The 26 Best Credit Card Processing Companies, Ranked & Reviewed for 2025
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:
If you’re looking for the best credit card processing company for your small business, you’re in the right place.
The stakes are real: choose well, and you keep more of every sale. Choose poorly, and you’re bleeding money on fees, fighting with broken integrations, and waiting days for your cash to land.
You need a processor that’s clear about costs, tight on security, and plays nicely with your tech stack—no surprises, no nonsense. Support should be sharp and responsive, not an endless phone maze.
We’ve spent years in the weeds—fixing systems, negotiating rates, and making sure the numbers add up. Here’s our straight-shooting guide to the best credit card processors for small businesses, so you can focus on growth, not headaches.
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 low credit card processing rates | 3-month free trial | From $79/month | Website | |
| 3 | Best for omnichannel retail sales | 3-day free trial | Pricing upon request | 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 ecommerce payment processing | Free plan available + transaction fees | From $49/month and 2.5% + $0.15/transaction | Website | |
| 7 | Best for versatility, with included POS | Free account available; only pay on transactions | From 1.58% + 6¢ per transaction plus hardware costs | Website | |
| 8 | Best combination of POS and payment processors | Free demo available | From 2.3% + $0.1 per transaction | Website | |
| 9 | Best for next-day funding | Free quote available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for B2B businesses | Free demo available | From $15/month | Website | |
| 11 | Best for local trade businesses | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 12 | Best for global online sellers | Free demo available | From 2.9% + 30¢ per successful transaction | Website | |
| 13 | Best for cryptocurrency and international transactions | Free plan available | From $1.99/transaction | Website | |
| 14 | Best for month-to-month agreements | Free account; just pay for processing fees | From 0.15% + 8¢ per transaction plus hardware costs | Website | |
| 15 | Best for advanced fraud protection | Free quote available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 16 | Best for POS flexibility | Trial information not available | From $25/month and 0.15% + 8¢ | Website | |
| 17 | Best for high-volume sellers | Free demo available | From $99/month + 8¢ per transaction | Website | |
| 18 | Best all-in-one financial solution | Not available | From 2.6% + $0.10 | Website | |
| 19 | Best for small retailers | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 20 | Best for QuickBooks users | 30-day free trial | From $19/user/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.
Stax Pay is an all-in-one payment processing platform that caters to businesses and SaaS platforms with a focus on transparent pricing and dedicated in-house support. The platform delivers integrated payment and recurring billing solutions, ensuring compliance and offering the ability to pass on credit card processing fees through surcharging.
Why I picked Stax Pay: Stax Pay distinguishes itself with its integrated payment and recurring billing solutions tailored for businesses. It stands out due to its commitment to industry-leading compliance, the ability to handle seamless surcharging, and the simplification of payment acceptance for its users.
What makes Stax Pay different is its transparent pricing structure and the availability of real people ready to provide support. This approach to pricing and customer service is particularly important for businesses that need clear cost structures and reliable assistance.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include payment processing, customized invoicing, subscription billing, a virtual terminal, robust analytics, customer management, a developer-friendly API, inventory tracking, and multi-location support. Stax Pay also provides next-day funding, omni-channel payment solutions, point of sale options, and seamless integration with various business tools and software.
Integrations include Slack, Zapier, Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and CRMs.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Versatile feature set
- High degree of customizability
- Subscription-based pricing
Cons:
- Primarily for U.S. markets
- Complex functionalities and configurations
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.
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Payment Depot, a merchant services company, offers payment processing for in-person and online transactions. It accepts all major credit cards and digital wallets.
Why I picked Payment Depot: Payment Depot uses a subscription-based pricing model that eliminates percentage-based markups, offering businesses access to wholesale interchange rates. This structure significantly reduces costs for companies processing high volumes of transactions. Additionally, its transparent pricing ensures you can easily predict and control processing expenses without hidden fees.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include the ability to accept most payment types and connect all the tools you need in a single dashboard. You can also connect directly with in-house success and support teams by phone or online at any time.
