What Pharmacy Owners Need to Know About the 2025 Payment-Rule Shake-Up
The Pharmacy Payments Landscape Is Changing
Keeping pace with change is part of running a modern pharmacy — but when it comes to online payments and digital accreditation, new regulations are reshaping what’s required to stay compliant.
At ScriptSafe, we believe that independent, board-certified pharmacies shouldn’t face unnecessary delays or fees when they simply want to process payments securely for their patients. Here’s what you need to know about the latest payment-industry updates and how they affect your business.
💳 1. Key Rule Changes That Matter
Visa’s Enhanced Data Program (CEDP)
Beginning in 2025, Visa is rolling out its Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP) to replace older Level 2/3 data programs for commercial and purchasing cards.
If your pharmacy accepts business or HSA/FSA cards but isn’t passing the required data, you could see higher interchange rates and lose valuable cost savings.
→ [Learn more about interchange optimization](/accreditation)
PCI DSS 4.0 – Stronger Data Security Requirements
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) has been updated to version 4.0.1. It adds new expectations for:
Multi-factor authentication
Stricter patch and change management
Script and injection protection
Third-party vendor oversight
Even small, single-location pharmacies that accept online payments must understand these standards to stay compliant.
→ [View ScriptSafe’s compliance checklist](/faq)
High-Risk Merchant Rules for Pharmacies
The major card networks continue classifying pharmacy-related MCCs as higher risk—particularly when transactions involve mail order, compounding, or online sales.
Acquirers are demanding stronger documentation, verified pharmacy licensing, and proof of in-person operations.
🧾 2. What It Means for Your Pharmacy
Higher Compliance Burden: Pharmacies that don’t meet enhanced-data or PCI standards risk higher processing fees or potential account holds.
Documentation Matters: Licenses, physical-location verification, and compliance paperwork are now standard underwriting requirements.
Accreditation Is Essential: Accreditation helps prove compliance upfront—reducing friction with acquirers and processors.
Rising Costs: Network and risk-based fees continue to increase, especially for merchants without compliance verification.
🔒 3. How ScriptSafe Helps Pharmacies Stay Ahead
ScriptSafe provides Digital Pharmacy Payments Accreditation — an independent verification designed specifically for retail and community pharmacies.
Our process helps ensure your business meets acquirer and Visa requirements quickly and affordably.
With ScriptSafe, you’ll:
Get verified within 10 business days
Save up to $2,000 per year per location compared to traditional accreditation
Demonstrate compliance with PCI and payment-network rules
Protect your ability to accept secure, legitimate transactions
🚀 4. Stay Proactive, Stay Compliant
Don’t wait until your fees increase or your processor requests new documentation. These rule changes are reshaping pharmacy payments, but with ScriptSafe, staying compliant doesn’t have to be complicated.