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For weeks, many supermarkets and grocery stores operated under uncertainty. Temporary outages in the SNAP program and EBT transactions forced them to adjust their operations, explain the situation to customers, and in some cases, pause essential sales. But today, the landscape has changed: the EBT system is fully restored. And with that, peace of mind has returned to thousands of businesses that rely on this payment method to serve their communities without interruption. At Universum, we have stood by our customers with the commitment to always provide quality service, guiding them through every step they need to take to increase their sales and stand out in an increasingly competitive market. In the United States, accepting EBT payments is no longer just an option for supermarkets and small grocery stores, it has become a true avenue for growth. More than 42 million people depend on SNAP, representing roughly $8 billion per month in food benefits flowing to authorized retailers. Additionally, SNAP households make an average of more than nine transactions per month per person and spend about $39 per visit . This translates into a steady flow of customers who not only use their EBT cards, but who shop more frequently than the average consumer. Your business can’t afford to stay out of this market. 🎯 Not accepting EBT cards in your store yet? Now is the perfect time to start. Our customer service team will guide you step by step through the process of completing the FNS application so your store can become an authorized SNAP retailer completely free of charge, and begin selling more. It’s important to keep the required documentation ready: Color copy of your ID Color copy of your Social Security card A valid license in your name 💡 Recommendation:   Make sure your email address is current and active, as all information regarding your approval and eligibility will be sent there. 🎯 What are the benefits of accepting EBT cards for small supermarkets or grocery stores? Guaranteed sales:  Stores that accept EBT can count on regular monthly purchases. These benefits are designated specifically for food and household items, which means consistent transactions. Loyal customers:  Offering this payment method expands your customer base and builds loyalty, as shoppers return each month to use their benefits. Greater financial growth:  Businesses that accept EBT gain a competitive advantage over those that don’t. This can be the difference between maintaining steady customer traffic or losing sales, resulting in stable and predictable income. If you would like more information about how to start this process, feel free to contact us at 1-888-507-6614 . We invite you to follow us on our social media channels to stay updated with helpful information for your business. Facebook , X and  Instagram LinkedIn: Universum Visit our website at www.universumsolution.com  to learn more about our solutions. Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Service — Benefit Redemption Patterns in SNAP: FY 2022.  Reports that program households made an average of 10.9 transactions per month and spent an average of $39.08 per transaction . USDA FNS — Key Statistics and Research: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).  Indicates that in fiscal year 2024, the program served an average of 41.7 million participants per month , with total federal spending of approximately $99.8 billion. See More Pew Research Center — Reports that in May 2025, the average monthly benefit was $188.45 per person and $350.89 per household . See More

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the use of EBT cards are currently undergoing a transformation process, driven by new regulations and recently approved legislative changes. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that, as of November 1, 2025, the issuance of federal SNAP benefits will be suspended due to the exhaustion of funds allocated for the program’s operation. This measure directly impacts authorized merchants who accept EBT card payments. Regarding applications already submitted by businesses seeking to become authorized SNAP retailers, only those submitted during September 2025 will be considered. Applications submitted from October 2025 onward will remain suspended, and their continuation will depend directly on the Federal Government. In light of this situation, we recommend that all our clients who are authorized providers take the following actions: Regularly review the official USDA updates to stay informed about the changes that may affect your business. Visit here: SNAP Program . Plan and assess how these adjustments could impact your sales, and implement strategies that help maintain your business stability. Train your staff on the updated processes related to EBT transactions so they can properly inform customers about benefit availability changes and prevent confusion. Thank you for trusting Universum with your business needs. Your satisfaction is our priority. For support or requests, don't hesitate to reach out to our team at 888-507-6614 — we're always happy to assist. Sincerely, Universum Team

