Us 10445716

US010445716B1
(12) United States Patent ( 10) Patent No.: US 10 ,445 ,716 B1

Riechers et al. (45) Date of Patent: Oct. 15, 2019
(54 ) ACTIVATION OF PAYMENT CARD VIA (56 ) References Cited
INTERACTION WITH PAYMENT READER U .S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
(71 ) Applicant: Square, Inc., San Francisco , CA (US) 7 ,086 ,584 B2 8 /2006 Stoutenburg et al.
7 ,354 ,004 B2 * 4 /2008 Andersen ........... G06Q 10 /0875
(72 ) Inventors: Christina Riechers, San Francisco , CA 235 /375
(US ); Zachary Margolis , San 2004/0153399 AL 8 / 2004 Wilkes
2005/0167487 A1 * 8/ 2005 Conlon .... ......... G07F 17 /26
Francisco , CA (US); Michael Cormier , 235/ 380
San Francisco , CA (US ); Bora Fezga , 2006 /0242063 Al 10 / 2006 Peterson et al.
San Francisco , CA (US ); Clay Robbins , 2010 /0030687 A1 2 / 2010 Panthaki et al.
Redwood City, CA (US); Mark Rubin , (Continued )
San Carlos, CA (US ); Swapnil Chavan ,
Sunnyvale , CA (US) OTHER PUBLICATIONS
(73 ) Assignee: Square, Inc., San Francisco, CA (US) “ Commercial Cards Merchant Category Code Controls ” , 2002 ,
https://www .anz.com /Documents/Business/CommercialCard /Merchant_
cateogry _ codes _ control.pdf ( Year: 2002). *
( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this (Continued )
patent is extended or adjusted under 35
U .S .C . 154 (b ) by 0 days. Primary Examiner — Allen C Chein
(74 ) Attorney , Agent, or Firm — Lee & Hayes , P.C .
(21) Appl. No.: 16 /146,973 (57 ) ABSTRACT
Activation of a payment instrument via an interaction with
( 22 ) Filed : Sep . 28 , 2018 a payment reader is described herein . A request for a
payment instrument that is to be associated with an account
of the merchant that is maintained in a ledger of a payment
(51) G06Q
Int. Ci.20 /26 ( 2012 .01)
processing service can be received from a point-of -sale
(POS ) application associated with a merchant device of a
G060 20 /20 ( 2012 .01) merchant. The merchant device can receive a request to
G060 20 / 34 ( 2012 .01) activate the payment instrument and can prompt the mer
G06Q 20 /10 (2012 .01) chant to cause an interaction between the payment instru
(52) U .S . CI. ment and a payment reader associated with the merchant
CPC ........... G060 20 /26 (2013 .01) ; G06Q 20/ 202 device . Payment data associated with the payment instru
(2013 .01 ); G060 20 / 204 (2013 .01); G06Q ment can be received from the payment reader, and it can be
20 /341 (2013.01); G06Q 20/355 ( 2013 .01); determined that the payment data corresponds to known
G06Q 20 /105 (2013 .01); G06Q 20 /354 payment data associated with the payment instrument.
( 2013.01) Accordingly, the payment instrument can be activated to
enable the merchant to use the payment instrument for
(58 ) Field of Classification Search accessing the account.
None
See application file for complete search history. 20 Claims, 18 Drawing Sheets
BALANCE
100 MANAGEMENT
128 MERCHANT SET -UP MODULE MODULE
126 MODULE 116 118
114 STORED BALANCE
120
PAYMENT
PROCESSING
SERVICE 112
B2B
TRANSACTION ( S )
TRANS . SCHEDULED
DATA 110 DEPOSITS/INSTANT
DEPOSITS
124
108
104 BANK
POS
TRANSACTION (S ) BANK ACCOUNT
122
POINT-OF-SALE (POS )
APPLICATION 106
US 10 ,Page
445,2716 B1
( 56 ) References Cited
U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
2011/0040682 A1 * 2 / 2011 Vasten ................. G06Q 20 / 105
705 /41
2011/0107265 A1 5 /2011 Buchanan et al.
2012 /0078784 A1 3 / 2012 Anthony et al.
2013 / 0013499 A1 1/ 2013 Kalgi
2014 /0279525 AL 9 /2014 Mohsenzadeh
2015 /0302394 Al * 10 /2015 Harper .. G06Q 20 /28
705 /41
OTHER PUBLICATIONS
“ Gift Card /Debit Card Activation ” , Dec . 2009 , https://stackoverflow .
com / questions/ 1848261/ gift -card -debit-card -activation (Year: 2009 ).*
Non -Final Office Action dated Jan . 10 , 2019 , for U . S . Appl. No.
16 / 147 ,080 , of Riechers, C . et al., filed Sep . 28 , 2018 .
FinalOffice Action dated Jul. 11, 2019 , for U .S . Appl.No. 16 / 147,080 ,
of Riechers , C . et al., filed Sep . 28, 2018 .
* cited by examiner
U . S . Patent Oct. 15 , 2019 Sheet 1 of 18 US 10,445 ,716 B1
BANK
MANGE T
BALNCE MODULE SBTALORNECD
118 120
?? SCHEDUL /IDENPSOTAINTSDEPOSIT
Weise
BAC ONUKT122
MSETODULE116
-UP 124
.TRANSDATA
MERCHANTMODULE 114 PAYMENPTROCESINGSERVICE 110

)
POS
(
SALE
OF
- 1APL0ICAT6ON
POINT
104 HA
TO D 1
.
FIG
-
126
Ww
(S)TRANSACTION (S)TRANSACTION
B2B POS
128
-
108
MUTTA
100
atent Oct. 15 , 2019 Sheet 2 of 18 US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
2007
DURING AN ONBOARDING PROCESS OF A NEW MERCHANT, PRESENT A USER
INTERFACE (UI) INDICATING THAT FUNDS OF THE NEW MERCHANT ARE
STORED IN A STORED BALANCE THAT IS ACCESSIBLE BY A PAYMENT
INSTRUMENT
202
DETERMINE WHETHER THE

MERCHANT OPTS- IN TO LINKING THE PAYMENT
INSTRUMENT TO THE STORED BALANCE
204
YES
RECEIVE A REQUEST TO LINK THE PROMPT THE MERCHANT TO LINK A

PAYMENT INSTRUMENT TO THE BANK ACCOUNT OF THE
STORED BALANCE MERCHANT WITH A MERCHANT
206 PROFILE .
210
PRESENT A UI TO ENABLE THE RECEIVE BANK ACCOUNT DATA

MERCHANT TO PERSONALIZE THE ASSOCIATED WITH THE BANK
PAYMENT INSTRUMENT ACCOUNT OF THE MERCHANT
208 212* *
ASSOCIATE THE BANK ACCOUNT

OF THE MERCHANT WITH THE
MERCHANT PROFILE
214
FIG . 2
300
PRESENT AN OFFER TO LINK A PAYMENT INSTRUMENT WITH A STORED

BALANCE OF A MERCHANT, THE STORED BALANCE BEING MAINTAINED IN A
LEDGER OF A PAYMENT PROCESSING SERVICE
302

MERCHANT ACCEPTS THE OFFER
304 NO
CONTINUE TO ENABLE ACCESS TO

THE STORED BALANCE VIA
YES SCHEDULED DEPOSITS AND /OR
INSTANT DEPOSITS
w
310
RECEIVE A
REQUEST TO
LINK THE RECEIVE A REQUEST TO LINK THE
PAYMENT PAYMENT INSTRUMENT TO THE
INSTRUMENT STORED BALANCE
WITH THE 306
STORED
BALANCE
312
PRESENT A UI TO ENABLE THE

MERCHANT TO PERSONALIZE THE
PAYMENT INSTRUMENT
308
FIG . 3
CPERASONLIDZE SHIEGRNE
:
)
S
(
ICON
SELECT
Sab 5
.
FIG
P
502Beg 126
- 504
m
500
RCEQAUERSDT
MA L
soxas 29
.
470
$
402
SB:TALORNECD 25
.
500
$
TOBDEAPONSIKT 4
.
FIG
400
7
. 406
404
K
400
600
RECEIVE A REQUEST TO LINK A PAYMENT INSTRUMENT WITH A STORED

BALANCE OF A MERCHANT THAT IS MAINTAINED BY A PAYMENT PROCESSING
SERVICE
602
DETERMINE CHARACTERISTIC (S ) OF THE MERCHANT

604
ACCESS ICON (S ) FOR PERSONALIZING THE PAYMENT INSTRUMENT

606
ARRANGE THE ICON ( S ) BASED ON THE CHARACTERISTIC ( S ) OF THE

MERCHANT
608
PRESENT THE ICON ( S ) VIA A USER INTERFACE

610
RECEIVE A SELECTION OF AT LEAST ONE ICON

612
SENDAN INSTRUCTION TO ASOCIATE THE MAINLEASTONE ICON WITH THE

SEND AN INSTRUCTION TO ASSOCIATE THE AT LEAST ONE ICON WITH THE
PAYMENT INSTRUMENT
614
FIG . 6
112
AMCOTIDVULOEN702 PKANYOMEWNTDATA
-UPMSETODULE 116 710
???????????????????????????????
r MEORDCUHALNET BALNCEMANGE TMODULE N SBTALORNECD

r
114 118 120
mer
DPAYMTENA708? ? ACTIV ON
wei
NOTIFCAN 712 7
.
FIG
IL
)
UN
(
INFegrace
USER
INTERFACE
USER
)
UI
(
104 W
)
POS
(
SALE
OF
- 1APL0ICAT6ON
POINT 706
126
7
700
704
900
DETERMINE A REQUEST TO ACTIVATE A PAYMENT INSTRUMENT ASSOCIATED

WITH A STORED BALANCE OF A MERCHANT THAT IS MAINTAINED BY A
PAYMENT PROCESSING SERVICE
902
PROMPT THE MERCHANT TO CAUSE AN INTERACTION BETWEEN THE PAYMENT

INSTRUMENT AND A PAYMENT READER
Y 904
RECEIVE PAYMENT DATA ASSOCIATED WITH THE PAYMENT INSTRUMENT
FROM THE PAYMENT READER
906

PAYMENT DATA CORRESPONDS TO
KNOWN PAYMENT DATA ASSOCIATED WITH THE
PAYMENT INSTRUMENT
YES 908 NO
ACTIVATE THE PAYMENT DO NOT ACTIVATE THE

INSTRUMENT PAYMENT INSTRUMENT
910 914
MODIFY A DEFAULT
WITHDRAWAL CHANNEL
ASSOCIATED WITH THE
STORED BALANCE
912
with
FIG . 9
124
cm
ABC ONUKT 122
W?wBALNCEMANGE TMODULE BSATLORNECD

118 120 112 1 (S)OFDCOEMPVUITCNEG NETWORK
,
)
S
(
AND
OR
/
ISSUER
S
(
)
(S),CARDPACQYUMIERNTR 10 4
116 10
.
FIG
SET-UPMODULE LLL
(S)DMOETRVCHIEACNRET
10 2 )
POS
(
SALE
OF
-
POINT 1APL0ICAT6ON
MMERCHANTODULE114
104
)
POS
(
SALE
OF
-
POINT 1APL0ICAT6ON BAPLNECT10 6
10 0
U . S . Patent Oct. 15, 2019 Sheet 10 of 18 US 10,445,716 B1
1100mm
RECEIVE , FROM A MERCHANT DEVICE OF A MERCHANT, A REQUEST TO
w ACCESS INFORMATION ASSOCIATED WITH A STORED BALANCE OF THE

MERCHANT
1102
ACCESS A LEDGER ASSOCIATED WITH THE STORED BALANCE

1104
SEND INSTRUCTIONS FOR PRESENTING A USER INTERFACE ASSOCIATED WITH

THE LEDGER VIA A DISPLAY OF THE MERCHANT DEVICE
1106
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
CAUSE THE USER INTERFACE TO BE PRESENTED VIA A DISPLAY OF THE

MERCHANT DEVICE
1108
FIG . 11
VN
.
%
005
.
57 25
,
520
$ .
)
$
(
NOW
BANK
TO
DEPOSIT
.
1206 LTOBDEAPTONSEIKRT1208
.
1311
2017
12
/ 2018 13
12
/ 2018
12
/ 2018
10
/
32
.
:$500.25BmedSATLOARNECD
AYMCONUAGRET CCof e boefanes BCaogfens Mas ge *
*
12
.
FIG
*
D
R E U
P C T
O IRN S
*
Customers Ccustomer
N
R>SPENDOIRNTG R>DEPOSRIT LMIANKEGDPINSATRUMYENT

*
NAR
*
75
.
15
$
+ *
2wenn
1204
12 0m 1212
120
1300
RECEIVE , BY A POINT-OF -SALE (POS ) APPLICATION ON A MERCHANT DEVICE

OF A MERCHANT, PAYMENT DATA INDEPENDENT OF A POS TRANSACTION
1302

PAYMENT DATA CORRESPONDS TO KNOWN PAYMENT
DATA OF A PAYMENT INSTRUMENT LINKED TO A
STORED BALANCE OF THE MERCHANT
1304
YES NO
CAUSE A USER
INTERFACE CAUSE AN ERROR
ASSOCIATED WITH MESSAGE TO BE
THE ACCOUNT TO PRESENTED VIA THE
BE PRESENTED VIA MERCHANT DEVICE
THE MERCHANT
DEVICE 1308
1306
FIG . 13
1400m
RECEIVE TRANSACTION DATA ASSOCIATED WITH TRANSACTION (S ) BETWEEN A
MERCHANT AND OTHER MERCHANT( S )
1402
rene en een ener g ie
ADD AN INDICATION OF EACH TRANSACTION TO A LEDGER MAINTAINED BY A

1404
DETERMINE WHETHER
A TRANSACTION IS A BUSINESS EXPENSE OR A
PERSONAL EXPENSE
1406
BUSINESS PERSONAL
ASSOCIATE A FIRST ASSOCIATE A SECOND

INDICATOR WITH THE INDICATOR WITH THE
INDICATION OF THE INDICATION OF THE
TRANSACTION IN THE TRANSACTION IN THE
LEDGER LEDGER
1408 1410
FIG . 14
00000
U .S . Patent Oct. 15, 2019 Sheet 14 of 18 US 10,445,716 B1
1504
PERSONAL 1502
BUSINE VIA
?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
000
23
.
500
$
Pp DEPOSIT
)
$
(
NOW
BANK
TO
1206 LTOBDEAPTONSEIKRT 1208
20182018
12
/
11 17
/
11
,11 20182018
12
/ 12
/ 13 2018
11
/
15
.
FIG
SATLOARNECDE
Bweb
25
.
500
$
:
AYMCONUAGRET Cot e
BCaorf el
+
Customers CustomerCietumro .
XYZ
Bank
R>SPENDOIRNTG R>DEPOSRIT R>DE UPCOTIRNTS LMIANKEGDP.INSATRUMYENT

75
.
15
$
Riiiii
1210mm
1500mm
1202 1204 1212
1600
RECOVE Toe rig er gang even

RECEIVE TRANSACTION DATA ASSOCIATED WITH TRANSACTION (S ) BETWEEN A
MERCHANT AND OTHER MERCHANT ( S )
1602
ADD AN INDICATION OF EACH TRANSACTION TO A LEDGER MAINTAINED BY A

1604
ASSOCIATE AN ELECTRONIC RECORD OF A TRANSACTION WITH A

.. .
CORRESPONDING INDICATION OF THE TRANSACTION IN THE LEDGER

1606
FIG . 16
1702
RECIPT 1028
12
/
11 BMERCHANT BCOEFANES 00
.
25
$
28
AYMCONUAGRET 17
.
FIG
HOLE
170 1202 1204

1210m
1212
1800
RECEIVE AN AUTHORIZATION REQUEST TO AUTHORIZE A PAYMENT

INSTRUMENT FOR A PREDICTED COST OF A TRANSACTION
1802

PREDICTED COST IS GREATER THAN AN AVAILABLE
BALANCE OF THE PAYMENT INSTRUMENT
1804 No
AUTHORIZE THE
TRANSACTION
YES 1806
NO

ACTUAL COST IS LIKELY TO BE GREATER THAN THE
AVAILABLE BALANCE OF THE
PAYMENT INSTRUMENT
1808
YES
PRESENT A CAPITAL
w OFFER TO THE USER
1810 I NO
DETERMINE WHETHER THE maneno YES

USER ACCEPTS THE CAPITAL OFFER
1812
FIG . 18
atent Oct. 15 , 2019 Sheet 18 of 18 US 10 ,445,716 B1
MODULES
OTHER
|
DATA
AND
702 OSPYERATINMG1928 1930 /OIDEUNVTPICUETS1926
(S)PROCES OR
112
)
S
(
SERVER
1920 1M-RCEO9ADP2UIBTLEAR
MEAOCRTIDVUHLAOENT MAN ERCHAN D A T B S E 1932
NETWORK
)
S
(
114
-UPMSETODULE116
BMANLGECTMODULE 118
COMUNIAT INTERFACE
1924
)
S
(
1902 19
.
FIG
NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
)
S
(
SENSOR
haeitbndanreudotarheatbsirnleodtiaulr /OIDEUNVTPICUETS1910 1918
DM1ERV0CIHA4NET (S)1904PROCES OR 1M-RCEO9ADP0UIBT6LEAR PA1LOI0CAST6ON ABPL NECT1006 SOPYERATINMG1912 1ANDDMOT9AHU1TLE4ARS

