If you’ve ever looked at your merchant statement and spotted a line item labeled “PCI Non-Compliance Fee,” you’re not alone—and you’re probably wondering what it is and how to get rid of it. The good news? This is one fee you can usually eliminate quickly with just a little action.

At Beacon Payments, we believe in helping business owners keep more of their money. Here’s everything you need to know about PCI non-compliance fees—and what to do if you’re being charged them.

What Is a PCI Non-Compliance Fee?

PCI DSS stands for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. It’s a set of rules all businesses must follow to securely handle credit card transactions and protect customer data.

Credit card processors are required to ensure their merchants are PCI compliant. If you haven’t completed the necessary steps—like filling out a self-assessment questionnaire (SAQ) or scanning your network for vulnerabilities—you may get hit with a monthly non-compliance fee, typically ranging from $19.95 to $39.95.

Why You Might Be Getting Charged

Common reasons include:

  • You didn’t complete your PCI questionnaire
  • You missed your annual compliance renewal
  • You didn’t complete required vulnerability scans (for internet-connected terminals)
  • You’re unaware the requirement even exists (many business owners are!)

What to Do Right Now

Here’s how to stop the fees and get back in compliance:

✅ 1. Log Into Your PCI Portal

Your processor should provide a secure online portal to complete the PCI compliance questionnaire. If you don’t know where to find it, call your processor’s support line or check their website.

✅ 2. Complete the Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ)

This is a series of questions about how your business handles cardholder data. It’s not a test—you just need to answer honestly based on your setup.

✅ 3. Run a Vulnerability Scan (if required)

If your payment terminal connects to the internet or you store customer card data, you may be required to run a quarterly scan through an approved scanning vendor (ASV). Many processors provide access to this for free.

✅ 4. Get Proof of Compliance

Once you’re done, download your certificate or confirmation email. This proves to your processor that you’ve completed the requirements.

✅ 5. Contact Your Processor

Let them know you’ve completed your PCI compliance steps. Request they remove any ongoing non-compliance fees from future billing. Some may even credit past charges.

Bonus Tip: Work With a Processor That Helps You Stay Compliant

At Beacon Payments, we guide our merchants through the entire PCI process—step by step. Our team ensures you don’t miss deadlines, get overcharged, or stay out of compliance simply because no one told you how it works.

Final Thoughts

PCI non-compliance fees are common—but avoidable. By taking a few simple steps, you can get back in good standing and eliminate unnecessary monthly charges.

If you're not getting the support you need, or you're still being charged even after becoming compliant, it may be time to explore a new partner.

💡 Need help reviewing your statement or getting compliant? Contact us at Beacon Payments for a free review and consultation.