The Top Credit Card Processing Companies to Consider
Let’s take a look at the top picks first, then get into the deets. Here are the best credit card processing companies and what they’re great at:
The best credit card processing companies help you accept payments smoothly, keep fees transparent, and get your money fast—all while integrating easily with your existing systems.
Pick the right provider, and you’ll avoid costly surprises, security worries, and tech headaches.
We’ve spent years sorting through processors, chasing down support, and comparing costs so you don’t have to. In this guide, I’ll point you to the top credit card processing companies for small businesses, making your choice quick and stress-free.
Why Trust Our Software Reviews
Comparing the Best Credit Card Processing Companies, Side-by-Side
OK, we’ve got a handy table for you, comparing each of our top credit card processing companies on pricing, trial details, and what they are best at.
| Service | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for transparent pricing and in-house support | Free quote available | From $99/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for omnichannel retail sales | 3-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 3 | Best for low credit card processing rates | 3-month free trial | From $79/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for 0% cost credit card processing | Not available | From $29/month | Website | |
| 5 | Best for accessing multiple payment processors | Free consultation available | From $50/hr | Website | |
| 6 | Best for versatility, with included POS | Free demo available | From 1.83% + 8¢ | Website | |
| 7 | Best for next-day funding | Free quote available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best combination of POS and payment processors | Free demo available | From 2.3% + $0.1 per transaction | Website | |
| 9 | Best for B2B businesses | Free demo available | From $15/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for local trade businesses | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 11 | Best for global online sellers | Not available | From 2.9% + 30¢ | Website | |
| 12 | Best for cryptocurrency and international transactions | Free plan available | From 2.99% + $0.49 per transaction | Website | |
| 13 | Best for advanced fraud protection | Free quote available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 14 | Best for ecommerce payment processing | Free plan available + transaction fees | From $49/month and 2.5% + $0.15/transaction | Website | |
| 15 | Best for month-to-month agreements | Free account; just pay for processing fees | From 1.74% +10¢ per transaction | Website | |
| 16 | Best for POS flexibility | Trial information not available | From $25/month and 0.15% + 8¢ | Website | |
| 17 | Best all-in-one financial solution | Not available | From 2.6% + $0.10 | Website | |
| 18 | Best for small retailers | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 19 | Best for high-volume sellers | Free demo available | From $99/month + 8¢ per transaction | Website | |
| 20 | Best for QuickBooks users | 30-day free trial + free demo available | From $38/month | Website |
The Best Credit Card Processing Companies, Reviewed
Now for the main event. The following reviews detail the key features, strengths, weaknesses, and pricing, so you can find the one that actually fits your brand.
For high-volume US merchants tired of padded markups, Stax Pay’s membership pricing can flatten your processing costs—especially if your average ticket is healthy.
You also get built-in surcharging via CardX to offset credit card fees where legal, plus next-day funding and a virtual terminal for phone or invoice payments.
It’s best for established retailers and B2B sellers who value predictable costs and need both in-person and online acceptance.
Why I Picked Stax Pay
I picked Stax Pay because the flat monthly membership plus interchange gives you predictable costs at scale—your savings come from fees you can actually forecast.
You can also protect margins through compliant surcharging via CardX, with disclosure tools and automated calculations that keep you within card network rules. For daily operations, your team gets a virtual terminal for keyed payments and invoicing, along with next-day funding to improve cash flow.
Hardware is flexible—you can pair compatible terminals for counter, mobile, or curbside without getting locked into a single OEM. I also like that ACH is available as a lower-cost option for large B2B invoices.
Stax Pay Key Features
- Membership Pricing Model: Pay a flat monthly fee plus pass-through interchange for more predictable costs.
- Compliant Surcharging (CardX): Add card surcharges where permitted with built-in disclosures and reporting.
- Virtual Terminal & Invoicing: Key cards securely, send invoices, and accept payments without a POS.
- Next-Day Funding: Accelerate deposits on eligible transactions to keep inventory moving.
Stax Pay Integrations
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, WooCommerce, and Magento (Adobe Commerce).
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Membership pricing benefits higher monthly volume and larger tickets.
- CardX surcharging helps offset card costs where legally allowed.
- Next-day funding available for faster access to settled funds.
Cons:
- Monthly fee can outweigh savings for low-volume businesses.
- Primarily supports US merchants; limited global availability.
New Product Updates from Stax Pay
Stax Processing: New End-to-End Payments Platform
Stax Payments introduces Stax Processing, an end-to-end payments platform offering an integrated transaction lifecycle and direct card network access. For more information, visit Stax Pay's official site.
For omnichannel retailers, Shopify POS ties in-store checkout to your online catalog, inventory, and customer data—so your team isn’t reconciling systems at midnight.
You also get built-in card acceptance (Shopify Payments) plus Tap to Pay on iPhone and Android, which cuts hardware costs for smaller counters or pop-ups. It’s best for merchants already on Shopify who want unified inventory, BOPIS, and simple staff workflows.
Why I Picked Shopify POS
I picked Shopify POS because you get unified inventory across online and retail—your staff can sell from any location’s stock and avoid overselling through real-time quantity tracking.
You can offer buy online, pick up in store through POS Pro, so customers reserve online and your team fulfills from the POS screen. Tap to Pay on iPhone and Android lets you accept contactless cards and wallets without extra hardware, which is great for events or queue-busting.
The smart grid home screen speeds checkout by putting your most-used products, discounts, and apps on tiles your team can tap instantly. Finally, built-in Shopify Payments means your deposits, fees, and payout reporting live in the same dashboard your finance team already uses.
Shopify POS Key Features
Here are a few practical tools that pair directly with the reasons above.
- Smart Grid Templates: Create and assign tile layouts per location to speed workflows at the register.
- Buy In Store, Ship To Customer: Ring up an item at one store and ship from another location with stock.
- Inventory And Finance Reports: Track sell-through, taxes, and payouts from the same admin your team uses daily.
- Staff Roles And Permissions: Limit discounts, refunds, and sensitive views with role-based access controls.