Integrations include Authorize.net, Magento, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, QuickBooks, Opencart, Zencart, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Processes online wallets
- Range of hardware (+ virtual terminal)
- No setup, chargeback, or cancellation fees
Cons:
- High monthly fees
- Few support resources
Shopify POS is a point-of-sale system designed to integrate both in-store and online sales, catering to the needs of omnichannel retail businesses. It assists retailers in managing business operations, tracking payments, inventory, and customer data, and offers insights that are crucial for maintaining inventory levels and understanding customer preferences.
Why I picked Shopify POS: This company shines in its ability to provide a cohesive experience for credit card processing, leveraging Shopify's robust ecommerce infrastructure to offer seamless integration and secure transactions. It also distinguishes itself with its capacity for omnichannel selling, providing a smooth checkout experience and linking in-store with online sales.
This strong and integrated system eases daily operations, monitors payments and customer information, and delivers insights that aid in enhancing efficiency and revenue growth.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include its online inventory management which gives you the flexibility to pivot inventory to other locations or online based on performance. I also like its POS smart grid, which keeps your most-used apps, discounts, and products at your fingertips to speed up checkout.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Mailchimp, Klaviyo, LoyaltyLion, Yotpo, ShipStation, DHL Express, UPS, and Canada Post.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive third-party app marketplace for additional functionalities
- Direct credit card processing with competitive rates
- Seamless integration with Shopify's e-commerce platform
Cons:
- Additional fees for using external payment gateways
- Limited to countries where Shopify Payments is available
- Primarily benefits Shopify users, less so for non-Shopify merchants
CardX by Stax is a payment processing tool that allows businesses to accept credit card payments at 0% cost, ensuring compliance with surcharging regulations. It offers online, in-office, and in-person payment processing solutions, enabling businesses to keep 100% of their credit card sales while automatically adhering to all rules and regulations.
Why I picked CardX by Stax: CardX by Stax stands out for its seamless surcharging compliance and automated compliance, making it easy for businesses to accept credit cards at 0% cost. This makes it the best choice for businesses looking for a payment processing solution that is fully compliant and allows them to keep all of their sales revenue. Additionally, the software ensures compliance with surcharging regulations and provides detailed transaction insights, helping businesses manage their finances more effectively.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a user-friendly dashboard that helps you track transactions effortlessly. Your team can access detailed reporting tools that offer insights into payment trends. Additionally, the system provides real-time updates which keep you informed about every transaction as it happens.
Integrations include Stax Pay, Stax Connect, Stax Bill, Stax Processing, and Click to Pay.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Custom branding options
- Multi-platform capability
- Seamless refund process
Cons:
- Not ideal for low-volume transactions
- Initial learning curve
Swipesum offers a unique approach to payment processing by acting as both a provider and consultant. Rather than committing users to a single payment processor, Swipesum’s platform is back-end agnostic, allowing businesses to choose from a range of top processors.
Why I picked Swipesum: Swipesum is versatile and customizable, giving you access to any major processor from Swipesum's platform. This versatility makes it easy to adjust payment solutions as needed. Swipesum also offers statement audits and rate monitoring to ensure businesses always have the best rates possible. Their dedicated account managers provide white-glove service, making complex merchant service tasks more manageable and cutting back on costs associated with card payment processing.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include its Staitment tool, which uses AI to monitor and minimize fees and identify disputes before they escalate. They offer free gateway setups for new users and provide engineering support for complex integrations. The platform also excels in providing hands-on assistance for chargeback management, helping businesses tackle disputes.
Integrations include Shopify, NetSuite, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Magento, Stripe, Square, Clover, Lightspeed, Oracle, QuickBooks, and SAP.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Processor-agnostic approach allows flexible provider options
- Supports chargeback management and fraud prevention
- AI-driven statement analysis for transparent fee management
Cons:
- Not ideal for businesses preferring a self-service setup
- Customized solutions can take longer to set up
Square Online is a platform that allows businesses to create and manage an ecommerce website, accept payments, and handle orders both online and in-store. It offers a user-friendly website builder, options for domain and email setup, and integration with other Square products like Point of Sale, Customer Directory, and Loyalty programs.