.
7DREVA0IDCE4R
190
Whitehotenste in hohoto tohtonih teht i
MAAANNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
totoonituntetett
tdailnreusonatrmeilo 1908)I(SNTERFACE
COMUNIAT DISPLAY1916
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
ACTIVATION OF PAYMENT CARD VIA FIG . 8 illustrates another example environment for acti
INTERACTION WITH PAYMENT READER vating a payment instrument, as described herein .
FIG . 9 illustrates an example process for activating a
BACKGROUND payment instrument, as described herein .
FIG . 10 illustrates an example environment for tracking
Payment instruments are used in a wide variety of trans - the movement of funds in and out of a stored balance and
actions. Examples of such payment instruments include enabling a merchant associated with the stored balance to
credit cards , stored value cards, debit cards, loyalty cards, manage their stored balance , as described herein .
library cards, membership cards, and the like. The informa- FIG . 11 illustrates an example process for presenting a UI
tion displayed on a credit card is typically controlled by the 10 representative of the ledger ( or a portion thereof) corre
bank issuing the card and displays information, such as the sponding to its stored balance , as described herein .
account number, a three or four-digit authentication code, FIG . 12 illustrates an example UI for presenting at least
validity of the card , name of issuing bank , name of the a portion of a ledger of a stored balance of a merchant, as
interbank network , and the like. The payment instruments described herein .
also include a hologram having embedded within security 15 FIG . 13 illustrates an example process for opening a
features and an integrated circuit to support Europay -Mas - balance applet responsive to an interaction between a pay
tercard -Visa (“ EMV” ) payment functionalities. Despite the ment instrument and a payment reader, as described herein .
aforementioned options , the choices for what is to appear on FIG . 14 illustrates an example process for classifying
a payment instrument are limited . When a new payment transactions , as described herein .
instrument is issued to a user, that user is told (usually via 20 FIG . 15 is an example UI for presenting at least a portion
a sticker on the card ) to activate the payment instrument by of a ledger of a stored balance of a merchant, wherein
calling a phone number or by visiting a website where the individual transactions are associated with an indicator as to
user registers the payment instrument by providing person whether the transaction is a business expense or a personal
ally identifiable information . expense, as described herein .
Business owners often usemultiple accounts and multiple 25 FIG . 16 illustrates an example process for associating
payment instruments for their business. Accounting for electronic records with indications of transactions in a
business owners is complicated , in part because of the ledger, as described herein .
multiple payment accounts and payment instruments . Busi- FIG . 17 is an example UI for presenting at least a portion
ness owners often invest significant resources into managing of a ledger of a stored balance of a merchant, wherein
and separating business and personal funds in a secure and 30 individual transactions are associated with electronic
fair manner. Furthermore , cash flow can be challenging for records of the individual transactions, as described herein .
business owners . For instance, business owners want quick F IG . 18 illustrates an example process for intelligently
access to their earned funds ( quicker than what is currently managing authorization requests , as described herein .
available via traditional banking methods ). Further, business FIG . 19 depicts an illustrative block diagram illustrating
owners do not feel in control of their finances given con - 35 a system for performing techniques as described herein .
ventional business banking techniques. That is , business In the figures, the left -most digit(s) of a reference number
owners want a transparent understanding of their cash flow . identifies the figure in which the reference number first
appears. The use of the same reference numbers in different
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS figures indicates similar or identical items or features. The
40 drawings are not to scale .
Features of the present disclosure , its nature and various
advantages, will be more apparent upon consideration of the DETAILED DESCRIPTION
following detailed description , taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings in which : Techniques described herein are directed to an unconven
FIG . 1 illustrates an example environment for associating 45 tional business banking product that allows merchants to
a payment instrument with an account that is managed by a store payment revenue securely in an account and utilize a
payment processing service from POS transactions of a debit card linked to the account to quickly access funds in
merchant and enabling the merchant to use the payment their account. For instance , a payment processing service
instrument for transactions with other merchants (e . g ., busi- can process point-of-sale (POS) transactions on behalf of a
ness -to -business transactions ), as described herein . 50 merchant. Funds generated from the POS transactions can
FIG . 2 illustrates an example process for associating a be stored in an account that is managed by the payment
payment instrument with an account of a merchant during processing service ( e. g ., not a traditional bank account ). In
onboarding of a new merchant, as described herein . at least one example , the payment processing service can
FIG . 3 illustrates an example process for linking a pay - manage the account via a ledger.
ment instrument to a stored balance of a merchant after 55 The account can be associated with multiple withdrawal
onboarding of the merchant, as described herein . channels. For instance , the merchant can access the funds in
FIG . 4 illustrates an example user interface (UI) from the account by a scheduled deposit from the account to a
which a merchant can send a request to link a payment linked bank account. In such an example , the payment
instrument with a stored balance of the merchant, as processing service can initiate a deposit (e .g ., via ACH , etc .)
described herein . 60 from the account managed by the payment processing
FIG . 5 illustrates an example UI from which a merchant service to the bank account at a prearranged time after a POS
can personalize their payment instrument, as described transaction is funded . Such scheduled deposits are often
herein . scheduled for the next business day or later.
FIG . 6 illustrates an example process for personalizing a Further, the merchant can access the funds in the account
payment instrument, as described herein . 65 by an instant deposit from the account to a linked bank
FIG . 7 illustrates an example environment for activating account. In such an example , the payment processing service
a payment instrument, as described herein . can initiate a deposit ( e.g ., via debit rails, etc .) from the
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
account managed by the payment processing service to the Furthermore, techniques described herein are directed to
bank account upon receiving a request from themerchant. A personalizing the debit card . For instance , as described
request for an instant deposit can be made substantially herein , a merchant can personalize a pattern ( e . g ., a signa
immediately after a POS transaction is funded . Instant ture, a Quick Response (QR ) code, a photograph, a three
deposits can often be associated with an additional fee due 5 dimensional image, an alphanumeric code, a text, etc .) ,
to the increased convenience of “ on demand ” access to the icons, and other information that can be associated with the
funds in the account. debit card so that the debit card has a unique presentation
Techniques described herein are directed to yet another particular to the merchant . In some examples , the signature ,
way that a merchant can access funds in the account : a icons, etc . can be printed on a stock material (such as by
linked debit card . The linked debit card allows themerchant 10 using a laser or ink jet printer ) or can be otherwise associated
to access funds in the account substantially immediately with the stock material via silk screening, use of stickers or
after a POS transaction is funded . As the funds do not need labels, embossing , etching , engraving, painting and the like .
to be transferred from the payment processing service to a Additional details are provided below .
bank account, the merchant can have “ on demand ” access to Techniques described herein are directed to managing the
their funds without incurring additional fees. As described 15 movement ofmoney through an account of a merchant . For
herein , the merchant can personalize the debit card by instance , the balance applet, as described herein , can track
adding a unique identification pattern , selecting icons, and payroll payments from the account ( e.g ., payments to
adding other flare that is representative of the merchant employees of the merchant), payments to other merchants
and /or their business (e .g ., logos , colors , etc.). (e . g ., business -to -business ) directly from the account or
Further , techniques described herein are directed to a 20 from the linked debit card , withdrawals made via scheduled
balance applet enables merchants to check , track , and use deposit and /or instant deposit, deposits from POS transac
their funds via a single access point (e . g ., a POS application tions, deposits from other bank accounts, etc . The balance
on a POS terminal, a dashboard presented via a web browser, applet as described herein allowsmerchants to access infor
etc .). The balance applet can enable merchants to check how mation relating to their business banking account via an
much money they are earning ( e . g ., via presentation of 25 integrated platform , which can be accessible via a user
available earned balance ), understand where their money is interface (UI) presented via a POS terminal or other mer
going (e .g ., via deposit reports (which can include a break - chant device .
down of fees ), spend reports, etc .), access/ use earned money Furthermore , techniques described herein are directed to
( e. g ., via scheduled deposit , instant deposit , linked payment intelligently managing authorization requests . In an
instrument, etc . ), feel in control of their money ( e . g ., via 30 example , when a payment processing service controls a
management of deposit schedule , deposit speed , linked payment instrument, such as a debit card linked to an
instruments , etc .), etc . Furthermore, the balance applet can account, and receives an authorization request in association
enable merchants to visualize their cash flow to track their with a transaction , instead of automatically declining ( if
financial health , set aside money for upcoming obligations account balance is below the amount of the authorization
( e . g ., savings ) , organize money around goals, etc . Such an 35 request ), the payment processing service can approve the
applet allows merchants to feel in control of their finances by authorization request ( and thus, temporarily cover the cost
providing transparency to their cash flow and easing access of the transaction ) if the payment processing service
to account management. believes that the ultimately charged amount will be less than
As a non - limiting example, a merchant runs his own shoe or equal to the account balance . Such techniques attempt to
repair business . As the merchant performs shoe repairs , the 40 reduce the number of declines experienced by payment
merchant is paid for such services via a POS application instrument users , thereby decongesting networks associated
executing on a device of the merchant (e .g ., a POS terminal). with payment processing and increasing bandwidth within
Funds resulting from such services are deposited into a the payment processing network . Additional details are
secure account that is managed by a payment processing described below .
service . The merchant can use a personalized debit card that 45 While the aforementioned description is directed to a
is linked to his account to buy the supplies he needs for shoe debit card , as described below , techniques described herein
repairs . Additionally , the merchant can check the balance of can be directed to any type of payment instrument. Further
the account via the balance applet. For instance, the mer - more , while the aforementioned description is directed to a
chant can check the balance of the account at the beginning merchant end user, techniques described herein can apply to
and end of each day to know where he stands. Further, the 50 any type of end user. Moreover, for purposes of this discus
merchant can periodically transfer funds from his balance to sion , an " item " can refer to any good or service that can be
a linked bank account for making purchases without using purchased or otherwise made available for acquisition (e.g .,
the debit card . That is , the merchant can store his business purchase , rent, borrow , barter , etc . ) from a merchant.
funds securely in a manner that he can have instant access FIG . 1 illustrates an example environment 100 for asso
( via the personalized debit card ) and the merchant can 55 ciating a payment instrument with an account that is man
leverage the balance applet to monitor his cash flow . aged by a payment processing service from POS transac
Techniques described herein are directed to unconven - tions of a merchant and enabling the merchant to use the
tionalmeans for activating a debit card linked to an account payment instrument for transactions with other merchants
of a merchant. For instance, the merchant can utilize a (e .g ., business - to -business transactions).
payment reader that is coupled to a POS terminal to activate 60 In an example , a merchant 102 can operate a merchant
the debit card . In an example , the merchant can tap , dip , device 104 . For the purpose of this discussion , a merchant
swipe, etc . a debit card in an inactive state via the payment can be any entity that offers items ( e . g ., goods or services )
reader. The payment reader can read payment data from the for purchase or other means of acquisition ( e. g ., rent,
debit card and a POS application executing on the POS borrow , barter , etc .) . The merchant device 104 can have an
terminal can facilitate the confirmation that the payment data 65 instance of a POS application 106 stored thereon . The POS
corresponds to the debit card . Accordingly , the debit card application 106 can configure the merchant device 104 as a
can be activated for use by the merchant. POS terminal, which enables the merchant 102 to perform
US 10 , 445 ,716 B1
transactions with one or more customers 108 . For the discussion , a payment instrument can be " linked ” such that
purpose of this discussion , such transactions can be referred payment data of the payment instrument can be mapped , or
to as “ POS transactions” and / or " transactions.” In at least otherwise associated with , a stored balance . The payment
one example, the POS application 106 can determine trans - instrument 126 can have an available balance ( e. g., value )
action data 110 associated with the POS transactions. Trans- 5 that corresponds to the stored balance 120 .
action data 110 can include payment data , which can be The payment instrument 126 can be designed according to
obtained from a reader device associated with the merchant a specification corresponding to , for example , a debit card ,
device 104 , user authentication data , purchase amount infor - a credit card , a smart -card (conforming to a payment instru
mation , point- of-purchase information (e . g., item (s ) pur- ment technical standard , such as a Europay -MasterCard
chased , date of purchase, time of purchase , etc . ), etc . The 10 Visa (“ EMV ” ) standard ), a radio frequency identification tag
POS application 106 can send transaction data 110 to one or (i. e ., near field communication enabled object), a biometric
more servers 112 of a payment processing service (or payment instrument, a virtual payment card stored on a
another acquirer , as described below ) . Furthermore , the POS device such as a smart phone and transmittable , for example ,
application 106 can present a UI to enable merchants to via near field communication (“ NFC ” ), and can include
interact with the POS application 106 and/ or the payment 15 personally identifiable information (“ PII” ), such as merchant
processing service via the POS application 106 . name, account number , and the like . In an example , the
The server (s ) 112 can store one or more modules , includ - payment instrument 126 can be a software instrument or
ing, but not limited to , a merchant module 114 , a set -up virtual instrument which can be stored in a virtual wallet
module 116 , and a balance management module 118 . The configured to initiate contactless payment transactions, e . g .,
merchant module 114 can , among other things , process 20 a key fob , a mobile device having an RFID tag, etc . In
transactions on behalf of the merchant 102 (and one or more general, the payment instrument 126 can be any kind of
other merchants ). The server (s ) 112 can be a cloud comput- financial instrument that holds financial value or provides a
ing environment, a virtualized computing environment, a promise to pay at a later time.
computer cluster, or any combination thereof. As described above , the merchant 102 can personalize the
The merchant module 114 can analyze the transaction 25 payment instrument 126 . For instance , the payment instru
data to determine an amount of funds owed to the merchant m ent 126 can have embedded within , or displayed on a
102 . Based on determining the amount of funds owed to the surface , a unique pattern corresponding to or provided by the
merchant 102 , the merchantmodule 114 can send an indi- merchant. The unique pattern , for example , can be a signa
cation to the balance management module 116 and can ture , a QR code, a photograph , a three - dimensional image ,
facilitate the deposit of such funds into an account. The 30 an alphanumeric code, a text, or any other pattern . The
account can have a stored balance 120 , which can be unique pattern can further comprise a placement of a sig
managed by the balance management module 116 . That is, nature , a QR code, a photograph , a three -dimensional image ,
the stored balance 120 can be an account managed by the an alphanumeric code , a text, or any other pattern on the
payment processing service . For purposes of this discussion , payment instrument, for instance , relative to a chip on the
" account” and “ stored balance ” can be used interchangeably 35 payment instrument and the number of the payment instru
to refer to such an account . The stored balance 120 is ment . Furthermore , the merchant 102 can personalize the
different from a conventional bank account at least because payment instrument 126 by selecting icons and adding other
the stored balance 120 is managed by a ledger of a payment flare that is representative of the merchant 102 and / or their
processing service and the associated funds are accessible business. For instance, as a non - limiting example, the mer
via at least three withdrawal channels: instant deposit , 40 chant 102 can operate a coffee shop and thus can personalize
scheduled deposit , and a linked payment instrument. the payment instrument 126 with an icon of a coffee cup .
As described above, the merchant 102 can access the The set- up module 116 can facilitate such personalization , as
funds in the stored balance 120 by a scheduled deposit from described below .
the stored balance 120 to a linked bank account 122. In such The merchant 102 can use the payment instrument 126 to
an example , the server( s ) 112 can initiate a deposit from the 45 transact with other merchants 128 , for instance via business
stored balance 120 managed by the server( s ) 112 to the to -business (“ B2B ” ) transactions. That is , the merchant 102
linked bank account 122 that is managed by one or more can purchase item (s ) (e. g., goods or services ) from another
servers 124 of a bank or other financial institution . The merchant 128 and can pay for the item ( s ) using the payment
deposit can occur at a prearranged time after a POS trans - instrument 126 . The merchant 102 can use the payment
action is funded . Such scheduled deposits are often a next 50 instrument 126 in card present and card -not- present
business day or later. In some examples, scheduled deposits (“ CNP” ) transactions ( e . g ., payment data associated with the
are a default withdrawal channel associated with stored payment instrument 126 is used for a transaction but the
balances , such as the stored balance 120 . payment instrument 126 is not physically present). The
Further, the merchant 102 can access the funds in the balance managementmodule 118 can receive an indication
stored balance 120 by an instant deposit from the stored 55 of a purchase using the payment instrument 126 and can
balance 120 to a linked bank account 122 . In such an debit an amount of the purchase from the stored balance 120 .
example, the server (s ) 112 can initiate a deposit from the The balance managementmodule 118 can also credit the
stored balance 120 to the linked bank account 122 upon stored balance 120 based on POS transactions , as described
receiving a request from the merchant 102. A request for an above, and can debit the stored balance 120 based on other
instant deposit can be made substantially immediately after 60 payments such as payroll payments to employees , direct
a POS transaction is funded . Instant deposits can often be transfers to vendors for inventory items, scheduled and/or
associated with an additional fee due to the increased instant deposits, etc . Additional details associated with the
convenience of " on demand ” access to the funds in the ledger and the balance management module 118 are
stored balance 120. described below .
Additionally, the merchant 102 can access funds in the 65 In addition to the withdrawal channels described above ,
stored balance 120 via a payment instrument 126 that is funds can be withdrawn or deducted from the stored balance
linked to the stored balance 120 . For the purpose of this 120 to pay for processing fees, capital loan repayment,
US 10 ,445,716 B1
subscriptions, savings , bill pay , etc . That is , while three example , the request can be associated with merchant data
withdrawal channels are described above ; funds can be such as a personal name, an address , a date of birth , a
withdrawn from the stored balance 120 via additional or personal identifier ( e. g ., social security number ) as received
alternative other withdrawal channels. by the merchant 102 during onboarding .
FIG . 2 illustrates an example process 200 for associating 5 Block 208 illustrates presenting a UI to enable the mer
a payment instrument with an account of a merchant during chant to personalize the payment instrument. Responsive to
onboarding of a new merchant. receiving the request to link the payment instrument to the
For the purpose of this discussion , onboarding can refer to stored balance , the set - up module 116 can cause a UI to be
registering a potential merchant with a service provider, presented to enable the merchant 102 to personalize the
such as a payment processing service provider (the " pay - 10 payment instrument. That is, the set- up module 116 can send
ment processing service ” ). In some examples, onboarding instructions to the merchant device 104 to present the UI via
can involve presenting various questions, prompts, and the a display of the merchant device 104 . In at least one
like to a potential merchant to obtain merchant information example , the UI can be presented via a web browser, or the
that can be used to generate a merchant profile for the like . In other examples, the UI can be presented via an
potential merchant . Responsive to the potential merchant 15 application , such as a mobile application or desktop appli
providing all necessary merchant information , the potential cation , which is provided by the payment processing service ,
merchant can be onboarded to the payment processing or which can be an otherwise dedicated application . For
service as a merchant, such as the merchant 102 . In some instance, the UI can be presented via the POS application
examples, the merchant 102 can opt- in to using a payment 106 .
instrument and personalizing the payment instrument during 20 The merchant 102 can personalize the payment instru
onboarding. ment 126 via interaction with the UI. For instance , the
Block 202 illustrates, during an onboarding process of a payment instrument 126 can have embedded within , or
new merchant, presenting a UI indicating that funds of the displayed on a surface , a unique pattern corresponding to or
new merchant are stored in a stored balance that is accessible provided by the merchant 102 . The unique pattern , for
by a payment instrument. In at least one example , during an 25 example , can be a signature , a QR code , a photograph , a
onboarding process, the set -up module 116 can cause a UI three - dimensional image , an alphanumeric code , a text, or
to be presented to themerchant 102 informing themerchant any other pattern . The unique pattern can further comprise a
102 that funds resulting from POS transactions processed by placement of a signature , a QR code, a photograph , a
the payment processing service are securely stored in a three - dimensional image , an alphanumeric code , a text, or
stored balance 120 . The UI can additionally inform the 30 any other pattern on the payment instrument, for instance ,
merchant 102 that the funds are available to the merchant relative to a chip on the payment instrument and the number
102 substantially immediately after funding a POS transac - of the payment instrument. Furthermore , the merchant 102
tion via a payment instrument that can be linked to the stored can personalize the payment instrument 126 by selecting
balance 120 . In at least one example , the UI can be presented icons and adding other flare that is representative of the
via a web browser, or the like . In other examples , the UI can 35 merchant 102 and / or their business . The set -up module 116
be presented via an application , such as a mobile application can cause a UI to be presented to enable the merchant 102
or desktop application , which is provided by the payment to provide the unique pattern , select icon (s ), etc . Additional
processing service, or which can be an otherwise dedicated details are provided below .
