The Growing Need for Alternative Payment Solutions in Armenia
Armenian businesses operating in the global marketplace face unique challenges when it comes to payment processing and international transactions. Traditional banking solutions, while established, often come with limitations that can hinder growth and efficiency for companies with international operations.
The need for alternative payment service providers has become increasingly important as Armenian companies expand globally, engage in e-commerce, and work with international clients or suppliers. These alternative solutions offer more flexibility, lower fees, faster processing times, and can help overcome regional banking restrictions.
Looking for expert guidance on navigating the complex landscape of Armenian payment solutions?
Our comprehensive guide provides detailed analysis and recommendations tailored to your business needs.
Access Expert GuidanceCurrent Challenges with Traditional Banking in Armenia
Armenian businesses seeking to participate in global markets face several notable challenges when relying solely on traditional banking systems:
International Transfer Limitations
Traditional banks often impose high fees for international transfers, with slow processing times that can take 3-5 business days to complete. Additionally, unfavorable exchange rates further erode profit margins for businesses engaged in cross-border commerce.
Payment Platform Restrictions
Many global payment platforms have limited functionality in Armenia. PayPal, for example, only allows sending money from Armenia but not receiving funds—a significant obstacle for businesses providing services to international clients.
Compliance and Regulatory Hurdles
Armenia's banking system operates under strict regulatory requirements that can make international transactions cumbersome. Documentation requirements and verification processes often extend transaction times and complicate business operations.
Limited Integration Options
Many Armenian banks lack modern API interfaces for seamless integration with e-commerce platforms and other business software, creating operational inefficiencies and manual processing requirements.
Strategic Importance:
Finding the right alternative payment solutions has become a strategic necessity rather than merely an operational convenience for Armenian businesses with international aspirations.
Local Armenian Payment Providers
Armenia has developed several local payment solutions that serve as viable alternatives to traditional banking channels. These providers specifically cater to the local market with strong domestic adoption and integration capabilities.
ArCa (Armenian Card)
Overview: ArCa is the national payment processing system of Armenia, functioning as the backbone of local card payments and ATM networks. It processes transactions for Armenian banks and integrates with most local financial institutions.
Key Features:
- Domestic card processing with wide acceptance throughout Armenia
- Integration with most local banks for seamless transactions
- Support for e-commerce payment gateway services
- Relatively low transaction fees compared to international processors
- Co-badging with Visa and Mastercard for international compatibility
Limitations:
- Limited international recognition outside the CIS region
- Less robust fraud detection compared to global payment systems
- API documentation may be limited and primarily available in Armenian
Typical Fees:
1.5-3% per transaction
Integration Complexity:
Best For:
Domestic operations and businesses primarily serving the Armenian market
Idram
Overview: Idram is one of Armenia's leading electronic payment systems, operating since 2004. It offers a digital wallet solution and payment processing services with strong integration into the local ecosystem.
Key Features:
- E-wallet functionality allowing balance maintenance in Armenian dram
- Integration with major Armenian utility services and bill payments
- Mobile application for convenient payment management
- Payment gateway services for online merchants
- Support for recurring payment setups
- Partnership with IDBank for enhanced banking functionality
Limitations:
- Limited functionality outside Armenia
- No significant international transfer capabilities
- Customer support primarily in Armenian language
Typical Fees:
1-2.5% per transaction
Integration Complexity:
Best For:
Digital businesses serving local Armenian customers and subscription-based services
Telcell
Overview: Telcell operates as both a payment system and a terminal network throughout Armenia, allowing for both digital and physical payment processing services. Their Telcell Wallet has gained widespread adoption in the country.
Key Features:
- Extensive network of self-service payment terminals across Armenia
- Mobile wallet application with peer-to-peer transfer capabilities
- Online payment processing for e-commerce websites
- Support for utility bill payments and service subscriptions
- Cash-in/cash-out services through their terminal network
Limitations:
- Limited international functionality
- Integration documentation primarily in Armenian
- No direct integration with major global e-commerce platforms
Typical Fees:
1-3% per transaction
Integration Complexity:
Best For:
Businesses requiring physical payment collection points and digital payment processing
EasyPay
Overview: EasyPay offers digital payment solutions for the Armenian market with a focus on simplicity and accessibility. They operate payment kiosks and provide e-wallet services through their easywallet platform.
