Under what conditions might Sonesta Simply Suites require payment of an alternative payment fee?
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 Sonesta Simply Suites's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, an alternative payment fee may be charged if a franchisee requests to process payments using a method other than direct debit.
The alternative payment fee is $25 per occurrence for paper check payments and 3.5% per transaction for credit card payments. This fee is in addition to the standard royalties, brand promotion fees, and other amounts due to Sonesta Simply Suites or its affiliates, which are typically debited automatically from the franchisee's account.
Sonesta Simply Suites retains the right to change the required method of payment for franchisees with prior notice. This means that even if a franchisee is initially permitted to use an alternative payment method, Sonesta Simply Suites can later require direct debit, thus avoiding the alternative payment fee. Franchisees should factor in these potential fees when budgeting and managing their cash flow.