application . For instance , the UI can be presented via the Block 210 illustrates prompting the merchant to link a
POS application 106 . 40 bank account of the merchant to a merchant profile . If the
Block 204 illustrates determining whether the merchant merchant 102 does not opt- in to using the payment instru
opts - in to linking the payment instrument to the stored ment, the set -up module 116 can prompt the merchant 102
balance . In at least one example , the merchant 102 can to link a bank account of the merchant 102 to a merchant
interact with the UI to indicate whether the merchant 102 profile of the merchant 102 . For instance , the set - up module
opts - in to linking the payment instrument to the stored 45 116 can send instructions to the merchant device 104 to
balance 120 . For instance , the merchant 102 can select a cause a UI to be presented to the merchant 102 , prompting
selectable control ( e . g., software or hardware button , etc .) to the merchant 102 to input bank account data . In at least one
indicate that the merchant 102 opts -in to linking the payment example , the UI can be presented via a web browser, or the
instrument to the stored balance 120 . Or, the merchant 102 like. In other examples , the UI can be presented via an
can provide another indication that themerchant 102 opts - in 50 application , such as a mobile application or desktop appli
to linking the payment instrument to the stored balance 120 . cation , which is provided by the payment processing service ,
In some examples, the payment instrument can be provided or which can be an otherwise dedicated application . For
to the merchant 102 without the merchant 102 expressly instance , the UI can be presented via the POS application
opting -in to linking the payment instrument (e.g ., the pay - 106 .
ment instrument can be a default option ). In other examples , 55 Block 212 illustrates receiving bank account data associ
the merchant 102 can interact with the UI indicating that the ated with the bank account of the merchant. The merchant
merchant 102 opts -out of linking the payment instrument to 102 can input bank account data responsive to the prompt.
the stored balance 120 . For instance , the merchant 102 can The merchant 102 can provide at least a name of a bank , an
select a selectable control associated with linking a bank account number, a routing number, etc . so that the merchant
account to the stored balance 120 thereby impliedly opting - 60 module 114 can deposit funds into the bank account 122 of
out of linking the payment instrument to the stored balance the merchant 102 .
120 . Block 214 illustrates associating the bank account of the
Block 206 illustrates receiving a request to link the merchantwith the merchant profile. Responsive to receiving
payment instrument to the stored balance . Responsive to the the bank account data , the set-up module 116 can associate
merchant 102 opting- in to linking the payment instrument, 65 the bank account with a profile of the merchant 102 , to
the set- up module 116 can receive a request to link the which the stored balance 120 is also linked . The merchant
payment instrument to the stored balance . In at least one module 114 can facilitate the deposit of funds from the
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
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stored balance 120 into the linked bank account for instance , instance , the UI can be presented via the POS application
via scheduled deposits , instant deposits, etc . 106 . The merchant 102 can personalize the payment instru
While FIG . 2 illustrates a process for linking a payment ment 126 via interaction with the UI, as described above .
instrument 126 to a stored balance 120 of a merchant 102 Block 310 illustrates continuing to enable access to the
during onboarding , in some examples , a merchant 102 may 5 stored balance via scheduled deposits and/ or instant depos
not link a payment instrument 126 during onboarding ( e . g ., its . If the merchant 102 does not accept the offer, the
the merchant 102 opted out, the linked payment instrument merchant module 114 can continue to enable access to the
was not available , etc . ). In such examples , the merchant 102 stored balance 120 via scheduled deposits and / or instant
can link a payment instrument 126 to their stored balance deposits to the linked bank account.
120 at a time after onboarding . 10 In some examples, the merchant 102 can initiate a request
FIG . 3 illustrates an example process 300 for linking a to link the payment instrument with the stored balance (e . g.,
payment instrument to a stored balance of a merchant after without first having received an offer ), as illustrated in block
onboarding. In such an example , the stored balance 120 can 312 .
be accessible to the merchant 102 via scheduled deposits, In at least one example , as part of the ordering process
instant deposits, etc . That is , the merchant 102 previously 15 which can be associated with onboarding or at a later time
provided bank account information for linking their bank as described above the merchant 102 can input and /or
account to a merchant profile of the merchant 102. In such confirm merchant information including, but not limited to ,
an example , until a payment instrument is linked to the a shipping address ( indicating where to ship the payment
stored balance 102 ( and activated ), themerchantmodule 114 instrument 126 ), an account owner (e . g ., which can be
can facilitate the deposit of funds from the stored balance 20 associated with the payment instrument 126 ), a business
120 into the linked bank account for instance , via scheduled name (e . g ., which can be associated with the payment
deposits , instant deposits , etc . instrument 126 and /or can appear on receipts and customer
Block 302 illustrates presenting an offer to link a payment statements ), a date ofbirth , a zip code , etc . Furthermore , in
instrument with a stored balance of a merchant, the stored some examples, responsive to completing the ordering pro
balance being maintained in a ledger of a payment process - 25 cess (and prior to receipt and / or activation of the payment
ing service . In at least one example , the set-up module 116 instrument 126 ), the merchant 102 can utilize the payment
can send an offer to link a payment instrument with a stored data associated with the payment instrument 126 to perform
balance to a device of a merchant. For instance , the set -up CNP transactions. That is , upon completion of the person
module 116 can send an email , text message , push notifi- alization process , the set -up module 116 can cause a UI to
cation , etc . to themerchant device 104 . The offer can explain 30 be presented that provides the merchant 102 with the pay
details associated with linking a payment instrument to the ment data , or a portion thereof, and themerchant 102 can use
stored balance 120 and can include a selectable control that the payment data for CNP transactions. In some examples ,
enables the merchant 102 to initiate a request to link the themerchant 102 cannot use the payment instrument 126 for
payment instrument to the stored balance 120 . In another CNP transactions until after the payment instrument 126 is
example , the set- up module 116 can cause a selectable 35 activated .
control to be presented via a dashboard presented via a FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate non - limiting examples ofUIs that
webpage , the POS application 106 , etc. For the purpose of can be presented consistent with techniques described
this discussion , a dashboard can be a UI that provides an herein . In at least one example , the UI can be presented via
at- a - glance view of key information ( e .g ., associated with a web browser, or the like. In other examples , the UI can be
transactions , payments , etc . ). Selection of the selectable 40 presented via an application , such as a mobile application or
control can initiate a request to link the payment instrument desktop application , which is provided by the payment
to the stored balance 120 . In additional or alternative processing service , or which can be an otherwise dedicated
examples, another mechanism can be used to enable a application . For instance , the UI can be presented via the
merchant to indicate acceptance (or not ) of the offer. POS application 106 . It should be noted that the UIS
Block 304 illustrates determining whether the merchant 45 described can present additional or alternative content in
accepts the offer . The set- up module 116 can receive an additional or alternative configurations.
indication that the merchant 102 accepts the offer (e . g ., by FIG . 4 illustrates an example UI 400 from which a
selection of a selectable control presented via an email, text merchant can send a request to link a payment instrument
message , push notification , dashboard , etc .) . Block 306 with a stored balance of the merchant. As described above ,
illustrates receiving a request to link the payment instrument 50 in an example , the set-up module 116 can cause a selectable
to the stored balance . Responsive to the merchant 102 control 402 to be presented via a dashboard 404 presented
opting - in to linking the payment instrument ( e. g., accepting via a webpage , the POS application 106 , etc . In some
the offer ), the set-up module 116 can receive a request to link examples, the selectable control 402 can be presented in
the payment instrument to the stored balance . association with an offer. Selection of the selectable control
Block 308 illustrates presenting a UI to enable the mer - 55 402 can initiate a request to link the payment instrument to
chant to personalize the payment instrument. Responsive to the stored balance 120 . In some examples , the UI 400 can
receiving the request to link the payment instrument to the include a selectable control 406 to enable the merchant 102
stored balance , the set- up module 116 can cause a UI to be to initiate a transfer of funds ( e. g ., via an instant or scheduled
presented to enable the merchant 102 to personalize the deposit) to the merchant 's bank account 122. Additional
payment instrument. That is , the set -up module 116 can send 60 details associated with the UI 404 are described below .
instructions to the merchant device 104 to present the UI via As described above, the merchant 102 can personalize the
a display of the merchant device 104 . In at least one payment instrument 126 . For instance, the payment instru
example , the UI can be presented via a web browser, or the ment 126 can have embedded within , or displayed on a
like. In other examples , the UI can be presented via an surface , a unique pattern corresponding to or provided by the
application , such as a mobile application or desktop appli- 65 merchant 102 . The unique pattern , for example , can be a
cation , which is provided by the payment processing service , signature , a QR code, a photograph , a three -dimensional
or which can be an otherwise dedicated application . For image, an alphanumeric code , a text, or any other pattern .
US 10 , 445 ,716 B1
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The unique pattern can further comprise a placement of a The icon (s) 502 are referenced as being associated with or
signature, a QR code, a photograph , a three-dimensional printed on the payment instrument; however, the icon (s) 502
image, an alphanumeric code , a text, or any other pattern on can be provided with the payment instrument, for example
the payment instrument, for instance, relative to a chip on in an accompanying letter. The icon (s ) 502 can also be
the payment instrument and the number of the payment 5 embedded , such that they are hidden to naked eye. The
instrument. icon (s ) 502 once encrypted and printed or associated to the
Furthermore, the merchant 102 can personalize the pay - payment instrument can be mentioned as pattern in the
ment instrument 126 by selecting icons and adding other specification . An icon can also be an analog of a digital file
flare that is representative of the merchant 102 and/ or their that comprises a picture or a drawing that is in a JPEG or
business . The set -up module 116 can cause a UI to be 10 other file format.
presented to enable the merchant 102 to provide the unique It should be noted that in some examples, the unique
pattern , select icon (s ), etc . FIG . 5 illustrates an example UI pattern and/or selected icon ( s) can be reviewed manually or
500 from which a merchant can personalize their payment by an automated system to determine whether the unique
instrument. pattern and / or selected icon (s ) are compliant with terms of
As illustrated in FIG . 5 , the merchant 102 can provide a 15 service or other standards imposed by the payment process
unique pattern via an interaction with the UI 500 , for ing service . In an example where a unique pattern and/ or
instance , by signing in a signature box 502 presented via the selected icon ( s ) are rejected , the merchant 102 can be
UI 500 . In such an example , the merchant 102 selects or notified and can be presented with a UI to enable the
provides a signature and the POS application 106 , for merchant 102 to reorder a payment instrument that complies
example , can send the signature to the set -up module 116 . 20 with the terms of service or other standards.
The set-up module 116 receives the signature and converts In FIG . 5 , a non - limiting example of a personalized
and / or encrypts the signature into a pattern , which is capable payment instrument 126 is provided .
of being imprinted, embedded or otherwise associated with variety of materials can be used to craft the payment
the payment instrument . instrument 126 . For example, the payment instrument 126
In some examples , the UI 500 can present push notifica - 25 can be crafted of stock materials, such as plastics, paper,
tions or messages to the merchant 102 , such as " system is laminates , and the like . According to the stock material used
ready to accept your signature . Do you want a select an to construct the payment instrument 126 , a number of
image as a signature or provide your own ? ” with attached techniques can be used to associate the unique pattern and / or
actions (e . g ., “ Yes, provide me options" to show pre -selec - icon ( s ) with the payment instrument 126 . For instance , the
tion options for the merchant to select, or “ Provide my 30 unique pattern and /or icon (s ) can be printed on the stock
own” ) for providing a custom signature which can be an material (such as by using a laser or ink jet printer ). Other
image or text or a combination of both , and so on . examples include silk screening, use of stickers or labels ,
As used herein , the term " unique pattern ” is a unique embossing, etching, engraving, painting and the like . In
identifier that can either be provided by a merchant by some cases , the stock material can have some information
keying in their preferred unique pattern on a merchant UI, 35 already included , such as a company logo , legal notices, and
such as touch screen or keypad or by selecting from amongst the like , or this information can be placed onto the stock
a list of options generated by the server (s ) 112 ( e .g ., the material at the time the unique pattern and /or icon (s ) are
set -up module 116 ) . In another example , the set -up module placed onto the stock material.
116 can automatically and /or randomly assign a unique In addition to providing the unique pattern and/or icon (s )
pattern to the merchant 102 at the time of account creation . 40 on the payment instrument 126 , some or all of the unique
As described above , the unique pattern can be a signature , pattern and/ or icon ( s ) can be placed in portions, for example
alphanumeric text, a shape, an image , a barcode , a QR code, a first portion on one side and the second portion on the other
a radio frequency identifier (RFID ) tag, and so on . side of the payment instrument 126 . The activation then
The unique pattern is referenced as being associated with involves reading the image in two parts and in a specific
or printed on the payment instrument, however, the unique 45 order. The unique pattern and /or icon ( s ) can also be printed
pattern can be provided with the payment instrument, for o nto other materials as well. For example , the unique pattern
example in an accompanying letter. The unique pattern can and /or icon (s ) can be provided on any inserts mailed with the
also be embedded , such that it is hidden to naked eye . The payment instrument 126 , the envelope or mailer, and the
unique pattern once encrypted and printed or associated to like .
the payment instrument can be mentioned as pattern in the 50 A wide variety of techniques can be used to deliver the
specification . The unique pattern can also be an analog of a payment instrument 126 to the merchant 102 after it has
digital file that comprises a picture or a drawing that is in a been created . For example, the payment instrument 126
JPEG or other file format . could be attached to a card carrier and placed into a mailer
Further, the merchant 102 can select one or more icons along with any other inserts. This can then be mailed to the
502 via interaction with the UI 500. In an example , a 55 merchant 102. Other techniques include personal delivery ,
merchant 102 can provide a touch input to select an icon by courier services , by in -store pick - up and the like. The
corresponding to a position of the touch input. In some payment instrument 126 can also be produced at a location
examples, the icon ( s ) 502 can be arranged in an order based of the merchant 102 (e . g ., a brick and mortar ).
on a characteristic of the merchant 102 , as described below As described herein , the payment instrument 126 can be
with reference to FIG . 6 . In an example , the merchant 102 60 in an inactive state until activated by the merchant 102 . In
selects an icon and the POS application 106 , for example , this way, if the payment instrument 126 is intercepted or
can send the selected icon , or an indication of such , to the stolen before reaching the merchant 102, it may not be used .
set -up module 116 . The set -up module 116 receives the icon , One way to activate the payment instrument 126 is to require
or the indication of such , and converts and/ or encrypts the certain information to be supplied to the payment processing
icon into an icon which is capable of being imprinted , 65 service ( or other authentication service ) by the merchant
embedded or otherwise associated with the payment instru - 102 . This information can be input by the merchant 102 and
ment. then transmitted to the payment processing service ( or other
US 10 ,445,716 B1
13 14
authentication service ), such as by e -mail, by a phone call , by the characteristic(s ) of the merchant 102 , should be
by a separate mailing, or the like. Instead of expecting the presented to the merchant 102 prior to a second icon that is
merchant 102 to provide his or her phone number to activate less relevant to the merchant 102 . As a non - limiting
the account and then calling, the payment instrument 126 example , if the merchant is a coffee café , the set-up module
described herein can include the unique pattern and /or 5 116 can prioritize icons related to coffee and / or café s over
icon (s ) having activation capabilities . The unique pattern icons that are related to home repair services or retail
and / or icon ( s ) can trigger the activation process without the services.
merchant 102 having to reach out to a representative of the Block 610 illustrates presenting the icon ( s ) via a UI. The
payment processing service . As such , the process of activa - set- up module 116 can cause the icon ( s ) to be presented via
tion is not just automated but also initiated by a feature on 10 a UI. A non - limiting example of such a UI is provided above
the payment instrument 126 that is otherwise inactive and with reference to FIG . 5 . By intelligently ordering icons ,
merely ornamental and design related . Additional details techniques described herein enable improved user interac
associated with activating the payment instrument 126 are tion with the UI. That is , the merchant 102 does not need to
described below . sort through various irrelevant icons and , instead , can view
FIG . 6 illustrates an example process 600 for personaliz - 15 icon (s ) that are most relevant to the merchant 102 prior to
ing a payment instrument. viewing icon( s) that are less relevant to the merchant 102 .
Block 602 illustrates receiving a request to link a payment Block 612 illustrates receiving a selection of at least one
instrument with a stored balance of a merchant that is icon . As described above , the set -up module 116 can receive
maintained by a payment processing service . In at least one an indication of a selection of at least one icon . For instance ,
example , the set -up module 116 can receive a request to link 20 the merchant 102 can interact with the UI ( e . g ., touch input,
a payment instrument with the stored balance 120 of the spoken input, click , etc .) to select one or more of the icons
merchant 102 . In some examples , the set- up module 116 can and the POS application 106 can send an indication of such
receive the request during onboarding of the merchant, selections to the set- up module 116 .
responsive to an offer from the payment processing service , Block 614 illustrates sending an instruction to associate at
etc ., as described above. 25 least one icon with the payment instrument. Responsive to
Block 604 illustrates determining characteristic ( s ) of the receiving the indication of the selection , the set- up module
merchant. In at least one example , the set -up module 116 can 116 can generate an instruction associated with the configu
determine characteristic ( s ) of the merchant 102 . As ration of the payment instrument. The set- up module 116 can
described above , the merchant 102 can be associated with a send the instruction to a computing device , which can
merchant profile , that can be stored in a database associated 30 execute the instructions and generate the personalized pay
with the server( s ) 112 . In at least one example , the merchant m ent instrument. A non -limiting example of a payment
profile can store information associated with the merchant instrument 126 is provided above with reference to FIG . 5 .
102 . For instance , the merchant profile can store merchant As described above with reference to FIG . 5 , a number of
data including , but not limited to , a merchant category techniques can be used to associate the icon ( s) with the
classification (“ MCC " ), item (s ) offered for sale by the 35 payment instrument 126 . For instance , the icon (s ) can be
merchant, transaction data associated with transactions con - printed on the stock material ( such as by using a laser or ink
ducted by the merchant (e . g ., via the POS application 106 ) , jet printer ). Other examples include silk screening, use of
hardware (e . g ., device type) used by the merchant, previous stickers or labels , embossing , etching, engraving, painting
loansmade to the merchant, previous defaults on said loans, and the like .
an indication of risk ( e . g ., based at least in part on fraud , 40 Once the payment instrument 126 is delivered to the
chargeback , etc .) associated with the merchant, etc . The merchant 102 , the merchant 102 initiates a process to
merchant profile can securely store bank account informa activate the payment instrument 126 . For this, a mobile
tion as provided by the merchant. Further, the merchant device , for example the merchant device 104 , can execute a
profile can store payment data associated with a payment self - guiding tool or provide a personalized flow to walk the
instrument linked to a stored balance 120 of the merchant 45 merchant 102 through the steps of activating the payment
102, and data associated with the stored balance 120 . In such instrument 126 . The merchant 102 can select or provide
an example , the set -up module 116 can access a profile information in response to queries that are tailored to the
associated with the merchant 102 to determine the charac - merchant 102 . For example , one of the steps can direct the
teristic (s ). merchant 102 to take an image or a portion of the image of
If a merchant is new merchant ( e . g ., onboarding ), the 50 the pattern on the payment instrument 126 through a sensor,
set- up module 116 can access merchant data as input from such as a camera , of the merchant device 104 . The merchant
the merchant during onboarding. For instance , such a mer - device 104 , an application executing thereon ( e .g ., the POS
chant can input an MCC , an address, inventory item ( s ), etc . application 106 ), or the payment processing service ( e .g ., the
Block 606 illustrates accessing icon (s ) for personalizing server( s) 112 ) that receives the image , then decrypts and
the payment instrument. In at least one example , the 55 compares the image with unique patterns stored at the time
server ( s ) 112 can store a database of icon (s ) that can be used of registration . If a stored pattern matches the captured
for personalizing the payment instrument. In an additional or image, the payment processing service can authorize the
alternative example , a merchant can upload or otherwise payment instrument 126 to be used for purchases , as
provide icon ( s) for personalizing the payment instrument. described above . However, if the captured image does not
Further , in some examples, the set- up module 116 can access 60 match a stored pattern , the payment instrument 126 is not
icon (s) via third -party service provider(s ). activated , as there is an increased likelihood that the autho
Block 608 illustrates arranging the icon (s ) based on the rization attempt is fraudulent.
characteristic (s ) of the merchant. In at least one example , the Additionally , in at least one example, the merchant 102
set -up module 116 can determine an order for presenting the can utilize a payment reader that is coupled to the merchant
icon ( s) based on the characteristic ( s ) of the merchant 102 . 65 device 104 to activate the payment instrument 126 . In an
For instance , the set -up module 116 can determine that a first example , the merchant 102 can insert the payment instru
icon that is more relevant to the merchant 102, as determined ment 126 , which is in an inactive state , into the payment
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
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reader. Additionally or alternatively , the merchant 102 can or which can be an otherwise dedicated application or
dip or tap the payment instrument 126 to the payment reader applet. For instance , the UI 706 can be presented via the
to activate the payment instrument 126 . The payment reader POS application 106 or an applet ( e . g ., a balance applet ,
