If your business processes B2B transactions with Visa commercial or small business credit cards, big changes are already underway. In April 2025, Visa introduced the Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP), a new set of requirements that replace the long-standing Level 2 and Level 3 interchange incentive programs. 

The program is rolling out in phases, and the first major deadline is coming up this fall. Here’s what’s changing, why it matters, and how to get ready. 

What is CEDP?

CEDP is Visa’s new standard for invoice-level transaction detail on B2B payments. 

In the past, merchants could qualify for reduced interchange rates under Level 2 or Level 3 by providing partial enhanced data. Going forward, Visa requires complete and accurate data for every eligible transaction. 

In simple terms: 

  • If you want to qualify for lower interchange rates, you must submit complete and accurate, invoice-like data with your eligible transactions. 
  • This data includes tax amounts, product SKUs, item descriptions, quantities, unit costs, and more.

If these fields are missing or incorrect, your transactions will default to higher interchange rates, driving up the cost of card payments. 

Key Dates You Need to Know 

Visa is following a phased rollout for CEDP.    

  • April 2025: Visa launched CEDP.  
  • October 17, 2025: CEDP incentives replace Level 3. Merchants must have corrected data in place by this date. 
  • April 2026: Most Level 2 programs will be sunset by Visa. 

You have until October 2025 to make sure your setup is correct if you want to keep reduced rates. 

Verified vs. Non-Verified Merchants 

Visa will classify merchants into one of two groups:  

  • Verified: Enhanced data passes Visa’s accuracy checks.  
  • Non-verified: Data has errors or missing fields. 

Only verified merchants will qualify for Visa’s new Product 3 interchange program, which comes with the lowest available rates. 

Why This Matters

CEDP isn’t just about compliance. It directly impacts your bottom line. Merchants who meet the requirements can benefit from: 

  • Lower interchange costs on eligible transactions  
  • Faster settlement and improved cash flow 
  • Stronger dispute protection with detailed data on file 
  • Better efficiency for accounting and procurement 

On the flip side, merchants who don’t adapt will see higher costs and fewer protections. 

How to Get Ready  

Here are the most important steps to take now: 

  • Check your POS and gateway. Make sure they can capture and transmit all required fields. 
  • Confirm the CEDP flag is set. Your provider needs to properly flag qualifying transactions. 
  • Eliminate autofill. Placeholder or default values won’t qualify. Train your team to enter real details. 
  • Work with your provider. Ask your payments partner how they’re supporting merchants through the CEDP transition. 
  • Keep an eye on reports. Visa and your provider will send data quality reports so you can fix issues quickly. 

Transitioning from Level 2 & Level 3 to CEDP 

If you currently participate in Level 2 or Level 3 programs, this transition directly impacts you. 

  • Level 3 incentives end October 2025 
  • CEDP is stricter and requires verified, invoice-quality data 
  • Most Level 2 programs end April 2026 

Some of the fields you already collect for Level 3 will carry over, but CEDP adds more rigorous validation. If your setup relies on auto-filled values, you’ll need to change that now. 

The Bottom Line 

Visa’s CEDP rollout is a big shift for B2B merchants, but it’s also a chance to improve how payment data flows through your business. By October 2025, you’ll need to have invoice-quality data built into your process to continue qualifying for reduced interchange rates. 

It may mean updating systems or retraining staff, but the payoff is worth it: lower costs, faster payments, and stronger protections. 

At Xplor Pay, we help merchants stay ahead of industry changes like CEDP with the tools, integrations, and support you need to protect your savings and keep business moving smoothly. 

Don’t wait until October. Connect with your merchant services provider now to make sure you’re ready. 

Article by Xplor Pay

First published: August 20 2025

Last updated: August 21 2025