammunition
We review your website, policies and statements against these before anything is submitted.
Keeping the account healthy after approval
Getting approved is half the job. These habits keep your account in good standing, and our platform tracks the numbers behind them for you.
- Show transfer requirements before checkout
- Keep transfer and shipping records with each order
- Update state restriction lists regularly
Firearms & ammo: common questions
Why did Stripe or Square close my account?
Their terms prohibit firearms and many related products. A dedicated merchant account with an acquirer that accepts firearms is the stable fix.
Can I sell parts and accessories online?
Yes, with checks for items restricted in specific states. Some acquirers look more closely at certain parts.
Do ammunition-only stores get approved?
Yes, with age verification and shipping practices that follow state law.
What happens after I’m approved?
We keep working with you. Our platform gives you one view of every account, and we review your chargebacks, approval rate, fraud tools and fees with you so the account stays healthy and gets cheaper over time.