I do not use a merchant account, merchant account require a monthly fee whether or not you process any transaction as well as a fee for each transaction which is higher thane fee I pay now with what I use.
Unless you have a huge volume in sales and the need for it, it just not worth it.
I take credit card throughout Paypal and through squares which can be done in person or over the phone.
To use square all you need is a bank account and a smart phone android or iPhone.