Key Features:
- Support for over 800+ different services for bill payment
- Mobile application for digital payments
- Network of self-service terminals throughout Armenia
- API for e-commerce and business integration
- Card-to-card transfer functionality
Limitations:
- Primarily focused on domestic Armenian market
- Limited international transfer capabilities
- Smaller distribution network than some competitors
Typical Fees:
1-2.5% per transaction
Integration Complexity:
Best For:
Small to medium businesses with a focus on domestic operations
Local Payment Integration Strategy
For businesses primarily operating within Armenia, integrating with multiple local providers can offer redundancy and broader customer reach. Consider creating a multi-provider strategy using combinations of the above services.
Learn more about optimal local payment integration strategies
International Payment Gateways Available to Armenian Companies
For Armenian businesses with global aspirations, international payment gateways provide essential connectivity to the global marketplace. Here are the key international providers that work with Armenian businesses, though some with limitations:
2Checkout (Verifone)
Overview: 2Checkout (now part of Verifone) is one of the most reliable international payment processors available for Armenian businesses. It offers comprehensive global payment capabilities and serves merchants in over 200 countries.
Key Features:
- Support for 100+ currencies and multiple payment methods
- Integrated merchant of record services for simplified tax compliance
- Robust fraud protection and risk management tools
- Compatible with major e-commerce platforms
- Recurring billing and subscription management
- Global payout options in multiple currencies
Limitations:
- Higher fees compared to some other processors
- Mandatory holding periods for initial transactions
- Complex application process with documentation requirements
Typical Fees:
3.5-6% + $0.30 per transaction
Integration Complexity:
Best For:
E-commerce businesses, SaaS companies, and digital product sellers targeting global markets
Paymentwall
Overview: Paymentwall provides global payment solutions with particular strength in emerging markets, including specific support for Armenian payment methods. It specializes in localized payment options across 200+ countries and territories.
Key Features:
- Support for 150+ global payment methods
- Integration with local Armenian payment options
- Anti-fraud tools and risk management systems
- Customizable checkout experience
- Recurring billing capabilities
- Developer-friendly APIs and SDKs
Limitations:
- Higher fees for certain payment methods
- Complex pricing structure that varies by region and method
- Account approval can be time-consuming
Typical Fees:
3-5% + variable fees based on payment method
Integration Complexity:
Best For:
Digital goods merchants, gaming companies, and businesses targeting diverse global markets
Stripe (Limited Access)
Overview: Stripe offers limited functionality in Armenia, primarily allowing for VAT collection on digital products without establishing full payment processing capabilities. Creative solutions may be needed to utilize its features.
Key Features:
- Tax collection capabilities for digital products
- Robust developer documentation and APIs
- Integration with major e-commerce platforms
- Advanced fraud prevention tools
Limitations:
- Not fully launched in Armenia with limited core functionality
- May require international business registration for full access
- Potential regulatory complications for Armenian businesses
Typical Fees:
2.9% + $0.30 per transaction (where available)
Integration Complexity:
Best For:
Tech companies with international registration capabilities and developers requiring flexible payment APIs
PayPal (Limited Access)
Overview: PayPal offers highly restricted functionality in Armenia. Notably, users in Armenia can send money but cannot receive funds—a major limitation for businesses. Some workarounds exist but involve regulatory and compliance considerations.
Key Features:
- Limited sending capabilities from Armenia
- Payment acceptance requires workarounds (often through international registration)
- Wide global recognition and customer trust
Limitations:
- Cannot receive payments directly in Armenia
- Account restrictions and potential freezes
- Requires complex international setup for full functionality
Typical Fees:
2.9-4.4% + fixed fee per transaction (where available)
Integration Complexity:
Best For:
Businesses with international registration options or those only needing to send payments
Other International Options
Payoneer
Payoneer operates in Armenia, providing global payment services with the ability to receive funds from international marketplaces and clients. It offers more functionality than PayPal in the Armenian market and includes options for obtaining a prepaid Mastercard for business expenses. Fees vary but typically include account maintenance charges and currency conversion costs of 2-3%.
Wise (Formerly TransferWise)
While Wise offers some services in Armenia, business transfer services are currently limited. Individual account holders can use Wise cards in Armenia for spending with competitive exchange rates, but full business functionality remains restricted. Their transparent fee structure and excellent exchange rates make them worth monitoring as their services expand.
