How to Start an ATM Business

How to Start an ATM Business: A Complete Startup Guide

An ATM business can generate passive income with minimal overhead compared to traditional retail ventures. Industry data shows that a single machine averaging 300 transactions per month at a $2.50 surcharge produces $750 in monthly revenue. With startup costs ranging from $3,000 to $18,600 per machine, your initial investment can return within six to twelve months in high-traffic locations.

This guide walks you through the specific steps to launch your ATM business. You will learn how to calculate costs, register legally, secure equipment, find profitable locations, and prepare for your first transaction. Each section includes concrete numbers and actionable tasks to help you build a profitable ATM operation from the ground up.

Step 1: Research the ATM Business Model and Verify It Fits Your Goals

Before investing capital, you need to understand how ATM businesses generate revenue and what work they require. The business model centers on transaction fees. Every time someone withdraws cash, they pay a surcharge that typically ranges from $1.50 to $3.50. You keep most or all of this fee depending on your arrangement with location owners.

A machine in a convenience store might process 18 transactions daily, which equals 540 monthly transactions. At $2.50 per transaction, this generates $1,350 in gross monthly revenue. However, you will face costs including location rent, internet service, cash replenishment, and maintenance. Net profit margins typically fall between 15% and 40% after expenses.

The time commitment is lower than most businesses. You will need to visit each machine once or twice monthly to refill cash and perform basic maintenance. Each service visit takes 15 to 30 minutes. This makes ATM ownership suitable as a side business or passive income stream.

Consider the three main business models available:

• Full ownership: You buy the machine, stock the cash, keep 100% of surcharges, and handle all maintenance. Initial investment is $6,000 to $15,000 per machine but profit potential is highest.
• Partnership model: You own the machine but share surcharge revenue with the location owner, typically 50/50 or 60/40. This reduces location fees and makes placement easier.
• Hosted placement: A processor or provider owns the machine and you provide the location and electricity. You receive a percentage of surcharges with no equipment purchase.

The bootstrap approach favors starting with one machine in full ownership mode. This keeps your initial investment under $10,000 while teaching you the business fundamentals. Once profitable, you can expand to multiple locations.

Ask yourself these questions before proceeding:

• Can you access $5,000 to $15,000 for startup capital?
• Do you have reliable transportation to service machines?
• Can you safely handle $2,000 to $10,000 in cash per machine?
• Are you comfortable with background checks and banking regulations?
• Do you have time for 2–4 hours of work per machine monthly?

If you answered yes to these questions, continue to the next step. If not, explore How To Find a Business That Is a Great Match for You to identify better-suited opportunities.

Step 2: Calculate Your Complete Startup Costs

ATM businesses have predictable costs that vary based on equipment choices and scale. Here is a breakdown of expenses for launching with one machine using the most cost-effective approach:

ATM Machine: $2,100 to $3,000 for a new basic model. The Genmega G2500 costs $2,295 and includes an 8-inch LCD display and 1,000-note cassette. The Hyosung Halo II starts at $2,350.

Refurbished machines run $1,000 to $2,000 but may need compliance upgrades costing $200 to $500. For your first machine, buy new to avoid unexpected repair costs.

Initial Cash Load: $1,000 to $3,000 per machine. Most operators stock $2,000 initially, which supports 50 to 100 withdrawals of $20 bills. Keep an additional $2,000 to $5,000 as backup reserve for high-traffic periods or emergencies.

Installation and Setup: $200 to $300 including delivery. Some suppliers include free installation with machine purchase. Factor in programming time if you set up the machine yourself.

Business Formation: $100 to $200 for LLC registration in most states. You can operate as a sole proprietor with DBA registration for $50 to $100, but an LLC provides liability protection.

Licenses and Permits: $150 to $2,000 annually depending on your state. Most states charge $200 to $500 for an initial business license. Some jurisdictions may require additional registrations for non-bank ATMs or certain money services activities. Check your state’s financial regulator for exact requirements.

Insurance: $400 to $1,560 annually. General liability insurance averages $40 to $130 monthly. This covers theft, vandalism, and liability claims. Some location owners require proof of insurance.

Internet Connection: $150 for modem hardware plus $7 to $30 monthly for cellular data. Most operators use wireless connections rather than landlines for flexibility.

Tools and Supplies: $300 to $500 for keys, receipt paper, cleaning supplies, and basic repair tools. Budget $50 monthly for ongoing receipt paper replacement.