Why I picked Square Online: One of the key reasons I picked Square Online is its intuitive setup and user-friendly interface, allowing businesses to quickly establish an online presence without needing extensive technical knowledge. The platform offers customizable templates and a drag-and-drop editor, making it easy to create a professional-looking online store in minutes.
Furthermore, the integration with Square's POS system ensures that inventory and sales data are synchronized across both online and offline channels, providing a unified and efficient way to manage business operations. The platform also has strong and secure payment processing capabilities. It accepts all major credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include order management and multi-location management for easy inventory tracking in one place. It also has built-in SEO tools, shipping and other fulfillment options, and a mobile-ready design. Square Online also provides built-in tools for managing and tracking orders, as well as advanced reporting features that give business owners valuable insights into their sales performance.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Bookkeep, Facebook Ads, Google Ads, Squarespace, Thrive Inventory, Wix, and WooCommerce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced reporting capabilities
- Built-in inventory management
- Flexible POS system
Cons:
- Limited design themes
- Limited payment options on free plan
Helcim is a payment solution that also offers invoicing and recurring payments. They tout their fee and rate transparency and give small businesses the tools to build and grow a database of customers.
Why I picked Helcim: Much more than a credit card payment processor, Helcim can function as an out-of-the-box business infrastructure. While it may not have the most advanced features, the combination of processor, POS, CRM, and online store gives new business owners a suite of tools to work with.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include inventory management that lets you track stock levels in real-time, a virtual terminal for processing payments without physical hardware, and advanced reporting tools that give insights into your sales performance. These features are designed to enhance your business operations and keep everything organized.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Magento, WooCommerce, and Foxy.io.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customer database
- PCI Level 1 service provider
- Included POS and inventory tool
Cons:
- Expensive at low sales volume
- Many prohibited industries
Clover is a versatile solution for handling transactions and managing operations, particularly designed for small to medium-sized retail and restaurant enterprises. It simplifies essential business functions like payment processing, inventory tracking, and sales reporting. The system's design caters to business environments that value straightforward and reliable operational tools.
Why I picked Clover: Clover offers a fully integrated solution that simplifies transactions while managing inventory, employee schedules, and customer loyalty programs. Its versatile hardware options and user-friendly software cater to businesses of all sizes, providing flexibility and scalability. With strong reporting tools and secure payment processing, Clover ensures seamless operations and data-driven decision-making for growing businesses.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a virtual terminal for online transactions, allowing you to complete sales without the need for physical cards. The system also offers mobile accessibility, so you can manage your business from anywhere. Additionally, multi-location support makes it easy for you to oversee operations across different sites efficiently.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Gusto, Mailchimp, Yelp, Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Salesforce, Xero, and Homebase.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Reporting tools
- 24/7 phone support
- Rapid deposit
Cons:
- Complex pricing
- No free options
Merchant One is a financial services provider that specializes in payment processing solutions for businesses of various sizes and industries. The company aims to support businesses with quick approval processes, 24/7 customer service, and a focus on security and compliance with industry standards.
Why I picked Merchant One: Merchant One offers a range of payment solutions that enable credit card processing companies to accept various forms of payments from their customers. The services include the ability to process credit and debit card transactions, electronic check acceptance, and mobile payment solutions.
Merchant One Standout Features and Integrations:
Standout features include merchant services such as account setup, customer support, and compliance with payment card industry data security standards (PCI DSS) to ensure secure transaction processing. Merchant One also provides next day funding, meaning that transactions can be settled and funds can be deposited into an account on the following business day.
Integrations include Authorize.net, USAePay, Aloha, Maitre'D, Payeezy Gateway, Payflow Pro, Micros, and Paytrace Gateway.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers recurring billing support
- Supports NFC and EMV technology
- Provides a variety of credit card terminals
Cons:
- Some potential for hidden fees
- Limited information on contract terms
EBizCharge is a payment processing solution for B2B businesses to accept credit card and eCheck payments directly within their existing accounting or ERP systems.
