Small merchants in the Heartland Payment Systems network can now accept American Express cards from their customers through a new acceptance program the processor announced Monday, according to a press release.

The new settlement program makes it more convenient for merchants to accept American Express Cards and is available to small merchants with an annual charge volume of less than $1 million, according to the announcement. 

"The American Express Card Acceptance program is a convenient solution for small merchants and a great way to offer consumers the opportunity to use their American Express Card at more of their favorite local shops," Robert Carr, chairman and CEO of Heartland, said in a statement. "Participating in this new settlement program is another way we're continuing to champion our valued small merchants by helping them grow their customer base."

Program benefits include:

• Single deposit for all card transactions and speed of pay consistent with other cards for improved cash flow;
• One easy-to-read statement for all card networks, simplifying reconciliation for all card transactions; and
• One dedicated Heartland customer service contact for all card processing needs, and one number to call to reach a live person, not a machine, 24/7/365.