Transportation: Use your existing vehicle. The IRS mileage rate is 65.5 cents per mile. If you visit a machine 20 miles away twice monthly, that is 80 miles or $52 in deductible vehicle costs.

Total first-year startup costs: $4,500 to $11,000 for a single-machine operation. The median investment is approximately $7,300. This includes your first machine, three months of cash reserves, registration costs, insurance, and basic supplies.

Compare this to other business models. A food truck requires $50,000 to $100,000 to launch. A franchise often demands $100,000 to $500,000 in startup capital plus ongoing royalties. The ATM business ranks among the lowest-cost business opportunities available.

Your payback timeline depends on transaction volume. At 300 transactions monthly with a $2.50 surcharge, you generate $750 in monthly revenue. After deducting location rent ($100), internet ($20), and miscellaneous expenses ($30), net profit is approximately $600 monthly or $7,200 annually. This means a $7,000 investment pays back in 12 months.

Machines in higher-traffic venues can double these numbers. A bar or casino ATM might process 500 to 1,000 monthly transactions, cutting payback time to six months or less.

Step 3: Choose Your Legal Business Structure

You must register your ATM business as a legal entity before processing transactions. This protects your personal assets and satisfies banking requirements. Most operators choose between sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation.

Sole Proprietorship with DBA: This is the simplest and cheapest option. You register a “Doing Business As” name with your county clerk for $50 to $100. File a Schedule C with your personal tax return to report business income. This structure costs less but offers no liability protection. If someone sues your business, your personal assets are at risk.

Limited Liability Company (LLC): This is the recommended structure for ATM businesses. An LLC separates your business and personal finances. If your ATM causes injury or damage, only business assets are at risk. Most states charge $100 to $200 for LLC formation. You file Articles of Organization with your Secretary of State and obtain an EIN from the IRS. Annual fees range from $0 to $800 depending on state.

Corporation: This structure is rarely necessary for small ATM operators. Corporations have complex tax requirements and administrative burdens. Choose this only if you plan to raise investor capital or operate 20+ machines.

For a bootstrap startup, form an LLC in your home state. Here is the process:

1. Choose a unique business name. Search your state’s business database to verify availability. Good names are simple and describe your service: “Metro ATM Services” or “Cash Point Solutions.”
2. File Articles of Organization with your state’s Secretary of State office. This is usually done online. Provide your business name, registered agent address, and management structure.
3. Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) on the IRS website. This free process takes 10 minutes. You need an EIN to open business bank accounts and file taxes.
4. Register for state tax accounts if your state requires them. This includes sales tax permits in some jurisdictions.
5. Create an operating agreement. While not always required, this document outlines ownership percentages and management responsibilities. This matters if you later add partners.

The entire registration process takes one to three weeks and costs $100 to $200 in most states. Some states like Delaware or Wyoming offer low annual fees but add complexity if you operate elsewhere. Register in your home state unless you have specific tax reasons to do otherwise.

Understanding The Pros and Cons of Running A Business helps you weigh the benefits of different structures and prepare for the responsibilities of business ownership.

Step 4: Obtain Required Licenses and Permits

ATM businesses face federal, state, and sometimes local licensing requirements. Requirements vary significantly by location. Missing required licenses can result in fines of $1,000 to $10,000 or forced business closure.

Federal Requirements: ATM operators must comply with the Electronic Fund Transfer Act and other applicable banking security and consumer disclosure rules. Your ATM processor and its sponsoring bank typically help implement these requirements, which may include background checks.

State and Local Requirements: Some states impose additional registration or licensing on certain ATM activities, and some cities or counties require non-bank ATM registration or permits. Fees and processing times vary by jurisdiction. Always check your state’s financial regulator and local business licensing office for current rules.

General Business License: Most cities and counties require a basic business license for commercial activity. Cost is typically $50 to $300 annually. Apply through your city clerk or business licensing department.

How to navigate the process:

1. Research your state requirements with the Department of Financial Services/Banking or equivalent agency.
2. Compile required documents (entity filings, EIN letter, background check authorization, financial statements, and any required bonds).
3. Submit state and local applications and pay fees; approvals can take several weeks.
4. Work with your processor; they will supply decals and ensure your terminal IDs and disclosures meet network and sponsor-bank standards.

Budget $500 to $2,500 for first-year licensing and setup across state and local requirements. Renewals typically cost less.