Shopify POS Integrations
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Mailchimp, Klaviyo, LoyaltyLion, Yotpo, ShipStation, UPS, DHL Express, and Canada Post.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unified online and store inventory reduces overselling and stockouts.
- Tap to Pay on iPhone/Android cuts card reader hardware costs.
- BOPIS and in-store returns live inside the POS workflow.
Cons:
- Extra fees apply when using external payment gateways.
- Shopify Payments availability limits full functionality in some countries.
For midsize retailers running meaningful volume, Payment Depot’s membership pricing swaps percentage markups for a predictable monthly fee—great when your average ticket is healthy.
You get interchange-plus processing, a virtual terminal for phone or keyed sales, and mobile options for curbside or events. It’s best for US merchants who already have a POS or ecommerce stack and want lower, steadier processing costs.
Why I Picked Payment Depot
I picked Payment Depot because you can control card costs through a flat monthly membership paired with interchange-plus rates—your savings come from eliminating padded markups.
You also get practical selling tools: a virtual terminal to key cards and send invoices, plus mobile payments via compatible card readers for on-the-go checkout. For in-store selling, you can use widely supported hardware options, so your team isn’t locked into niche devices.
Month-to-month terms limit risk, letting you validate savings without a long contract. If you’re already invested in ecommerce or retail systems, it plugs into familiar gateways and platforms to keep your workflow intact.
Payment Depot Key Features
In addition to the pricing model, here are useful options that fit busy retail teams.
- Virtual Terminal: Key card, phone, or mail orders and email invoices from a browser.
- Mobile Payments: Take chip and contactless payments with compatible readers for events or curbside.
- Multiple Hardware Paths: Use common retail setups (e.g., Clover-based) to support lanes and back office.
- Digital Wallet Acceptance: Let shoppers pay with Apple Pay and Google Pay for faster checkout.
Payment Depot Integrations
Integrations include Authorize.Net, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento, QuickBooks, OpenCart, and Zen Cart.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Membership pricing lowers effective rates at higher volumes.
- Includes a virtual terminal for keyed and phone payments.
- Supports common retail hardware for in-store flexibility.
Cons:
- US merchant accounts only; no international onboarding.
- Monthly fee can outweigh savings for low-volume sellers.
For retailers who want to offset rising interchange without playing whack-a-mole with state rules, CardX by Stax lets you pass eligible credit card fees to customers—while automatically blocking surcharges on debit.
It’s a smart fit for US merchants with in-store or online sales who care about margin protection and compliance you don’t have to babysit.
Why I Picked CardX by Stax
I picked CardX by Stax because it pairs margin protection with real compliance tech—you get automated card-type detection that only applies fees to credit, not debit, so you stay within card-network and state rules.
Your team gets compliant receipts and required disclosures out of the box, which means fewer headaches during audits and fewer disputes at the counter.
For omnichannel setups, you can accept payments online, in-office, or in-person using the same surcharge logic, so policies stay consistent across channels. Availability covers most of the US, and published uptime targets are enterprise-grade, so you’re not gambling with outages on busy weekends.
Net: you keep more of every eligible credit sale, backed by tooling that actually enforces the policy, not just promises it.
CardX by Stax Key Features
In addition to surcharge compliance, here are practical tools retailers will actually use.
- Debit Auto-Detection: Identifies debit at entry and removes surcharges automatically.
- Compliant Receipts & Signage: Generates line-item fee disclosures and required notices for audits.
- Omnichannel Acceptance: Apply the same surcharge rules across online, in-office, and in-person sales.
- Reporting & Reconciliation: Track fee savings, deposits, and trends from a single dashboard.
CardX by Stax Integrations
Integrations include Stax Pay, Stax Connect, Stax Bill, and Stax Processing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Automated surcharge logic enforces credit-only rules across channels.
- Built-in receipt disclosures reduce compliance risk at the POS.
- Helps protect margins on eligible credit transactions at scale.
Cons:
- Not available for merchants in Connecticut or Massachusetts.
- Debit transactions still incur merchant processing costs.
For retailers who want leverage with processors—not lock-in—Swipesum pairs fee expertise with a processor-agnostic platform.
You get help auditing statements, choosing the right processor, and managing disputes—ideal for multi-location, B2B, and omnichannel teams that care about total cost, not just a teaser rate.
Why I Picked Swipesum
I picked Swipesum because you keep control—its back-end-agnostic approach lets you choose from major processors without re-platforming your stack. You’ll actually lower your effective rate through statement audits and ongoing rate checks, not hand-waving.
Dedicated account managers handle the messy parts—negotiations, renewals, and provider changes—so your team isn’t stuck deciphering surcharge tables at 10PM. When you outgrow a provider, you can switch through the same Swipesum layer, reducing operational risk.
I also like that they support complex environments, from retail + ecommerce to B2B invoicing.
Swipesum Key Features
Here are the practical tools that support that flexibility.
- Staitment Fee Monitoring: Uses automated statement analysis to flag padded fees and rate changes before they balloon.
- Chargeback Management Assistance: Provides hands-on help to identify causes, submit evidence, and improve win rates.
- Free Gateway Setup: Configures a payment gateway for new users to shorten time to first transaction.
- Engineering Support: Helps with custom integrations and tricky edge cases across POS, ERP, and ecommerce.
Swipesum Integrations
Integrations include Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Magento, Stripe, Square, Clover, Lightspeed, NetSuite, and QuickBooks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Direct support for chargebacks reduces write-offs and staff time.
- Automated statement audits catch hidden fees and rate drift.
- Processor-agnostic model lets you pick and change providers.
Cons:
- Customized solutions can take longer to implement.
- Not a fit if you want a pure self-service setup.
For retailers that want transparent interchange-plus rates without monthly fees, Helcim gives you in-store, online, and invoice payments in one place.
You get a free virtual terminal, built-in POS with basic inventory, ACH/EFT for lower-cost bank payments, and optional surcharging for margin protection—best for US and Canada merchants who value cost clarity and practical tools.
Why I Picked Helcim
I picked Helcim because you get interchange-plus pricing with volume-based margins, so your effective rate can drop as you process more. You can take keyed, card-present, and ACH payments through the free Virtual Terminal, which helps with phone orders and on-account customers.
