Overview
The Address Verification Service (AVS) helps verify the cardholder’s billing address during online transactions. Using AVS can help prevent fraudulent charges and reduce chargebacks.
AVS is available for all keyed entry transactions in:
- Virtual Terminal
- Invoices
- Payment Links
- Saved Card transactions
Where AVS is Used
- Virtual Terminal: When entering card details manually, the billing address may be required.
- Payment Links: Customers enter their billing address when paying through a secure link.
- Invoices: Billing address is collected when customers pay online.
- Saved Cards: If required, you may need to enter or update the cardholder’s billing address when using saved cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AVS required?
By default, AVS is optional on SwipeSimple. However, your Merchant Service Provider may require it. If the address field shows as required during a transaction, it must be filled out to process the payment.
What types of transactions may require AVS?
If AVS is enabled, all Virtual Terminal transactions must include the cardholder’s billing address. Customers must also enter their billing address when paying through Invoices or Payment Links.
Do I need the billing address for saved cards?
Yes. If your Merchant Service Provider requires AVS, you must enter the billing address when charging a saved card. You can store this information in the customer’s profile or enter it each time you run a transaction.
How do I submit AVS information for International Cards?
The SwipeSimple AVS function only applies to US Based cardholders. If AVS is required, and the merchant is provided a non-US address, the merchant will need to enter the street address and postal code, leaving the State or Territory & Zip Code fields blank. Note - AVS verification only applies to US-based cards.
My transactions are declining, what do I do?
Declined transactions can happen for a variety of reasons. If you've already checked with the cardholder, please contact your Merchant Service Provider for assistance is determining the reason for the decline.
Can I turn AVS on or off myself?
No. AVS settings are managed by your Merchant Service Provider. If you have questions or need changes, please contact them directly.
Not sure who your Merchant Service Provider is? Click the orange ❓Help button at the bottom right of the screen and write Who's my Merchant Service Provider? in the message box. Provide your DBA for faster service.