Step 5: Secure Your Financing

Most ATM operators fund their first machine with personal savings. With total startup costs of $4,500 to $11,000, this is achievable for many entrepreneurs. However, you have multiple financing options if you lack full capital.

Personal Savings: This is the most cost-effective approach. You avoid interest payments and maintain full ownership. Save aggressively for three to six months before launching.

Equipment Financing: Some ATM suppliers offer payment plans. You might pay $200 to $400 monthly for 12 to 24 months to purchase a machine. Interest rates range from 8% to 15%.

Business Credit Card: Consider a 0% introductory APR card if you can repay within the promo period.

Small Business Loan: Local banks and credit unions offer small business loans starting at $5,000. You’ll need a simple plan with projections.

Partner Investment: A capital partner in exchange for equity can reduce risk; document terms clearly.

Start Small with Hosted Placement: Some companies place their machine at your location; you receive a surcharge share without equipment purchase.

Create a basic financial plan showing line-item startup costs, funding sources, conservative revenue estimates, monthly expenses, break-even timing, and 12-month cash flow.

Step 6: Select and Purchase Your ATM Equipment

Your ATM machine is your primary business asset. Machine selection affects reliability, customer experience, and long-term costs. Four manufacturers dominate the U.S. market: Hyosung, Genmega, Triton, and Hantle.

Machine Types and Costs:

• Freestanding through-the-wall: $8,000 to $10,000. For high-traffic indoor/outdoor service; usually unnecessary for a first unit.
• Standard freestanding: $2,100 to $3,500. Best starter option for most retail locations.
• Wall-mount: $1,500 to $2,500. Smaller footprint and lower cash capacity.
• Outdoor weatherproof: $6,000 to $10,000. Requires pads and added security.

For bootstrap operators, buy a new standard freestanding machine (e.g., Genmega G2500 or Hyosung Halo II). Look for:

• 8-inch color LCD display
• 1,000–1,200 note cassette
• EMV chip reader support (liability shifted to merchants without EMV-capable devices; operating without EMV support increases fraud exposure)
• Electronic lock, thermal receipt printer, and reliable network options
• ADA-compliant design and a manufacturer warranty

Avoid used machines for your first purchase; older units may require costly compliance upgrades.

Optional features to consider later:

• Lighted keypad ($150–$300)
• Topper sign ($100–$400)
• Camera system ($200–$500)
• Bitcoin capability ($500–$2,000)

Where to purchase: Authorized distributors provide pricing, programming help, and processing setup. Request multiple quotes, confirm warranty terms, and ensure current compliance.

Step 7: Find and Secure Your First Location

Location determines your ATM’s success more than any other factor. A machine in a high-traffic venue processes 500 to 1,000 transactions monthly. The same machine in a low-traffic spot might process only 50 monthly.

Characteristics of profitable ATM locations:

• Daily traffic volume: Minimum 200–500 visitors daily.
• Cash-oriented customer base: Bars, nightclubs, festivals, markets, cash-only eateries.
• Limited banking access: Few nearby branches/ATMs (e.g., >0.5 miles).
• Impulse spending environment: Venues where cash converts quickly to purchases.
• Secure environment: Good lighting, cameras, and staff presence.

Best location types ranked by profitability:

1. Casinos and gaming venues: 800–1,500 transactions monthly (where legal).
2. Bars and nightclubs: 400–800 monthly, peak Thu–Sat nights.
3. Convenience stores: 300–600 monthly.
4. Grocery stores: 300–500 monthly.
5. Gas stations: 250–500 monthly.
6. Laundromats: 200–400 monthly.
7. Hotels and motels: 150–400 monthly.

How to approach location owners:

1. Create a one-page proposal with your offer and benefits.
2. Visit during slow hours and speak with the decision-maker.
3. Lead with value: more cash sales and fewer walkouts.
4. Offer a clear revenue split (e.g., 50–60% of surcharge).
5. Address space, liability, and maintenance concerns.
6. Provide references once you have them.
7. Offer a 90-day trial to reduce perceived risk.

Negotiating your location agreement:

• Specify placement, revenue share and schedule, term/termination, access rights, insurance, and non-compete on competing ATMs.
• Prefer month-to-month at first for flexibility.
• Compare flat rent vs. revenue share; many locations earn more via sharing when volume is solid.