For in-person sales, the Smart Terminal includes a POS app and receipt printing, so your team can ring up sales without extra software. If you need to protect margins on credit cards, Helcim’s Fee Saver lets you enable compliant surcharging on eligible transactions.
I also like that customer profiles—cards on file, saved ACH details, and past invoices—live in a built-in CRM, so repeat payments are faster.
Helcim Key Features
In addition to the pricing and terminals above, here are payment features teams actually use day to day.
- Payment Pages & Links: Spin up hosted checkout pages or links to get paid without custom development.
- Recurring Billing & Invoicing: Schedule subscriptions, send invoices, and auto-collect via card or ACH.
- Customer Manager (Vaulting): Store cards and bank accounts on file securely to speed up repeat charges.
- Reports & Payout Reconciliation: Track fees, deposits, and statements to keep accounting tidy.
Helcim Integrations
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Xero, WooCommerce, Magento 2, Foxy.io, WHMCS, and Drupal.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Interchange-plus pricing with volume discounts lowers effective rates over time.
- Smart Terminal includes POS app and receipt printing for counter sales.
- ACH/EFT acceptance cuts costs for B2B, services, and high-ticket orders.
Cons:
- Not available for many high-risk industries; underwriting is conservative.
- Interchange-plus can be pricier on micro-tickets vs some flat-rate options.
For retailers that care about cash flow, Merchant One prioritizes fast deposits—next-day funding for eligible accounts—and gives you practical ways to take cards in-store, online, and on the go.
It’s a fit for US merchants who want Clover hardware options, a virtual terminal with recurring billing, and mobile acceptance without rebuilding their POS or ecommerce stack.
Why I Picked Merchant One
I picked Merchant One because you can protect cash flow through next-day funding, backed by processor-level batch funding (confirm cutoffs and eligibility).
You also get a virtual terminal for keyed and card-not-present payments, including recurring billing and card-on-file storage—useful for subscriptions or invoicing. If you need mobility, you can take EMV and contactless payments via supported readers like Clover Go or Swift B250.
For storefronts, Clover POS options and countertop terminals cover chip, tap, and magstripe with PCI-focused tooling. Dedicated setup and 24/7 support help non-technical teams get live quickly without custom development.
Merchant One Key Features
In addition to the funding speed and hardware options, here are tools you’ll actually use day to day.
- Virtual Terminal & Recurring Billing: Key in payments and set automated charges from a secure browser.
- Customer Vault: Store cards securely for repeat buyers and faster checkouts.
- Invoice Generator & Buy Now Buttons: Send invoices or add hosted checkout links without extra plugins.
- QuickBooks Plugin: Sync deposits and reduce manual reconciliation work.
Merchant One Integrations
Integrations include Authorize.net, Payeezy Gateway, Payflow Pro, Paytrace Gateway, USAePay, Aloha, Micros, and Maitre’D.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Next-day funding available to eligible merchants for faster deposits.
- Clover POS options plus countertop and mobile EMV readers.
- Virtual terminal with recurring billing, invoicing, and QuickBooks plugin.
Cons:
- Multi-year contracts and early termination fees reported by reviewers.
- Qualified-tier pricing and fees may feel opaque without schedules.
For growing retailers that want POS and payments in one place, Clover pairs countertop hardware with web tools you’ll actually use—virtual terminal, mobile, and multi-location controls.
It’s best for small and midsize stores and quick-service spots that need reliable in-person processing today, plus simple paths to online checkout and accounting tomorrow.
Why I Picked Clover
I picked Clover because you can cover day-to-day selling—chip, tap, keyed, and invoices—while your team gets nightly sales synced into accounting, so reconciliation doesn’t eat your mornings.
You get a browser-based virtual terminal for phone orders, backed by tokenized card storage to speed returning customers. The mobile app lets you ring sales and view deposits anywhere, which is handy when you’re staffing thin.
For multi-location retailers, a central dashboard pushes menu, price, and tax updates to every device, so changes happen once—not store by store. Terms and pricing are transparent on the site, and you have 24/7 phone support when things go sideways five minutes before close.
Clover Key Features
In addition to the reasons above, here are practical tools retailers tend to lean on.
- Virtual Terminal: Key in payments from any browser for phone and mail orders.
- Rapid Deposits: Access eligible funds early for a small fee when cash is tight.
- Multi-Location Controls: Update items, pricing, and taxes across all stores from one dashboard.
- Dispute Management: Track chargebacks and respond with required docs from your merchant portal.
Clover Integrations
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Homebase, Gusto, Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, and Yelp.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Virtual terminal handles phone orders without extra hardware.
- Centralized multi-location updates save time and prevent mismatched pricing.
- App Market extends POS with payroll, scheduling, and tax tools.
Cons:
- Online processing rates are higher than in-person transactions.
- Pricing and plan options can feel complex for first-time buyers.
For B2B teams living inside an ERP, EBizCharge cuts the busywork from getting paid—your staff runs cards and ACH where they already invoice, and payments post back automatically.
It’s a good fit for US and Canadian businesses that want AR tools like payment links and a customer portal tied directly to accounting, with Level 2/3 savings for corporate cards.
Why I Picked EBizCharge
I picked EBizCharge because you can accept cards and ACH directly in systems like NetSuite, Acumatica, QuickBooks, Sage, and Dynamics—payments apply to invoices and update A/R without exports.
You also get practical AR tools: email pay links, a branded customer portal, and hosted checkout pages that let you collect faster without custom development. For B2B, it supports Level 2/3 data so your qualifying transactions can clear at lower interchange, which matters when tickets are large.
Security is handled with tokenization and 3D Secure, so you can save cards on file while reducing risk. If you need to protect margins, a built-in surcharging module detects debit and only adds fees to eligible credit transactions.
EBizCharge Key Features
Here are a few extras that pair well with the ERP-native workflow.
- Hosted Checkouts: Launch branded, PCI-compliant payment pages to take online payments without code.
- Virtual Terminal: Key in phone and mail orders from a browser, tied to invoices and sales orders.
- Advanced Reporting: Search and export transaction data to reconcile deposits and monitor chargebacks.
