What are the fees associated with using alternative payment methods for a Sonesta Simply Suites franchise?
Sonesta_Simply_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| TYPE OF FEE | AMOUNT | DUE DATE | REMARKS (Note 1) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alternative Payment Fee | $25 processing fee per each occurrence for paper check. 3.5% processing fee for credit card payment. | As billed | This fee will be charged if you request that we process payments using a method other than direct debit. |
Source: Item 6 — OTHER FEES (FDD pages 25–36)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Sonesta Simply Suites Franchise Disclosure Document, if a franchisee requests to use a payment method other than direct debit, they will be charged an alternative payment fee. This fee is structured as follows: a $25 processing fee for each occurrence when paying via paper check, and a 3.5% processing fee for credit card payments. These fees are billed as they are incurred.
Sonesta Simply Suites requires franchisees to authorize them to automatically debit their accounts for royalties, brand promotion fees, and other amounts owed. This direct debit system is the standard payment method. The alternative payment fees are only applied if a franchisee deviates from this standard method and requests to pay via paper check or credit card.
It is important for prospective Sonesta Simply Suites franchisees to understand these fees, as they can add to the overall cost of operating the franchise if alternative payment methods are used. Franchisees should evaluate their payment preferences and consider the potential costs associated with not using the standard direct debit method.