Why I picked EBizCharge: I picked EBizCharge because it offers credit card processing across any payment environment, including online portals, virtual terminals, mobile setups, and EMV machines. You can take payments over the phone, through email links, and even set up hosted checkouts on your website—no coding required.
I also like its automation and invoice management tools that cut down on the manual work often tied to credit card processing. You can create, edit, and preauthorize invoices and sales orders directly in the platform, and then have everything sync to your accounting system. You can also set up recurring billing, auto-pay, or saved cards for quicker checkouts—reducing time spent chasing payments and improving cash flow predictability.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a customer payment portal that gives your clients 24/7 access to pay invoices online, which can speed up collections. There’s also a reporting engine with over 50 searchable criteria, allowing you to build customized reports and track transactions in detail.
Integrations include Acumatica, QuickBooks Desktop, QuickBooks Online, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, Magento, BigCommerce, Salesforce, Zoho CRM, WooCommerce, Volusion, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates well with accounting platforms
- Easy invoice payment for customers via portals
- Secure card data storage with tokenization
Cons:
- Initial setup can be time-consuming
- Limited language support
Podium is a cloud-based technology company. Originally named RepDrive, the platform was initially focused on providing reputation and review management tools for businesses. They then added text-based marketing and web chat functionality. In 2020, Podium added payments to its repertoire of features.
Why I picked Podium: Many local trade businesses, like plumbers and electricians, rely on word of mouth and reputation to grow revenue. They also have to collect payment in the field. Podium is a powerful combination of mobile payments and review management.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include the ability to collect payment by subscription or even financing. With their text-based marketing, Podium also enables professionals to keep in touch with customers, collect payments, and solicit reviews, all from a smartphone.
Integrations include Lightspeed, ActiveCampaign, Freshbooks, Copper, Housecall Pro, HubSpot, Mailchimp, QuickBooks, ServiceTitan, Shopify, Squarespace, and Thumbtack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Text-based transactions
- Reputation management tools
- Numerous trade software integrations
Cons:
- Poor customer service
- High monthly fees
Stripe is a payment platform and credit card processor that supports transactions in 46 countries, although China isn’t one of them. Stripe also offers products for invoicing, billing, fraud detection, and identity verification. It supports all major credit cards, including American Express.
Why I picked Stripe: Stripe is a great choice for ecommerce and other businesses that collect payments primarily online. It accepts 135 currencies, helping even small businesses go international. The software is also praised for its APIs and documentation, allowing businesses to build Stripe into their website or app however they like.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include the option to sell subscriptions, an increasingly necessary feature for products and services alike. Stripe also allows you to create shareable payment links to streamline transactions on the go. Plus, the software's Adaptive Acceptance uses machine learning to intelligently retry credit card payments when they fail.
Integrations include Capital One, Constant Contact, Mailchimp, Postmark, HubSpot Data Sync, DocuSign, Xero, and Varos.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable with APIs
- Subscription capabilities
- Wide range of payments
Cons:
- Too complex for small businesses
- Limited in-person transactions
Founded in 1998, PayPal was a pioneer in online payments. It functioned as a digital wallet for online shoppers. In 2012, it launched its first mobile payment processor. Today, PayPal for Business processes transactions both online and in person.
Why I picked PayPal: PayPal supports buying, selling, and holding cryptocurrencies directly within its platform, offering a user-friendly experience for managing digital assets. Additionally, its extensive global reach, support for multiple currencies, and competitive exchange rates make it a reliable choice for seamless cross-border transactions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include lower online transaction fees and discounts based on monthly sales volume. Businesses can also accept in-person payments by either card swipe or by offering the customer a QR code.
