PCI SAQ

Determine the correct PCI SAQ type and complete your PCI DSS compliance with expert guidance.

Many organizations are required to validate PCI DSS compliance through an SAQ, but identifying the correct type and completing it accurately can be challenging.

Each SAQ applies to a specific payment environment. Selecting the wrong one can lead to delays, additional scrutiny from acquiring banks, or incomplete compliance validation.

Crossbow helps you identify the right SAQ type, validate required controls, and prepare audit-ready documentation.

The PCI SAQ enables organizations to evaluate their security controls and document compliance based on their payment environment.

Each SAQ includes requirements focused on cardholder data protection, access control, network security, vulnerability management, and secure operational practices.

Selecting the correct SAQ is critical to avoid compliance gaps, delays, and audit issues.

These are the PCI SAQ types based on different payment environments and levels of cardholder data exposure:

• SAQ A - Outsourced Payment Processing
  Fully outsourced payments; no cardholder data touches internal systems.
• SAQ A-EP - E-commerce Payment Pages
  Partial control over payment pages; requires additional security controls.
• SAQ B - Standalone Terminals
  Dial-out terminals with no electronic storage of card data.
• SAQ B-IP - IP Connected Terminals
  IP-based terminals with additional network security considerations.
• SAQ C - Internet Connected Applications
  Online payment applications without card data storage.
• SAQ D - Full PCI DSS Scope
  Applies to organizations that store, process, or transmit cardholder data; includes full PCI DSS requirements.

Completing the PCI SAQ requires more than answering questions. Organizations must align security controls, documentation, and operational processes with PCI DSS requirements.

• SAQ Scope Identification:
  Review payment architecture, transaction flows, and third-party integrations to determine the correct SAQ type.
• SAQ Completion Guidance:
  Ensure responses align with PCI DSS v4.0.1 requirements and are accurate and consistent.
• Evidence Preparation:
  Prepare policies, procedures, and documentation to support compliance validation.
• Gap Identification and Remediation:
  Identify gaps and implement practical fixes to strengthen security posture.
• Attestation of Compliance (AoC) Preparation:
  Prepare final compliance documentation for submission to acquiring banks and payment processors.