QIWI Wallet
QIWI provides digital wallet services with some availability in Armenia, particularly useful for businesses dealing with CIS countries. Users can refill accounts through local terminals like Telcell and MegaPay, offering an additional channel for specific regional payment needs, especially with Russian businesses.
Important Consideration for International Processors
When using international payment processors, Armenian businesses should carefully consider the legal implications, tax requirements, and compliance needs for cross-border transactions. Setting up complex payment structures may require professional guidance to ensure proper regulatory adherence.
E-Wallet Solutions for Armenian Companies
E-wallets represent an increasingly important payment solution for Armenian businesses, offering greater flexibility and often serving as intermediaries between traditional banking and global payment processing.
Local E-Wallet Solutions
The Armenian market offers several established e-wallet options that facilitate domestic transactions and some limited international functionality:
- Idram&IDBank - The partnership between Idram and IDBank creates an enhanced e-wallet with both payment processing and banking features
- Telcell Wallet - Offers extensive utility payment options and integration with a physical terminal network
- EasyWallet - Provides access to 800+ service payments with a user-friendly mobile application
- HayPost Pay - The postal service's financial arm offers digital wallet services with postal integration
International E-Wallet Considerations
Some international e-wallet providers offer services in Armenia, though often with limitations:
- SWiM PAY - Digital wallets focused on business transactions with favorable exchange rates and higher transfer limits
- Skrill - Available in Armenia with some limitations, but useful for international transactions
- WebMoney - Popular in CIS countries with some functionality in Armenia
- Payeer - Multi-currency e-wallet service with cryptocurrency support
E-Wallet Integration Strategy for Armenian Businesses
When implementing e-wallet solutions, Armenian businesses should consider:
Customer Preferences
Offer multiple e-wallet options to accommodate different customer segments. For domestic customers, local solutions like Idram and Telcell are widely recognized, while international customers may prefer global options.
Currency Management
Consider how e-wallets handle currency conversion, as fees can significantly impact margins. Some e-wallets offer more favorable rates than traditional banks for international transfers.
Security Protocols
Evaluate the security measures of each e-wallet provider, including encryption standards, two-factor authentication, and fraud prevention systems to protect both your business and customers.
Multi-Wallet Integration Solution
For optimal coverage, consider implementing a multi-wallet strategy that combines both local and international e-wallet solutions. This approach creates payment redundancy and maximizes customer convenience while mitigating regional limitations.
Cryptocurrency Solutions for Armenian Businesses
Cryptocurrency presents an emerging alternative payment channel for Armenian businesses, particularly those facing challenges with traditional banking systems. Here's what businesses should understand about this evolving option:
Current Regulatory Status
As of 2025, Armenia is developing a comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrency operations. The current situation includes:
- Cryptocurrency is not an officially accepted payment method for goods and services in Armenia
- Transactions in Armenia should legally be conducted in Armenian dram
- No specific licensing requirement currently exists for blockchain or crypto-related activities
- The purchase and sale of cryptoassets are governed by general Civil Code provisions related to sales agreements
- Armenia's first crypto regulation framework was introduced in early 2025 to address sector risks
Important: The regulatory landscape for cryptocurrency in Armenia is evolving rapidly. Businesses should seek current legal advice before implementing cryptocurrency payment solutions.
Cryptocurrency Payment Processors Available to Armenian Businesses
Plisio
Plisio offers cryptocurrency payment processing services that can be utilized by Armenian businesses. They support multiple cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and others with relatively straightforward integration options.
Pay with Xumm (XRPL)
This solution provides XRP Ledger-based payments and is listed as compatible with Armenian businesses in some e-commerce platforms. It offers a more specialized cryptocurrency payment channel.
Global Processors with Armenian Access
Several international cryptocurrency payment processors can work with Armenian businesses, including CoinPayments, BitPay, and Coinbase Commerce, though regulatory compliance remains an important consideration.