- Surcharge Program: Automatically apply compliant credit-card surcharges and block debit from being surcharged.
EBizCharge Integrations
Integrations include Acumatica, NetSuite, QuickBooks Desktop, QuickBooks Online, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, Sage 100, SAP Business One, Salesforce, Magento, and BigCommerce.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Posts payments back to ERP A/R automatically—less reconciliation work.
- Customer portal with saved cards speeds collections and reduces DSO.
- Level 2/3 support lowers interchange on qualifying B2B transactions.
Cons:
- Quote-based pricing—no public rates for quick comparison.
- Surcharging covers credit only; debit transactions still carry fees.
For local service businesses that live on reputation and do a lot of work in the field, Podium ties payments to the conversations you’re already having with customers.
You can text out invoices, get paid on-site, and nudge for reviews—useful if you’re running crews and don’t want loose ends at the end of the day.
Why I Picked Podium
I picked Podium because it helps you capture revenue the moment a job ends—you send a text-to-pay link, and the customer pays from their phone. Your team can also take card-present payments with mobile readers, so you’re not chasing checks after site visits.
For repeat work, you can set up subscriptions or offer financing, which is handy for service plans and larger jobs. I also like that web chat and SMS threads sit next to invoices, so payment follow-ups happen where the conversation started.
If you care about reputation, automatic review requests after payment help you turn completed jobs into more leads.
Podium Key Features
Here are a few extras that complement the SMS-first payments workflow.
- Virtual Terminal: Key in card details securely for phone orders and deposits.
- Invoice Tracking: See sent, viewed, and paid statuses to prioritize follow-ups.
- Deposits and Partial Payments: Take an upfront deposit, then bill the balance on completion.
- Basic Reports: View payouts, fees, and trends to reconcile jobs and close the books.
Podium Integrations
Integrations include QuickBooks, Shopify, ServiceTitan, Lightspeed, Housecall Pro, HubSpot, Mailchimp, Squarespace, ActiveCampaign, and FreshBooks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Text-to-pay collects on-site revenue without extra hardware.
- Payments, messaging, and review requests live in one thread.
- Subscriptions and financing support service plans and big tickets.
Cons:
- Mixed reports of slow or unhelpful customer support.
- Higher monthly fees than many pure-play processors.
For global-first retailers, Stripe takes the pain out of accepting cards across borders—multi-currency pricing, high authorization rates, and solid fraud tools.
It’s best for teams selling mostly online that want subscription billing, invoicing, and the option to add in-person payments without switching processors.
Why I Picked Stripe
I picked Stripe because you get high acceptance rates through features like Adaptive Acceptance, which automatically retries declined card payments using issuer-informed signals—you keep more of the sales you’ve already earned.
You can spin up new channels fast using Payment Links and Checkout, so your team accepts cards without writing code. If you sell in-store, Terminal and Tap to Pay on iPhone turn card-present into an easy add-on—no new gateway or merchant account.
Global selling is practical here: you can price in 135+ currencies and settle in your home currency, so international card acceptance doesn’t become a reconciliation nightmare.
Stripe Key Features
In addition to the above, here are a few payment ops features retailers actually use.
- Radar Fraud Detection: ML-based risk scoring and rules you control to block bad card activity.
- Chargeback Protection: Optional add-on that auto-covers qualifying card disputes to cap downside.
- Network Tokens & Card Updater: Keep cards current and reduce declines with automatic credential updates.
- Financial Reporting & Payouts: Unified reports, deposit reconciliation, and configurable payout schedules.
Stripe Integrations
Integrations include WooCommerce, Squarespace, Wix, BigCommerce, Salesforce, NetSuite, Xero, DocuSign, and Mailchimp.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Global card acceptance with 135+ currencies and local methods.
- Adaptive Acceptance and network tokens improve card authorization rates.
- Add in-person sales via Terminal and Tap to Pay without changing gateways.
Cons:
- Not available to merchants in certain countries (e.g., China).
- Flat-rate pricing can be costly for high-volume, card-present retailers.
For retailers selling online and in-store, PayPal covers the full payment journey—credit/debit cards, PayPal/Venmo, and in-person with Zettle hardware—so you don’t juggle multiple providers.
It’s a fit for US merchants with cross-border customers, omnichannel needs, and teams that want built-in wallets and POS without a long setup.
Why I Picked PayPal
I picked PayPal for its practical omnichannel combo: you get in-person card acceptance through Zettle readers and terminals, so your team can take tap/chip/swipe and QR payments at the counter.
For online checkout, you can offer PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and cards in one flow—giving you higher conversion because customers see their preferred wallet right away.
Cross-border selling works out of the box through multi-currency support and automatic currency conversion, which keeps global orders moving without manual steps.
You also get chargeback/dispute tooling in the Resolution Center, so you can submit evidence from one place instead of chasing emails. Rates and capabilities differ by product tier, but the mix—wallets, cards, and POS—covers most retail playbooks without stitching together three vendors.
PayPal Key Features
In addition to the above, here are useful tools retailers actually lean on day to day.
- PayPal Pay Later: Offer BNPL at checkout to lift AOV and conversion.
- Invoicing & Subscriptions: Send branded invoices and set automated recurring billing.
- QR Code Payments: Take quick, line-busting in-person payments without extra hardware.
- Payouts: Send batch payouts to staff, contractors, or marketplace sellers from one dashboard.
PayPal Integrations
Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Wix, Squarespace, Adobe Commerce (Magento), PrestaShop, Big Cartel, OpenCart, and Salesforce Commerce Cloud.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide wallet coverage—PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay.
- Omnichannel ready with Zettle readers, QR, and POS tools.
- Multi-currency support with automatic currency conversion for cross-border.
Cons:
- Virtual terminal/advanced card features may require higher-tier plans.
- Dispute fees apply; expect around $20 per US chargeback.
For retailers who worry about chargebacks and want flexible ways to take payments, ProMerchant focuses on fraud prevention without sacrificing day-to-day usability.
It’s a fit for US merchants that sell in-store, over the phone, and online, and want card-present hardware plus a virtual terminal out of the box.
