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The Best Credit Card Processors For Your Business

Take your business to the next level and start accepting card payments. Use our easy comparison chart or get matched to a Credit Card Processor that’s right for you.

Julian, Author

Last updated: April, 2024

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Complete our short quiz to get matched to a Credit Card Processor that’s right for you

What to look for in credit card processing systems

The world of payment processing is growing rapidly, as new technologies and payment avenues expand. Take your business to the next level and start accepting card payments today. Here are five things to look for when choosing a Credit Card Processor:

1. Cost
2. Reliability
3. Payment method coverage
4. Fraud prevention & security tools
5. Customer support

Compare Providers

Providers	Rates	Offers	Free trial	Contract length
Leaders	From 0.15% for swiped cards and 1.79% for keyed cards	Get $200 back if you don't save on fees	No	3 years
National Processing	$9.95 per month, From 0.14% + 7 cents per transaction, plus interchange rate	Get $500 if your current rates can't be beat	No	Monthly
Paysafe	Quote-based rates	Next-day funding available	No	From month-to-month to three years
Stax	$99 per month, 7 cents to 15 cents per transaction plus interchange rate	First Month Free	No	Monthly
CardX	$29 per month + 1% for debit cards	First Month Free	Yes	Monthly
Payment Depot	$59 per month, 7 to 15 cents per transaction plus interchange rate	First Month Free	No	Monthly

FAQs

How does Credit Card Processing work?

Merchant banks, also known as acquiring banks, enter into agreements with merchants to set up accounts that enable them to accept credit card payments. These banks transfer the funds for credit card transactions into the merchants’ accounts and offer them a range of services such as credit card processing software, terminals and readers, customer service, promotional materials, and other processing services.

To be able to accept credit card payments, a merchant must have a merchant processor account, which serves as an unsecured line of credit that pays the merchant for customer purchases. This payment is essentially a loan from the acquiring bank to the merchant’s account, covering the cost of the credit card transaction.

However, when a credit card transaction is complete, the merchant receives an amount that is lower than the original transaction amount due to fees charged by the acquiring bank and the issuing bank. These fees include a percentage of the transaction amount, with the fee being higher for larger transactions. Additionally, the merchant may also be charged fixed fees for each transaction by both the issuing and acquiring banks.

Who needs Credit Card Processing companies?

To cater to all potential customers and maintain competitiveness, merchants operating from physical or virtual locations or via phone or mail order require credit card processing services. While there is a cost involved in availing these services, it is crucial for a business’ success. It’s recommended that merchants compare prices offered by different service providers to get the best deal. It’s important to ensure that all quotes received include comprehensive information on rates and fees.

What is the typical fee for Credit Card Processing?

The expense of credit card processing can fluctuate significantly, but companies can anticipate paying between 1.5% and 3.5% for each transaction.

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