Integrations include BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Shopify, Wix, Squarespace, Big Cartel, Etsy, eBay, Constant Contact, QuickBooks, and Zoho.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Range of online wallets and currencies
- Low online payment fees
- Easy setup
Cons:
- No hardware
- $20 chargeback fee
Payline Data is a payment processing provider that helps businesses accept various forms of payments, including credit and debit cards, both online and in person.
Why I picked Payline Data: Payline Data offers a virtual terminal and dashboard, which lets you process payments online, view reports, key in transactions, store customer profiles, and send invoices—all from one place. This centralization can make managing your payments more efficient.
They also offer cart integration and payment page options. You can integrate their services directly into your online shopping cart or use their hosted payment page to accept payments through your website. This flexibility allows you to choose the setup that best fits your business model. Furthermore, Payline Data offers month-to-month agreements instead of long-term contracts.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include invoicing and recurring billing, which let you send invoices and collect one-time or recurring payments easily. Additionally, they provide interchange optimization to help you secure the best possible rates from major credit card companies, potentially saving you money on each transaction.
Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento, Authorize.net, NMI, CardPointe, and QuickBooks.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good cart integrations
- No long-term contracts
- Ability to process various payment types
Cons:
- Monthly fee may be steep for low-volume merchants
- ACH transfers are paid add-ons
ProMerchant is a provider of credit card processing software that specializes in delivering tailored solutions to businesses of all sizes. By focusing on the specific needs of each client, ProMerchant ensures that its software integrates seamlessly into existing business operations, providing a robust platform for managing transactions.
Why I Picked ProMerchant: As credit card processing software, ProMerchant excels by offering highly customizable solutions that can be tailored to the specific needs of each business, ensuring a seamless integration with their existing systems. This flexibility allows businesses to process payments more efficiently, with enhanced security features that protect both the business and its customers. Overall, ProMerchant's commitment to providing exceptional customer support further enhances its appeal, ensuring that businesses have access to help whenever they need it.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a reliable EMV/NFC ready POS system that ensures your team can process transactions efficiently. You'll also have access to a virtual terminal, allowing for flexibility in payment types and simplifying operations. Plus, free Bluetooth card readers are provided to facilitate mobile transactions, helping your business remain agile and responsive to customer needs.
Integrations include Clover, QuickBooks, Authorize.Net, Stripe, PayPal, Square, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and Magento.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Seamless integration with e-commerce and accounting software.
- Advanced security and fraud protection measures.
- Customizable solutions tailored to business needs.
Cons:
- Integration capabilities can vary, potentially limiting some businesses
- Customization might lead to complexity in setup
As its name suggests, Dharma Merchant Services is a merchant services provider for retailers, restaurants, B2B businesses, and other businesses. The company also offers discounted rates to nonprofits.
Why I picked Dharma Merchant Services: Dharma Merchant Services offers seamless integrations with various POS systems, allowing businesses to tailor their payment processing setup to their specific operational needs. Its compatibility with both traditional and modern POS platforms ensures that businesses can adapt quickly, whether managing in-store, online, or mobile transactions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a virtual terminal that allows you to process transactions from any device, making it convenient for on-the-go payments. Online reporting is available to help you easily track your transactions and analyze data to make informed business decisions. With mobile processing, you can accept payments through Apple and Android devices, ensuring flexibility in managing your transactions.
Integrations include MX Merchant, QuickBooks, Revel Systems, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento, Clover, NCR Silver, and Vend.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Discounts for nonprofits
- Customer database
- Variety of hardware and POS options
Cons:
- No high-risk businesses
- Not for very small businesses
Stax, formerly known as Fattmerchant, is a payment processing platform that offers solutions for small businesses, large businesses, and software-as-a-service companies. It also offers Stax Bill for invoicing and maximizing revenue recovery. One of Stax’s biggest differentiators is that they don’t mark up interchange fees, which are the 1-3% charge businesses pay to banks for transferring the funds.