Why I Picked ProMerchant
I picked ProMerchant because you get fraud controls tied to real workflows—your team can use AVS and CVV checks and set risk rules to catch suspicious orders before they settle.
You also get a virtual terminal for keyed and phone payments, so customer service can take orders without a separate POS. In stores, EMV/NFC-ready POS options let you accept chip, tap, and mobile wallets—useful for speed at checkout and fewer declines.
Mobile teams aren’t ignored either; your staff can take cards on the go with Bluetooth readers. I like that you can plug it into popular commerce and accounting tools, so payments flow into the systems you already use.
ProMerchant Key Features
In addition to its fraud focus, here are a few practical tools retailers will actually use.
- Bluetooth Card Readers: Portable readers for curbside, events, and on-site service calls.
- EMV/NFC POS Options: Accept chip, tap, and mobile wallets for faster in-store checkout.
- Virtual Terminal: Key in payments for phone orders and invoice follow-ups.
- Basic Reporting: View batches, deposits, and transaction history from a single dashboard.
ProMerchant Integrations
Integrations include Clover, QuickBooks, Authorize.Net, Stripe, PayPal, Square, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and Magento.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- EMV/NFC hardware supports chip, tap, and mobile wallets.
- Virtual terminal enables phone orders and back-office payments.
- Bluetooth card readers cover mobile and curbside transactions.
Cons:
- Customization can lengthen onboarding and initial configuration.
- Integration quality varies; some setups require extra configuration.
For small to midsize retailers who want one system for in-store and online sales, Square Online makes card acceptance simple—flat rates, no long contracts, and fast setup.
You get online checkout that works with cards, wallets, Cash App Pay, and Afterpay, plus a POS that keeps inventory and reporting in sync across channels.
Why I Picked Square Online
I picked Square Online because it pairs predictable, flat-rate pricing with tools you’ll actually use—like next-business-day deposits backed by instant transfers when cash flow is tight.
You can accept major cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Cash App Pay, and Afterpay, so your checkout matches how customers want to pay. Your team benefits from a single catalog that syncs POS and online orders, reducing stock errors and duplicate work.
I also like that PCI compliance and dispute management are handled by Square, so you’re not juggling separate vendors. Finally, sales channels like Facebook Shops and Google listings plug in directly, giving you reach without duct-taped workflows.
Square Online Key Features
Here are a few processing-focused features that complement the above.
- Virtual Terminal: Take keyed payments from any browser for phone orders.
- Recurring Payments: Set up subscriptions and automatic billing for repeat purchases.
- Deposits & Payouts: Get next-business-day funding, with optional instant transfers.
- Dispute Management: Track chargebacks and respond from the same dashboard.
Square Online Integrations
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Xero, WooCommerce, Wix, BigCommerce, Ecwid, GoDaddy, Facebook Shops, Instagram Shopping, and Google Product Listings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Accepts cards, wallets, Cash App Pay, and Afterpay online.
- Unified POS and online catalog reduces stock and reporting errors.
- Transparent flat rates; no monthly fee on the basic plan.
Cons:
- Flat-rate pricing can cost more at very high volumes.
- Risk reviews may hold funds after sudden volume spikes.
For retailers that want flexibility without lock-in, Payline Data offers interchange-plus pricing with disclosed margins, month-to-month terms, and quick ways to take payments online or in person.
It’s a good fit for US merchants that want a virtual terminal, hosted payment pages, and mainstream POS hardware without getting stuck in multi-year contracts.
Why I Picked Payline Data
I picked Payline Data because you get transparent interchange-plus pricing paired with month-to-month agreements—your costs stay predictable, and you’re not married to a long contract.
You also get a browser-based virtual terminal that lets your team key cards, store customer profiles, and set up recurring billing—useful for phone orders and subscriptions.
Hosted payment pages give you a fast, secure way to accept online payments without custom development, while tokenization and PCI-validated encryption protect card data end-to-end.
For stores, you can pair processing with modern terminals (e.g., Clover) to cover counter, handheld, and mobile checkout. I like that this setup works whether you’re purely ecommerce, purely retail, or truly omnichannel.
Payline Data Key Features
In addition to pricing and contract flexibility, here are practical tools your team will actually use.
- Interchange Optimization (Level 2/3): Capture enhanced data on B2B transactions to qualify for lower interchange categories.
- Tokenization & P2PE: Replace sensitive card data with tokens and encrypt at the device and gateway for PCI scope reduction.
- Deposits & Reconciliation Reports: See batches, funding timelines, and statements in one dashboard for faster month-end close.
- Chargeback Prevention Aids: Use pre-dispute tools and alerts to resolve issues before they turn into full chargebacks.
Payline Data Integrations
Integrations include Authorize.Net, CardPointe, NMI, Clover POS, and QuickBooks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Month-to-month terms with no multi-year lock-in.
- Interchange-plus pricing with disclosed processor margin.
- Virtual terminal includes customer vault and recurring billing.
Cons:
- ACH/eCheck available as a paid add-on.
- Low-volume sellers may pay more in monthly fees overall.
For SMBs that want interchange-plus pricing and real control over their POS stack, Dharma Merchant Services offers flexible hardware options and analytics through MX Merchant.
Nonprofits get discounted rates, and the pricing works best when you’re processing consistent in-store, online, or mobile volume.
Why I Picked Dharma Merchant Services
I picked Dharma because you can tailor your setup—run modern POS systems or mix devices—without getting boxed into one hardware path. You save on card acceptance with interchange-plus rates supported by clear pricing, including a monthly plan that fits steady volume.
Your team gets practical tools that pay off: a virtual terminal for phone or back-office orders, plus mobile acceptance on Apple and Android when you’re selling on the move. You also get online reporting and deposit tracking so finance can reconcile faster from one dashboard.
Nonprofits benefit further through discounted pricing, which is rare among processors with this level of POS flexibility.
Dharma Merchant Services Key Features
In addition to the pricing model and hardware choice, here are focused tools retailers actually use day to day.
- Virtual Terminal: Key payments securely from any browser for phone or mail orders.