can read payment data from the payment instrument 126 and described below ) associated with the POS application 106 .
the POS application 106 can facilitate the confirmation that 5 In some examples , the merchant 102 can log in to their
the payment data corresponds to the payment instrument 126 payment processing service account (e . g ., which corre
and activation of the payment instrument 126 . Accordingly , sponds to a merchant profile of the merchant 102 ) via the
the payment instrument 126 can be activated for use by the POS application 106 to access the UI 706 . In at least one
merchant 102. FIGS . 7 - 9 are directed to such activation example , the UI 706 can include a selectable control that
techniques . In the context of payment instruments , the word 10 when selected initiates an activation process . In some
" activate ” can mean : (a ) confirming that the merchant in examples, the selectable control can be made available via
possession of the payment instrument is the intended mer - a status check of an ordered payment instrument. That is , the
chant; ( b ) confirming that the payment instrument has been merchant 102 can interact with the UI706 to check the status
securely received by the intended merchant ; ( c ) registering of their ordered payment instrument 126 and, when the
the payment instrument with the payment processing service 15 payment instrument 126 is ready for activation , the select
so that the intended merchant can use the payment instru - able control can be availed to the merchant 102 . The
ment towards financial transactions ; ( d ) associating the merchant 102 can indicate a desire to activate the payment
payment instrument with the identity of the merchant instrument 126 , for instance via selection of the selectable
through a registration process ; ( e ) enabling security mea control. In another example, the merchant 102 can provide
sures and providing financial protection to the merchant 20 a voice input indicating that the merchant 102 desires to
from the timethe payment instrument is activated ; and / or (f) activate the payment instrument 126 .
agreeing to the terms and conditions of the payment pro In at least one example , the POS application 106 can
cessing service or any other entity issuing the payment prompt (e . g ., via the UI 706 ) the merchant 102 to cause an
instrument. interaction (e .g., a dip , tap, or swipe ) between the payment
FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate two example environments 700 25 instrument 126 and the payment reader 704 . The merchant
and 800 , respectively, for activating a payment instrument. 102 can cause the payment instrument 126 to interact with
FIGS. 7 and 8 include various components of the envi - the payment reader 704 . Responsive to such an interaction ,
ronment 100 , as described above with respect to FIG . 1 . the payment reader 704 can read payment data 708 from the
Some components of the environment 100 are omitted for payment instrument 126 . The payment data 708 can include ,
clarity . In FIGS. 7 and 8 , the server (s ) 112 additionally 30 but is not limited to , a name of the merchant 102 , an address
include an activation module 702 . The activation module of the merchant 102 , a type ( e . g ., credit, debit, etc . ) of a
702 can , among other things , perform one ormore functions payment instrument 126 from which the payment data is
to activate the payment instrument 126 . accessed , a number associated with the payment instrument
Additionally, in FIGS. 7 and 8 , a payment reader 704 is 126 , a verification value ( e. g ., PIN Verification Key Indica
depicted as part of the environments 700 and 800 . The 35 tor (“PVKI” ), PIN Verification Value (“ PVV ” ), Card Veri
payment reader 704 can physically interact with payment fication Value (“ CVV ” ), Card Verification Code (“ CVC” ),
instruments such as magnetic stripe payment cards, EMV etc .) associated with the payment instrument 126 , an expi
payment cards, and short-range communication ( e. g ., near ration date associated with the payment instrument 126 , a
field communication (“NFC ” ), radio frequency identifica - primary account number (“ PAN ” ) corresponding to the
tion (“RFID ” ), Bluetooth® , Bluetooth® low energy 40 merchant 102 (which can or may not match the number
(“ BLE ” ), etc .) payment instruments. In some examples , the associated with the payment instrument 126 ) , restrictions on
payment reader 704 can plug in to a port in the merchant what types of charges /debts can be made, etc . In some
device 104 , such as a microphone /headphone port, a data examples, the payment data 708 can be encrypted . The POS
port, or other suitable port. The payment reader 704 can be application 106 can send the payment data 708 to the
a portable magnetic stripe card reader, optical scanner , 45 activation module 702 .
smartcard ( card with an embedded IC chip ) reader ( e . g ., an In at least one example , as illustrated in FIG . 7 , the
EMV - compliant card reader or short -range communication activation module 702 can receive payment data 708 from
enabled reader), RFID reader , or the like , configured to the POS application 106 and can compare the payment data
detect and obtain data off any payment instrument. Accord 708 to known payment data 710 associated with the payment
ingly , the payment reader 704 can include hardware imple - 50 instrument 126 provided to the merchant 126 . Known pay
mentation , such as slots, magnetic tracks, and rails with one ment data 710 can include , but is not limited to , a name of
or more sensors or electrical contacts to facilitate detection the merchant 102 , an address of the merchant 102 , a type
and acceptance of a payment instrument 126 . In FIGS. 7 and ( e . g ., credit, debit, etc .) of a payment instrument 126 from
8 , the payment reader 704 is illustrated as being integrated which the payment data is accessed , a number associated
in a customer - facing device that is coupled to the merchant 55 with the payment instrument 126 , a verification value ( e . g .,
device 104 . It should be noted , however, that any payment PVKI, PVV, CVV, CVC , etc.) associated with the payment
reader that is capable of reading payment data from a instrument 126 , an expiration date associated with the pay
payment instrument can be used . That is , in additional or ment instrument 126 , a PAN corresponding to the merchant
alternative examples, the payment reader 704 can be inte - 102 (which can or may not match the number associated
grated into the merchant device 104 , connectable to the 60 with the payment instrument 126 ), restrictions on what types
merchant device 104, etc . of charges/ debts can be made, etc . In some examples, the
In at least one example , the merchant 102 can interact known payment data 710 can be stored in the activation
with a UI 706 for activating the payment instrument 126 . In module 702.
at least one example , the UI 706 can be presented via a web Upon determining that the payment data 708 matches , or
browser, or the like . In other examples, the UI 706 can be 65 otherwise corresponds to , at least a portion of the known
presented via an application (e . g ., mobile or desktop ) or payment data 710 , the activation module 702 can send an
applet , which is provided by the payment processing service , activation notification 712 to the POS application 106 . The
US 10 ,445,716 B1
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activation notification 712 can provide a notification to the PAN corresponding to the merchant 102 ) to activate the
merchant 102 that the payment instrument 126 is activated payment instrument 126 . Other means for activating the
In at least one example, the activation notification 712 can payment instrument 126 are described above .
be presented via the UI 706 . In some examples, responsive In at least one example, the activation module 702 can
to activating the payment instrument 126 , the activation 5 facilitate a two - factor authentication (“ TFA ” ) process
module 702 can modify the default withdrawal channel whereby, prior to activating the payment instrument 126 , the
associated with the stored balance 120 . For example , in activation module 702 can send a communication ( e .g ., a
some instances, until a payment instrument is linked to a text message, an email , a push notification , etc . ) to an
stored balance, scheduled deposits can be the default with address (e . g ., phone number , email address , etc .) associated
drawal channel . However, upon activation of a payment 10 with the merchant profile corresponding to the merchant 102
instrument, the activation module 702 can change the to verify that the authorized user (e . g ., the merchant 102 )
default withdrawal channel to the payment instrument, agrees to activate the payment instrument 126 . In at least one
thereby allowing the stored balance 120 to increase . In such example , the communication can include a code or other
an example , the activation module 702 can send an indica - identifier. In such an example , the activation module 702 can
tion to the merchant module 114 and /or the balance man - 15 refrain from activating the payment instrument 126 until the
agement module 118 to temporarily freeze or deactivate merchant 102 replies to the communication , for instance by
scheduled or instant deposits. Accordingly , funds from POS providing the code or other identifier provided via the
transactions can be stored in the stored balance 120 instead communication . In some examples, the merchant 102 can
of being deposited into a linked bank account of the mer provide the code or other identifier via the UI 706 . The POS
chant 102 per a predetermined schedule ( e . g ., so the stored 20 application 106 can send the code or other identifier to the
balance 120 has funds to be spent via use of the payment activation module 702, and so long as the code or other
instrument 126 ). In at least one example, the activation identifier provided corresponds to the code or other identifier
module 702 can send a notification to the POS application sent in the communication, the activation module 702 can
106 to notify the merchant 102 of this modification . Such a activate the payment instrument 126 .
notification can be presented via the UI 706 . In some 25 In some examples, responsive to activating the payment
examples, such a notification can be sent with the activation instrument, the UI 706 can present a prompt for the mer
notification . chant 102 to select or input a personal identification number
In an alternative example , as illustrated in FIG . 8 , the (“ PIN ” ) . The UI 706 can send the PIN to the activation
activation module 702 can provide the known payment data module 702 , which can associate the PIN with the payment
710 to the POS application 106 , for example , at some time 30 instrument 126 and/or a merchant profile corresponding to
prior to activation of the payment instrument 126 . In such an the merchant 102 . In at least one example , the merchant 102
example , the POS application 106 can temporarily store the can set a PIN at a later time, after activation of the payment
known payment data 710 . As described above , the merchant instrument 126 .
102 can interact with the UI 706 or otherwise indicate a In view of the foregoing, examples described herein
desire to activate the payment instrument 126 . The POS 35 provide specific technical improvements over conventional
application 106 can prompt the merchant 102 to cause an methods with streamlined automation and enhanced security
interaction ( e . g ., a dip , tap , or swipe ) between the payment functionality in activating a payment instrument.
instrument 126 and the payment reader 704 . The merchant FIG . 9 illustrates an example process 900 for activating a
102 can cause the payment instrument 126 to interact with payment instrument.
the payment reader 704 . Responsive to such an interaction , 40 Block 902 illustrates determining a request to activate a
the payment reader 704 can read payment data 708 from the payment instrument associated with a stored balance of a
payment instrument 126 . The POS application 106 can merchant that is maintained by a payment processing ser
compare the payment data 708 to the known payment data vice . In at least one example , the merchant 102 can interact
710 . Upon determining that the payment data 708 matches , with a UI 706 for activating the payment instrument 126 . In
or otherwise corresponds to , at least a portion of the known 45 at least one example, the UI 706 can be presented via a web
payment data 710 , the POS application 106 can send an browser, or the like . In other examples, the UI 706 can be
activation notification 802 to the activation module 702 . The presented via an application , such as a mobile application or
activation notification 802 can provide a notification to the desktop application , which is provided by the payment
activation module 702 that the payment instrument 126 is processing service , or which can be an otherwise dedicated
activated . In some examples , responsive to receiving the 50 application . For instance, the UI 706 can be presented via the
activation notification 802 , the activation module 702 can POS application 106 or an applet (e . g ., a balance applet,
indicate such and can modify the default withdrawal channel described below ) associated with the POS application 106 .
associated with the stored balance 120 . In at least one In some examples, the merchant 102 can log in to their
example , the activation module 702 can send a notification payment processing service account (e . g ., which corre
to the POS application 106 to notify the merchant 102 of this 55 sponds to a merchant profile ) via the POS application 106 to
modification . Such a notification can be presented via the UI access the UI 706 . In at least one example , the UI 706 can
706 . include a selectable control that when selected initiates an
While unconventional techniques directed to swipe (or activation process . In some examples, the selectable control
dip , tap ) to activate are described above, the payment can be made available via a status check of an ordered
instrument 126 can be activated in more traditional ways as 60 payment instrument. That is , the merchant 102 can interact
described above . Additionally or alternatively, themerchant with the UI 706 to check the status of their ordered payment
102 can log into their payment processing service account instrument 126 and , when the payment instrument 126 is
via the POS application 106 , enter one or more data items of ready for activation , the merchant 102 the selectable control
the payment data associated with the payment instrument can be availed to the merchant 102. The merchant 102 can
126 (e. g., a verification value ( e. g., PVKI, PVV , CVV , CVC , 65 indicate a desire to activate the payment instrument 126 , for
etc .) associated with the payment instrument 126 , an expi- instance via selection of the selectable control. In another
ration date associated with the payment instrument 126 , a example , the merchant 102 can provide a voice input indi
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
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cating that the merchant 102 desires to activate the payment provide a notification to the merchant 102 that the payment
instrument 126 . In such examples, the POS application 106 instrument 126 is activated . In at least one example , the
can determine a request to active a payment instrument. In activation notification 712 can be presented via the UI 706 .
some examples, the POS application 106 can send the In an alternate example , such as the example described
request to the activation module 702 . 5 above with reference to FIG . 8 , upon determining that the
Block 904 illustrates prompting the merchant to cause an payment data 708 matches, or otherwise corresponds to , at
interaction between the payment instrument and the pay - least a portion of the known payment data 710 , the POS
ment reader. In at least one example , the POS application application 106 can send an activation notification 802 to the
106 can prompt ( e .g ., via the UI 706 ) the merchant 102 to activation module 702 . The activation notification 802 can
cause an interaction (e . g ., a dip , tap , or swipe) between the 10 provide a notification to the activation module 702 that the
payment instrument 126 and the payment reader 704. payment instrument 126 is activated . In some examples ,
Block 906 illustrates receiving payment data associated responsive to receiving the activation notification 802 , the
with the payment instrument from the payment reader . The activation module 702 can indicate such and can modify the
merchant 102 can cause the payment instrument 126 to default withdrawal channel associated with the stored bal
interact with the payment reader 704 . Responsive to such an 15 ance 120 . In at least one example , the activation module 702
interaction , the payment reader 704 can read payment data can send a notification to the POS application 106 to notify
708 from the payment instrument 126 . The payment data the merchant 102 of this modification . Such a notification
708 can include , but is not limited to , a name of themerchant can be presented via the UI 706 .
102, an address of the merchant 102 , a type ( e. g ., credit, Block 912 illustrates modifying a default withdrawal
debit, etc .) of a payment instrument 126 from which the 20 channel associated with the stored balance . Responsive to
payment data is accessed, a number associated with the activating the payment instrument 126 , the activation mod
payment instrument 126 , a verification value ( e.g., PVKI, ule 702 can modify the default withdrawal channel associ
PVV , CVV , CVC , etc .) associated with the payment instru - ated with the stored balance 120 . For example , in some
ment 126 , an expiration date associated with the payment instances, until a payment instrument is linked to a stored
instrument 126 , a PAN corresponding to the merchant 102 25 balance, scheduled deposits can be the default withdrawal
( which can or may notmatch the number associated with the channel. However, upon activation of a payment instrument,
payment instrument 126 ), restrictions on what types of the activation module 702 can change the default withdrawal
charges /debts can be made, etc. In some examples, the channel to the payment instrument , thereby allowing the
payment data 708 can be encrypted . In some examples , the stored balance 120 to increase . In such an example, the
POS application 106 can send the payment data 708 to the 30 activation module 702 can send an indication to the mer
activation module 702. chant module 114 and/ or the balance management module
Block 908 illustrates determining whether the payment 118 to temporarily freeze or deactivate scheduled or instant
data corresponds to known payment data associated with the deposits . Accordingly , funds from POS transactions can be
payment instrument. In at least one example , as illustrated in stored in the stored balance 120 instead of being deposited
FIG . 7 , the activation module 702 can receive payment data 35 into a linked bank account of the merchant 102 per a
708 from the POS application 106 and can compare the predetermined schedule (e . g ., so the stored balance 120 has
payment data 708 to known payment data 710 associated funds to be spent via use of the payment instrument 126 ). In
with the payment instrument 126 provided to the merchant at least one example , the activation module 702 can send a
126 . Known payment data 710 can include, but is not limited notification to the POS application 106 to notify the mer
to , a name of the merchant 102 , an address of the merchant 40 chant 102 of this modification . Such a notification can be
102 , a type (e.g ., credit , debit, etc .) of a payment instrument presented via the UI 706 .
126 from which the payment data is accessed , a number It should be understood that upon a cancellation or
associated with the payment instrument 126 , a verification deactivation of the payment instrument 126 , the activation
value ( e .g ., PVKI, PVV , CVV , CVC , etc .) associated with module 702 can terminate the association between the stored
the payment instrument 126 , an expiration date associated 45 balance 120 and the payment instrument 126 and the acti
with the payment instrument 126 , a PAN corresponding to vation module 702 can modify the default withdrawal chan
themerchant 102 (which can or may not match the number nel to scheduled deposits . Similarly, upon a temporary
associated with the payment instrument 126 ), restrictions on freeze of the payment instrument 126 , the activation module
what types of charges /debts can be made, etc . In some 702 can update a merchant profile of the merchant 102 to
examples, the known payment data 710 can be stored in the 50 indicate that the payment instrument 126 is temporarily
activation module 702 . frozen ( e .g ., unavailable ) and can modify the default with
In an alternative example , as illustrated in FIG . 8 , the drawal channel to scheduled deposits . Further, the merchant
activation module 702 can provide the known payment data 102 can toggle between default withdrawal channels at any
710 to the POS application 106 at some time prior to time after activation .
activation of the payment instrument 126 . In such an 55 In some examples, a merchant can deactivate, freeze ,
example , the POS application 106 can temporarily store the and /or cancel a payment instrument by an interaction as
known payment data 710 . In such an example , the payment described above . That is , in at least one example , a merchant
reader 704 can read payment data 708 from the payment can interact with a UI to indicate a desire to deactivate ,
instrument 126 . The POS application 106 can compare the freeze , or cancel a payment instrument and can cause a dip ,
payment data 708 to the known payment data 710 . 60 tap , or swipe between the payment instrument and the
Block 910 illustrates activating the payment instrument. payment reader 704. In response , the activation module 702
In at least one example , such as the example described above can deactivate , freeze , or cancel the payment instrument,
with reference to FIG . 7 , upon determining that the payment thereby “ un -linking ” the payment instrument from its asso
data 708 matches, or otherwise corresponds to , at least a ciated stored balance .
portion of the known payment data 710 , the activation 65 Block 914 illustrates refraining from activating the pay
module 702 can send an activation notification 712 to the ment instrument . If the payment data 708 and the known
POS application 106 . The activation notification 712 can payment data 710 do not match or otherwise correspond , the
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
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activation module 702 or the POS application 106 can send transaction data associated with the transaction
refrain from activating the payment instrument 126 and can between the merchant 102 and the other merchant to the
present an indication via the UI 706 that the activation merchantmodule 114 . The merchantmodule 114 can deter
failed . mine that the payment data associated with the transaction is
FIG . 10 illustrates an example environment 1000 for 5 associated with the payment instrument 126 , which is linked
tracking the movement of funds in and out of a stored to the stored balance 120 . The merchant module 114 can thus
balance and enabling a merchant associated with the stored send an instruction to the balance management module 118
balance to manage their stored balance . FIG . 10 depicts to credit the stored balance of the other merchant by an
various components of FIG . 1 . Additionally , FIG . 10 amount of the purchase price without reducing the amount
includes other merchant device( s) 1002 and computing 10 of the purchase price by the payment processing fee . As a
device (s ) of acquirer (s ), card payment network (s ), and/ or result, the balance management module 118 can credit the
issuer ( s ) 1004. As described above , the merchant 102 can stored balance of the other merchant in the amount of the
use the payment instrument 126 ( once activated ) for making purchase price ( or an amount based on the purchase price ).
various purchases. In some examples, such purchases can be The server( s) 112 can be configured to communicate with
from another merchant that also subscribes to services of the 15 computing device(s ) of acquirer (s ), card payment
payment processing service . That is , another merchant network (s ), and/ or issuer ( s ) 1004 to conduct financial trans
device 1002 can process a transaction between the other actions electronically . For the sake of completeness, a buyer
merchant and the merchant 102 via an instance of the POS can use a payment instrument at a POS device of a seller. In
application 106 on the other merchant device 1002. In other some examples, the “ buyer” can be a " merchant” as used
examples , the merchant 102 can use the payment instrument 20 herein . The computing device at the POS can send a fund
126 (once activated ) for making a purchase from a merchant transfer request for an amount of a transaction to a comput
that does not subscribe to services of the payment processing ing device of an acquiring bank (" acquirer” ). In an example ,
service . an acquirer is a bank or financial institution that processes
In at least one example, payment instruments , such as the payments (e . g ., credit or debit card payments ) and can
payment instrument 126 , can be associated with one or more 25 assume risk on behalf of sellers ( s ). An acquirer can be a
rewards or incentives to drive use by merchants . For registered member of a card association (e . g ., Visa , Mas
instance , in an example , to encourage the merchant 102 to terCard® ), and can be part of a card payment network . The
transact with other merchants that also subscribe to services acquirer (e . g ., the associated computing device (s )) can send
of the payment processing service , the merchant 102 can the fund transfer request to a computing device of a card
receive a percentage of their transactions with other mer - 30 payment network ( e . g ., Visa , MasterCard , Discover or
chants that subscribe to services of the payment processing American Express ) to determine whether the transaction is
service back into their stored balance 120 . That is, when the authorized or deficient. In at least one example , the payment
merchant 102 uses the payment instrument 126 to purchase processing service can serve as an acquirer and connect
an item from anothermerchant that subscribes to services of directly with the card payment network .
the payment processing service , the merchant module 114 35 The card payment network ( e . g ., the associated comput
