FAQ / Frequently Asked Questions

Here, we introduce some of our most common questions.
For any other questions,
please contact us.

FAQ

QI have already developed an interface for the SB payment service, but is it possible to use cross-border packs with the same API?
A.
No. In order to use the cross-border pack payment, it is necessary to develop an interface that is different from the payment lead that you are currently using. Please contact us to request the relevant specifications.
QWhat payment methods can be used for cross-border packs?
A.
Currently, only WeChat Pay is available, but we will continue to add payment options in the future.
Q Will SBPS provide EC site construction and product delivery services?
A.
It will be a direct contract and service provision with our partner company.
After applying, we will inform you of the agency.
Q What is the flow and preparations for introducing LINE Pay?
A.
We will guide you from the application to the Online Payment Service in about 3 weeks to 2 months. Please feel free to contact us for the specifications of each payment methods and the application procedure. Please check here for details.
Q What is the purchasing process using LINE Pay on EC?
A.
After selecting LINE Pay as the payment method, log in to the LINE app to complete the payment. No need to enter payment information.
Q What is LINE Pay?
A.
It is a mobile remittance / payment service that allows you to make payments on EC sites through the LINE app. You can charge your balance by various methods such as bank account and convenience store payment.
Q Are there any conditions for devices that can use Google Pay?
A.
Any browser that supports Google can be used on any device.
Q Can I introduce Google Pay as a payment methods for smartphone apps?
A.
You can install it by implementing the Google Pay API in your smartphone app.
Q What is Google Pay?
A.
A contactless payment service that can be used on Android devices. Payment will be made using the credit card information registered in your Google account.
Q What is the flow and preparations for introducing Apple Pay?
A.
To apply for Apple Pay, you need to have an Apple Developer account and have a sandbox ready. Please see here for details.
Q What is the purchasing process using Apple Pay on EC?
A.
After selecting Apple Pay as the payment method, authenticate with Touch ID or Face ID to complete the payment. You don't have to enter your credit card number or address.
Q What is Apple Pay?
A.
A contactless payment service that can be used on iPhone and Apple Watch. Payment will be made using the credit card information registered in Apple Pay.
Q. What are the rates and initial fees?
A.
We provide individualized estimates based on the payment methods you wish to use, the products and services you sell, and the scale of your business. Feel free to get in touch.
Q. Are there any products that aren’t supported when introducing payment services?
A.
We are unable to support products that are offensive to public order and morals. In addition, some products may not be supported depending on the each payment agency’s vetting process.
Q. I am a sole proprietor, can I apply?
A.
It depends on the service you wish to use. For our Online Payment Services, we only accept contracts with corporate customers located in Japan. Our “Payment Terminal Service” for payment services for in-stores is available even for sole proprietors.
Q. I don't have a website yet. Can I still apply?
A.
Yes, you can. However, during vetting, you will be required to submit materials confirming the contents of your service (business) and price structure, and declare in advance your notation based on the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions.

Applications / Vetting / Contracts

Q. I don't have a website yet. Can I still apply?
A.
Yes, you can. However, during vetting, you will be required to submit materials confirming the contents of your service (business) and price structure, and declare in advance your notation based on the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions.
Q. I am a sole proprietor, can I apply?
A.
It depends on the service you wish to use. For our Online Payment Services, we only accept contracts with corporate customers located in Japan. Our “Payment Terminal Service” for payment services for in-stores is available even for sole proprietors.
Q. I am thinking of transferring to a different service. Is it possible to process the transfer changes?
A.
In principle, the service transferred from must be cancelled, and the service transferred to will require a new contract. *Online Payment ASP Merchant Agreement Article 48 (Prohibition of transfer of status)
Q. Are online payments and in-person payments available through a single contract?
A.
Contracts are required for both online payments and in-person payments respectively.
Q. I'm worried if I can pass the vetting in terms of my product. Is it possible to have it pre-screened?
A.
Pre-vetting through the credit card companies (VISA / MasterCard) is possible prior the main application. *Please note that the pre-vetting does not necessarily guarantee the results of the main vetting.
Q. When switching from another PSP agency, is vetting required for the payment methods I already use?
A.
Another round of vetting is normally required. However, in the event you have direct contracts with the settlement institutions, you may be able to switch via procedures other than vetting. Please ask our sales staff for more details.
Q. I operate a shopping mall. Can I use your services?
A.
Yes, you can. We have a track record of introducing our services in this area.
Q. I have a store in a shopping mall. Can I use your services?
A.
You may be able to use our services. When considering our services, please also contact your mall’s operator in advance.
Q. How long does it take to start using the services from the application?
A.
It takes a minimum of 3 weeks to 2 months, but the service start time will vary depending on the content of the services and payment methods. For details, please see the application documents for each payment service and approximate timing of service start.
Q. How can I apply?
A.
Please contact us from the link below. If you include information such as an overview of your services, products handled, value handled, average unit price, average payment value, desired payment methods, desired start time, etc. in your inquiry, we will be able to provide you with smooth guidance.
Q. Are any documents needed when applying?
A.
Yes, there are. The documents will differ depending on the payment methods you apply for, so we will inform you of what is required when you apply.
Q. Are there any conditions regarding service content?
A.
We have set certain restrictions on service content. (Services that are offensive to public order and morals, etc.) For more information, please contact us via the link below.
Q. Are contracts required for each payment method?
A.
No, they are not required. We will make contracts with each financial institution on your behalf, which normally need to be made individually. However, some payment methods do require a direct contract.

