Betalningshandläggning

Betalningshandläggning, or payment processing, refers to the entire system and set of procedures involved in authorizing, completing, and recording financial transactions. This process is crucial for businesses of all sizes, enabling them to receive payments from customers for goods or services.

The betalningshandläggning process typically begins when a customer initiates a payment, often using a credit card, debit card, bank transfer, or other electronic methods. This initiates a communication between the merchant's payment terminal or online gateway and the customer's financial institution, which verifies the availability of funds and the validity of the payment details.

Once authorized, the transaction is sent to a payment network or processor for clearing and settlement. Clearing involves the exchange of financial information between banks, while settlement is the actual transfer of funds from the customer's bank to the merchant's bank. This entire sequence needs to be secure, efficient, and accurate to prevent fraud and ensure timely access to funds for the merchant.

Various entities are involved in betalningshandläggning, including merchants, payment service providers, payment gateways, acquiring banks, issuing banks, and card networks. Each plays a specific role in facilitating the flow of money. The technology underlying betalningshandläggning is constantly evolving, with increasing emphasis on speed, security, and user experience, including contactless payments and mobile wallets.