- Mobile Payments: Take tap, chip, and swipe on iOS or Android for curbside or pop-ups.
- Online Reporting: Track sales, fees, and deposits to speed up month-end reconciliation.
- Customer Database: Store cardholder profiles to simplify repeat purchases and invoicing.
Dharma Merchant Services Integrations
Integrations include MX Merchant, QuickBooks, Revel Systems, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento, Clover, NCR Silver, and Vend.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Discounts for registered nonprofits reduce ongoing processing costs.
- MX Merchant analytics centralize reports, statements, and deposit tracking.
- Broad POS and hardware compatibility keeps your setup flexible.
Cons:
- Pricing may not favor very low-volume micro-merchants.
- Not suitable for high-risk categories requiring specialized underwriting.
For retailers who want banking and payments under one roof, Chase Payment Solutions lets you accept cards online, in-store, and on the go—then land deposits as soon as the same day when you settle to a Chase business checking account.
It’s best for US sellers who value fewer middlemen, faster funding, and a single login to see transactions, payouts, and banking.
Why I Picked Chase
I picked Chase because you can speed up cash flow with same-day deposits—backed by QuickAccept and a Chase business checking account. You also get fewer moving parts since Chase acts as both the processor and your acquiring bank—your data and fees don’t ping-pong between providers.
For card-not-present sales, you can key payments and manage refunds through the Orbital Virtual Terminal, which includes user management and detailed reporting.
If you’re mobile, Tap to Pay on iPhone accepts contactless cards without extra hardware, so your team can sell anywhere. Online, you can use a hosted payment gateway and payment links so customers can check out securely without custom development.
Chase Key Features
Here are a few practical tools that pair well with the funding and banking advantages above.
- Hosted Checkout & Payment Links: Share links or add a hosted page to accept online payments fast.
- Recurring Billing & Invoicing: Set schedules, collect card-on-file, and reduce late payments.
- Role-Based User Management: Control staff access, issue refunds, and audit activity in one portal.
- Chargeback & Dispute Tools: Track cases and respond from the same dashboard you use for payments.
Chase Integrations
Integrations include BigCommerce, Authorize.Net, FreedomPay, NCR Silver (NCR Voyix), and Oracle (via OPI through FreedomPay).
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Same-day deposits to Chase business checking improve cash flow.
- Direct processor/acquirer reduces third-party fees and touchpoints.
- Tap to Pay on iPhone enables hardware-free mobile acceptance.
Cons:
- Flat-rate online pricing can exceed interchange-plus at high volume.
- Some features require an active Chase business checking account.
For small retailers who want flexibility without surprise fees, Flagship Merchant Services offers month-to-month terms, optional same-day funding, and frequent free-equipment promos.
It’s best if you need straightforward in-store processing now—Clover hardware, card readers, and a virtual option—and a gateway for ecommerce as you grow.
Why I Picked Flagship Merchant Services
I picked Flagship because you get real flexibility—month-to-month agreements—backed by practical payments tooling. You can accept cards in store through Clover devices, which gives you inventory, receipt, and tip tools out of the box.
When you need to sell online, you can plug into Authorize.Net for gateway-level control, tokenization, and recurring billing. If cash flow is tight, optional same-day funding helps you close the gap between batch time and deposits.
For mobile sellers, the MobilePay setup turns a phone and reader into a basic POS, so you can take payments at events without rebuilding your stack.
Flagship Merchant Services Key Features
In addition to the contract flexibility, here are a few retailer-friendly tools you’ll actually use.
- Virtual Terminal: Key cards for phone orders, refunds, and quick one-offs without extra hardware.
- Chargeback Assistance: Get alerts and documentation help so you can respond within card-brand timelines.
- Next-Day/Same-Day Funding: Accelerate deposits when you need cash in the account faster.
- PCI Program & Tools: Access scans and questionnaires to keep your account compliant and avoid penalties.
Flagship Merchant Services Integrations
Integrations include Clover POS, Authorize.Net, and MobilePay.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Clover hardware options for retail-ready in-store acceptance.
- Optional same-day funding for faster cash availability.
- Month-to-month terms with no early termination fee.
Cons:
- PCI and “additional services” fees may apply if not declined.
- No published pricing—must request a custom quote.
For established retailers processing serious volume, Stax’s subscription pricing gives you predictable costs—zero percentage markup over interchange, with cents-per-transaction and optional surcharging to guard margins.
It’s a strong fit for US merchants, especially B2B and multi-location sellers who want ACH, Level 2/3 data support, and in-house help without long contracts.
Why I Picked Stax
I picked Stax because you can lower effective costs through membership pricing—your savings come from 0% interchange markup plus fixed per-transaction fees.
You can protect margins at checkout via CardX—compliant surcharging tools for online and in-person payments when regulations allow. Your finance team gets cleaner reconciliation through the QuickBooks Online connector—Stax posts sales receipts automatically so deposits and fees stay separate.
For B2B, you can qualify for reduced interchange by sending Level 2/3 line-item data—useful on larger tickets. You also get ACH bank payments right in Stax Pay—your team can steer invoice payers to lower-cost rails when cards aren’t necessary.
Stax Key Features
In addition to pricing and margin controls, here are tools merchants actually use day-to-day.
- ACH Bank Payments: Accept bank transfers from the virtual terminal or invoices to cut card fees on invoices and B2B orders.
- Invoice Payment Controls: Choose which methods (card, ACH) appear on each invoice to nudge customers toward lower-cost options.
- Developer API & Stax.js: Add embedded checkout and server-side payments for custom sites and apps.
- Smart Terminals & Readers: Run card-present EMV/contactless in stores while keeping reporting in one dashboard.
Stax Integrations
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, WordPress (Stax Web Payments), Authorize.Net, and CardX by Stax.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Predictable costs via membership pricing and 0% interchange markup.
- Compliant surcharging helps offset card fees at checkout.
- ACH option reduces costs for invoice and B2B payments.
Cons:
- Fewer native plug-and-play ecommerce integrations than Stripe or Square.
- Monthly subscription can outweigh savings at lower volumes.
For retailers already running their books in QuickBooks, QuickBooks Payments lets you accept cards, ACH, and digital wallets directly from invoices, on mobile, and in-store—without adding another vendor.