Payment Methods (Services)

Payment Services in General

Q. How can I introduce online payments?
A.
There are two ways to introduce online payments: (1) using a PSP agency; and (2) contracting directly with the settlement institutions providing the services. Method (1) of using a PSP agency can reduce the time and effort required for initial contracts, system development, and post-implementation management.
Q. Which type of online payment should I introduce?
A.
When selecting online payments, it is important to make a choice according to your customer base, products, and security systems.
Q. Are there any products that aren’t supported when introducing payment services?
A.
We are unable to support products that are offensive to public order and morals. In addition, some products may not be supported depending on the each payment agency’s vetting process.
Q. What kind of payment methods do you offer?
A.
We handle a variety of payment methods such as credit card payments, CVS payments, mobile carrier billing, Alipay, and electronic money settlement.
Q. Are there restrictions on the sales amount depending on the payment method?
A.
There are restrictions for each payment method.
Q. Can I use your Online Payment Services to sell small amounts of digital content?
A.
Yes, you can.
Q. I run a website that’s dedicated for smartphones. Is it possible to optimize the payment screen?
A.
Yes, you can. We offer an option to customize the payment screen based on your website.

Credit Card Payment

Q. I do recurring billing on a membership site, but payment errors occur when a customer's card has expired. Do you have any solution for this?
A.
By using our Credit Card Account Update Service, you can reduce the rate of payment errors due to card expiry.
Q. I am considering introducing credit card payments. What card brands can be used with your services?
A.
We have comprehensive merchant contracts with more than 30 card companies. By contracting with us, you can accept 6 major international brands (VISA, MasterCard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club International, and Discover). We also offer China UnionPay, compatible with the Chinese card brand "UnionPay."
Q. Can customers use cards issued overseas?
A.
Yes, you can. In principle, cards issued in any country can be used, but some may not be accepted depending on your service overview and at the card companies’ discretion.
Q. How will my store name be displayed on the customer’s credit card receipt?
A.
The name of the store (service) applied for on your application will be shown. (Example: ○○○ Service)
Q. Are installment or revolving payments available?
A.
Yes, you can. We support installment payments and revolving payments as stipulated by the card companies. If you wish to provide installment or revolving payments, please inform us when applying.
Q. What is the Identity Authentication Service (3-D Secure)?
A.
The Identity Authentication Service (3-D Secure) is a service that verifies an individual’s identify by having them enter a password registered in advance with their card issuer in addition to their card number, expiration date, and other details during payment in order to make online credit card payments more secure.
Q. What are the advantages of introducing the Identity Authentication Service (3-D Secure)?
A.
Introducing the Identity Authentication Service (3-D Secure) reduces the risk of lost sales due to chargebacks. Chargeback refers to card companies refusing to pay for sales in the event a credit card is misused due to theft.
However, in principle card companies do not chargeback payments that have passed identity authentication (with some exceptions and rules for each card brand), so you can expect to secure your sales.
Q. Which card brands support the Identity Authentication Service (3-D Secure)?
A.
The service can be used with 4 international brands: VISA, MasterCard, JCB, and AMEX. The name of the service differs for each brand, but is used the same way.
Q. I don't want to retain my customers’ credit card information in-house.
A.
We offer system connection methods that process payments without leaving credit card information on your side. The credit card information will be held by us in strict confidence.
Q. Do you support installment payments?
A.
We support installment payments and revolving payments.
Q. What is your sales deposit cycle?
A.
You can select between one or two deposits per month.
Q. What are the costs to introduce your services?
A.
We will propose the most suitable plan according to the needs of your business and provide an estimate. Feel free to get in touch.
Q. Do you offer payment terminals that can be used at storefronts?
A.
We offer a Payment Terminal Service that allows you to process credit card payments using a smartphone or tablet.
Q. Are refunds possible?
A.
One-time billing charges can be refunded for up to 6 months, including the purchase request processing date. Refunds are not supported for recurring billing, so please contact our Merchant Support if you need to issue a refund.

