Key Takeaways
- Early termination fees: Can be £1,000-£5,000+ to exit contracts early
- Software update charges: Some providers charge extra for updates
- Premium support: Calling support might cost £1-£2 per minute
- Installation and training: Often £200-£500 extra on top of hardware
Quick Answer
Hidden EPOS costs include contract exit fees (often £2,000+), premium support charges, software update fees, payment processing markups, and installation costs. Always get full pricing in writing before signing.
Many UK businesses discover unexpected charges only after signing their EPOS contract. This guide exposes common hidden costs so you can negotiate better deals and avoid costly surprises.
Common Hidden EPOS Charges
- Early termination fees: Can be £1,000-£5,000+ to exit contracts early
- Software update charges: Some providers charge extra for updates
- Premium support: Calling support might cost £1-£2 per minute
- Installation and training: Often £200-£500 extra on top of hardware
- Card rate increases: Rates may rise after promotional periods end
- Hardware rental increases: Monthly fees can increase annually
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Questions to Ask Before Signing
- ✓ What is the total cost over the full contract term?
- ✓ What happens if I want to leave early?
- ✓ Are software updates included in my monthly fee?
- ✓ Is support included or charged per call/minute?
- ✓ Will my card transaction rates stay the same?
- ✓ Who owns the hardware at the end of the contract?
Costly Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗ Not reading the full contract before signing
- ✗ Assuming quoted card rates are guaranteed long-term
- ✗ Signing multi-year contracts without flexibility clauses
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get out of an EPOS contract early?
Usually yes, but you'll typically pay remaining monthly fees or a settlement figure. Some contracts have 3-6 month notice periods too.
Why do some EPOS systems seem cheap at first?
Low upfront costs often mean higher monthly fees, longer contracts, or expensive card processing rates that add up over time.
What is a typical EPOS contract length?
Most EPOS contracts in the UK range from 2-5 years. Pay-as-you-go options like EPOS Direct have no contract lock-in.
Are there genuinely no-contract EPOS options?
Yes, pay-as-you-go EPOS systems exist that charge no monthly contract fees. You pay for hardware upfront and only transaction fees ongoing.
How can I compare true EPOS costs?
Calculate the total cost over 3 years including hardware, monthly fees, card rates, support, and any exit fees for an accurate comparison.
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