can determine a predetermined amount ( e .g ., a percentage , ing device ( s )) can forward the fund transfer request to the
fixed amount , etc .) of the cost of the item that is to be computing device of an issuing bank ( e . g ., " issuer " ) . The
deposited into the stored balance 120 . In such an example , issuer is a bank or financial institution that offers a financial
the other merchant device (s ) 1002 (e .g ., the POS application account (e .g ., credit or debit card account) to the customer.
106 ) can send transaction data associated with the transac - 40 An issuer can issue payment cards to users and can pay
tion between the merchant 102 and the other merchant to the acquirers for purchases made by cardholders to which the
merchantmodule 114 . The merchantmodule 114 can deter- issuing bank has issued a payment card. The issuer (e.g ., the
mine that the payment data associated with the transaction is associated computing device( s ) can make a determination
associated with the payment instrument 126 , which is linked as to whether the buyer has the capacity to absorb the
to the stored balance 120 . The merchant module 114 can thus 45 relevant charge associated with the payment transaction . In
send an instruction to the balance management module 118 at least one example , the payment processing service can
to credit the stored balance 120 by a predetermined amount serve as an issuer and / or can partner with an issuer . The
of the purchase price , for example . As a result , the balance transaction is either approved or rejected by the issuer and / or
management module 118 can credit the stored balance 120 the card payment network (e .g ., the associated computing
in the predetermined amount . In at least one example , the 50 device ( s )) , and a payment authorization message is commu
predetermined amount can correspond to an amount of a nicated from the issuer to the POS device via a path opposite
payment processing fee . In such an example , the other of that described above.
merchant can still pay a payment processing fee , but the Environment 1000 also includes a balance applet 1006 .
payment processing service can transfer the amount of the After the payment instrument 126 is activated , the merchant
fee (or a portion thereof) to the stored balance 120 (to reward 55 102 can use the payment instrument 126 for making pur
the merchant 102 for shopping at another merchant that chases from other merchants (e . g ., B2B , etc .). In at least one
subscribes to the payment processing service ) . example , the payment processing service — via the balance
Similarly , merchants can be rewarded or otherwise managementmodule 118 — can track the movement of funds
receive a discount for selling to , or otherwise transacting in and out of the stored balance 120 (e . g ., via the payment
with , other merchants that subscribe to services of the 60 instrument 126 or otherwise ) and can enable the merchant
payment processing service . For instance , in at least one 102 to manage their stored balance 120 via an applet, such
example , when the merchant 102 uses the payment instru - as the balance applet 1006 . In at least one example, the
ment 126 to purchase an item from another merchant that balance applet 1006 can be available via a web browser, or
subscribes to services of the payment processing service , the the like . In other examples , the balance applet 1006 can be
merchantmodule 114 can waive the payment processing fee 65 available via an application , such as a mobile application or
for the other merchant. In such an example, the other desktop application , which is provided by the payment
merchant device (s ) 1002 (e .g ., the POS application 106 ) can processing service , or which can be an otherwise dedicated
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
23 24
application . In at least one example, the balance applet 1006 costs (e .g., rent, payroll , inventory, etc .). In an example , the
can be available via the POS application 106 on the mer merchant 102 can obtain a capital loan from the payment
chant device 104 , as illustrated in FIG . 10 . processing service . In such an example , the balance man
In conventional technologies, merchants are required to agementmodule 118 can credit the stored balance 120 in an
access various reports to view recent deposits , various 5 amount of the capital loan . Furthermore , in some examples,
withdrawals , etc . Often , the time of day can impact which the merchant 102 can receive a refund, the amount of which
report a merchant needs to access to view such information can be deposited into the stored balance 120 of the merchant
This can be confusing for merchants and causes a poor user 102 . In such an example , the balance management module
experience . Further, multiple reports cause various ineffi- 118 can credit the stored balance 120 in an amount of the
ciencies . The balance applet 1006 can integrate multiple 10 refund. Moreover, in at least one example , the merchant 102
reports and functions into a single access point, thereby can receive a reward , the amount of which can be deposited
improving user interaction with the POS application 106 into the stored balance 120 of themerchant 102 . In such an
and / ormerchant device 104 . That is, the balance applet 1006 example , the balance managementmodule 118 can credit the
can offer a cohesive means of accessing various reports and stored balance 120 in an amount of the reward .
functionalities . As non - limiting examples, the balance applet 15 In some examples, the merchant 102 can indicate that the
1006 can enable the merchant 102 to check how much merchant 102 desires to withhold at least some funds for
money they are earning ( e . g ., via presentation of available another purpose , such as savings (e . g ., for taxes , for a large
earned balance ), understand where their money is going purchase , for reserve funds, etc .). In such examples, the
( e .g ., via deposit reports (which can include a breakdown of balance management module 118 can credit a portion of a
fees) , spend reports, etc .), access /use earned money ( e . g ., via 20 POS transaction , for instance , to the stored balance 120 , and
scheduled deposit, instant deposit , linked payment instru - can withhold a portion of the POS transaction from the
ment, etc .), feel in control of their money ( e . g., via man - stored balance 120 . The portion of the POS transaction
agement of deposit schedule , deposit speed , linked instru - withheld from the stored balance 120 can be credited to a
ments, etc .), etc . Furthermore, the balance applet 1006 can savings account linked to the stored balance 120 , a sub
enable merchants to visualize their cash flow to track their 25 account within the stored balance 120 , etc .
financial health , set aside money for upcoming obligations In at least one example , the balance management module
( e . g ., savings ), organize money around goals , etc . 118 can debit the stored balance 120 based on scheduled
In at least one example , the balance management module deposits , instant deposits , and transactions using the pay
118 can track the movement of funds in and out of the stored ment instrument 126 , as described above. In some examples ,
balance 120 . The balance management module 118 can 30 a scheduled deposit and /or an instant deposit can cause all of
manage accounting of the stored balance 120 . That is , the the funds in the stored balance 120 to be deposited into the
balance management module 118 can maintain a summary linked bank account 122 . In other examples , a portion of
of all amounts debited or credited from the stored balance funds can remain in the stored balance 120 and a portion of
120 . In at least one example, the balance management funds can be deposited into the linked bank account 120 . In
module 118 can maintain the summary via a ledger, which 35 any case , the balance management module 118 can debit the
can be a journal or other record -keeping mechanism that stored balance 120 in an amount corresponding to the
includes individual indications corresponding to each trans - amount of funds transferred to the linked bank account 122 .
action . Each individual indication of a transaction in the The balance management module 118 can additionally or
ledger can be associated with transaction data and , in at least alternatively debit the stored balance 120 based on transac
one example , the individual indications of the transactions 40 tions between the merchant 102 and other merchants . That
can be arranged by date . In at least one example , an is , for a transaction completed using the payment instrument
individual indication can be associated with an electronic 126 , the balance management module 118 can debit an
record of the transaction ( e . g ., a receipt ). amount of the transaction from the stored balance 120 . In
In at least one example, the balance managementmodule some examples, the merchant 102 can use the payment
118 can credit the stored balance 120 based on funds 45 instrument 126 to withdraw cash from an ATM . In such
received from POS transactions. For instance , the merchant examples, the balancemanagementmodule 118 can debit an
module 114 can send an instruction to the balance manage amount of the withdrawal from the stored balance 120 .
ment module 118 to add an amount to the stored balance In some examples, the merchant 120 can use the stored
120. The amount can correspond to a cost of a transaction , balance 120 for paying bills . In at least one example , the
or a portion thereof. In another example , the amount can 50 merchant 120 can set up an automatic bill pay using the
correspond to costs of multiple transactions (or portions stored balance 120 . In other examples, the merchant 120 can
thereof) . Additionally , the balance management module 118 use the stored balance 120 for one -time bill pay . In either
can credit the stored balance 120 based on funds received case, the balance management module 118 can debit an
from the linked bank account 122 of themerchant 102 . That amount of the bill (s ) from the stored balance 120 . Further
is , in some examples, the merchant 102 can request funds to 55 more , the merchant 120 can use the stored balance 120 to
be deposited into the stored balance 120 from its linked bank repay a capital loan , as described above. In such an example ,
account 122 . the balance management module 118 can debit the stored
Funds can be credited to the stored balance 120 via balance 120 in an amount equal to repayment of a capital
additionalmeans that are within the scope of this disclosure . loan .
For instance , the balance management module 118 can 60 Other debits are within the scope of this disclosure . For
credit the stored balance 120 based on a capital loan issued instance, in at least one example , themerchant 102 can make
to the merchant 102 . A capital loan is a loan , for instance payroll payments via the stored balance 120 . In such an
from the payment processing service to a borrower, that is to example , the merchant 102 can request to transfer funds
be used for, in some instances, financing the borrower ' s from the stored balance 120 to bank accounts of employees
short-term operational needs. For instance , a potential bor- 65 of the merchant 102 . The balance managementmodule 118
rower that is a merchant can obtain a capital loan via a can debit an amount corresponding to a payroll payment
capital loan product in order to finance various operational from the stored balance 120 . Similarly, the merchant 102 can
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order inventory via the payment processing service . In such portion thereof) corresponding to its stored balance 120. In
examples , the payment processing service can facilitate a at least one example , the balance applet 1006 can present a
transfer of funds from the stored balance 120 of the mer UI that presents the current value of the stored balance 120
chant 102 to a stored balance of another merchant . The and includes indications of credits , debits, etc. In some
balance management module 118 can debit an amount 5 examples, a portion of the ledger representing the most
corresponding to such a purchase from the stored balance recent transactions can be presented , while the entire ledger
120 . can be accessible via an interaction with the UI. In at least
Furthermore , the balance management module 118 can one example , the credits , debits, etc . can be itemized . In
track fees ( e . g ., payment processing fees , capital loan repay - other examples, the credits, debits, etc . can be aggregated ,
ment fees , interest, etc . ) and debit such fees from the stored 10 for instance by date , creditor/debtor, type of credit/debit , etc .
balance 120 . Furthermore, in some examples , the merchant In some examples , the UI can indicate an estimated date of
102 can be penalized with a chargeback ( e .g ., a demand by an expected credit or debit, if applicable .
a computing device ( s ) of acquirer( s ), card payment The balance applet 1006 can also enable themerchant 102
network (s ), and /or issuer( s ) 1004 for the merchant 102 to to manage its stored balance 120 . That is , the UI can enable
make good on the loss on a fraudulent or disputed transac - 15 the merchant 102 to schedule ( or modify an existing sched
tion ), the amount ofwhich can be withdrawn from the stored ule for ) a scheduled deposit, request an instant deposit, order
balance 120 of the merchant 102 . In such an example , the a payment instrument, etc . In at least one example , the
balance management module 118 can debit the stored bal- balance applet 1006 can enable the merchant 102 to check
ance 120 in an amount of the chargeback . the status of an ordered payment instrument, cancel and /or
In some examples, if the stored balance 120 is insufficient 20 deactivate a payment instrument ( e .g ., if the payment instru
to cover a debit (e . g ., a bill, payroll payment, chargeback , ment 126 is lost or stolen ), reorder a new payment instru
etc .), the balance management module 118 can send a ment, temporarily freeze a payment instrument, etc . Fur
request for funds from the linked bank account 122 . If a bank thermore , the balance applet 1006 can enable the merchant
account is not linked to the merchant profile of a merchant, 102 to access their pending deposit balance, deposit reports ,
the merchant can be required to provide bank account data 25 deposit schedules , spend reports , linked accounts and / or
for linking a bank account to the merchant profile . In other payment instruments, etc . In some examples, the balance
examples, the payment processing service can send an offer applet 1006 can enable the merchant 102 to access sales
for a capital loan to cover the deficiency . Additionally or reports . The balance applet 1006 can additionally enable the
alternatively , the payment processing service can float the merchant 102 to change their deposit speeds , update their
deficiency and collect the deficiency from POS transaction 30 close of day , link new bank accounts, modify default with
funds received in the future . drawal channels ( e . g ., from scheduled deposit to maintain
Furthermore , in at least one example , the balance man - ing funds in the stored balance 120 , from maintaining funds
agement module 118 can analyze the individual transactions in the stored balance 120 to scheduled deposits , etc . ), etc .
to determine whether such transactions are business trans Further, in some examples, the balance applet 1006 can
actions or personal transactions ( e . g ., classify the transac - 35 surface information about unusual activity , suspicious activ
tions ). In such an example , the balance managementmodule ity , etc .
118 can utilize a machine - trained model to output an indi- In at least one example , the merchant 102 can access the
cation of whether an individual transaction is a business balance applet 1006 by causing the payment instrument 126
transaction or a personal transaction . The balance manage to interact (e .g ., via a swipe , dip , or tap ) with a payment
ment module 118 can add an indicator of such to the 40 reader ( e . g ., the payment reader 704 ). For example , the
indication of the transaction in the ledger. As described merchant 102 can swipe the payment instrument 126 via the
below , themerchant 102 can interact with a UI to modify the payment reader 704 . The payment reader 704 can read the
classification . payment data off the payment instrument 126 and transmit
In at least one example , the machine -trained model can be the payment data to the POS application 106 . The POS
trained via a machine learning mechanism . In such an 45 application 106 can determine that the payment data corre
example , the model can be trained using supervised learning sponds to the payment instrument 126 and can open the
algorithms ( e . g ., artificial neural networks , Bayesian statis - balance applet 1006 . That is , responsive to receiving the
tics , support vector machines, decision trees, classifiers , payment data associated with the payment instrument 126 ,
k - nearest neighbor, etc .), unsupervised learning algorithms the POS application 106 can cause the UI of the balance
( e . g ., artificial neural networks, association rule learning, 50 applet 1006 to be presented via the merchant device 104 . In
hierarchical clustering, cluster analysis , etc .), semi- super - at least one example , the payment data can be received at a
vised learning algorithms, deep learning algorithms, etc . In time independent of a transaction . That is , in such an
at least one example , the model can be trained on training example , the POS application 106 can receive the payment
data associated with a plurality ofmerchants . The training data at a time independent of a transaction and determine
data can include a plurality of transactions and associated 55 that the payment data corresponds to the payment instrument
transaction data , and merchant data associated with mer- 126 . Responsive to the payment data being received at a
chants participating in the plurality of transactions. As a time separate from a transaction , the POS application 106
result, the machine -trained model can output a prediction can open the balance applet 1006 .
that a particular transaction is associated with a business In at least one example, access to the balance applet 1006
transaction of the merchant or a personal transaction . As a 60 can be limited by one or more permissions. For instance, the
non - limiting example , the machine -trained model can clas - balance applet 1006 can be accessible to an owner and / or
sify a purchase of shampoo as a business transaction for a administrator of the merchant 102 , but not to an employee
merchant that provides salon services but can classify a of the merchant 102. Or, individual functions of the balance
purchase of shampoo as a personal transaction for a mer - applet 1006 can be accessible to an employee and other
chant that provides restaurant services. 65 individual functions can be limited . In at least one example ,
The balance applet 1006 can enable the merchant 102 to an employee of the merchant 102 can attempt to access the
access and view a UI representative of the ledger (or a balance applet 1006 . The employee can be logged into the
US 10 ,445,716 B1
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POS application 106 via a unique identifier. The POS (e.g ., 1204) can be itemized . In other examples, the credits,
application 106 can compare the unique identifier to one or debits , etc . can be aggregated , for instance by date , creditor /
more unique identifiers that have permission to access the debtor, type of credit/ debit, etc . In some examples , the UI
balance applet 1006 and , if the unique identifier is not one can indicate an estimated date of an expected credit or debit ,
of the one or more unique identifiers , the POS application 5 if applicable .
106 can deny the employee access to the balance applet The balance applet 1006 can also enable the merchant 102
1006 . In another example , some aspects of the balance to manage its stored balance 120 . That is, the UI can enable
applet 1006 can be available to the employee but other the merchant 102 to schedule ( ormodify an existing sched
aspects may not. In yet another example , upon receiving a ule for ) a scheduled deposit, request an instantdeposit, order
request to access the balance applet 1006 , the POS appli- 10 a payment instrument, etc . As an example , UI 1200 includes
cation 106 can request a permission code to be entered . If the a selectable control 1206 that enables the merchant 102 to
permission code is provided , the POS application 106 can transfer at least a portion of the funds in the stored balance
enable access to the balance applet 1006 . If the permission 120 to their bank account 122 " now " (e . g ., via an instant
code is not provided , the POS application 106 can deny deposit ). As another example, UI 1200 includes a selectable
access to the balance applet 1006 . In another example , some 15 control 1208 that enables the merchant 102 to transfer at
aspects of the balance applet 1006 can be available but other least a portion of the funds in the stored balance 120 to their
aspects may not. That is, failure to provide the correct bank account 122 “ later ” (e .g., via a scheduled deposit ).
permission code can cause at least some functionality of the Furthermore , the balance applet 1006 can enable the
balance applet 1006 to be inaccessible . merchant 102 to access their pending deposit balance ,
FIG . 11 illustrates an example process 1100 for presenting 20 deposit reports , deposit schedules , spend reports , linked
a UI representative of the ledger (or a portion thereof) accounts and /or payment instruments, etc . In at least one
corresponding to its stored balance . example , the UI 1200 can include selectable controls 1210 ,
Block 1102 illustrates receiving , from a merchant device that when selected , cause corresponding reports to be pre
of a merchant, a request to access information associated sented to the merchant 102 . In some examples, such reports
with a stored balance of the merchant. In at least one 25 can open in the same UI 1200 . In other examples , such
example , the merchant 102 can interact with a UI presented reports can open in a new window , which may or may not
in association with the POS application 106 to request overlay the UI 1200 .
access to their stored balance 120 . In at least one example , In at least one example, the balance applet 1006 can
responsive to receiving such a request, the POS application enable the merchant 102 to manage their linked payment
106 can open the balance applet 1006 . 30 instrument, for instance by enabling the merchant 102 to
Block 1104 illustrates accessing a ledger associated with check the status of an order payment instrument, cancel
the stored balance . In at least one example , the balance and /or deactivate a payment instrument (e . g ., if the payment
applet 1006 can send a request to access the ledger associ- instrument 126 is lost or stolen ), reorder a new payment
ated with the stored balance 120 . The balance management instrument, temporarily freeze a payment instrument, etc .,
module 118 can receive the request and can access the 35 such as via interaction with a selectable control 1212 that
ledger . causes one or more payment instrument managementUls to
Block 1106 illustrates sending instructions for presenting be presented . In some examples, such UI( S ) can open in the
a user interface associated with the ledger via a display of sameUI 1200 . In other examples, such UI( S ) can open in a
the merchant device . The balance management module 118 new window , which may or may not overlay the UI 1200 .
can generate and send instructions to the balance applet 40 UI 1200 is but one example of a UI that can present at
1006 to enable the balance applet 1006 to present a graphical least a portion of the ledger associated with the stored
representation of the ledger , or a portion thereof. balance 120 and other functionalities availed via the balance
Block 1108 illustrates causing the user interface to be applet 1006 and other configurations and designs are capable
presented via a display of themerchant device . As described of presenting the sameinformation and /or enabling access to
above , the balance applet 1006 can present a UI that presents 45 the same functionalities.
the current value of the stored balance 120 ( e . g ., 1202 ) and As described above, in at least one example , the merchant
includes indications 1204 of credits, debits , etc . In some 102 can access the balance applet 1006 by causing the
examples , a portion of the ledger representing the most payment instrument 126 to interact ( e . g ., via a swipe , dip , or
recent transactions can be presented , while the entire ledger tap) with a payment reader ( e.g ., the payment reader 704 ).
can be accessible via an interaction with the UI. In at least 50 FIG . 13 illustrates an example process 1300 for opening a
one example , the credits, debits , etc . can be itemized . In balance applet responsive to an interaction between a pay
other examples , the credits, debits , etc . can be aggregated , ment instrument interacting with a payment reader.
for instance by date , creditor/debtor, type of credit/debit, etc . Block 1302 illustrates receiving, via a POS application on
In someexamples, the UI can indicate an estimated date of a merchant device of a merchant, payment data independent
an expected credit or debit , if applicable . 55 of a POS transaction . In at least one example , the merchant
FIG . 12 illustrates an example UI 1200 for presenting at 102 can cause an interaction (e.g ., a dip , a tap , or a swipe )
least a portion of a ledger of a stored balance of a merchant between the payment instrument 126 and the payment reader
As described above , the balance applet 1006 can enable 704 . The payment reader 704 can read the payment data off
the merchant 102 to access and view a UI representative of the payment instrument 126 and can transmit the payment
the ledger (or a portion thereof) corresponding to its stored 60 data to the POS application 106 . The POS application 106
balance 120 . In at least one example , the balance applet 1006 can receive the payment data . The POS application 106 , as
can present a UI that presents the current value of the stored described above , can be used for processing transactions at
balance 120 (e.g ., 1202 ) and includes indications 1204 of the POS. Accordingly, the POS application 106 can know
credits, debits , etc . In some examples, a portion of the ledger whether the payment data is received in association with a
representing the most recent transactions can be presented , 65 POS transaction . In at least one example , when the merchant
while the entire ledger can be accessible via an interaction 102 desires to access the balance applet 1006 , the payment
