Visa CEDP: Lower Interchange Fees with Accurate Data
Launched in 2025, the Visa Commercial Enhanced Data Program CEDP rewards merchants who send enhanced transaction details—also known as Level 2 and Level 3 data—by reducing the interchange rates for qualifying transactions. However, Visa has also made it clear: merchants submitting incomplete or falsified data will face consequences.
What Is the CEDP Program?
Visa’s Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP) is designed to lower interchange fees for B2B merchants that accept corporate, purchasing, and commercial cards. Merchants who submit accurate Level 2 and Level 3 data can qualify for significantly reduced interchange rates—especially on large-ticket transactions.
In return, Visa applies discounted interchange rates for eligible transactions. These lower fees can lead to meaningful savings, especially on large-ticket and business-to-business (B2B) transactions.
Updated Interchange Rates Under Visa Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP)
In 2025, Visa updated several interchange categories under CEDP to reward accurate data. Here’s a quick look:
| Transaction Type | Old Rate | New Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Fuel Product 3 | 1.90% + $0.10 | 1.75% + $0.10 |
| Corporate Non-Travel Product 3 | 1.90% + $0.10 | 1.75% + $0.10 |
| Purchasing Non-Travel Product 3 | 1.90% + $0.10 | 1.75% + $0.10 |
| Corporate Large Ticket | 1.45% + $35 | 1.30% + $35 |
| Purchasing Large Ticket | 1.45% + $35 | 1.30% + $35 |
In exchange, Visa assesses a 0.05% participation fee on each qualifying transaction.
Visa’s New Enforcement Rules Start October 2025
Starting October 17, 2025, Visa is implementing machine learning algorithms to review transaction data quality. Merchants that fail to provide accurate Level 2 or Level 3 data—or that intentionally submit falsified or placeholder values just to trigger lower rates—will risk:
- Losing their Verified status under the CEDP
- Being reclassified as Non-Verified
- Reverting to higher standard interchange rates
- Facing potential fines or further scrutiny
Visa’s goal is to ensure that only merchants providing legitimate enhanced data receive the benefit of lower fees.
Key Dates to Know
- April 2025: 5 bps assessment markup went into effect.
- October 2025: Verified status becomes mandatory to access lower interchange.
- April 2026: Visa will eliminate Level 2 interchange (except for Commercial Fuel). Transactions that used to qualify for Level 2 will only qualify for Level 3 if the merchant is Verified and sending accurate data
Why Most Merchants Will Fail
Visa’s partial reports already show that many gateways claiming to “automate” Level 3 are still passing a high percentage of inaccurate data. If this is happening in your environment, you’re at risk of:
- Losing Verified status
- Being downgraded to Standard at 2.95%
- Paying thousands more each month in unnecessary interchange fees
How to Stay Compliant
If you’re participating in the Visa Commercial Enhanced Data Program CEDP or plan to, here are four key steps to protect your savings:
- Ensure System Readiness
Make sure your gateway or POS system can capture and transmit true Level 2 and Level 3 data (not default or blank entries). - Work With Your Provider
Confirm that your transactions are set up to qualify for the program, and that your processor is submitting your data properly. - Review Statements Regularly
Watch for the 0.05% participation fee and check whether the reduced interchange rates are being applied correctly. - Avoid Placeholder Data
Don’t submit fake invoice numbers, tax amounts, or ZIP codes it could cause your transactions to be penalized.
Final Thoughts on Visa Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP)
Visa’s CEDP presents a valuable opportunity for B2B merchants to reduce processing costs—but only if you follow the rules. As enforcement increases, accuracy in your data submissions isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Merchants that get it right can benefit from significant savings, while those that cut corners could end up paying more in the long run.
Questions about the Visa Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP) program? Call or email today. [email protected] 888 790 3450
Looking for a deeper explanation? Check out our post: Understanding Visa CEDP.