Managing donations shouldn’t feel like a second job. But between clunky tools, high fees, and limited insights, too many nonprofits end up wasting hours just trying to reconcile the books.
You deserve a payment processor that works as hard as you do—automating receipts, handling recurring gifts, and giving you clean data without charging half your donations in fees.
I’ve reviewed the best nonprofit payment processors out there to help you find the right fit.
Whether you're optimizing for live events, global reach, or donor management, this guide breaks down the top picks, standout features, and pricing you actually need to know.
Let’s help you pick a processor that frees up your time—and funds your mission.
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Our team has been testing and reviewing software since 2012. As retail leaders ourselves, we know how difficult—and important—it is to choose the right software.
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Our reviews reflect our independent judgment—not a sales pitch.
Payment Processor for Nonprofits Comparison Table
This table gives you the need-to-know breakdown: price points and what each processor does best:
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for structured AP automation | 21-day free trial available | From $99/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for flexible donation tools | Free plan available; 30-day free trial on paid tiers | From $49/month | Website | |
| 3 | Best for developer tools | Not available | From $620/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for wide user base | Free plan + free demo available | From $0.30/transaction | Website | |
| 5 | Best for registration payments | Free demo available | From $125/month | Website | |
| 6 | Best for global transactions | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for live fundraising events | 30-day free trial + free plan available | From $29/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 8 | Best for donor management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for data analytics | Free demo available | From $134/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for fraud protection | Not available | From $25/month | Website |
Best Payment Processor for Nonprofits Review
Here’s where we dig deeper. Each review covers why the tool made the cut, what it’s best at, and the standout features that matter most for nonprofits—so you can find the one that fits your fundraising strategy and budget.
Best for structured AP automation- 21-day free trial available
- From $99/month
Visit WebsiteCustomer Rating:4.9/5
MakersHub’s intuitive dashboard streamlines the entire accounts payable process from bill capture to payment. MakersHub is an accounts payable (AP) automation platform that can support nonprofits by handling invoice capture, payment approvals, and vendor disbursements. It’s designed for organizations that want to reduce manual AP work while maintaining control and accuracy over financial operations.
Why I picked MakersHub: I chose MakersHub for nonprofits because it automates the AP lifecycle—from bill capture to payment—so you can focus more on your mission and less on manual data entry. For nonprofits managing multiple funding sources, its approval workflows help ensure every payment is verified and authorized, which supports both compliance and donor trust. The automation also reduces the risk of human error in invoice processing, so funds are allocated accurately and efficiently.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include approval flows for structured payment authorization, bill automation to capture and code invoices without manual entry, and payment automation to disburse funds via ACH, check, or wire transfer. You can also manage vendor payments in one place, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
Integrations include QuickBooks Online and QuickBooks Desktop.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Multiple payment options (ACH, check, wire) for vendor flexibility
- Approval flows help maintain financial control and compliance
- Best for structured AP automation in nonprofits
Cons:
- ACH payment fees may apply for rejected transactions
- Users are responsible for handling chargebacks and data accuracy
Learn more about MakersHub:
Best for flexible donation tools- Free plan available; 30-day free trial on paid tiers
- From $49/month
Visit WebsiteCustomer Rating:4.7/5
Square retail POS system makes it easy to accept in-person donations and sales. Square is a payment processor that helps nonprofits accept donations online, in person, and through mobile wallets. It combines transaction processing with financial tools, making it easier to manage funds and stay connected with supporters.
Why I picked Square: I chose Square for nonprofits because of its flexibility in how you can accept donations. Whether it’s credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or cash, Square gives donors options, which typically leads to higher contribution rates. I also liked that Square provides point-of-sale hardware, which makes it useful for on-site fundraising events. And with its built-in cash flow management tools, you can keep better track of your budget without relying on separate software.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include donor engagement tools for relationship management, real-time analytics to monitor fundraising progress, and team management functions for coordinating staff or volunteers.
Integrations include WooCommerce, Wix, GoDaddy, Ecwid, BigCommerce, WordPress.com, CommerceSync, Zoho Books, JotForm, Mailchimp, Homebase, and IFTTT.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Analytics track fundraising progress
- Hardware supports event fundraising
- Multiple donation payment options
Cons:
- Limited nonprofit-specific discounts
- Transaction fees can add up
Stripe offers customizable, developer-friendly tools for seamless payments. Stripe is a versatile payment processing platform designed for businesses and nonprofits to manage online payments with ease. It serves organizations that need customizable payment solutions and developer-friendly tools to integrate payments seamlessly into their platforms.