Why I picked Stax: Stax's strong analytics and reporting tools provide valuable insights for managing large transaction volumes efficiently, while its seamless integrations ensure smooth operations across multiple platforms. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses prioritizing scalability and cost-efficiency.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a RESTful API that's compatible with all programming languages, making it easy for your team to integrate payment solutions into your existing systems. Stax allows you to accept payments across various channels including in-person, online, and mobile, ensuring flexibility for your business operations. You can also send branded invoices via email or SMS, which adds a professional touch to your customer interactions.
Integrations include Slack, CRMs, QuickBooks, Salesforce, Xero, WooCommerce, Shopify, WordPress, Magento, and Square.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- 24/7 technical support
- No contracts
- Low transaction fees
Cons:
- Limited integrations
- High monthly fees
Chase for Business is the payment processing arm of JPMorgan Chase, the largest bank in the United States. Chase for Business differs from other companies on this list because it can function as both the payment processor and the acquiring bank. This means one less vendor handles your data (and takes a cut of revenue).
Why I picked Chase for Business: Chase for Business combines strong credit card processing services with an advanced suite of business banking tools, including checking accounts, loans, and payment integrations. Its seamless connection with Chase accounts provides you with a unified platform to manage transactions, track cash flow, and access tailored financial insights, all backed by industry-leading security and customer support. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses seeking efficiency and scalability in one trusted ecosystem.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include virtual, in-person, and online payment processing, all of which are covered by Chase’s PCI compliance. Chase also offers the QuickAccept mobile reader, which allows you to process payments through their mobile app.
Integrations include BigCommerce, Freshbooks, Invoiced, Fiskl, Keap, PayRent, and Fusebill.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Direct processor
- Advanced analytics
- Faster access to funds
Cons:
- Some features require a Chase business account
- Limited currencies
Flagship Merchant Services is a payment processor that handles both online and in-store credit card purchases. Since its opening in 2001, it has served more than 25,000 business customers, highlighting its work with small and mid-sized businesses in the retail and restaurant industries.
Why I picked Flagship Merchant Services: Flagship Merchant Services is ideal for small retailers due to its flexible pricing structure, including a month-to-month agreement with no long-term contracts, which is perfect for businesses with fluctuating sales volumes. It offers customizable solutions like mobile payment processing and POS systems tailored to small retail needs, ensuring seamless transactions. Additionally, its strong customer support ensures quick issue resolution, critical for small businesses relying on uninterrupted payment processing.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include the iPayment Mobile Pay swipe reader and mobile payment processing app. They are also compatible with (and a reseller of) Clover hardware, giving businesses a wider range of mobile solutions and POS systems.
Integrations include Authorize.net and Quiq, which allow you to seamlessly manage payment processing through popular platforms.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Month-to-month contracts
- Free terminal
- Same-day funding
Cons:
- Lack of PCI compliance
- Unclear pricing
QuickBooks is an accounting software made by Intuit, which also owns TurboTax, Mint, and Mailchimp. Many small businesses use QuickBooks to manage their bills and invoices, but they can also use it as a credit card processor.
Why I picked QuickBooks: QuickBooks is one of the most popular accounting softwares available. For small businesses who rely on it, adding payment processing is a simple and easy solution. Additionally, the software's provides advanced features like invoicing and mobile payments, making it a versatile solution for businesses of all sizes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a user-friendly dashboard that allows you to easily track your income and expenses, giving you a clear view of your business's financial health. The automatic bank feeds feature lets you connect your bank accounts, so transactions are updated in real-time without manual entry. You can also generate detailed financial reports, such as profit and loss statements, which help you understand your business's performance.
Integrations include Shopify, PayPal, Square, Stripe, Amazon, HubSpot, TSheets, Mailchimp, Expensify, and Method:CRM.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- GoPayment Mobile App
- Fast deposits
- All-in-one accounting
Cons:
- Limited hardware choices
- No phone support
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
- Paysafe
For large-scale e-commerce businesses
- CardX
For government and education organizations
- National Processing
For low-volume sellers
- Host Merchant Services
For high-risk businesses
- CDGcommerce
For B2B businesses
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:
Need expert help selecting the right service?
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.
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