CVS Payment

Q. Is recurring billing possible with CVS payments?
A.
Only one-time billing is supported for CVS Payments online. For payment methods that allow for recurring billing, please see the link below.
Q. I would like to introduce CVS payments. Do I need a contract or system connection with each convenience store?
A.
You can introduce convenience store payments simply by applying through us without having to go through the procedures for each store.
*Some separate contract procedures may be required of you depending on the receiving agency used.
Q. How can I check sales made through CVS payments?
A.
You can check sales through our Admin portal / Payment management tool. In addition, we will notify you when there has been a payment from a customer.
Q. What are CVS payments?
A.
They are payment services that allow you to pay at major convenience stores.
Your customers can pay by simply presenting a number at a convenience store that was displayed on screen when purchasing products on your e-commerce site.
In addition, since they are a payment method that can be used by anyone regardless of age unlike credit card payments, they are used by many merchants.
Q. What are the advantages of introducing CVS payments?
A.
Since payments can be confirmed in real time at the convenience stores, you can ship products post-payment. They are used by e-commerce sites for product sales in particular.
Q. Is it possible to set a payment deadline?
A.
You can set payment deadlines as desired. Deadlines can be set from the date following purchase up to a maximum of 59 days later.
Q. How will I be notified of the payment from the convenience store?
A.
When a customer (user) pays at a convenience store, we will notify you in near real time.
Q. Is there a maximum amount per payment?
A.
The upper limit is 299,999 yen.

Mobile Carrier Billings

Q. What is Mobile Carrier Billing?
A.
They are payment services that allow you to pay for the price of a purchased product together with your mobile phone fees. Since there is no need to enter credit card information, customers can enjoy shopping with ease and peace of mind anytime and anywhere, even on the train or on the move, making it one of the best payment methods for smartphone users.
Q. Which mobile carriers do you support?
A.
We support SoftBank, docomo, and au.
Q. What are the advantages of introducing mobile carrier billings?
A.
Customers can shop using just their mobile phone PIN number without the trouble of having to enter their credit card number, lowering the hurdles to purchase your products so you can expect increased sales. Also, by being listed on each carrier’s portal site for users and other media, you can anticipate an influx of new users.
Q. Is it possible to introduce mobile carrier billings even for feature phones?
A.
It depends on the mobile carrier. Please contact us for more information.
Q. Are there any services that carrier payments cannot be used for?
A.
Yes, there are.
Many of our merchants are centered around product sales and digital content, but we may not be able to provide carrier payments for other types of services. Please get in touch and we will provide an answer after asking about nature of your services.
Q. Are refunds possible?
A.
Yes, you can. Partial refunds are also possible.
However, there are some instances in which refunds cannot be made, such as when the customer has cancelled their phone contract.
Q. Is recurring billing possible?
A.
Yes, you can. Please note that we may not be able to provide recurring billing depending on the services you provide.
Q. Are mobile carrier billings available on SIM-free smartphones? And is it possible to make payments on a PC or tablet?
A.
If the customer has a contract with a mobile carrier, they can use carrier payments even on SIM-free devices through the authentication processes at the time of purchase.