Many small businesses in the United States are currently at risk due to a growing issue: credit card skimming . Skimmers are hidden devices installed on POS terminals or ATMs  to steal customers’ debit or credit card information , which criminals later use for identity theft, unauthorized purchases, or illegal cash withdrawals. 💡 What is a skimmer and how does it work? External skimmers:  Placed over the card swipe slot on magnetic stripe readers. Internal skimmers:  Installed inside the payment terminal. Wireless skimmers:  Capture and transmit stolen data via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. 🎯 How to protect your business from credit card skimming? This is no joke, and it could happen to your store. Keep the following recommendations in mind to make sure your business is more secure: Inspect your POS terminals regularly:  Look for loose parts, unusual slots, or strange attachments. Install surveillance cameras:  Aim them directly at checkout stations to discourage tampering. Train your staff on payment fraud prevention:  Teach employees how to identify suspicious changes in payment devices. Never allow outsiders to access your terminals. Educate your customers:  Remind them to shield the keypad when entering their PIN. Use extra caution with EBT card payments:  EBT data can also be copied and misused to drain funds. How to know if your POS terminal has been tampered with Before using your payment terminal, check for these warning signs:• A cover that looks loose, bulky, or out of place.• Suspicious materials such as tape, glue, or scratch marks.• A keypad that feels thicker or different from normal.• Anything unusual near the screen, like a possible hidden camera. ⚠️ Security Alert If someone visits your business claiming to be from a government agency or payment network, always request official identification before sharing any information. When in doubt, contact the institution directly — or reach out to UNIVERSUM to verify if the visit is legitimate. 💡UNIVERSUM is here to protect your business. If you suspect your POS terminal has been compromised, stop using it immediately  and call us at 1-888-507-6614 . Fraud prevention starts with awareness. Secure your business with Universum today! Follow us for quick tips to keep your business safe and more! Facebook and   Instagram LinkedIn: Universum

At UNIVERSUM , we believe that every interaction with a customer is a chance to create memorable experiences that build loyalty and drive business growth. Our mission goes beyond just offering technology: we provide tailored solutions and attentive service in the customer’s preferred language, whether English or Spanish. Nothing makes us prouder than seeing our clients reach their goals with the help of our POS system . Today, we want to share the story of Mellos Supermarket , a grocery store that’s part of the UNIVERSUM family. You’ll see how they’ve streamlined their operations and boosted customer satisfaction with our solutions. This is a real story—one of challenges, learning, and success. Ready to see how the right tools can transform a business? Come along and read this journey full of lessons and growth! 👇 🎯How has your business improved since implementing Universum's POS? Organization: I’ve been able to structure and improve important areas like fruits, meat, and fish. I can track which times of the day have the most sales, and I can also see which products in my store sell the most overall. 🎯How has the customer experience improved with the Universum Point of Sale System? The trust our customers have in us has increased our sales. Now, with modern POS equipment , every product’s price shows up in real time on the screen. Customers get their receipt instantly with all the details included, which gives them peace of mind and the option to make any claim with their receipt in hand. 🎯 Why do you recommend the Universum Point of Sale System? I trust UNIVERSUM because I wanted my business to grow, and I’m seeing that happen. They’re always there to support us 24/7 . If something can’t be solved over the phone, they show up in person and fix it right away. Click image to learn about the MT-25 At UNIVERSUM , our priority is making sure every client enjoys a reliable and personalized service experience. That’s why when you choose our POS system, you also get constant support, personal attention, and quick solutions through different communication channels. If you’d like to be part of the UNIVERSUM family, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re ready to give you the information you need. Call us at 888-507-6614 or text us on WhatsApp . And don’t forget to follow us on social media to stay updated and check out our offers: Facebook , X and Instagram LinkedIn: Universum