Practical Implementation Considerations
Benefits
- Borderless transactions without traditional banking limitations
- Reduced or eliminated currency conversion fees
- Faster settlement compared to international bank transfers
- Potential hedge against currency volatility (using stablecoins)
- Access to global customers regardless of local banking restrictions
Challenges
- Regulatory uncertainty and evolving compliance requirements
- Price volatility of many cryptocurrencies
- Limited mainstream adoption among customers
- Complexity of tax reporting and accounting
- Technical barriers to implementation
Strategic Advisory
Cryptocurrency payment solutions may provide Armenian businesses with an alternative channel for international transactions, but implementation should be approached cautiously with proper legal guidance to ensure compliance with emerging regulations.
Foreign Exchange Considerations for Armenian Businesses
For Armenian companies engaged in international trade, managing foreign exchange operations efficiently can significantly impact profitability. Here are key considerations and available solutions:
Armenia's Foreign Exchange Environment
- Armenia maintains a liberal foreign exchange regime with relatively few restrictions
- Armenian residents and foreign nationals can hold foreign currency accounts
- Importing, exporting, and exchanging foreign currency is relatively unrestricted
- The Central Bank of Armenia oversees foreign exchange operations
- Bank exchange rates often include significant margins that impact business profitability
Foreign Exchange Solutions for Armenian Companies
Banking Partners with Specialized FX Services
Several Armenian banks offer specialized foreign exchange services for businesses with international operations:
- Preferential exchange rates for business clients with high transaction volumes
- Forward contracts to lock in exchange rates for future transactions
- Multi-currency accounts for maintaining balances in different currencies
- Trade finance solutions including letters of credit in foreign currencies
Alternative FX Providers
Several non-bank foreign exchange services can offer better rates than traditional banks:
- Wise for Business - Limited but growing functionality in Armenia with excellent rates
- SWiM Pay - Digital wallets specifically designed for business currency exchange
- Currency exchange services through payment processors - Some payment processors offer embedded currency exchange with competitive rates
Strategic FX Management for Armenian Businesses
Rate Comparison Strategy
Don't default to your primary bank for currency exchange. Compare rates across multiple providers including specialized FX services, payment processors, and fintech solutions. Even small percentage improvements can yield significant savings on large transaction volumes.
Currency Risk Mitigation
Consider implementing hedging strategies to protect against currency fluctuations, particularly for businesses with predictable foreign currency needs or receivables. Forward contracts, currency swaps, and maintaining strategic currency reserves can help manage exposure.
Multi-Currency Pricing
For businesses with international customers, implementing multi-currency pricing can improve conversion rates and customer satisfaction. Include a modest margin in your exchange calculations to buffer against short-term currency fluctuations.
Strategic Transaction Timing
Monitor exchange rate trends and, when possible, time large currency conversions to take advantage of favorable rates. While precise market timing is difficult, avoiding obviously unfavorable exchange periods can yield significant savings.
Expert FX Management Services
Professional guidance can help Armenian businesses develop comprehensive foreign exchange strategies that reduce costs and manage currency risks. These services often pay for themselves through improved exchange rates and risk mitigation.
Regulatory Compliance Requirements for Payment Service Providers in Armenia
Understanding and navigating Armenia's regulatory framework is essential for businesses implementing alternative payment solutions. Here's what businesses need to know:
Key Regulatory Authorities
The Central Bank of Armenia (CBA)
The CBA is the primary regulator overseeing payment systems in Armenia. Its responsibilities include:
- Licensing payment service organizations (PSOs)
- Issuing regulations governing payment services
- Monitoring compliance with anti-money laundering requirements
- Overseeing currency regulations and foreign exchange operations
Relevant Legislation
Key laws governing payment systems in Armenia include:
- Law on Payment and Settlement Systems and Payment Service Organizations
- Law on the Central Bank of Armenia
- Law on Banks and Banking
- Law on Currency Regulation and Currency Control
- Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism regulations
Compliance Requirements for Different Payment Solutions
| Payment Solution Type | Key Compliance Requirements |
|---|---|
| Local Payment Processors (ArCa, Idram, etc.) |
|
| International Payment Gateways |
|
| E-Wallet Solutions |
|
| Cryptocurrency Providers |
|
Compliance Best Practices for Armenian Businesses
Documentation
Maintain comprehensive documentation of all payment relationships, including contracts with providers, service level agreements, and compliance certifications. Keep records of all international transactions including purpose, parties involved, and evidence of delivered goods or services.
