Canadian Merchant Rights Under the Payment Card Code of Conduct
A 2026 overview of Canadian merchant rights around disclosure, fee changes, contract cancellation, complaints and payment-card acceptance choices.
Canada’s updated payment-card Code is intended to improve pricing transparency, flexibility and choice. It gives merchants rights around clear agreements, statements, fee changes, cancellation in specified situations and complaint handling.
What the Code covers
The Code applies through payment card network operators to acquirers and downstream participants that provide Canadian merchants payment processing or equipment. FCAC supervises adoption and compliance by the networks.
- Clearer sales and contract disclosure
- Information on statements and fee changes
- Flexibility and choice in card acceptance
- A defined complaint-handling process
When fees or terms change
Merchant rights can include advance notice and an ability to exit without penalty in specified circumstances. Do not assume every change creates an automatic cancellation right; compare the notice, agreement and FCAC guidance.
How to make a complaint
FCAC tells merchants to contact their payment service provider first. If unresolved, follow the escalation route and then the relevant payment card network operator process. Keep dates, names, agreements, statements and requested resolution.
- State the Code issue clearly.
- Ask for a written response.
- Track the required response window and escalation contact.
What KYMPAY can and cannot do
KYMPAY can help organize a statement and processing question. It cannot replace legal advice or promise the outcome of a processor, network or regulator complaint.
Put the comparison into practice
Compare Canadian payment processors, then calculate your effective processing rate using one complete statement period.
Frequently asked questions
Who enforces the Canadian payment-card Code?+
FCAC supervises payment card network operators’ compliance with the Code. FCAC does not resolve individual disputes or award compensation.
Where should a merchant complain first?+
FCAC guidance says to contact the payment card service provider first, then follow the escalation process.
Check current rates and terms with the provider. KYMPAY also sells merchant services; read our editorial approach.