Maryland § 12-1403
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 12-1403, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12-1403.
(a) If a business entity cancels a merchant processing agreement before the expiration of the initial term agreed on by the credit card processor and the business entity, the credit card processor may not assess or charge a fee, fine, or penalty that exceeds $500.
(b) If a business entity terminates the merchant processing agreement after the expiration of the initial term agreed on by a credit card processor and a business entity, the credit card processor may not assess a fee, fine, or penalty, unless a credit card processor and a business entity have entered into a separate renewal merchant processing agreement.
(c) Subject to subsection (d) of this section, a merchant processing agreement shall disclose clearly and conspicuously in bold, 12 point font the following information:
(1) The amount of any early termination fee, fine, penalty, or liquidated damages that may be assessed by the credit card processor for termination of a merchant processing agreement before the expiration of the initial term;
(2) The expiration date of the merchant processing agreement;
(3) The renewal date of the merchant processing agreement; and
(4) The customer service contact information of the credit card processor, including telephone number, mailing address, and e–mail address.
(d) The information required under subsection (c) of this section shall be:
(1) Provided on the signature page of a merchant processing agreement; and
(2) Initialed separately by the business entity.
(e) The credit card processor shall provide a copy of the merchant processing agreement in electronic or paper form to the business entity at the time the business entity signs the merchant processing agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 12-1403
What does Maryland Code § 12-1403 cover?
Section 12-1403 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 12-1403?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 12-1403" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 12-1403 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.