Do you want your business to reach more customers? Setting up a Google Business Profile can give you the visibility you need among people who are actively searching for businesses like yours. These days, it’s no secret—having a digital presence is almost a must for local shops. It’s one of the easiest ways to get recognized and increase your profits. There are plenty of ways to make your business stand out online, but creating a Google Business Profile is one of the smartest. With it, your business can show up directly in Google Search and Google Maps when people are looking for products or services like yours. 🎯 What is a Google Business Profile? (Google My Business) Google Business Profile is a free tool that lets you show key details about your business right inside Google results and Maps. You can add and customize info like your business name, photos, updates, and reviews—so anyone can learn about you in just one click. By creating and updating your profile, you control what information people see and make it easier for new customers to find your products, services, and updates. 📝 Ready to create your Google Profile? Head over to www.google.com/business   and click “Manage.”  You’ll need a Gmail account to log in. Just follow the steps and fill out all the requested details. Google business  is completely free and simple to set up, giving potential customers direct access to official info about your business. With this tool, you can grow your sales, strengthen your online reputation, and stay present where customers make decisions. What info will show up online? Full business name Address (with directions through Google Maps) Hours and contact info, like phone number, website, and social media Photos, reviews, and customer comments 💡 UNIVERSUM PRO TIP:   The more complete and updated your profile is, the better your chances of showing up at the top of search results and attracting new customers. 🚀 What are the benefits of creating a Google Business Profile? Clear, official information: name, hours, address, phone, and website. Visibility in Google Search and Google Maps when people are looking for businesses like yours. More interaction with customers through reviews, questions, and comments. Being on Google makes it easier for people to find, contact, and visit you—meaning more customers and more sales. On top of that, you can showcase products or services, share promotions without paying for ads, and use good reviews to build trust and strengthen your brand. If you’d like more tips from UNIVERSUM to help your business grow, subscribe to our blog today and get practical advice to reach your goals. And don’t forget to follow us on social media to stay updated and check out our latest offers! Facebook , X and   Instagram LinkedIn: Universum

Did you know that every card transaction in your store can put you at risk of fines and fraud if you’re not following certain rules? These days, more than ever, people prefer to pay with debit or credit cards when they shop, and that brings a big responsibility for you as a business owner: making sure every payment is safe and that your customers’ financial data stays protected. Ignoring this part can easily open the door to cyber fraud and expensive penalties — but the good news is there’s a clear way to prevent this if you have the right tools and follow the right standards. In the United States, all businesses are required to comply with PCI DSS  (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard). This requirement helps you show your customers that their payment info is safe and secure every time they shop at your business. 🚀 If you’d like to learn more about how people are paying these days and what trends to watch for, you might enjoy this blog. Click here to read it What does the PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) say? The PCI DSS — Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard — was created by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) , which includes big names like Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and JCB. 🎯 What should you know as a business owner? First, it’s mandatory for any business that accepts card payments. PCI DSS protects your customers’ debit and credit card information while it’s being processed, stored, or sent, so you can prevent fraud and misuse of data in your store. How does PCI DSS affect businesses in the United States? It’s mandatory for all businesses: following this standard means you’re offering a secure service to your customers and avoiding fines or legal problems for not complying. The standard includes different security measures you need to have in place, like data encryption, secure passwords, firewalls, and regular updates to your security systems. All of this helps make sure every transaction is as safe as possible. Customer loyalty is also a big benefit: People feel safer knowing their information is protected, which means they’re more likely to buy again with confidence. 📖 Read also: Protect your business from potential fraud when making card transactions ⚠️ Pro Tip:  You can save up to $360 a year  in bank fees just by completing the online questionnaire your bank sends to the email you provided. Doing this helps you avoid extra charges. If you don’t know how to fill it out or didn’t get the email, don’t worry — reach out to us and we’ll help you with it. At Universum , we know that keeping your transactions secure isn’t just a rule to follow, it’s a real competitive edge. That’s why we create payment processing solutions that keep every transaction safe, fit perfectly with your store’s sales flow, and make it easy for you to stay compliant with rules like PCI DSS . Be part of the Universum family. Don’t wait any longer!  Get in touch and sign up for your processing or POS service by calling 1-888-507-6614  or visiting our website: www.universumsolution.com  to learn more about how we can help you. 💡 Don't forget to follow our socials to stay updated: Facebook , X  and Instagram LinkedIn: Universum