Developing An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start helps you understand daily realities and relationships with site owners.

Step 8: Set Up ATM Processing and Banking Relationships

Your ATM needs a processor and sponsor bank to connect to networks (e.g., Visa, Mastercard, Plus, Star, NYCE). The processor facilitates authorization and settlement; the sponsor bank handles funds movement.

How ATM processing works: The customer’s bank authorizes the withdrawal, your surcharge is applied, and your share is ACH-deposited (often next day).

Common processing fees:

• Interchange fee: Often retained/allocated within the processor’s model.
• Network access fees/monthly minimums: Vary by provider.
• Per-transaction fees: Some charge $0–$0.25; others bundle costs.
• Statement/portal fees: Frequently waived for online access.

Selecting your processor:

1. Get 3–5 quotes and request a written fee schedule.
2. Confirm deposit timing (prefer next-day ACH).
3. Ask who the sponsor bank is.
4. Review contract terms (month-to-month or easy exits).
5. Call support before signing to test responsiveness.
6. Request client references.

Required processing documents: Driver’s license, ATM Operator Agreement, ACH authorization, W-9, and equipment details. Approval typically takes 3–10 business days.

Open a business bank account: Keep finances separate. Bring your EIN, formation docs, and license. Compare fee schedules and consider a savings account for reserves.

Understanding the importance of Critical Points to Consider before starting your business includes setting up financial infrastructure from day one.

Step 9: Obtain Insurance Coverage

Insurance protects your investment from theft, vandalism, equipment damage, and liability claims. Annual premiums often range $400 to $1,560 depending on limits and number of machines.

Types of insurance needed:

General Liability Insurance: Covers injury/property damage claims; many hosts require proof. Common limit: $1 million.

Property Insurance: Covers the machine and cash-in-vault against theft/vandalism; set limits to device value plus max cash load.

Cyber Liability Insurance: Optional early on; consider as you scale.

Commercial Auto Insurance: If using a dedicated service vehicle.

Bundle when possible via a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) to save on premiums. Obtain certificates naming hosts as additional insured when requested.

Step 10: Program Your Machine and Prepare for Launch

Your processor supplies terminal IDs, keys, and access codes. Configure via the operator menu:

• Surcharge amount ($1.50–$3.50)
• Withdrawal denominations ($20, $40, $60, etc.)
• Daily/max withdrawal limits
• Receipt header and on-screen prompts
• Network routing preferences (as applicable)

Most suppliers will walk you through setup or pre-program for a fee.

Loading initial cash: Order crisp $20s. Count in bundles of 100. Most cassettes hold 1,000–1,200 bills. For a $2,000 load, you need 100 twenty-dollar bills (1 bundle). Transport discreetly; vary routes/timing.

Installation day:

1. Confirm time and placement with the host.
2. Move with a dolly/hand truck and helpers.
3. Place near power, visible and well lit.
4. Connect power/network; test connectivity.
5. Insert cassette, lock vault, verify counters.
6. Run test transactions and confirm fee display/receipts.
7. Apply required decals and provide support contacts.
8. Brief staff on basic use/escalation.

Pre-launch checklist:

• Entity/EIN complete
• Licenses/permits active
• Bank account open
• Insurance bound
• Machine delivered/programmed
• Processor approved
• Location agreement signed
• Initial cash loaded
• Compliance decals applied
• Remote monitoring confirmed

First 30 days: Monitor dashboards daily, visit weekly, adjust surcharge if needed, and compare actuals to projections to decide on your next placement.

Understanding Your Next Steps After Launch

Once your first ATM is operational and profitable, expand strategically. Many operators grow to 5–10 machines in two years by reinvesting profits. Focus on strong locations, reliable equipment, and consistent service. With sound execution, a $5,000–$10,000 investment can net $500–$1,000 monthly per machine in high-traffic venues.

If this model aligns with your goals, start by mapping costs and prospecting locations. With steady steps, you can have your first machine generating revenue within 60–90 days.

For entrepreneurs weighing franchises vs. independent operation, Here’s What You Need to Know About Owning a Franchise compares costs and benefits.

101 Tips For Running a ATM Business

These tips are designed as a quick-reference playbook you can use at any stage of your ATM business. Skim the categories, pick the ideas that fit your goals, and take action right away. Keep coming back to refine your systems as you grow.