with the UI. In at least one example, the credits, debits , etc . data can be received independent of a POS transaction .
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
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Block 1304 illustrates determining whether the payment a first indication with the indication of the transaction in the
data corresponds to known payment data of a payment ledger, as illustrated in block 1408 . And , responsive to
instrument linked to a stored balance of a merchant. In at determining that the transaction is associated with a personal
least one example , the POS application 106 can determine expense , the balance managementmodule 118 can associate
whether the payment data corresponds to known payment 5 a second indicator with the indication of the transaction in
data associated with a payment instrument. In some the ledger, as illustrated in block 1410 . The first indicator
examples, the POS application 106 can store the known and the second indicator can enable the merchant 102 to
payment data of the payment instrument 126 such that the visually distinguish between business transactions and per
POS application 106 can determine that the payment data sonal transactions . As described below , the merchant 102
corresponds to the known payment data . Responsive to 10 can interact with a UI to modify the classification .
receiving the payment data associated with the payment FIG . 15 is an example UI 1500 for presenting at least a
instrument 126 , the POS application 106 can cause the UI of portion of a ledger of a stored balance of a merchant,
the balance applet 1006 to be presented via the merchant wherein individual transactions are associated with an indi
device 104 , as illustrated in block 1306 . If the payment data cator as to whether the transaction is a business expense or
does not correspond to the known payment data , the POS 15 a personal expense . As described above , the balance applet
application 106 can cause an errormessage to be presented 1006 can enable the merchant 102 to access and view a UI
via the merchant device 104 . representative of the ledger (or a portion thereof) corre
As described above , the balance managementmodule 118 sponding to its stored balance 120 . Details associated with
can analyze the individual transactions to determine whether such a UI are described above with reference to FIG . 12 .
such transactions are business transactions or personal trans - 20 In at least one example , as described above with reference
actions (e . g ., classify the transactions). The balance man - to FIG . 14 , the balance managementmodule 118 can classify
agement module 118 can add an indicator of such to the transactions ( e.g ., as business or personal expenses) and can
indication of the transaction in the ledger , which can be add indicators to corresponding indications in the ledger.
surfaced via the UI presented via the balance applet 1006 . FIG . 15 illustrates graphical representations 1502 of such
FIG . 14 illustrates an example process 1400 for classify - 25 indicators . The graphical representations 1502 are provided
ing transactions. for illustrative purposes and any design or configuration can
Block 1402 illustrates receiving transaction data associ - be used to denote that a transaction is a business expense or
ated with transaction ( s ) between a merchant and other a personal expense . In at least one example , the merchant
merchants . In at least one example , the balance management 102 can interact with the UI 1500 to classify or modify the
module 118 can receive transaction data . In some examples , 30 classification of a transaction . For instance , one of the
the transaction data can be received from the merchant indicators 1504 is enlarged so that details can be observed .
module 114 , for instance when the other merchants sub - As illustrated , the indicator 1504 is a toggle , which allows
scribe to services of the payment processing service . In other the merchant 102 to indicate whether the corresponding
examples, the transaction data can be received from com transaction is a business expense or a personal expense . In
puting device ( s ) of acquirer (s ), card payment network (s ), 35 at least one example , the UI can present the indicators 1502
and/ or issuer( s ) 1004 . The transaction data can include based on classifications by the balance management module
payment data , user authentication data , purchase amount 118 or previous classifications (or corrections ) by the mer
information , point-of- purchase information ( e. g ., item ( s ) chant 102 .
purchased , date of purchase , time of purchase , etc .) , etc . UI 1500 is but one example of a UI that can present at
Block 1404 illustrates adding an indication of each trans - 40 least a portion of the ledger associated with the stored
action to a ledger maintained by a payment processing balance 120 and other functionalities availed via the balance
service . As described above , the balance managementmod applet 1006 and other configurations and designs are capable
ule 118 can manage accounting of the stored balance 120 . of presenting the same information and/ or enabling access to
That is, the balance management module 118 can maintain the same functionalities.
a summary of all amounts debited or credited from the stored 45 FIG . 16 illustrates an example process 1600 for associ
balance 120 . In at least one example , the balance manage - ating electronic records with indications of transactions in a
ment module 118 can maintain the summary via a ledger , ledger.
which can be a journal or other record -keeping mechanism Block 1602 illustrates receiving transaction data associ
that includes individual indications corresponding to each ated with transaction ( s) between a merchant and other
transaction . Each individual indication of a transaction in the 50 merchants . In at least one example , the balance management
ledger can be associated with transaction data and , in at least module 118 can receive transaction data . In some examples ,
one example , the individual indications of the transactions the transaction data can be received from the merchant
can be arranged by date . module 114 , for instance when the other merchants sub
Block 1406 illustrates determining whether a transaction scribe to services of the payment processing service . In other
is a business expense or a personal expense . As described 55 examples , the transaction data can be received from com
above, in at least one example , the balance management puting device (s ) of acquirer (s ), card payment network (s ),
module 118 can analyze the individual transactions to deter and /or issuer (s ) 1004 . The transaction data can include
mine whether such transactions are business transactions or payment data , user authentication data , purchase amount
personal transactions (e. g ., classify the transactions ). In such information , point-of-purchase information (e .g ., item (s )
an example , thebalance managementmodule 118 can utilize 60 purchased , date of purchase , time of purchase , etc . ), etc .
a machine-trained model to output an indication of whether Block 1604 illustrates adding an indication of each trans
an individual transaction is a business transaction or a action to a ledger maintained by a payment processing
personal transaction . The balance management module 118 service . As described above , the balance management mod
can add an indicator of such to the indication of the ule 118 can manage accounting of the stored balance 120 .
transaction in the ledger . For instance , responsive to deter - 65 That is , the balance management module 118 can maintain
mining that the transaction is associated with a business a summary of all amounts debited or credited from the stored
expense , the balance management module 118 can associate balance 120 . In at least one example , the balance manage
US 10 ,445,716 B1
31 32
ment module 118 can maintain the summary via a ledger, described herein are directed to decongesting networks
which can be a journal or other record -keeping mechanism associated with payment processing and increasing band
that includes individual indications corresponding to each width within the payment processing network .
transaction . Each individual indication of a transaction in the Block 1802 illustrates receiving an authorization request
ledger can be associated with transaction data and , in at least 5 to authorize a payment for a predicted cost of a transaction .
one example , the individual indications of the transactions In at least one example , a buyer can use a payment instru
can be arranged by date . ment to pay for a transaction with a seller. For instance, the
Block 1606 illustrates associating an electronic record of merchant 102 (e . g ., the buyer ) can use the payment instru
a transaction with a corresponding indication of the trans - ment 126 linked to their stored balance 120 to pay for a
action in the ledger . In at least one example , an individual 10 transaction with another merchant (e . g ., the seller ). In at
indication can be associated with an electronic record of the least one example, a POS device can send payment data to
transaction ( e . g ., a receipt ) . That is , in some examples , the a computing device of an acquirer . In some examples , the
transaction data can include an electronic record of the actual cost of the transaction may not be known and thus the
transaction . The balance managementmodule 118 can asso - POS device (or application running thereon ) can predict a
ciate the electronic record with the indication of the trans - 15 cost of the transaction ( e . g ., " predicted cost” ). A computing
action . In at least one example , the electronic record can be device of the acquirer can send a request for a transfer of
presented to the merchant 102 , responsive to the merchant funds to a computing device of a card payment network . The
102 interacting with a UI presenting at least a portion of the computing device of the card payment network can forward
ledger . the request to a computing device of an issuer of the
FIG . 17 is an example UI 1700 for presenting at least a 20 payment instrument. In some examples, the payment pro
portion of a ledger of a stored balance of a merchant, cessing service can be the acquirer, card payment network ,
wherein individual transactions are associated with elec and /or the issuer (or a partner of the issuer).
tronic records of the individual transactions. As described Block 1804 illustrates determining whether the predicted
above , the balance applet 1006 can enable the merchant 102 cost is greater than an available balance of the payment
to access and view a UI representative of the ledger (or a 25 instrument. In at least one example , the merchant module
portion thereof) corresponding to its stored balance 120 . 114 can determine an available balance associated with the
Details associated with such a UI are described above with payment instrument. In some examples, the available bal
reference to FIG . 12 . ance can correspond to a stored balance ( e . g ., the stored
In at least one example , individual indications of trans balance 120 ) that is linked to the payment instrument ( e . g .,
actions in the ledger can be associated with selectable 30 the payment instrument 126 ) and managed via a ledger
controls that enable the merchant 102 to view corresponding associated with the payment processing service . In other
electronic records . For instance , when the merchant 102 examples, the available balance can be associated with a gift
actuates a selectable control corresponding to a transaction , card balance, credit card limit , etc . In at least one example ,
the balance applet 1006 can cause an electronic record 1702 the merchant module 114 can communicate with the com
corresponding to that transaction to be presented via the UI 35 puting device (s ) of acquirer ( s ), card payment network ( s ),
1700 . In some examples , the electronic record 1702 can be and /or issuer (s ) 1004 and/ or access the stored balance 120
presented as an overlay, as illustrated in FIG . 17 . However, (if applicable ) to ascertain the available balance of the
in other examples , the electronic record 1702 can be pre - payment instrument. Themerchantmodule 114 can compare
sented within the UI or via another UI. the predicted cost of the transaction to the available balance
UI 1700 is but one example of a UI that can present at 40 of the payment instrument. If the predicted cost of the
least a portion of the ledger associated with the stored transaction is less than or equal to the available balance , the
balance 120 and other functionalities availed via the balance merchant module 114 can approve the transaction , as illus
applet 1006 and other configurations and designs are capable trated in block 1806 . If the predicted cost of the transaction
of presenting the same information and / or enabling access to is greater than the available balance , the merchantmodule
the same functionalities . 45 114 can determine whether the actual cost of the transaction
FIG . 18 illustrates an example process 1800 for intelli - is likely to be greater than the available balance of the
gently managing authorization requests .As described above , payment instrument.
in an example, when a payment processing service controls Block 1808 illustrates determining whether the actual cost
a payment instrument, such as they payment instrument 126 is likely to be greater than the available balance of the
that is linked to the stored balance 120 , and receives an 50 payment instrument. In at least one example , the merchant
authorization request in association with a transaction , module 114 can utilize a machine-trained model to predict
instead of automatically declining (if account balance is the actual cost of the transaction . In at least one example , the
below the amount of the authorization request ), the payment machine -trained model can be trained via a machine learn
processing service can approve the authorization request ing mechanism . In such an example, the model can be
(and thus , temporarily cover the cost of the transaction ) if 55 trained using supervised learning algorithms (e . g ., artificial
the payment processing service believes that the ultimately neural networks, Bayesian statistics , support vector
charged amount will be less than or equal to the account machines, decision trees, classifiers , k -nearest neighbor,
balance . etc .), unsupervised learning algorithms (e . g ., artificial neural
Conventional techniques immediately decline a transac - networks , association rule learning, hierarchical clustering ,
tion if the available balance of a payment instrument is 60 cluster analysis , etc . ), semi- supervised learning algorithms,
insufficient to satisfy a predicted cost of a transaction , or deep learning algorithms, etc . In at least one example, the
permit the transaction , but penalize the buyer with an model can be trained on training data associated with a
overdraft charge . Techniques described herein reduce the plurality of merchants and POS transactions . The training
number of declines experienced by payment instrument data can include a plurality of POS transactions and asso
users , thereby improving user experience and decreasing 65 ciated transaction data , which can be itemized . As a result,
frustration caused by conventional authorization request the machine- trained model can output a prediction of an
management. Furthermore , the unconventional techniques actual cost of an item and/ or item (s ) in a transaction .
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33 34
In at least one example , the machine-trained model can service , the balance management module 118 can add the
output a prediction of an actual cost of an item and /or item ( s ) amount of the capital loan to the stored balance (e . g ., as a
based on transaction data associated with other merchants credit).
that are similar to a seller in a transaction. For instance , the In at least one example , the buyer may not accept the
machine - trained model can output a prediction based on 5 capital offer. In such an example, the merchant module 114
item prices offered for sale by other merchants in a same can deny the transaction (which is not shown ) or, the
MCC , a same geolocation , a same price -point, etc . as the merchant module 114 can authorize the transaction , as
seller in the transaction . In an additional or alternative illustrated in block 1806 , and can collect a difference
example , the machine-trained model can output a prediction between the actual cost of the transaction and the available
of an actual cost of an item and / or item (s ) based on trans - " balance via funds received by the buyer from future POS
action data associated with transactions that are similar to transactions. In such an example, the payment processing
the transaction . For instance , the machine-trained model can service can float the difference between the actual cost of the
output a prediction based on item prices of items in trans - transaction and the available balance ( thereby not declining
actions with one or more of the same parties (e . g ., buyer 16 the transaction ) and can recover the difference via withhold
and/ or seller ), transactions in a same geolocation , transac - ing funds from future POS transactions processed by the
tions at a same time, etc . merchantmodule 114 . In such an example , the transaction is
Based at least in part on determining that the actual cost not treated as an overdraft, and the buyer can proceed with
is not likely to be greater than the available balance of the the transaction .
payment instrument, the merchantmodule 114 can authorize 20 While FIG . 18 makes reference to using the payment
the transaction , as illustrated in block 1806 . However, based instrument 126 , which is linked to the stored balance 120 ,
at least in part on determining that the actual cost is likely payment transactions using any payment instrument can be
to be greater than the available balance of the payment handled in a same or similar way
instrument, the merchantmodule 114 can , in one example , FIG . 19 depicts an illustrative block diagram illustrating
present a capital offer to the buyer, as illustrated in block 25 a system 1900 for performing techniques described herein .
1810 . In another example, the merchant module 114 can The system 1900 includes a merchant device 104, that
deny the transaction (which is not shown ) or, the merchant communicates with server computing device(s ) (e.g.,
module 114 can authorize the transaction , as illustrated in server (s ) 112 ) via network (s ) 1902 ( e. g., the Internet, cable
block 1806 , and can collect a difference between the actual network (s ), cellular network (s ), wireless network (s ) ( e. g.,
cost of the transaction and the available balance via funds 30 Wi-Fi) and wired network (s ), as well as close-range com
received by the buyer from future POS transactions ( e. g ., munications such as Bluetooth® , Bluetooth® low energy ,
when using the payment processing service for processing and the like ). While a single merchant device 104 is illus
POS transactions). In such an example, the payment pro trated , in additional or alternate examples, the system 1900
cessing service can float the difference between the actual
costof the transaction and the available balance ( thereby not 355 aforementioned
can
€ have multiple merchant devices. Similarly, while the
description describes a single stored balance
declining the transaction ) and can recover the difference via
withholding funds from future POS transactions processed and merchant, in additional or alternative examples, the
by the merchant module 114. In such an example, the system 1900 can have multiple merchants and stored bal
transaction is not treated as an overdraft, and the buyer can ances.
proceed with the transaction . 40 In at least one example, the merchant device 104 can be
Block 1810 illustrates presenting a capital offer to the any suitable type of computing device , e.g ., portable, semi
buyer. As described above, a capital loan is a loan , for portable , semi-stationary, or stationary. Some examples of
instance from the payment processing service to a borrower, the merchant device 104 can include tablet computing
that is to be used for, in some instances, financing the devices, smart phones and mobile communication devices ;
borrower ' s short- term operational needs. For instance, a 45 laptops, netbooks and other portable computers or semi
potential borrower that is a merchant can obtain a capital portable computers ; desktop computing devices , terminal
loan via a capital loan product in order to finance a differ computing devices and other semi-stationary or stationary
ence between the available balance of the payment instru computing devices; dedicated register devices ; wearable
ment and the actual cost of the transaction . In at least one computing devices, or other body -mounted computing
example , the merchantmodule 114 can determine a differ - 50 devices ; augmented reality devices, or other computing
ence between the available balance of the payment instru - devices capable of sending communications and performing
ment and the actual cost of the transaction ( as predicted per the functions according to the techniques described herein .
block 1808 above). The merchant module 114 can leverage In the illustrated example , the merchant device 104
one or more risk analyses to determine whether the buyer includes one or more processors 1904, one or more com
qualifies for a capital loan and an amount of a capital loan 55 puter - readable media 1906 , one or more communication
for which they are qualified . If the buyer qualifies for a interfaces 1908 , and one or more input/output (I/O ) devices
capital loan, the merchant module 114 can send a capital 1910 . Each processor 1904 can itself comprise one or more
loan offer to the buyer ( e. g ., via a computing device asso - processors or processing cores. For example, the
ciated with the buyer ) in an amount at least equal to the processor( s ) 1904 can be implemented as one or more
difference between the available balance of the payment 60 microprocessors , microcomputers , microcontrollers, digital
instrument and the actual cost of the transaction . signal processors , central processing units , state machines,
Block 1812 illustrates determining whether the buyer logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals
accepts the capital offer. Based at least in part on the buyer based on operational instructions. In some examples, the
accepting the capital offer, the merchant module 114 can processor( s ) 1904 can be one or more hardware processors
authorize the transaction , as illustrated in block 1806 . In 65 and/or logic circuits of any suitable type specifically pro
some examples, if the payment instrument is associated with grammed or configured to execute the algorithms and pro
a stored balance maintained by the payment processing cesses described herein . The processor(s ) 1904 can be
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
35 36
configured to fetch and execute computer-readable proces network , a local wireless network , such as Wi-Fi and /or
sor -executable instructions stored in the computer -readable close -range wireless communications , such as Bluetooth® ,
media 1906 . BLE , NFC , RFID , a wired network , or any other such
Depending on the configuration of the merchant device network , or any combination thereof. Accordingly,
104, the computer-readable media 1906 can be an example 5 network ( s ) 1902 can include both wired and /or wireless
of tangible non - transitory computer storage media and can communication technologies , including Bluetooth® , BLE ,
include volatile and nonvolatile memory and/ or removable Wi- Fi and cellular communication technologies, as well as
and non - removable media implemented in any type of wired or fiber optic technologies . Components used for such
technology for storage of information such as computer - communications can depend at least in part upon the type of
readable processor-executable instructions, data structures , 10 network , the environment selected , or both . Protocols for
program modules or other data . The computer -readable communicating over such networks are well known and will
media 1906 can include, but is not limited to , RAM , ROM , not be discussed herein in detail. of the Internet, cable
EEPROM , flash memory , solid - state storage, magnetic disk networks, cellular networks, wireless networks ( e . g ., Wi-Fi)
storage, optical storage, and/ or other computer -readable and wired networks , as well as close -range communications
media technology . Further, in some examples , the merchant 15 such as Bluetooth® , Bluetooth® low energy, and the like, as
device 104 can access external storage , such as RAID additionally enumerated elsewhere herein .
storage systems, storage arrays , network attached storage , The merchant device 104 can further include the one or
storage area networks, cloud storage, or any other medium more I/ O devices 1910. The I/O devices 1910 can include
that can be used to store information and that can be speakers , a microphone, a camera , and various user controls
accessed by the processor(s ) 1904 directly or through 20 (e . g ., buttons, a joystick , a keyboard , a keypad , etc .), a haptic
another computing device or network . Accordingly, the
computer -readable media 1906 can be computer storage In at least one example , merchant device 104 can include
media able to store instructions, modules or components that a display 1916 . Depending on the type of computing
can be executed by the processor( s ) 1904 . Further, when device ( s ) used as the merchant device 104, the display 1916
mentioned , non -transitory computer -readable media exclude 25 can employ any suitable display technology . For example ,
media such as energy , carrier signals, electromagnetic the display 1916 can be a liquid crystal display, a plasma
waves , and signals per se . display , a light emitting diode display , an OLED (organic
The computer-readable media 1906 can be used to store light-emitting diode ) display, an electronic paper display , or
and maintain any number of functional components that are any other suitable type of display able to present digital
executable by the processor (s ) 1904 . In some implementa - 30 content thereon . In some examples, the display 1916 can
tions, these functional components comprise instructions or have a touch sensor associated with the display 1916 to
programs that are executable by the processor (s ) 1904 and provide a touchscreen display configured to receive touch
that, when executed , implement operational logic for per - inputs for enabling interaction with a graphic interface
forming the actions and services attributed above to the presented on the display 1916 . Accordingly , implementa