In today’s world, especially in the U.S., cash is no longer king. Credit and debit cards have taken over as the main way people pay. But as a business owner, do you really know how much those card payments are costing you? In this blog, we’ll break it down in simple terms so you can understand the most common fees and keep your finances under control. What is a commercial fee or commission? Every time a customer pays you with a debit or credit card, there’s an extra cost involved. That cost is called a merchant fee —basically, what you pay for processing that payment. These fees cover things like admin costs, network infrastructure, and security measures to protect every transaction. ⚠️ Why should you care about merchant fees? If you own a business, knowing exactly what you’re being charged for every transaction is key. It helps you plan your finances better, avoid unexpected losses, and choose the most affordable payment processing option that fits your business. Some processors charge more than others, and these fees can eat into your profit if you're not paying attention. 💡 Key Fact: Businesses must assume between 1.3 and 3.5 % of the total of a purchase to the payment of credit card processing fees, which reduces the margin of sales, that is why it is so important, the choice of the processing company that gives you more benefits in this area. These are some of the common fees when your customers pay with a card: Click the image to learn more! Interchange Fee : What Visa or Mastercard charge to process the payment. Network Fee : Extra charge for using the card’s network. Transaction Fee : A fixed fee per sale, no matter the amount. Chargeback Fee : This hits when a customer disputes a charge and gets a refund. Credit Card Fee : Some cards cost more to process than others. If you own a business, you must have an active merchant account with a bank, where you will receive your payments. Banks also set their fees according to the transactions you make. 📝 Bank Commissions Yes, banks may also charge certain fees for the use of their services, these are the most common ones. Active account fee: Businesses are charged a monthly fee for having an active business account. Bank transfer fees: Some banks charge for sending or receiving transfers, especially between different banks. Bounced check fee: This fee is applied when a deposited check bounces. Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) Fee: This fee is charged if the account does not have enough funds to cover a transaction. 🎯 Costs for having a Point of Sales System Using a Point of Sale (POS) system helps you run your business smoothly and make secure transactions, but it also comes with monthly costs. Whether you’re paying for software, hardware, or both, it’s something to include in your financial planning. The good news? Some banks or payment providers offer lower fees or bundles that include POS services. So shop around for the best deal. Click on the image to know more UNIVERSUM At UNIVERSUM , we know that every dollar counts, and unexpected fees? Nobody wants those. That’s why our Point of Sale (POS) system  comes with some of the most competitive rates out there , helping you keep costs down, boost your profits, and give your customers a smooth shopping experience. Choosing UNIVERSUM  isn’t just smart, it’s an investment in your business’s growth. 👉 Let’s talk!  We’re here to help you get started. Don't wait any longer! If you wish to purchase the MT-25 or MT-25+ Point of Sales System, contact us at 1-888-507-6614 or visit our website: Visit: www.universumsolution.com  to learn more about how our services help you save💰. Follow our social media Facebook , X  and Instagram LinkedIn: Universum

Every formal business requires a commercial bank account that separates its finances from those of the owner. This is the best tool to manage income and comply with tax requirements, as the operational matters will be organized, and credibility will be established with customers and other entities. But what are the requirements to open a bank account in the United States? The steps may seem tedious, but they are simple and necessary. The following are the most common commercial accounts Business checking account: With this type of account, the business can perform the following operations: Receive and make payments, make card transactions, issue checks, and transfer money. Business Savings Account: Often used for businesses to save and earn interest on those savings. They are perfect for money that will not be moved on a daily basis and are often a cushion for emergencies, specific payments or different investments. Payment processing account: With this account, the business can accept credit and/or debit card payments. It works as an ally between the point of sale and the bank: Payments are received and then transferred to the checking account. Merchant Services Account: This is a much