6 minute read
Simplifying development with Global Payments SDKs
Fintech developers work at a fast pace and need tools that can keep up. These tools also need to help reduce complexity, streamline development and maintain compliance. At Global Payments, we’re all about empowering developers with tools that provide these advantages, and our open-source SDKs are a prime example. Let’s break down what surcharges are, why they matter and how our SDKs are designed to simplify this process for you and your company.
Why SDKs are the essential building blocks for fintech developers
Global Payments SDKs help developers build faster and smarter by automating complex tasks like API interactions and compliance management. Designed for seamless integration, these free, open-source tools handle the heavy lifting, so you can focus on creating innovative, tailored fintech solutions with confidence and efficiency.
Why are SDKs such a big deal for fintech developers? SDKs give you a head start. Without them, you’re coding from the ground up and piecing together logic that’s already been solved. Our SDKs are authoritative — built by Global Payments for use with Global Payments systems. That means they’re not just written. They’re tested, certified and aligned with card brand requirements. You’re not just getting there faster, you’re getting there in a smarter way.
SDKs make your job easier by handling the intricate dance between API calls and backend processes. For example, a single transaction might require multiple API calls. Each one would have its own conditions, error handling and logic. But with our SDKs, all of this is abstracted into a single method call. You write less, do more and can layer your custom logic on top to make your solution as fluid as needed.
The takeaway
You focus on building your unique product while we handle the complexities beneath the surface.
The real challenges with SDK integration
Integrating new features into your platform isn’t always smooth sailing, especially when you’re juggling multiple systems and APIs. That’s where we come in — our SDKs offer a layer of abstraction beyond standard APIs, simplifying the nitty-gritty.
Built-in logic automates sequences, checks error conditions and runs success validations, so you can avoid the hassle of building everything from scratch. With our SDKs, you no longer need to navigate the depths of backend payment requests and responses.
What are surcharges, and why do they matter?
Surcharges are essentially additional fees applied to offset the processing costs for merchants. The tricky part is using surcharges correctly within legal boundaries and regulatory compliance. For example, credit cards may be eligible for a surcharge, but debit cards typically are not. And in the US, there’s a strict 3% cap on surcharges.
We can help you stay compliant with all these rules. When you make a payment call, our SDK handles compliance checks automatically so the surcharge is applied only when permitted.
The takeaway
You don’t have to keep up with changing regulations or worry about making costly mistakes that could result in fines or account suspension.
What Global Payments does differently
With Global Payments SDKs, applying surcharges is straightforward. You simply indicate whether a transaction should include a surcharge. Our SDK handles the rest — checking card eligibility, applying the correct amount and making sure the process aligns with the legal limits. It’s all built in, automated and transparent.
Our SDKs in action
Transparency is key. Our SDKs are free, open-source and available on platforms like GitHub. You’re welcome to look under the hood, suggest changes or customize them to fit your needs. The idea is that you’re not using a black box. You’re leveraging an open-source tool that’s continuously updated, tested and refined by experts.
Server SDKs
Mobile SDKs
Our SDKs don’t just save you time, they save your company the potential costs of non-compliance and inefficiency. With features like automated surcharge handling, you can build confidently knowing that every transaction is within regulatory guidelines.
The takeaway
Your applications stay compliant, efficient and secure — no heavy lifting required.
Looking ahead to what’s next
Over the next year, we’re focused on achieving feature parity across all our language-specific SDKs. What does that mean? No matter what language you’re working with — whether it’s PHP, Java, Python or others — you’ll have access to the same powerful features.
Developers should never have to switch programming languages just to get the feature they need. Our goal is simple: whatever language you choose, you can be confident that our SDK has you covered.
Your partner in development
At the end of the day, Global Payments is committed to being more than just a service provider. We’re your partner in building secure, compliant and feature-rich fintech applications. Our SDKs and the way we handle surcharges are part of that commitment. We take on the heavy lifting so you can focus on what you do best — building, innovating and creating solutions that make a difference.
If you haven’t yet explored what our SDKs can do for your project, now’s the time. Dive into our open-source libraries, see how easy integration can be and experience firsthand why developers trust Global Payments for their fintech needs.
Get startedSDK and surcharge FAQs
What is a surcharge?
A surcharge is an additional fee applied to a transaction to help merchants offset the costs of credit card processing fees. It is typically added to the total amount of an order and disclosed to the customer at checkout.
Why do businesses apply surcharges?
Merchants apply surcharges as a way to pass some or all of the credit card processing fees on offsetting costs. This practice helps reduce the operational expenses associated with accepting credit card payments.
Is it legal to apply surcharges to all types of payment methods?
No, surcharges can only be applied to eligible credit card transactions. For instance, debit cards and certain other payment methods cannot have surcharges applied due to restrictions.
What compliance requirements must be followed when applying surcharges?
Merchants must adhere to specific legal and card brand regulations when applying surcharges. For example, in the US, the surcharge amount cannot exceed 3% of the transaction total. Proper disclosure of the surcharge amount is also required at the point of sale.
How do Global Payments SDKs handle surcharges?
Global Payments SDKs automate the process of handling surcharges. When you implement the SDK, it ensures that surcharges are applied correctly, checking eligibility based on the type of card and ensuring the amount is within legal limits. This automation helps developers maintain compliance without having to manually build and monitor surcharge logic.
Can developers customize surcharge logic within the SDK?
While developers can implement custom logic for their applications, Global Payments SDKs include built-in, compliant surcharge management that simplifies the process. This means developers only need to indicate whether a surcharge should be applied, and the SDK manages the rest.
Are there any states or regions where surcharges are not allowed?
Yes, some states or regions may have specific laws prohibiting or regulating surcharges. Merchants are responsible and should be aware of local laws and ensure compliance. Global Payments SDKs are designed to help identify these restrictions and apply them automatically when configured.
What are the benefits of using Global Payments SDKs for handling surcharges?
Using Global Payments SDKs ensures that surcharges are applied in a compliant manner, which provides peace of mind for both developers and merchants. The SDKs are continuously updated to reflect changes in regulations and best practices, offering an efficient, reliable solution for managing surcharges.
How do customers know about the surcharge being applied?
Transparency is essential, so the SDKs are designed to make it easy for merchants to disclose surcharge information clearly to customers at the point of sale, both online and in physical locations.
Where can I find more resources or support for implementing surcharges in my application?
For more information and detailed guidance, visit Heartland’s surcharge page. You can also refer to the documentation and support provided by Global Payments for technical assistance.
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