Prepaid Card Payments

Q. What are prepaid card payments?
A.
They are a payment method that allows you to pay when using a service by entering a number printed on a prepaid card purchased at a convenience store or elsewhere.
Q. What are the advantages of introducing prepaid card payments?
A.
They are most often used for small payments online, such as for digital content sales. Since it is a prepaid form of payment, there is no need to enter any personal information such as a credit card number and there are no age restrictions, so they are in high demand by customers.
Q. What prepaid cards can be used?
A.
We support WebMoney, NETCASH, BitCash, and JCB PREMO.
Q. Are refunds possible?
A.
Yes, you can issue refunds by putting in a request with us. We will issue the refund to the prepaid card ID or wallet used.

Electronic money settlement

Q. What is electronic money settlement?
A.
It is a payment method using Rakuten Edy, Mobile Suica, and other types of electronic money to make payments.
Q. What are the benefits of introducing electronic money settlement?
A.
With the popularization of Rakuten Edy and Suica, electronic money is growing rapidly as a means of making small payments. In addition, the increasing ownership of mobile phones and use of Osaifu-Keitai will also lead to new customer acquisition.
Q. Which forms of electronic money can be used?
A.
We support Rakuten Edy and Mobile Suica.

Pay-Easy

Q. Will the customer be charged a fee when paying with Pay-Easy?
A.
No fees are charged. Customers are only required to pay for the product.
Q. Is it possible to set a payment deadline?
A.
Yes, you can. You must set the payment deadline between the date following purchase and 59 days thereafter.
Q. Will the customer be notified by email of the information required for payment when a purchase has been made with Pay-Easy?
A.
Only when using our Link type connection will the customer by notified by SBPS of the payment information via email.
Q. Do customers need to register to pay with Pay-Easy?
A.
No, they do not. Customers can pay using only the recipient number, customer number, and confirmation number issued at the time of payment.
Q. What is Pay-Easy?
A.
Pay-Easy is a service provided by Japan Post Bank (formerly the post office) and financial institutions that allow you to pay for things such as for online shopping through online banking and at ATMs, which previously had to be paid for in cash at banks or convenience stores with invoices and payment slips. Unlike bank transfers, customers do not need to enter the account number they are transferring money to, and payments are completed even during nights and weekends.
Q. What are the benefits of introducing Pay-Easy?
A.
Pay-Easy is beginning to grow in popularity as a payment method for online banking, which is rapidly gaining users. Online banking users can complete their payments without having to go to a bank or convenience store, making it easy and hassle-free.

Invoice Payments

Q. Can I change the design of the invoice freely?
A.
Some parts can be changed while some cannot. It is possible to display your business’ logo. For more information, please contact our sales department.
Q. Are settlement fees the same for all three payment methods?
A.
The fees differ for each. For more information, please contact our sales department.
Q. Is it possible to set a payment deadline?
A.
You can choose a payment deadline between the date following purchase and 60 days thereafter. However, you cannot set deadlines for each individual purchase.
Q. Is it possible to reissue payment slips?
A.
Yes, you can reissue them via the management tool we provide. However, an issuance fee will be incurred separately.

Implementation / Fees

Q. What are the rates and initial fees?
A.
We provide individualized estimates based on the payment methods you wish to use, the products and services you sell, and the scale of your business. Feel free to get in touch.
Q. What is the process flow from application to start of use?
A.
(1) Submit the application form (Excel) to begin the vetting. (2) Once the vetting is completed, we will arrange a system environment specifically for you. (3) Once you connect to this system environment, it can be used in actual operation. For details, please see the “Implementation and fees” page below.
Q. Is any support for the installation process?
A.
Yes, there are. Our staff provides various types of support according to the contents of your services. In addition to helping you introduce our services, we also provide general support for payment services including inquiries from merchants and financial institutions, usage inquiries, and research requests.