more comprehensive account that provides integrated solutions, including a processing account, POS system and technical support. Pro tip: The first step is to choose the bank, which depends on the business's needs. You must compare the benefits offered and the commissions. Commercial bank accounts offer some extra benefits compared to personal accounts. Don't know what they are? We tell you: Formality: The business will have the necessary credibility to provide an experience in customer service, which will enable customers to freely make transactions and payments to the merchant. Your business is always protected. A commercial bank account protects business funds, as well as protects customer purchases and data security. Credit history growth: Your business will be strengthened and will be able to acquire credit history benefits. What documents do you need? Each bank has its requirements; here is a list of the most requested ones. Don't forget to thoroughly read your bank's requirements. Employee identification number (or social security number if you are the sole proprietor). Business Articles of Incorporation. Ownership agreements. Business license, if required. Keep in mind these recommendations for your business: Manage the EIN (Employer Identification Number or Tax ID): It is the primary document to open bank accounts. It is super easy to file with the Internal Revenue Service, IRS. 📖 This blog might interest you: No SSN? Discover how the ITIN opens up financial opportunities in the US. Don't use a personal account for business: It can cause legal problems and confuse your finances. It is better to separate income. Choose the right bank: Read the fees and conditions, know what the charges are, and why. Avoid undue charges. Integrate your bank account with a POS: By doing so, your accounting will be more accurate, and you will be able to avoid mistakes. The biggest benefit of having a business bank account is that your finances will be organized. At Universum, our Point of Sale System integrates easily with your business account and helps you manage sales, inventory, and finances. If you want to keep receiving more tips on how to strengthen your business, feel free to subscribe to our blog - Universum brings you quality content to improve your finances! Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional legal advice. If you need specific advice, we recommend that you consult a professional in the area. Don't forget to follow us on our social networks to stay updated and see our offers: Facebook , X and   Instagram LinkedIn: Universum

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? At Universum, we offer a powerful, fast, and secure solution that will change how you sell, and manage your store. Imagine having more control, more speed, and fewer headaches—that future starts today with the new MT-25 and MT-25+ ! 🚀 The newest member of the Universum family. A new point-of-sale system with improved and renewed benefits has arrived in the Universum family. It is the perfect ally for achieving your business's goals. The MT-25 and MT-25+ POS systems are fast, powerful, and built to keep up —more storage, more speed, and zero interruptions to your sales. They feature intuitive, easy-to-use software that ensures the security of your inventories, transactions, and sales reports. 🎯 The new MT-25 and MT-25+ include: Cash register Thermal printer 2D Scanner PinPad Verifone P400* Why should you get the new MT-25 or MT-25+? It is the perfect solution to systematize and organize your business, ideal for supermarkets and liquor stores! Easy to use: Immediate efficiency! Its intuitive software allows your employees to adapt quickly, increasing customer service effectiveness. More features and better performance: Manage your inventories quickly, securely, and accurately. Perform every transaction with the highest security standards. Seamless integration with other tools: The new system easily integrates with applications such as QuickBooks and accepts payment methods such as EBT, WIC, and OTC. Guaranteed customer satisfaction: Delivers fast and secure transactions, improving the overall customer experience. Streamlined service: An agile payment process that not only improves the shopping experience but also promotes customer loyalty. Adaptable to any business: Designed especially for supermarkets and liquor stores, it fits perfectly within the operational needs of these types of establishments. Instant technical support: Our team is always available to address any concerns or problems related to the system. Affordable prices: We offer you the best prices in the market, with support included and plans that fit your budget. Transform your business with the new MT-25 and MT-25+ POS. They are devices designed to provide an excellent shopping experience to your customers and to have total control of your sales. Get in touch with us Don't wait any longer! If you wish to acquire the MT-25 or MT-25+ Point of Sales System, contact us at 1-888-507-6614 or visit our website: Visit www.universumsolution.com  to learn more about our solutions. Follow us on social networks Facebook , X and Instagram LinkedIn: Universum