Due Diligence
Conduct thorough due diligence on payment service providers before integration. Verify their regulatory status, compliance history, security protocols, and financial stability. Regularly review these assessments as regulatory landscapes change.
Regular Audits
Implement periodic compliance audits of your payment processes to ensure ongoing adherence to regulations. This should include reviews of transaction monitoring systems, customer verification procedures, and data security protocols.
Regulatory Compliance Is Not Optional
Non-compliance with payment regulations can result in penalties, account freezes, and business disruptions. The complexity of navigating both Armenian and international requirements often necessitates professional guidance, especially for businesses utilizing multiple payment solutions across different jurisdictions.
How to Choose the Right Payment Service Provider for Your Armenian Business
Selecting the optimal payment service provider requires careful consideration of your business model, customer base, and operational needs. Follow this structured approach to make an informed decision:
Step 1: Assess Your Business Requirements
Customer Location Analysis
Map your customer base geographically to determine which payment methods are most relevant:
- Primarily Armenian customers: Focus on local solutions like ArCa, Idram, and Telcell
- CIS region customers: Consider regional options like QIWI and WebMoney
- Global customers: Prioritize international gateways like 2Checkout and Paymentwall
- Mixed customer base: Implement a multi-provider strategy
Transaction Profile Assessment
Analyze your typical transaction patterns:
- Transaction volume and value (high volume/low value vs. low volume/high value)
- Recurring vs. one-time transactions
- B2B vs. B2C payment needs
- Digital goods vs. physical products
- Service subscriptions vs. one-time purchases
Step 2: Evaluate Technical and Operational Factors
Integration Complexity
Consider your technical resources and timeline:
- API documentation quality and language availability
- Pre-built integrations with your existing platforms
- Developer support and resources
- Testing environment availability
Payment Features
Evaluate necessary payment capabilities:
- Supported payment methods
- Currency conversion options
- Recurring billing capabilities
- Refund and chargeback handling
- Fraud prevention tools
Operational Considerations
Assess day-to-day operational impacts:
- Settlement timeframes
- Reporting and analytics features
- Account management tools
- Customer support quality and availability
- Service level agreements
Step 3: Compare Financial and Compliance Factors
Cost Analysis
Conduct a comprehensive cost comparison:
- Transaction fees (percentage and fixed components)
- Setup and monthly fees
- Currency conversion costs
- Chargeback and refund fees
- Minimum transaction requirements
- Early termination penalties
Compliance and Security
Verify regulatory compliance and security measures:
- Regulatory status in Armenia
- PCI DSS compliance level
- Data security protocols and certifications
- AML/KYC procedures
- Privacy policy and data handling practices
Step 4: Implement a Strategic Multi-Provider Approach
For most Armenian businesses with international operations, relying on a single payment provider is rarely optimal. Consider implementing a strategic multi-provider approach:
Primary and Secondary Providers
Designate primary providers for different market segments while maintaining secondary options:
- Domestic Armenian Market: Primary - ArCa or Idram; Secondary - Telcell or EasyPay
- International Markets: Primary - 2Checkout or Paymentwall; Secondary - Alternative international gateway
- CIS Region: Primary - Regional specialist; Secondary - International provider with strong regional presence
Contingency Planning
Develop contingency plans for payment disruptions:
- Maintain relationships with multiple providers
- Design systems for quick provider switching if needed
- Test alternative payment flows periodically
- Keep documentation updated for rapid implementation of backup solutions
Expert Selection Assistance
Navigating the complex landscape of payment providers can be challenging. Professional guidance can help you identify the optimal solution mix based on your specific business needs, compliance requirements, and growth objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which payment methods are most widely used by Armenian consumers?
Armenian consumers predominantly use cash for in-person transactions, but digital payments are rapidly growing. The most popular electronic payment methods include ArCa cards (the local card system), Visa and Mastercard, and mobile wallets like Idram and Telcell. For online purchases, card payments and e-wallets are the preferred choices, with cash-on-delivery still common for e-commerce.
Can Armenian businesses receive payments through PayPal?
Currently, PayPal does not support receiving payments in Armenia. Armenian users can send money via PayPal but cannot receive funds—a significant limitation for businesses. Some businesses work around this by establishing foreign entities or using intermediary services, but these approaches carry compliance and tax considerations that should be carefully evaluated with professional guidance.
