American Express now welcome through HICAPS Terminals

All HICAPS terminals will now automatically accept American Express cards following a new partnership between American Express and HICAPS.

Acceptance of American Express cards through HICAPS terminals has been automatically enabled for the majority of health care providers - with no set up fees and the benefits of next day pay. There is also now one standard processing cost per American Express transaction - regardless of the type of card presented. This is unlike other card issuers that can charge a range of merchant fees depending on the colour of the plastic. The agreement is a significant win for HICAPS healthcare providers. According to Reserve Bank of Australia research, American Express Card Members have deeper pockets, spending on average a third more than other Cardholders. In addition, more than a third of American Express Card Members say they prefer to shop at a small business that accepts American Express. American Express is giving healthcare providers the opportunity to win a share of $600,000 as part of the American Express Shop Small campaign which encourages all Australian consumers to support their local small businesses. Running until the end of November, 120 small business grants worth $5,000 each will be awarded nationally - 20 each month. Small businesses that accept American Express are eligible to win (provided American Express is warmly welcomed without any surcharge). Entry is automatic once an American Express transaction is processed and each subsequent transaction increases the business' chances of winning.