Electronic Merchant Systems review: Stay away from ems – unethical practices and withholding funds

I’ve been a loyal customer of Electronic Merchant Systems (EMS) for a long time, but my recent experience has been absolutely unacceptable. EMS has unjustifiably withheld a substantial batch of my payments. Despite my customer providing proof of payment, including phone calls, emails, and even a picture of their debit card, EMS refused to release the funds and demanded unnecessary verification, causing undue stress for both of us.

To make matters worse, EMS transferred my client’s funds to a bank account I do not have access to. This is alarming and unethical — where did the money go? It feels like EMS is using my funds as an interest-free loan at my expense.

This occurred during the critical holiday season when small businesses like mine depend on cash flow. I can’t process payroll, pay rent, or meet financial obligations. EMS continues to charge me processing fees while withholding my funds, leaving me in a financial bind. How can I pay fees when my money is locked away?

Despite multiple attempts to resolve this, including speaking to customer service, EMS informed me that they won’t release my funds for 120 days, which is unreasonable considering I have no chargebacks or disputes. My client declined to call their bank live, but EMS still withheld the payment, which is highly suspicious.

Other business owners have had similar experiences, with many complaints on platforms like BBB. EMS seems to have a pattern of withholding funds without explanation, which could be violating fair business practices.

I’m consulting with my attorney and exploring legal options. If you’ve been affected, I encourage you to take action as well. We need to stand together and hold EMS accountable for their unethical practices.

I strongly advise against using EMS. Their actions have caused me financial hardship and strained my business relationships. There are many other payment processors that treat clients with respect. EMS must release my funds immediately and stop these harmful practices.

Sincerely,
Jaquon