The BP FDMS CAT charge is a transaction descriptor that may appear on your bank statement when a payment has been processed through a specific credit card or debit card terminal. 

FDMS stands for First Data Merchant Services, and CAT represents Cardholder Activated Terminal. This charge is typically associated with self-service payment terminals, such as fuel pumps, kiosks, or vending machines.

Businesses use BP FDMS terminals to process payments securely and efficiently. If you see this charge, it usually means you made a payment at a self-serve location, and the payment was handled by First Data Merchant Services. 

Understanding this charge can help you verify its legitimacy and manage your finances effectively.

Why BP FDMS CAT charge appear on your bank statement?

The BP FDMS CAT charge appears on your bank statement because you used your debit or credit card at a self-service terminal managed by First Data Merchant Services. These charges are often linked to transactions like purchasing fuel, parking tickets, or items from a vending machine.

Here are common scenarios where BP FDMS CAT charges may appear:

• Gas Stations: Payments made at automated fuel pumps.
• Parking Meters: Self-serve parking ticket machines.
• Vending Machines: Purchases made at vending units using cards.
• Toll Payments: Automated toll booth transactions.

These transactions are processed automatically without the need for manual input by a cashier, hence the term Cardholder Activated Terminal (CAT). It ensures faster and more convenient payments for customers.

Components of BP FDMS CAT Charge

The BP FDMS CAT charge comprises various fees that contribute to the overall transaction processing. Understanding these components can clarify the breakdown of charges.

Interchange Fees

Interchange fees are a significant component of the BP FDMS CAT charge. These fees are paid to the card-issuing banks as part of processing transactions.

• They are determined by payment networks like Visa or Mastercard.
• Fees vary depending on the type of card (debit, credit, or premium).
• Interchange fees ensure the security and reliability of the card payment network.

For example:

Transaction Type	Interchange Fee Rate
Credit Card Payment	1.5% – 2.5%
Debit Card Payment	0.5% – 1%

Equipment Rental Fees

Merchants using BP FDMS terminals often incur equipment rental fees. This cost covers the leasing or maintenance of self-service payment terminals like:

• Fuel pumps with card readers
• Vending machines equipped with payment systems
• Kiosks for ticket purchases

These rental fees allow businesses to offer automated payment options, enhancing customer convenience while ensuring secure transactions.

Also See This: What is the US CONNECT charge on the bank statement?

Service Charges

Service charges are additional costs associated with maintaining the payment processing service. These fees ensure ongoing support, upgrades, and maintenance of payment systems.

• Monthly maintenance fees for terminals
• Software updates for secure transactions
• Customer support fees for troubleshooting

Together, these components form the BP FDMS CAT charge that you see on your bank statement.

How does the BP FDMS CAT charge appear on your bank statement?

The BP FDMS CAT charge typically appears as a descriptor on your bank statement, making it easier to identify the transaction. It may look like one of the following formats:

• BP FDMS CAT – Location Name
• BP FDMS CAT – Fuel Purchase
• BP FDMS CAT – Self-Service Payment
• FDMS CAT – Business Name or Kiosk

For example:

Transaction Date	Description	Amount
01/15/2024	BP FDMS CAT – Fuel Station XYZ	$50.00
01/18/2024	FDMS CAT – Parking Meter ABC	$10.00

If you do not recognize the transaction, it is important to:

• Verify the location or merchant.
• Check if family members made the payment.
• Contact your bank for further clarification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does BP FDMS CAT mean?

BP FDMS CAT stands for First Data Merchant Services and Cardholder Activated Terminal. It refers to charges made at self-service payment points.

Where do BP FDMS CAT charges usually come from?

These charges typically come from automated fuel pumps, parking meters, kiosks, vending machines, or toll payments.

What should I do if I don’t recognize a BP FDMS CAT charge?

If you don’t recognize the charge, review the location, verify if someone else used your card, and contact your bank for assistance.

Are BP FDMS CAT charges legitimate?

Yes, they are legitimate charges associated with payments processed via self-serve terminals like gas pumps or kiosks.

How can I avoid unexpected BP FDMS CAT charges?

Monitor your transactions regularly and enable notifications for card payments to stay aware of all charges.

Final Thoughts

The BP FDMS CAT charge on your bank statement may initially seem unfamiliar, but it is a legitimate fee for payments made at self-service terminals. Whether you purchased fuel, paid for parking, or used a vending machine, the charge indicates secure and automated payment processing by First Data Merchant Services.

Understanding the components of BP FDMS CAT charges, such as interchange fees, equipment rentals, and service charges, helps you identify these transactions easily. If you ever come across an unrecognized BP FDMS CAT charge, verifying the merchant, location, and transaction details can provide clarity.

By staying informed and monitoring your statements, you can manage your finances more effectively and avoid confusion regarding unfamiliar charges. BP FDMS CAT charges are part of the modern, convenient payment experience designed to save time and effort for cardholders.