What are the compliance requirements for using international payment processors in Armenia?
Armenian businesses using international payment processors must comply with both local and international regulations. This includes proper business registration, tax reporting of international transactions, adherence to Armenia's currency control regulations, and implementation of appropriate AML/KYC procedures. Specific requirements vary based on transaction volumes, business type, and the nature of goods or services provided. The Central Bank of Armenia oversees payment system regulations, and businesses should maintain proper documentation of all international transactions.
How can Armenian e-commerce businesses optimize their payment acceptance rates?
To optimize payment acceptance rates, Armenian e-commerce businesses should implement a multi-pronged approach: (1) Offer multiple payment methods including local options like ArCa, Idram, and Telcell alongside international options; (2) Use payment processors with local acquiring capabilities to reduce cross-border decline rates; (3) Implement intelligent payment routing to automatically select the optimal processing path for each transaction; (4) Leverage retry logic for failed transactions with appropriate timing; and (5) Ensure checkout forms follow best practices for reducing user input errors.
What are the typical costs associated with alternative payment providers in Armenia?
Costs vary significantly depending on the provider and transaction type. Local providers like Idram and Telcell typically charge 1-3% per transaction. International gateways like 2Checkout charge higher fees, ranging from 3.5-6% plus fixed fees per transaction. Most providers also have setup costs, monthly fees, and currency conversion charges. E-wallets often have lower receiving fees but higher withdrawal costs. When evaluating costs, businesses should consider not just the headline rates but also currency conversion spreads, chargeback fees, account maintenance charges, and minimum processing requirements.
Is it legal for Armenian businesses to accept cryptocurrency as payment?
The legal status of cryptocurrency payments in Armenia is evolving. As of 2025, cryptocurrency is not officially recognized as a legal payment method for goods and services in Armenia, as the law requires transactions to be conducted in Armenian dram. However, Armenia is developing a comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrency operations. Businesses interested in accepting cryptocurrency should seek current legal advice, as regulatory approaches are rapidly changing. Some businesses use third-party processors that immediately convert cryptocurrency to fiat currency to maintain technical compliance while offering cryptocurrency payment options.
How can Armenian businesses minimize foreign exchange costs when receiving international payments?
To minimize foreign exchange costs, Armenian businesses can: (1) Compare rates across multiple providers rather than defaulting to bank conversions; (2) Consider maintaining multi-currency accounts to avoid immediate conversion when strategically beneficial; (3) Use specialized forex services rather than standard bank offerings; (4) Negotiate preferential exchange rates based on transaction volume; (5) Evaluate payment processors that offer competitive built-in exchange rates; and (6) Implement strategic timing of currency conversions when possible to take advantage of favorable rate movements.
Conclusion: Building a Resilient Payment Strategy
Armenian businesses operating in the global marketplace face unique challenges with traditional banking systems that can limit growth and operational efficiency. However, the strategic implementation of alternative payment service providers creates opportunities to overcome these limitations.
A comprehensive approach to payment solutions should include:
- Provider Diversification - Creating redundancy across multiple payment channels to ensure business continuity
- Market-Specific Solutions - Tailoring payment options to match the preferences of customers in different regions
- Compliance-First Implementation - Ensuring all payment solutions adhere to relevant regulatory requirements
- Cost Optimization - Strategically routing transactions through the most cost-effective channels
- Technical Integration - Implementing robust technical solutions that provide a seamless customer experience
By thoughtfully combining local Armenian payment solutions with international options, businesses can build payment ecosystems that promote growth, improve customer satisfaction, and maintain regulatory compliance.
Expert Guidance for Complex Payment Challenges
Navigating the complexities of alternative payment solutions requires specialized knowledge of both technical integration aspects and regulatory compliance considerations. Our team of experts provides customized guidance for Armenian businesses seeking to optimize their payment infrastructure.
Our Services Include:
- Comprehensive assessment of payment needs
- Provider selection and recommendation
- Regulatory compliance guidance
- Implementation support and strategy
- Ongoing optimization and monitoring
Ideal For:
- International businesses expanding into Armenia
- Armenian companies targeting global markets
- Businesses facing challenges with traditional banking
- Companies seeking cost optimization and improved conversion rates
Get expert guidance tailored to your business needs