merchant device 104 . Functional components stored in the 35 tions herein are not limited to any particular display tech
computer - readable media 1906 can include the POS appli - nology. Alternatively , in some examples , the merchant
cation 106 , which can include the balance applet 1006 , at device 104 may not include the display 1916 , and informa
least some of the functionalities of which are described tion can be presented by other means, such as aurally.
above. In other examples , the balance applet 1006 can be In addition, themerchant device 104 can include sensor (s )
stored in the computer -readable media 1906 independently 40 1918 . The sensor(s ) 1918 can include a GPS device able to
or associated with another application . Further, in some indicate location information . Further, the sensor( s ) 1918
examples, the balance applet 1006 can be accessible via a can include , but are not limited to , an accelerometer, gyro
web browser, etc . scope, compass, proximity sensor, camera , microphone,
Furthermore, the computer-readable media 1906 can and/or a switch . Additionally, the merchant device 104 can
include additional functional components , such as an oper - 45 include various other components that are not shown,
ating system 1912 for controlling and managing various examples of which include removable storage, a power
functions of the merchant device 104 and for enabling basic source , such as a battery and power control unit, a barcode
user interactions . In addition , the computer - readable media scanner , a printer, a cash drawer , and so forth .
1906 can also store data , data structures and the like, that are In addition , in some examples , the merchant device 104
used by the functional components . Depending on the type 50 can include or can be connectable to a reader device 704 , as
of the merchant device 104 , the computer- readable media described above with reference to FIG . 7 , for reading
1906 can also optionally include other functional compo - payment instruments and/ or identifiers associated with pay
nents and data , such as other modules and data 1914 , which ment objects . In some examples, as described above , the
can include programs, drivers, etc ., and the data used or reader device 704 can plug in to a port in the merchant
generated by the functional components . Further, the mer - 55 device 104 , such as a microphone /headphone port, a data
chant device 104 can include many other logical, program - port, or other suitable port. The reader device 704 can
matic and physical components, of which those described include a read head for reading a magnetic strip of a payment
are merely examples that are related to the discussion herein . card , and further can include encryption technology for
The communication interface (s ) 1908 can include one or encrypting the information read from the magnetic strip .
more interfaces and hardware components for enabling 60 Additionally or alternatively , the reader device 704 can be an
communication with various other devices , such as over the EMV payment reader, which in some examples, can be
network (s ) 1902 or directly. For example , communication embedded in the merchant device 104 . Moreover, numerous
interface (s ) 1908 can enable communication through one or other types of readers can be employed with the merchant
more network (s ) 1902, which can include, but are not device 104 herein , depending on the type and configuration
limited any type ofnetwork known in the art, such as a local 65 of the merchant device 104 .
area network or a wide area network , such as the Internet, The server (s ) 112 can include one or more servers or other
and can include a wireless network , such as a cellular types of computing devices that can be embodied in any
US 10 ,445,716 B1
37 38
number ofways. For example , in the example of a server, the components stored in the computer -readable media 1922 can
modules, other functional components, and data can be include the merchantmodule 114 , the set -up module 116 , the
implemented on a single server , a cluster of servers, a server balance managementmodule 118 , and the activation module
farm or data center, a cloud -hosted computing service , a 702 . At least some of the functionality associated with the
cloud - hosted storage service , and so forth , although other 5 merchant module 114 , the set -up module 116 , the balance
computer architectures can additionally or alternatively be management module 118 , and the activation module 702 is
used . described above with reference to FIGS . 1 - 18 . Additional
Further, while the figures illustrate the components and functional components stored in the computer -readable
data of the server( s ) 112 as being present in a single location , media 1922 can include an operating system 1928 for
these components and data can alternatively be distributed 10 controlling and managing various functions of the server (s )
across different computing devices and different locations in
any manner. Consequently, the functions can be imple 112In. at least one example, the computer-readable media
mented by one or more server computing devices , with the
various functionality described above distributed in various 1922 can include or maintain other functional components
ways across the different computing devices. Multiple 1515 and
ang data
a , such as other modules and data 1930 , which can
server(s) 112 can be located together or separately , and include programs, drivers , etc ., and the data used or gener
organized , for example , as virtual servers, server banks ated by the functional components . Further, the server( s ) 112
and/ or server farms. The described functionality can be can include many other logical, programmatic and physical
provided by the servers of a single merchant or enterprise , components , of which those described above are merely
or can be provided by the servers and/ or services of multiple 20 examples that are related to the discussion herein .
different customers or enterprises . In at least one example, the computer-readable media
In the illustrated example , the server( s ) 112 can include 1922 can store a merchant database 1932. The merchant
one or more processors 1920 , one or more computer database 1932 can store merchant profiles corresponding to
readable media 1922 , one ormore communication interfaces merchants that subscribe to services of the payment pro
1924 , and one or more input/ output devices 1926 . Each 25 cessing service. As described above , merchant profiles can
processor 1920 can be a single processing unit or a number include merchant data including, but not limited to , a
of processing units , and can include single or multiple merchant category classification (MCC ), item ( s ) offered for
computing units or multiple processing cores . The sale by themerchant, transaction data associated with trans
processor (s ) 1920 can be implemented as one or more
microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital 30 actions
cation
conducted by the merchant (e . g ., via the POS appli
106 ), hardware (e .g ., device type ) used by the mer
signal processors, central processing units , state machines, chant, previous loans made to the merchant, previous
logic circuitries, and /or any devices thatmanipulate signals defaults on said loans , an indication of risk (e .g ., based at
based on operational instructions. For example , the proces least in part on fraud , chargeback , etc .) associated with the
sor (s ) 1920 can be one or more hardware processors and /or
logic circuits of any suitable type specifically programmed 355 merchant
"account ,information
etc. The merchant profile can securely store bank
as provided by the merchant 102 .
or configured to execute the algorithms and processes Further , the merchant profile can store payment data asso
described herein . The processor ( s ) 1920 can be configured to
fetch and execute computer -readable instructions stored in ciated with a payment instrument linked to a stored balance
the computer -readable media 1922, which can program the 120 of the merchant 102 and / or the stored balance 120 .
processor( s ) 1920 to perform the functions described herein . 40 The communication interface ( s ) 1924 can include one or
The computer -readable media 1922 can include volatile more interfaces and hardware components for enabling
and nonvolatile memory and/or removable and non - remov- communication with various other devices, such as over the
able media implemented in any type of technology for network ( s ) 19002 . For example , communication interface ( s )
storage of information , such as computer -readable instruc - 1924 can enable communication through one or more of the
tions , data structures, program modules , or other data . Such 45 Internet , cable networks, cellular networks, wireless net
computer -readable media 1922 can include , but is not lim - works (e . g ., Wi- Fi) and wired networks , as well as close
ited to , RAM , ROM , EEPROM , flash memory or other range communications such as Bluetooth® , BLE , and the
memory technology, optical storage , solid state storage , like, as additionally enumerated elsewhere herein .
magnetic tape , magnetic disk storage , RAID storage sys The server ( s ) 112 can further be equipped with various
tems, storage arrays , network attached storage , storage area 50 input /output ( 1/0 ) devices 1926 . Such I/O devices 1926 can
networks, cloud storage , or any other medium that can be include a display , various user interface controls ( e. g .,
used to store the desired information and that can be buttons, joystick , keyboard , mouse , touch screen , etc .),
accessed by a computing device . Depending on the configu - audio speakers , connection ports and so forth .
ration of the server(s ) 112 , the computer - readable media The present subject matter proposes the integration of at
1922 can be a type of computer - readable storage media 55 least the aforementioned features into a seamless and con
and /or can be a tangible non - transitory media to the extent venientmechanism for registration of a payment instrument.
that when mentioned , non - transitory computer -readable With relation to the problems identified previously with
media exclude media such as energy , carrier signals , elec conventional systems and methods , the software application
tromagnetic waves , and signals per se . itself becomes an active and cooperative component of the
The computer -readable media 1922 can be used to store 60 registration process, rather than the subject of it . Further, the
any number of functional components that are executable by aforementioned description is directed to devices and appli
the processors 1920 . In many implementations , these func - cations that are related to payment technology. However, it
tional components comprise instructions or programs that will be understood , that the technology can be extended to
are executable by the processors 1920 and that, when any device and application . Moreover, techniques described
executed , specifically configure the one or more processors 65 herein can be configured to operate irrespective of the kind
1920 to perform the actions attributed above to the service of payment object reader , POS terminal, web applications,
provider and /or payment processing service . Functional mobile applications, POS topologies , payment cards, com
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
39 40
puter networks, and environments . Techniques described comparing, by the server, the payment data with known
herein can be configured to operate in both real-time/online payment data of the payment card that was provided to
and offline modes. the merchant;
While the aforementioned disclosure makes reference to determining , by the server, that the payment data corre
user interactions via a UI presented via a display of a device , 5 sponds to the known payment data ; and
the UI can be presented via any input/output device . As an modifying, by the server, the inactive state of the payment
example , the UI can be output via a speaker, and augmented card to an active state , thereby (i) confirming that the
reality projector, etc . Further , while the aforementioned payment card has been securely received by the mer
disclosure makes reference to the merchant interacting with chant and ( ii ) enabling themerchant to use the payment
the UI via a selectable control, in additional or alternative card for accessing the stored balance of the account.
examples, the merchant can indicate a selection via a spoken 2 . The method as claim 1 recites, further comprising
input or other type of input. modifying a deposit scheme based at least in part on
The foregoing is merely illustrative of the principles of activation of the payment card , wherein modifying the
this disclosure and various modifications can be made by 15 deposit scheme comprises freezing transfers of funds from
those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the account to a linked bank account of the merchant in order
this disclosure . The above described examples are presented to retain the funds in the account.
for purposes of illustration and not of limitation . The present 3 . The method as claim 1 recites, wherein , responsive to
disclosure also can take many forms other than those explic receiving the request for the payment card , the method
itly described herein . Accordingly, it is emphasized that this 20 further comprises :
disclosure is not limited to the explicitly disclosed methods , sending, from the server and to the POS application , icons
systems, and apparatuses, but is intended to include varia for personalizing a surface of the payment card ; and
tions to and modifications thereof, which are within the spirit arranging the icons in an order based on a classification of
of the following claims. the merchant.
As a further example , variations of apparatus or process 25 4 . The method as claim 3 recites , wherein arranging the
limitations (e .g., dimensions , configurations, components, icons in the order comprises arranging a first icon that is
process step order, etc .) can be made to further optimize the relevant to the classification of the merchant prior to a
provided structures, devices and methods, as shown and second icon that is not relevant to the classification of the
described herein . In any event, the structures and devices, as merchant.
well as the associated methods, described herein have many 30 5 . The method as claim 3 recites , further comprising :
applications . Therefore , the disclosed subjectmatter should presenting, via the UI of the POS application , at least a
not be limited to any single example described herein , but portion of the icons for selection by the merchant;
rather should be construed in breadth and scope in accor sending, by the POS application , an indication of a
dance with the appended claims. selection of an icon of the icons to the server ;
35 receiving, by the server, the indication of the selection ;
What is claimed is: and
1. A method implemented in part by a server of a payment sending, by the server, an instruction to an embossing
processing service , the method comprising: device to emboss the icon on the surface of the payment
receiving, at the server and from a point-of-sale (POS ) card prior to providing the payment card to the mer
application associated with a merchant device of a 40 chant.
merchant, transaction data associated with POS trans 6 . A system of a payment processing service, the system
actions between the merchant and customers of the comprising:
merchant, the payment processing service processing one or more processors ;
the POS transactions on behalf of the merchant; one or more computer -readable media that, when
associating, by the server, funds received from the POS 45 executed by the one ormore processors, cause the one
transactions processed by the payment processing ser or more processors to perform acts comprising:
vice with an account of the merchant that is maintained receiving, by the system of the payment processing
by the payment processing service , the account having service and from a point -of- sale (POS) application
a stored balance based at least in part on the funds associated with a merchant device of a merchant,
received from the POS transactions processed via the 50 transaction data associated with one or more POS
payment processing service ; transactions processed by the payment processing
receiving, at the server and from the POS application , a service on behalf of the merchant;
request for a payment card that is to be associated with receiving, by the system of the payment processing
the account of the merchant, the payment card being service , a request for a payment instrument that into
associated with a value corresponding to the stored 55 be associated with an account of the merchant , the
balance ; account being maintained by the payment processing
receiving , via a user interface (UI) of the POS application , service, and the account being associated with a
a request to activate the payment card , the payment stored balance determined based at least in part on
card having been received by the merchant in an the transaction data ;
inactive state ; 60 receiving, by the system of the payment processing
prompting, via the UI of the POS application, the mer service and via a user interface (UI) of the POS
chant to insert the payment card into a payment reader application , a request to activate the payment instru
associated with the merchant device ; ment, the payment instrument having been received
receiving , by the server, payment data associated with the by the merchant in an inactive state ;
payment card , the payment data obtained by the pay - 65 prompting, by the system of the payment processing
ment reader and transmitted from the POS application service and via the UI of the POS application , the
to the server; merchant to cause an interaction between the pay
US 10 ,445,716 B1
42
ment instrument and a payment reader associated causing, by the system of the payment processing service
with the merchant device ; and based on receiving the payment data , an applet for
receiving , by the system of the payment processing managing the account of the merchant to be opened on
service , payment data associated with the payment the merchant device .
instrument, the payment data obtained by the pay - 5 13 . The system as claim 6 recites , the acts further com
ment reader and transmitted from the POS applica- prising :
tion to the system ; receiving , by the system of the payment processing ser
determining , by the system of the payment processing vice and via the UI of the POS application , a request to
service , that the payment data corresponds to known deactivate or freeze the payment instrument ;
payment data associated with the payment instru prompting, by the system of the payment processing
ment; and service and via the UI of the POS application , the
associating , by the system of the payment processing merchant to cause another interaction between the
payment instrument and the payment reader;
service, an active state with the payment instrument receiving , by the system of the payment processing ser
thereby enabling the merchant to use the payment 1 vice and via the POS application , the payment data
instrument to access the stored balance associated responsive to the other interaction between the payment
with the account. instrument and the payment reader ; and
7 . The system as claim 6 recites, wherein the stored deactivating or freezing , by the system of the payment
balance is funded at least in part with funds received from processing service, the payment instrument.
the one or more POS transactions processed by the payment 2014 . One or more computer -readable media that, when
processing service , an amount of the funds received being executed by one or more processors, cause the one ormore
determined based at least in part on the transaction data processors to perform acts comprising :
8 . The system as claim 6 recites, wherein the interaction receiving, by one or more servers of a payment processing
is a dip , a tap , or a swipe. service , transaction data associated with one or more
9 . The system as claim 6 recites, the acts further com - 25 point -of- sale (POS) transactions processed by the pay
prising : ment processing service on behalf of a merchant ;
receiving, at the POS application and from the system of receiving , by the one or more servers of the payment
the payment processing service , the known payment processing service, a request for a payment instrument
data ; that is to be associated with an account of the merchant ,
comparing, by the POS application , the paymentdata with 30 the account being maintained by the payment process
the known payment data ; ing service , and the account being associated with a
activating, by the POS application , the payment instru stored balance determined based at least in part on the
ment responsive to the payment data corresponding to transaction data ;
the known payment data ; and receiving, by the one or more servers of the payment
sending, to the system of the payment processing service , 35 processing service , a request to activate the payment
an indication that the payment instrument is activated , instrument, the payment instrument having been
wherein associating , by the system of the payment received by the merchant;
processing service , the active state with the payment prompting, by the one or more servers of the payment
instrument is based at least in part on receiving the processing service, the merchant to cause an interaction
indication . 40 between the payment instrument and a payment reader
10 . The system as claim 6 recites, the acts further com associated with a merchant device of the merchant;
prising modifying a deposit schemebased at least in part on receiving , by either the one or more servers of the
associating the active state with the payment instrument. payment processing service or a POS application asso
11. The system as claim 6 recites , the acts further com ciated with the merchant device , payment data associ
prising: 45 ated with the payment instrument, the payment data
responsive to receiving the request for the payment instru obtained by the payment reader;
ment, causing,by the system ofthe payment processing determining , by either the one or more servers of the
service , one or more icons for personalizing a surface payment processing service or the POS application
of the payment instrument to be presented via the UI of associated with the merchant device , that the payment
the POS application , the one or more icons arranged in 50 data corresponds to known payment data associated
an order based on a classification of the merchant; with the payment instrument; and
receiving , by the system of the payment processing ser activating , by at least one of the one or more servers of the
vice and via the UI of the POS application , a selection payment processing service or the POS application
of at least one icon ; and associated with the merchant device , the payment
sending, by the system of the payment processing service , 55 instrument to enable the merchant to use the payment
an instruction to associate the at least one icon with the instrument for accessing the stored balance associated
surface of the payment instrument prior to providing with the account.
the payment instrument to the merchant. 15 . The one ormore computer -readable media as claim 14
12 . The system as claim 6 recites, the acts further com - recites , wherein the stored balance is funded at least in part
prising: 60 with funds received from the one ormore POS transactions
receiving , by the system of the payment processing ser - processed by the payment processing service , an amount of
vice and via the POS application , the payment data at the funds received being determined based at least in part on
a time after activation of the payment instrument; the transaction data .
determining , by the system of the payment processing 16 . The one or more computer -readable media as claim 14
service , that the payment data is associated with the 65 recites, the acts further comprising, by the one or more
payment instrument of the merchant and is received servers of the payment processing service and responsive to
independent of a transaction ; and activating the payment instrument, freezing a transfer of
US 10 ,445 ,716 B1
43 44
funds from the account to a linked bank account of the with the payment instrument of the merchant and is
merchant in order to retain the funds in the account. received independent of a transaction ; and
17 . The one or more computer- readable media as claim 14 causing, by the one or more servers of the payment
recites , the acts further comprising : processing service and based on receiving the payment
responsive to receiving the request for the payment instru - 5 data , an applet for managing the account of the mer
ment, causing , by the one or more servers of the chant to be opened on the merchant device .
payment processing service, one or more icons for
personalizing a surface of the payment instrument to be 19 . The one or more computer-readable media as claim 14
presented via a user interface (UI) of a POS application , recites, wherein the interaction comprises a dip , a tap , or a
the one or more icons arranged in an order based on a swipe .
classification of the merchant; 20 . The one or more computer -readable media as claim 14
receiving, by the one or more servers of the payment recites , wherein the activating the payment instrument to
processing service and via the UI of the POS applica enable the merchant to use the payment instrument for
tion , a selection of at least one icon ; and accessing the stored balance associated with the account
sending , by the one or more servers of the payment 15 comprises:
processing service, an instruction to associate the at 13 activating the payment instrumentby the POS application
least one icon with the surface of the payment instru to enable the merchant to use the payment instrument
ment prior to providing the payment instrument to the for accessing the stored balance associated with the
merchant. account;
18 . The one or more computer - readablemedia as claim 14 20 sending , by the POS application , an indication that the
recites , the acts further comprising:
receiving , by the one or more servers of the payment payment instrument has been activated to the one or
processing service and via the POS application , the more servers of the payment processing service ; and
payment data at a time after activation of the payment activating the payment instrument by the one or more
instrument; servers of the payment processing service responsive to
determining, by the one or more servers of the payment 23 receiving the indication .
processing service , that the payment data is associated * * * * *

