So you have something you want to sell on the Internet. Maybe it's a book, or a CD or a piece of software you wrote. "But," you say, "How do I collect the money from the customer?" Good question. 

There are several methods of collecting monies from online sales. Many online merchants offer 2-3 choices of payment methods so customers will have options. 

1. First, you can ask online customers to send you a check. When the check arrives and clears the bank, you deliver the product. If this is your only method of transacting a sale, you will lose many, many customers. The Internet is based on impulse buying. Very few people will go to effort of writing and mailing a check, and then wait several weeks for delivery. Most merchants offer this option to accommodate people who do not have credit cards. 

2. If you are already accepting credit card transactions for products or services that you sell offline, you can ask web customers to phone or fax you with their credit card information. Then, you can process the transaction manually. Please avoid asking people to email you their credit card information. Almost everyone knows that email is insecure and this request will damage your credibility in the eyes of potential customers. If you opt for the phone method, be prepared to handle calls 24/7. The Internet is a global community and people expect to shop at their convenience.  Asking customers to phone in their credit information will generate more sales than asking for checks. However, your sales will be increase considerably if you provide a means for customers to make their payments online. 

3. You can accept credit card transactions online over secure lines. Internet merchants indicate that this method is the single most effective means of conducting transactions. Without the ability to process credit cards, your online sales will be a fraction of what they could be. More about this later. 

4. You can use alternative methods of accepting online payment. There are several alternative technologies available. Each comes with its own strengths and weaknesses. Your choice will depend upon your individual situation. More about this later.