You get auto-reconciliation into your GL, Tap to Pay on iPhone for quick in-person sales, and predictable ACH pricing that’s friendlier for larger tickets.
Why I Picked QuickBooks Online
I picked QuickBooks Online for this list because you can take payments where you work—inside your invoices, the mobile app, or with a simple Bluetooth reader—so your team doesn’t bounce between systems.
You speed up close with automatic deposit matching and payout reports that land right in your books, which reduces manual reconciliation. For in-person sales, Tap to Pay on iPhone gives you contactless acceptance without extra hardware, helping associates ring up customers anywhere in the store.
If you invoice big B2B orders, ACH fees cap at a flat maximum per transaction, which protects margins on high-value payments. You can also set up recurring invoices with stored cards or bank accounts, so you capture revenue on schedule instead of chasing it.
QuickBooks Online Key Features
In addition to the processing inside your accounting stack, here are a few capabilities retailers actually use day to day.
- Tap To Pay On iPhone: Accept contactless cards and wallets in the QuickBooks or GoPayment apps—no reader required.
- Instant Or Next-Day Deposits: Choose faster funding when cash flow is tight, or standard next-day to avoid extra fees.
- Payment Links & QR Codes: Share links or codes at the counter, by text, or email to collect on the spot.
- Recurring Invoices & Card-On-File: Automate billing for subscriptions, services, or B2B reorders with stored payment methods.
QuickBooks Online Integrations
Integrations include Shopify, PayPal, Square, Stripe, Amazon, HubSpot, Mailchimp, Expensify, Method:CRM, and QuickBooks Time.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Auto-reconciliation pushes deposits and fees directly into your GL.
- Tap to Pay on iPhone enables hardware-free, in-aisle acceptance.
- ACH pricing caps per transaction—useful for large B2B invoices.
Cons:
- Limited first-party hardware options versus dedicated POS providers.
- Ecommerce carts often require third-party connectors for checkout.
Other Credit Card Processing Companies
Here are some additional credit card processing companies that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Shopify
For Shopify-based businesses
- Host Merchant Services
For high-risk businesses
- Paysafe
For large-scale e-commerce businesses
- National Processing
For low-volume sellers
- CDGcommerce
For B2B businesses
- CardX
For government and education organizations
Our Selection Criteria For Credit Card Processing Companies
When it comes to ranking the best credit card processing companies, I hold them to the same standards I would expect for my own businesses. Here’s the breakdown of exactly how I evaluated each provider:
Core services (25% of total score)
Every processor on this list needed to nail the basics—no exceptions.
- Must offer a reliable payment gateway for secure online transactions.
- Provide robust point of sale (POS) systems for in-person payments.
- Set up merchant accounts without headaches or delays.
- Include strong fraud protection as a non-negotiable.
- Deliver actionable reporting and analytics tools for transparency.
Additional standout services (25% of total score)
To separate the good from the truly great, I looked for providers that go beyond the basics.
- Offer mobile payment solutions for on-the-go sales.
- Support international payment processing to handle cross-border business.
- Provide advanced data security beyond industry minimums.
- Allow for customizable payment solutions to fit unique business needs.
- Integrate seamlessly with ecommerce platforms and tools.
Industry experience (10% of total score)
You want a partner with staying power, not a flash in the pan.
- Years in operation show proven stability.
- A large client base indicates wide adoption.
- Possession of industry certifications builds trust.
- Strong partnerships with financial institutions signal credibility.
- Consistent track record of innovation.
Onboarding (10% of total score)
Smooth onboarding can make or break your first months with a provider.
- Account setup should be fast and intuitive.
- Training resources must be available and useful.
- Hands-on support should guide new customers.
- Quick time to first transaction is key.
- A user-friendly interface reduces friction.
Customer support (10% of total score)
Support is your safety net—here’s what matters most.
- 24/7 availability ensures help when you need it.
- Multiple ways to contact support (phone, chat, email) matter.
- Fast response times prevent downtime.
- Staff with technical expertise, not just script readers.
- Consistently positive customer service reviews.
Value for price (10% of total score)
I care about ROI—so should you.
- Transparent, upfront pricing—no gotchas.
- Competitive fees that don’t eat your margins.
- No hidden charges buried in the fine print.
- Volume discounts for high-processing businesses.
- Clear return on investment.
Customer reviews (10% of total score)
Nothing beats feedback from real users.
- Overall satisfaction ratings tell the story.
- Comments on reliability and uptime are crucial.
- Honest feedback on support matters.
- Real-world ease of use reports.
- Perceived value for money.
What Are Credit Card Processing Companies?
Credit card processing companies are providers that manage electronic payments for businesses, enabling secure, real-time transactions with credit and debit cards.
Their platforms handle everything from accepting payments in-store and online, to fraud protection and compliance with security standards.
Most businesses rely on these companies to streamline checkout, minimize manual errors, and offer customers a frictionless payment experience. Common use cases include retail stores needing robust POS solutions, ecommerce businesses seeking easy payment gateway integrations, and service providers looking for recurring billing tools.
By partnering with the right processor, companies can boost customer satisfaction, reduce payment risks, and get paid faster—all while staying compliant with industry requirements.
How to Choose Credit Card Processing Companies
It’s easy to get lost comparing features and fees. Here’s a quick reference table to help you focus on what really matters as you narrow down your shortlist:
| Action | What to do/consider |
|---|---|
| Identify business needs | List required features like POS, mobile payments, recurring billing |
| Review pricing structures | Dig into all fees, contract terms, and volume discounts |
| Confirm integration | Ensure compatibility with ecommerce, accounting, or POS platforms |
| Verify security standards | Look for PCI compliance and strong fraud protection |
| Assess customer support | Test response time and expertise via real interactions |
| Check customer feedback | Prioritize providers with strong reliability and satisfaction ratings |
Pro tip: Before committing, get a custom quote and have the provider walk you through the full contract, line by line.
Key Credit Card Processing Company Services
Every top processor should cover these bases, no matter your business size or industry:
- Payment gateway integration. Connects your website or app to payment networks for smooth online sales.