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(12) United States Patent ( 10) Patent No.: US 10 ,445 ,716 B1

MERCHANTMODULE 114 PAYMENPTROCESINGSERVICE 110

DETERMINE WHETHER THE

RECEIVE A REQUEST TO LINK THE PROMPT THE MERCHANT TO LINK A

PRESENT A UI TO ENABLE THE RECEIVE BANK ACCOUNT DATA

ASSOCIATE THE BANK ACCOUNT

PRESENT AN OFFER TO LINK A PAYMENT INSTRUMENT WITH A STORED

DETERMINE WHETHER THE

CONTINUE TO ENABLE ACCESS TO

PRESENT A UI TO ENABLE THE

RECEIVE A REQUEST TO LINK A PAYMENT INSTRUMENT WITH A STORED

DETERMINE CHARACTERISTIC (S ) OF THE MERCHANT

ACCESS ICON (S ) FOR PERSONALIZING THE PAYMENT INSTRUMENT

ARRANGE THE ICON ( S ) BASED ON THE CHARACTERISTIC ( S ) OF THE

PRESENT THE ICON ( S ) VIA A USER INTERFACE

RECEIVE A SELECTION OF AT LEAST ONE ICON

SENDAN INSTRUCTION TO ASOCIATE THE MAINLEASTONE ICON WITH THE

r MEORDCUHALNET BALNCEMANGE TMODULE N SBTALORNECD

DETERMINE A REQUEST TO ACTIVATE A PAYMENT INSTRUMENT ASSOCIATED

PROMPT THE MERCHANT TO CAUSE AN INTERACTION BETWEEN THE PAYMENT

DETERMINE WHETHER THE

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