PCI-DSS · MSPs & IT Providers
PCI-DSS for MSPs & IT Providers
MSPs supporting merchants inherit PCI-DSS scope through the ESP designation.
Why this matters
Managing systems in a client's CDE makes you a Service Provider under PCI.
Your controls are assessed as part of the merchant's SAQ or ROC.
Level 1 service provider status kicks in at 300k+ transactions across all clients.
Typical timeline
6–12 months for PCI-ready service tier.
Typical cost
$40k–$120k depending on client merchant volume.
What bites hardest in MSPs & IT Providers
Frequently asked
Am I a Service Provider under PCI?
If you manage systems in a merchant's CDE, yes. The Attestation of Compliance (AOC) you provide clients determines their SAQ path.
When do I become a Level 1 Service Provider?
At 300k+ transactions across all clients combined. That triggers annual onsite QSA assessment.
What's my PCI level?
Level 1: >6M transactions/year. Level 2: 1M–6M. Level 3: 20k–1M e-commerce. Level 4: everything else. Each brand (Visa, MC, etc.) publishes its own thresholds.
Does using Stripe eliminate PCI scope?
Using a hosted payment page or Stripe Elements can reduce scope to SAQ-A, but you still have PCI obligations. Iframes and direct card capture push you into broader SAQs.
How does the MSP partner program work?
You get discounted access, white-label reports, and revenue share on client subscriptions. Details at /partners.
Can I resell one-time reports?
Yes. Vendor Risk ($79), Compliance Predictor ($79), and Board-Ready ($100) reports can be resold under your brand.
Ready to shortcut PCI-DSS for MSPs & IT Providers?
Scarlet Comply and our on-demand reports collapse months of prep into hours.
Framework
PCI-DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard)
The floor for anyone handling cardholder data.
Industry
MSPs & IT Providers
Your clients are asking for compliance. Sell it, don't refer it out.