As a “subcategory’ of an adult business, dating websites sit on both side of the fence, whether or not they are considered high risk.  A lot of what determines high risk or adult content includes images and the way the website is laid out.  Sometimes the high risk category won’t be implements until there is an excessive amount of chargebacks.  At which point will probably put the operator/holder of the merchant account on the MATCH list.  This is a list utilized for future reference as a sort of “credit history” for future merchant providers if the operator attempts to open another account.  For example, an operator who has excessive frauds and chargebacks will probably be determined as high risk regardless of what product they are selling.  The could prove to be an issue when trying to establish a new merchant account, even if it is 5 years later, and selling paper goods.

A dating website can either become hold a domestic merchant account and take extra precaution not to have chargebacks, or open an IPSP, who already has a merchant account and allows you to process your credit cards through them.  These are the offshore accounts and the international accounts.  Regardless of precautions taken, it is very difficult to stop chargebacks on a dating website.  You will always have the people that are unsatisfied, and the people claiming they did not make the purchase.  Within any sort of membership website you will get the buyers remorse, the people who do not read fine print and enter into contracts without being aware of the terms and conditions.  Fraud protection can help to control this to some degree, but will eliminate it. 

You also have your escort websites, which fall into the adult category.  These can also consist of elderly companions and home caregivers.  The terminology is really the only difference by definition.  Although when determining your URL you may want to consider how to word your business if trying to keep it out of the high risk category.  If adult products, such as novelties, or lingerie are sold in addition to your monthly subscription you fall into a completely different adult high risk category.  You are not just providing a service, you may even want to consider this to cut back on your chargeoffs if you plan to have a risqué site.  You will already be classified as high risk, and your profits should increase substantially.  By having a tangible item, this can help to keep customer satisfaction.  They have something to show for their money.  You can also think to offer something tangible with a subscription.  This tactic is used by many reputable, and well-known magazines.  Think of Sports Illustrated, they include a gift with a year subscription, this way if the customer is dissatisfied with the magazine, they feel justified by getting a nice gym bag or T-shirt.  It is a small investment to save your reputation and possibly a large amount of money.