Systems

Q. Can I ask SB Payment Service to build an e-commerce site for me?
A.
While we do not build e-commerce sites, we can discuss your needs and introduce an affiliated e-commerce site building service. See below for details.
Q. What are the system specifications?
A.
You can check system specifications as well as details on our solutions on our technical support site "Developer Console." (Registration is required.)
Q. Are there any services that do not require system development?
A.
Our Email Payment Link Service (pay-as-you-go credit card payments) does not require system development.
Q. Is any special software needed to install the payment services?
A.
While it may depend on the service provided, special software is generally not necessary. For more information, please contact us from the link below.
Q. Which development environments (OS, programming languages, etc.) are supported?
A.
We do not specify any development environments in particular. However, depending on the service provided, there may be restrictions on the specifications. For more information, please contact us from the link below.
Q. For payments made online, are there any restrictions on the type of computer or browser used?
A.
There are no restrictions, but we recommend Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher. There are no restrictions on the type of computer.
Q. How can I incorporate your payment systems?
A.
We will provide you with the system specifications after you apply. The system specifications include explanations and sample scripts for connecting to our payment services, so you can proceed with system development efficiently.
Q. Is it possible to link your services to our in-house systems?
A.
Yes, you can. For details on connections and workflows, please contact us via the link below.
Q. I am planning an e-commerce site aimed at customers overseas, can I use your services?
A.
We offer Alipay, a payment method that can be used on e-commerce sites for customers in China. There are some restrictions with regard to credit card payments, so please consult with us in advance.
Q. Can I use your services on a rental server?
A.
Yes, you can. Please check with the operator of your rental server to confirm if it is possible to use our payment services.
Q. Can I still use the shopping cart that I’m already using?
A.
Please check with the operator of your shopping cart to confirm if it is possible to use it with our payment services.
Q. Do you offer shopping carts?
A.
While we do not offer them, we can introduce you to shopping cart merchants that are already linked with our payment services.
Q. Can I freely create my own payment screen?
A.
Yes, you can. We offer a service that allows you to freely customize the payment screen.
Q. How long does it take to authenticate credit card payments?
A.
We are able to achieve high-speed processing of 1 to 3 seconds (*actual values) (1/2 to 1/3 of conventional speeds). By enabling comfortable interactions with your customers, we contribute to the improvement of your business’ services.
Q. Do you offer a payment management screen?
A.
Yes, there are. With the management tool we provide, you can easily handle various payment-related tasks.
Q. Do you offer a test payment environment?
A.
Yes, there are. A free account is needed, but you can use the test environment from our Developer Console.
Q. What types of system connection methods are available?
A.
You can choose from Link type, API type, or Tool-type connections depending on your business environment and scale.
Q. If I’m using a dedicated domain, can you still support non-retainment of credit card information?
A.
Yes, we support non-retainment.

Operations (including billing, deposits, and refunds)

Q. Is the deposit cycle only monthly?
A.
In principle, the deposit cycle for credit card payments is once or twice monthly, and once monthly for other payment methods. The number of deposits can be increased with some payment methods with the addition of an optional paid service.
Q Are there any materials / information that need to be submitted for introduction?
A.
You will need to submit an Excel-based application form that we have prepared (including company information, service information, account for deposit, contact information, etc.). In addition, depending on the payment methods, you may be required to submit a register book.
Q. I run a store. Can I use credit cards for monthly billing?
A.
This can be done by applying for a in-store credit card payment terminal and our Online Payment Services. Please contact our sales staff for details.
Q. Can I do continuous monthly charges such as for membership fees?
A.
Yes, you can. We offer a billing method called recurring billing (simplified). By using this, we will process the payments continuously on your behalf. It can be used with credit card payments, mobile carrier billings, and other payment methods.
Q. Can I process payments of different amounts on a regular basis? For campaigns and such, I would like to charge half price at 2,500 yen for the first month and 5,000 yen continuously after that.
A.
Yes, you can. We offer a billing method called Recurring billing (fixed term/pay-as-you-go), which allows you to determine the amounts and payment schedule. It can be used with credit card payments, mobile carrier billings, and other payment methods.
Q. What are the closing dates and sales deposit dates?
A.
In general, close is at the end of each month and payment is made at the end of the following month. For other requests, please contact us.
Q. How can I check my sales?
A.
You can use our sales management tool. It can be used not only to confirm sales, but as a business and sales management tool for searching payment histories, aggregation, billing, payment reconciliation management, creating ledgers.
Q. Is it possible to process cancellations and returns online?
A.
You can process these with the management tool we provide. However, please note that refunds cannot be processed for CVS and Pay-Easy payments.

Other (partners, security, etc.)

Q. Do you offer a solution for preventing fraudulent use?
A.
Both free and paid options are available. See below for details.
Q. Can partner contracts be made for both online payments and terminal payments?
A.
Yes, you can. There a number of partnership systems that we can introduce, so please contact our partner support desk. Please note that you may be asked about possible clients and other matters prior to contract.

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