What to Do Before Starting

1. Validate demand by counting daily foot traffic at prospective locations during peak and off-peak hours.
2. Ask location owners about card-using customers, average ticket size, and nearby bank branches that might reduce cash demand.
3. Compare processor proposals side by side: interchange share, surcharge split, monthly fees, and contract length.
4. Confirm equipment supports EMV chip, NFC, and remote monitoring to avoid early upgrades.
5. Build a simple pro forma: device cost, install fees, cash float, processing fees, insurance, and expected withdrawals.
6. Check state and local rules on business licensing, signage, and any surcharges or consumer disclosure requirements.
7. Verify ADA accessibility at the site: reach ranges, clear floor space, and visible on-screen prompts.
8. Choose a bank comfortable with ATM operators and cash-intensive businesses; ask about vault cash logistics.
9. Price insurance for cash-in-transit, general liability, and equipment; know coverage limits and exclusions.
10. Decide your cash-load model: self-load, trusted employee, or armored carrier; cost this into your margins.

What Successful ATM Business Owners Do

11. Track every terminal’s withdrawals, errors, and downtime daily to spot trends early.
12. Negotiate multi-year site agreements with clear revenue share, term, and early-termination clauses.
13. Standardize installation checklists so every new site goes live cleanly with correct keys, decals, and test pulls.
14. Keep extra cassettes and a spare card reader to reduce downtime from simple hardware swaps.
15. Set service-level targets (e.g., 98% uptime) and manage to them weekly.
16. Revisit surcharge pricing quarterly to match local market and network rules.
17. Build a pipeline of prospects so you can replace weak sites without stress.
18. Audit processor statements monthly to verify surcharge splits and interchange credits.
19. Maintain strong relationships with location owners: a quick text when you reload goes a long way.

Running the Business (Operations, Staffing, SOPs)

20. Create SOPs for cash loading, machine balancing, error clearing, and night procedures.
21. Use dual control or documented checks when handling keys, PIN pads, and encryption components.
22. Keep armored schedules predictable to reduce skim risk and missed loads.
23. Refill before weekends and holidays; adjust for events that spike withdrawals.
24. Maintain a rolling replenishment forecast based on each terminal’s daily average withdrawals (DAW).
25. Log every service visit with time, issue, fix, and parts used to spot repeat problems.
26. Train staff to clear common error codes (paper jams, dispenser faults) safely.
27. Rotate paper and receipt stock; store in a cool, dry place to prevent printer issues.
28. Secure keys separately from machines and routes; track custody with a sign-out system.
29. Encrypt communications per processor requirements and update firmware promptly.
30. Use tamper-evident seals on access panels and document replacement dates.
31. Develop an incident response plan for theft, skimming attempts, and cardholder complaints.

What to Know About the Industry (Rules, Seasons, Supply, Risks)

32. Surcharges are influenced by contracts and network rules; confirm what’s permitted before changing fees.
33. The “fee notice” must display clearly on-screen before a transaction completes.
34. EMV chip acceptance shifts liability for certain fraud types; keep readers updated and functional.
35. ADA guidelines affect mounting height, reach, and user interface readability at public locations.
36. Seasonal traffic can surge near campuses, tourist zones, and event venues—plan cash accordingly.
37. Skimming and card trapping evolve; use anti-skimming kits and monitor for unusual error patterns.
38. Some benefits cards and programs restrict surcharges—know your processor’s rules.
39. Receipt requirements vary by network and setting; configure printers to meet current standards.
40. Interchange and network fees can change; read bulletins from your processor and networks.
41. Supply chain delays for parts can be real; keep critical spares in inventory.

Marketing (Local, Digital, Offers, Community)

42. Pitch the value to merchants: more cash customers, higher spend, and fewer walkouts for lack of cash.
43. Bring simple ROI one-pagers showing projected withdrawals, shared surcharge revenue, and foot-traffic lift.
44. Offer trial terms for new sites with a review after 90 days to reduce merchant hesitation.
45. Make your machines visible: good lighting, eye-level signage, and floor decals leading to the ATM.
46. Add a “Cash Available Here” window cling and mention it on the location’s social media.
47. Sponsor local events near your terminals to boost engagement and usage.
48. Include ATM placement in listings for the location (Google Business Profile, venue maps).
49. Rotate promotions with merchants (e.g., $5 off a purchase paid in cash) where allowed.
50. Use clean branding on the cabinet and screen to signal reliability and safety.
51. Collect testimonials from location owners and share them in your pitches.