- Fraud detection and prevention. Uses real-time monitoring to spot and stop suspicious transactions before they cost you.
- Mobile payment processing. Lets you accept payments from smartphones and tablets—wherever you close a deal.
- Point-of-sale (POS) solutions. Provides hardware and software to handle in-store payments and manage sales on the ground.
- Recurring billing and invoicing. Automates regular payments and subscription charges to keep your revenue flowing.
- Multi-currency processing. Accepts payments from international customers in their local currency, without the hassle.
- Customer support. Gives you direct access to help and troubleshooting when something breaks.
- Data analytics and reporting. Breaks down sales and customer data so you know what’s working—and what’s not.
- Chargeback management. Helps you track, dispute, and resolve chargebacks to protect your revenue.
- Security compliance tools. Keeps your business aligned with PCI DSS and industry regulations, reducing risk.
Benefits of Credit Card Processing Companies
Here’s what actually moves the needle when you use the right processor:
- Boosted sales. Accepting cards means you capture customers who won’t mess with cash or checks.
- Faster cash flow. You get paid quickly—usually within a day or two—instead of chasing invoices for weeks.
- Happier customers. More payment options at checkout mean fewer abandoned carts and grumpy shoppers.
- Lower fraud risk. Serious processors bring real security tools that keep scammers out and chargebacks down.
- Smarter business decisions. You get transaction data and reports that actually help you plan, not just stare at spreadsheets.
- Reliable support. When something breaks (and it will), you’ve got a team on standby to fix it—no long hold music required.
Costs and Pricing Structures of Credit Card Processing Companies
No two processors price things the same way—and if they claim to, you’re probably missing something in the fine print. Here’s how the main pricing models stack up:
| Pricing structure | How it works |
|---|---|
| Flat rate | Pay a single, fixed percentage for every transaction—simple, predictable |
| Tiered pricing | Rates vary by transaction type; you pay different fees for qualified vs. non-qualified cards |
| Interchange plus | You pay the card network’s fee plus a transparent markup from the processor |
| Subscription pricing | A monthly fee plus small transaction costs—often cheaper for high-volume businesses |
| Blended pricing | Combines elements from multiple models to suit complex or varied sales needs |
Key factors that influence pricing
There’s more to your monthly bill than just the rate. Here’s what else can move the needle when it comes to costs:
- Hardware and software needs add up. Special POS systems or integrations usually mean extra costs on top.
- Transaction volume affects your rates. The more you process, the more leverage you have to negotiate lower fees.
- Industry risk level can raise costs. High-risk businesses (think travel, cannabis, adult) usually pay more.
- Card types make a difference. Rewards and corporate cards typically come with higher interchange fees than debit cards.
- Payment methods are priced differently. Online transactions are often riskier (and pricier) than swipes or taps in person.
- Contract length may lock in pricing—or trap you. Long-term deals sometimes mean lower rates, but watch the exit penalties.
- Chargeback history impacts your reputation. Frequent chargebacks can bump up your fees or get you dropped.
Credit Card Processing Companies FAQs
Still trying to make sense of credit card processing? Here are answers to some of the most common questions.
How much is a typical credit card processing fee?
Expect to fork over 1%–4% per card payment. That covers processing, interchange, assessment, and sometimes a per-swipe fee (think 5–50 cents). Online sales often cost more than chip-and-pin payments. If you’re seeing rates outside this range, negotiation—or even a processor swap—should be on your radar.
How can I reduce credit card processing fees for my retail store?
Start by understanding your statement. Then, ask your processor if you qualify for lower rates or reduced interchange fees, especially if your ticket size or sales volume is high. Debit cards usually cost less than credit.
Equipment upgrades can pay for themselves if they steer more customers toward chip cards or contactless payments, which often mean lower fees. You can also pass fees on to customers in some states, but check the rules first.
What equipment do I need for in-store credit card payments?
You’ll need a PCI-compliant payment terminal—something that reads chips, swipes, and ideally takes contactless pay (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Most retailers pair this with a POS system that talks to the processor.
If you’re running a pop-up or mobile setup, you can get by with a smartphone and a good card reader, but don’t cheap out on hardware. Downtime in the middle of a rush isn’t worth the pennies saved.
What is a payment service provider—and does it make sense for retail?
Think of payment service providers as the “plug-and-play” option: you sign up, and you’re live in hours, sharing a giant merchant account with thousands of other retailers.
Names you know: Square, PayPal, Stripe. Fast setup, flat rates, less paperwork. The downside? They freeze accounts at the sniff of anything odd, cap you on monthly volume, and you’ll pay a premium per swipe compared to negotiating your own contract.
Can I use my current POS system with a new payment processor?
Sometimes. Many POS systems are locked to one processor (especially the ones “bundled” free), but some play nice with lots of processors. Before you jump ship, ask both your POS vendor and the new processor about integration. Upgrading might hurt, but being locked into a lousy deal for years hurts more.
How long does it take to get funds in my account?
Most companies settle your batch within 1–3 business days. Some offer same-day deposits, but you’ll pay for the privilege—like they’re loaning you your own cash.
Ask about funding cutoff times; missing a batch by five minutes can mean waiting an extra day. Know when your rent’s due. Plan accordingly.
How does PCI compliance affect my retail business?
PCI compliance isn’t just a tech headache—it keeps your customer card data off the dark web. If you process cards, you’re responsible, period.
Most modern terminals and POS systems bake in the basics, but you still need to fill out annual paperwork and fix anything your provider flags. Skip this, and you’re on the hook for fines, lawsuits, and a PR headache. Not sexy, but essential.
Swipe Right on the Best Processor
Finding the right credit card processor isn’t rocket science, but it can feel like speed dating—lots of choices, plenty of fine print, and only a few worth calling back.
Pick smart, and you’ll streamline payments, keep more of your hard-earned cash, and make life easier for your team and your customers. Cut corners or settle for “good enough,” and you’ll spend more time fighting fees and fixing problems than actually growing your business.
Retail never stands still—and neither should you. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest insights, strategies, and career resources from top retail leaders shaping the industry.
