Introduction

Selling firearms and firearm-related products online is a huge opportunity for FFL dealers. However, many business owners run into difficulties when it comes to credit card processing due to strict regulations and the unwillingness of many banks and processors to work with the industry.

That’s where EPIC Merchant Systems comes in. We specialize in providing firearms-friendly payment processing, so you can legally and securely accept payments online without the hassle.

If you’re ready to set up your online firearms store, this guide will walk you through:

• The legal considerations for selling firearms online.
• The website requirements needed to get approved for credit card processing.
• How to integrate your website with EPIC Merchant Systems to start accepting payments.

Let’s dive in!

1. Legal Considerations for Selling Firearms Online

Before setting up your website, it’s crucial to understand the legal requirements that govern online firearm sales:

Federal, State, and Local Compliance

Firearm sales are heavily regulated at the federal, state, and local levels. Your website must comply with all applicable laws, including:
✅ ATF regulations on selling and transferring firearms.
✅ State-specific firearm restrictions (some states prohibit or limit certain firearms and accessories).
✅ Shipping and transfer laws, including FFL dealer requirements.

FFL Transfers

You cannot ship firearms directly to customers. Instead, all firearm sales must go through a licensed FFL dealer in the buyer’s state.

Background Checks

Even though transactions occur online, the buyer must pass a NICS background check before receiving their firearm at the FFL.

Shipping Regulations

Firearms must be shipped only to an FFL. Accessories and ammunition may have different shipping restrictions depending on the state.

2. Website Requirements for Credit Card Processing

To get approved for merchant services with EPIC Merchant Systems, your website must meet several key requirements.

URL & Website Content Requirements

Your website must include the following:

✅ DBA Name (Doing Business As) Prominently Displayed

• Your business name should be clearly visible and match your merchant account name.

✅ Customer Service Contact Information

• A valid phone number and email must be provided for customer support.

✅ Return & Refund Policy

• Clearly state your policy on returns, refunds, and exchanges.
• You can Google and find a free generator to assist you with creating a professional Return & Refund Policyfor your website.

✅ Delivery Method & Timing

• Outline how and when orders will be fulfilled, including FFL transfer details for firearms.

✅ Customer Privacy Policy

• Disclose how customer data is collected, stored, and used.
• You can Google and find a free generator to help create a legally compliant Privacy Policy tailored to your business.

✅ Terms and Conditions Page

• Your website should have a Terms and Conditions page that includes:
• Your store’s policies and legal disclaimers.
• Conditions of firearm and accessory sales.
• Compliance with ATF regulations – Clearly state that all firearms regulated by federal, state, and local laws will be shipped to the customer’s local FFL as required by law.
• Buyer responsibilities, including background checks and waiting periods where applicable.
• Liability limitations and terms of service.
• You can Google and find a free generator to assist with creating a Terms & Conditions page that aligns with your business model.

✅ Product & Pricing Information

• Clearly describe all products for sale with accurate pricing.

✅ Shipping Policy

• Clearly state that the buyer must confirm the condition of the firearm at the time of pickup from their local FFL.
• If there are any issues, the buyer must notify you immediately; otherwise, you will not accept any returns or claims.
• This policy protects your business and ensures that any issues are resolved before the firearm leaves the FFL.

✅ Domain Registered to Your Business

• The domain must be owned by the business, not a third party.

✅ Physical Business Address

• If you have a storefront, display your full business address. If working from home, listing city and state is sufficient.

✅ Policy for Multiple Shipments (If Applicable)

• If an order may arrive in multiple shipments, this must be clearly stated.

✅ CAPTCHA for Security

• Prevent spam bots and abuse by using a CAPTCHA feature at checkout and on contact forms.
• Helps reduce fraudulent activity and unauthorized access.

✅ Age Verification System or Plugin

• Recommended for compliance with laws restricting firearm and ammunition sales.
• Can be implemented via an age verification popup or third-party service.

3. Choosing the Right E-Commerce Platform for Firearms Sales

EPIC Merchant Systems integrates with several e-commerce platforms to help FFLs process payments seamlessly.

💻 Compatible Platforms:

• GunBroker (Immediate Checkout)
• BigCommerce
• WooCommerce
• Shopify
• GoDaddy
• Gearfire
• AmmoReady
• GunStores
• Other platforms that support Authorize.net

4. Steps to Open a Merchant Account with EPIC Merchant Systems

Step 1: Go to Our Activation Page

Visit our Activation Page to begin the application process.

Step 2: Sign the Activation Paperwork via DocuSign

• Review your application and sign the paperwork electronically via DocuSign.

Step 3: Upload Your Supporting Documents

✅ Valid FFL (Federal Firearms License)
✅ Driver’s License or Government-Issued ID
✅ Voided Business Check or Bank Letter
✅ Articles of Incorporation or Business License
✅ Two Proofs of Business
✅ IRS Form SS-4 (Application for EIN)
✅ Current Credit Card Processing Statements (if applicable)
✅ Photos of Your Storefront (If Applicable)

Step 4: Get Approved & Start Accepting Payments

• Our underwriting team reviews your application and verifies compliance.
• Once approved, you’ll receive setup instructions to integrate Authorize.net with your website.

📞 Need Help? Contact our team for assistance!

Conclusion

Selling firearms and accessories online is a huge opportunity, but it requires compliance with strict regulations.

With EPIC Merchant Systems, you can:
✅ Accept credit card payments legally and securely.
✅ Ensure your website meets all compliance requirements.
✅ Easily integrate your e-commerce store with a firearms-friendly payment processor.

Let's do this!

📞 Ready to Start Accepting Payments?
Contact EPIC Merchant Systems today to get your merchant account set up!

➡️ Apply Now or Call (888) 350-0147 for More Information!