What is required to start the GHPS application?
The first step asks for business type, state of operation, estimated monthly volume, and work email. More detailed business and processing information comes after the qualifier.
Merchant guide · Application
High-risk merchant account application
A high-risk merchant application should make the review easier, not more confusing. The goal is to show what the business sells, who owns it, how it operates, and what payment support it needs.
Short answer
A high-risk merchant account application collects business, ownership, processing, compliance, and contact details so a specialist can determine whether the merchant may fit an available payment program.
Merchant fit
Who this page is for.
Cannabis, CBD, vape, and hard-to-place businesses
Merchants declined or deboarded by generic processors
Operators preparing for AML/KYC or underwriting review
Businesses that need a clear review path before onboarding
How review works
What merchants should expect.
- 01
Start with the qualifier
GHPS asks for business type, state, estimated monthly volume, and email before opening the full application.
- 02
Complete business and contact details
The full application captures legal business name, years in business, website, owner or contact information, and role.
- 03
Explain processing needs
Average ticket, current processor, concerns, and additional context help a specialist understand the account.
- 04
Submit for human review
A GHPS specialist reviews the file and follows up with next steps, typically within 24–48 hours when the file is complete enough to assess.
Merchant questions
Direct answers before you apply.
How long does the high-risk merchant application take?
The qualifier is short. The full application typically takes about 5–15 minutes if business, ownership, and processing details are available.
Will submitting an application affect credit?
The GHPS qualifier does not request an SSN. Any later review requirements depend on the specific file and partner requirements.
Next step
If your business may be a fit, start with the GHPS qualifier.
The dedicated application keeps the review separate from marketing content and gives GHPS the information needed to assess category, state, volume, and merchant fit.