Dealing With Customers to Build Relationships (Trust, Education, Retention)

52. Place the ATM in a well-lit, visible area to increase perceived safety and trust.
53. Keep screens and keypads clean; provide wipes nearby where appropriate.
54. Display clear on-screen fee notices and simple prompts to reduce confusion.
55. Post a support number that reaches a real person quickly.
56. Offer multi-language prompts if your customer base is diverse.
57. Ensure receipts print legibly; unclear receipts trigger disputes and callbacks.
58. Work with merchants to keep the area uncluttered and accessible to strollers and wheelchairs.
59. Share simple ATM etiquette signage (one user at a time, shield your PIN) to enhance security.

Customer Service (Policies, Guarantees, Feedback Loops)

60. Publish a response-time target for “cash out” or “out of service” calls (e.g., within 2–4 hours).
61. Create a dispute intake form with transaction time, last four digits, and terminal ID to speed resolution.
62. Track repeat complaint types and fix root causes, not just symptoms.
63. Train support to explain on-screen fee notices and declines without blaming the cardholder.
64. Offer text or email updates when an ATM is restored after an outage.
65. When a merchant reports an issue, confirm receipt instantly and give an ETA for service.
66. If a transaction errors after cash dispenses, document the journal and work with your processor quickly.
67. Close the loop with customers who report skimming suspicion—take it seriously and escalate.

Plans for Sustainability (Waste, Sourcing, Long-Term Viability)

68. Choose energy-efficient models and enable power-save modes during low-traffic hours.
69. Use thermal paper certified for longevity and recycle spent cores and packaging.
70. Consolidate service routes to cut fuel, time, and carbon footprint.
71. Refurbish and redeploy reliable units to secondary sites instead of scrapping prematurely.
72. Keep devices updated rather than replacing for minor feature gaps when feasible.
73. Work with merchants to keep the area tidy; fewer maintenance trips mean less waste.
74. Maintain accurate parts inventories to avoid rush shipping and emergency trips.

Staying Informed With Industry Trends (Sources, Signals, Cadence)

75. Read processor bulletins for network fee changes, new fraud patterns, and firmware updates.
76. Monitor industry associations for best practices and advocacy updates.
77. Follow payments and banking regulators for changes affecting disclosures and consumer rights.
78. Track EMV, contactless, and PIN security standards to plan upgrades.
79. Watch ADA and accessibility updates that may affect mounting and user interface.
80. Attend regional trade events or webinars to compare processors and equipment.
81. Set a monthly “industry check” block on your calendar to review changes.
82. Subscribe to alerts from your processor and card networks for urgent notices.
83. Keep a change log so you know when and why you altered pricing or settings.

Adapting to Change (Seasonality, Shocks, Competition, Tech)

84. Pre-load additional cash before holiday weekends and local festivals.
85. If a new bank branch opens nearby, test different surcharge rates or move the unit if traffic collapses.
86. Add contactless cash withdrawal if your processor supports it and your market demands it.
87. Diversify locations—mix bars, groceries, travel hubs, and campuses to smooth seasonality.
88. Pilot new features on one machine before rolling out broadly.
89. If fraud rises in an area, add anti-skimming hardware and increase inspections.
90. Consider a revenue “floor” clause in site agreements to protect both parties during downturns.
91. Keep exit plans for underperforming sites and redeploy quickly.
92. Rework signage and placement when foot-traffic patterns shift due to construction or tenant changes.

What Not to Do (Issues and Mistakes to Avoid)

93. Don’t sign long contracts without clear termination rights and equipment ownership terms.
94. Don’t place machines in poorly lit corners; low usage and higher risk will follow.
95. Don’t ignore firmware and security updates; delays increase liability and outages.
96. Don’t mix vault cash with general business cash; keep reconciliations clean.
97. Don’t share encryption keys or PIN pad components casually—control and log access.
98. Don’t set surcharges without confirming contract and network limits.
99. Don’t neglect ADA considerations; misplacement can trigger complaints and costly rework.
100. Don’t rely on a single processor relationship; keep a plan B for outages or pricing shifts.
101. Don’t forget routine audits of statements and journal logs; small errors compound over time.

Sources:
U.S. SBA, Federal Reserve, FTC, PCI Security Standards Council, U.S. Access Board, ATMIA, National ATM Council, IRS, EMVCo