How to be prepared for the solar eclipse as a Square Seller

[Helen]

Participating in a solar eclipse viewing festival or event on August 21st? ☀️🌑 🎉   Here’s how to be prepared as a Square Seller:

Pack a magstripe reader, just in case:

• With the magstripe reader you can take payments in Offline Mode if your internet/cellular data is impacted by large crowds during the event! Heads up: you do need an internet connection to accept chip card and contactless (NFC) payments so those payment types cannot be accepted with Offline mode.
• If you don’t have a magstripe reader to hand you can buy one at participating retail locations. They cost $10 but follow the steps in the packaging and we'll reimburse you! 

Learn how to enable Offline Mode:

• To enable offline mode from the app: Tap the three horizontal lines in the upper left > Scroll down to Settings > Toggle Allow Offline Mode On.
• You can take payments offline by swiping the card through the reader or manually entering the card information to the app. Any payments taken offline will automatically be processed when you regain internet connection within 72 hours.
• Keep in mind, when Offline Mode is enabled you’re responsible for any declined, disputed, or expired payments. This means it’s really important to verify the cardholder’s name and the expiration date of the card to make sure it’s a valid card. If a card is declined Square won’t be able to share the cardholder’s information, so for large transactions you could consider obtaining their contact information as well.

Plan ahead and be safe!

• This LA Times article shows how the eclipse will look across the US so you can be in the right place at the right time. ⏰
• Some states are expecting a very big increase in visitors for the eclipse. It’s worth checking your local government or State Police website for traffic and travel advisories. 🚗
• Check out NASA’s guidelines on how to view the eclipse safely with eclipse glasses or indirect viewers. ✅

Let us know where you’re planning to watch the eclipse and feel free to share any other tips for selling at an event!