Government assistance programs represent a great opportunity to increase your sales and attract new customers. However, if you wish to receive these payments, you require more than just good intentions: you need a well-prepared system and a clear inventory. Let's start by remembering which are the three most recognized programs and the cards your customers can use as a payment method, bringing more money to your supermarket. You must keep in mind that these three (3) programs are different and target specific audiences, in addition to the fact that they handle official listings that include specific and/or approved products. Some of them may coincide; you must make sure the products are the right ones, depending on the program you wish to apply for. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): Aimed at low-income families, who, through the EBT Card , can purchase eligible products in supermarkets and established stores. It includes basic products of the family basket, nutritious and organic foods. Check out all about the SNAP program here WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Program: Aimed at pregnant women, infants, and children up to 5 years old, who, through the WIC Card , can purchase food and wellness products in supermarkets and established stores. Food products are focused on the nutrition of mothers and children. Includes infant formulas as well as organic and balanced nutrition. Want more information about the WIC program, this blog is for you. Click here OTC (Over-the-Counter) Program: It is a program within the Health benefits, aimed at senior adults, who, through the OTC Card, can purchase over-the-counter medicines and food. Among some of the products included are nutritional shakes, infant formulas, electrolyte drinks, energy bars, and sugar-free or gluten-free products. Supplements and vitamins are also included. To learn more about the OTC program, click here . Order in your inventory is not optional; it is essential: Keeping a well-organized inventory allows you to classify eligible products by categories, codes, and proper prices. This not only makes day-to-day management easier, but also ensures that products approved by government programs are ready to be processed correctly for each sale. To accept EBT, WIC, or OTC payments, you need a POS system that is compatible with state and federal regulations. This system allows you to scan products, automatically validate their eligibility, and securely record transactions. Without a proper POS, you could lose the opportunity to serve hundreds of customers who depend on these benefits. Categories: This has to do with the registration of a group or type of product. The main advantage is that you can organize and locate the items, which facilitates the sale and subsequent analysis in the sales reports. 💡 How to organize categories? Here are some examples: Cold meats category, Vegetables-fruits, Personal care, Household, Beverages, among others. If you have a good POS that allows you to organize your inventory by categories, take advantage of it when keeping the codes and prices of eligible products updated according to the program and sort them according to main categories, for example: SNAP program eligible products. WIC Program Approved products OTC Program OTC Products Products: What are they? What's the quantity? What's the price, and where are they stocked? You can also include an expiration date to rotate them with promotions or take them out of stock, if they are outdated. Assign the correct codes: Very important, have a list and place the codes that belong to each product. UPC- Universal Product Code: Refers to the standard bar codes used to identify products in the United States. They generally have 12 digits and are set by the manufacturer. These codes allow you to scan the product instead of typing it manually, and make the sale process faster and smoother. UPC : 049000050103: Coca-Cola can PLU (Price Look-Up) Code: Refers to 4 or 5-digit codes, which are generally used to reference products such as fruits and/or vegetables. PLU : 4603: Eggplant/Berenjena Remember that to increase your profits with government programs (EBT, WIC, and OTC), keeping your inventory updated with eligible products, making sure that the UPC codes match exactly those approved by the state where you operate, is a must. 💡 Here are some tools to verify Codes: International Federation for Produce Standards, click here . PLU Finder,  click here. Click the image to know more about the MT-25 If your inventory doesn't meet the requirements or regulations, Universum is working on the creation of a pre-established inventory. A tool that will help you improve your uPOS experience and allow you to have the most common market products in the United States already within your system. The advantages of accepting these programs are many, but we have to highlight the fact that you will gain the loyalty of customers who use these cards as payment methods, more sales, more profits, and more constant buyers! If you want to be part of our family and acquire our services and/or devices contact us at 888-507-6614. Don't forget to follow us on our social networks to stay updated and see our offers: Facebook , X, and Instagram LinkedIn: Universum