You must comply with all rules set by Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover, and Square can hold you responsible if you violate those rules even if you were unaware of them.
This analysis describes what Square's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
Card network rules are complex and frequently updated; unknowingly violating them could result in fines, fund holds, or account termination.
The updated terms modify how arbitration disputes are resolved when 25 or more similar claims are brought against Square. Previously, Square's terms referenced 'Bellwether Arbitration procedures' under which test cases would be selected and remaining demands could proceed individually under standard rules if settlement failed. The updated framework establishes a mandatory mediation phase after initial arbitrations resolve, and requires remaining claims to proceed in batches of up to 100 rather than individually, with one arbitrator and consolidated fees per batch. This may reduce the procedural flexibility for claimants pursuing claims outside the initial test-case group, though the batch structure may reduce overall administrative costs. The terms now explicitly state that NAM shall administer batches concurrently and that parties will engage in a 'single global mediation' before batch proceedings commence.
View change record →Cross-platform context
See how other platforms handle Payment Card Network Compliance and similar clauses.
Compare across platforms →PCI DSS compliance obligations and card network rule adherence create ongoing compliance burdens for merchants; legal and compliance teams should ensure merchants have processes for monitoring card network rule updates and maintaining PCI DSS certification.
Enforcement risk, jurisdiction flags, contract triggers, and due diligence action items.
Get the research letter
Companies change their terms quietly. We read every version and catch what actually changed. One email a week on the changes that matter and what they mean.
Card network rules are complex and frequently updated; unknowingly violating them could result in fines, fund holds, or account termination.
No. ConductAtlas is an independent monitoring service. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Square.