This is the collected archive of The Host Merchant Services Knowledge Base effort. Payment processing can be confusing with its myriad of buzzwords and industry terms. HMS wants to make the payment processing industry clear and transparent so that our customers know exactly what is on their statement. We want to remove any and all confusion merchants might have about how the industry works. Host Merchant Services promises: the company delivers personal service and clarity. So through this Knowledge Base we are going to take the time needed to explain how everything works.