Why I picked Stripe: It provides an extensive suite of developer tools that allow you to customize the payment process to your specific needs. The platform offers detailed documentation and APIs for easy integration. You can also manage subscriptions and recurring billing, which is crucial for nonprofits with regular donors. Additionally, Stripe offers advanced security features to protect payment data.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a customizable checkout experience that enhances the user journey. The platform offers real-time reporting and analytics to help you track your financial performance. Stripe also supports a wide range of currencies, allowing you to process payments globally with ease.
Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, QuickBooks, Xero, Magento, Squarespace, PrestaShop, BigCommerce, Salesforce, and Wix.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Advanced security features
- Supports global currencies
- Detailed API documentation
- Extensive developer tools
Cons:
- Limited customer support options
- Steep learning curve
- Limited offline functionality
Best for wide user base- Free plan + free demo available
- From $0.30/transaction
Visit WebsiteCustomer Rating:4.6/5
PayPal offers trusted and efficient online payments for a wide-reaching impact. PayPal is a widely used payment platform designed for businesses and nonprofits to handle online transactions efficiently. It caters to organizations looking for a reliable solution with a broad reach and trusted brand recognition.
Why I picked PayPal: It offers a familiar interface that many donors recognize and trust, increasing the likelihood of completed transactions. The platform supports multiple currencies, making it ideal for international donations. You can also set up recurring donations, which is crucial for sustaining long-term donor relationships. Additionally, PayPal provides robust security features to protect your transactions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable donation buttons that you can easily add to your website. The platform offers detailed transaction reports to help you track your donations. PayPal also provides fraud protection features to keep your transactions secure.
Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento, Squarespace, Wix, Xero, QuickBooks, Salesforce, and PrestaShop
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong fraud protection
- Detailed transaction reports
- Customizable donation buttons
- Widely recognized and trusted
Cons:
- Limited customization of donation pages
- Potential for donor funds to be redirected
- Requires internet for full functionality
Regpack streamlines event registration and payments for organizations. Regpack is an online payment and registration software tailored for organizations needing to manage event registrations and payments efficiently. It caters to nonprofits and businesses that frequently handle registrations and require a streamlined payment process.
Why I picked Regpack: It offers a comprehensive registration payment solution with customizable forms and automated billing. The platform allows you to create dynamic registration processes that adapt to your participants' responses. You can also set up automated payment plans, making it easier for your team to manage recurring payments. Additionally, Regpack provides detailed analytics to track registration trends and payment statuses.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a built-in communication tool that lets you send personalized emails to your participants. The platform offers advanced reporting capabilities, allowing you to generate insights into your registration and payment activities. Additionally, Regpack supports multilingual forms, enabling you to cater to a diverse audience.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Salesforce, Mailchimp, Google Analytics, Stripe, PayPal, Authorize.Net, Zapier, Slack, and HubSpot.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Advanced reporting capabilities
- Built-in communication tools
- Supports multilingual forms
- Customizable registration forms
Cons:
- Basic mobile app features
- Requires consistent internet access
- Complexity in setup
Learn more about Regpack:
Best for global transactions- Free demo available
- Pricing upon request
Visit WebsiteCustomer Rating:3.8/5
Adyen supports global payments with multi-currency and regional coverage. Adyen is a payment platform designed for businesses and nonprofits to manage transactions across multiple regions and currencies. It serves organizations that need a reliable solution for handling global payments and enhancing their international operations.
Why I picked Adyen: It offers extensive support for multiple currencies and payment methods, making it ideal for global transactions. The platform provides real-time insights into payment data, helping you make informed decisions. You can also customize your payment setup to match your business needs. Additionally, Adyen's risk management tools help protect against fraud and ensure secure transactions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a unified commerce solution that allows you to manage payments from different sales channels in one place. The platform offers a scalable infrastructure that grows with your business. Adyen also provides a detailed reporting system to track your payment performance and analyze trends.
Integrations include Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, Salesforce, BigCommerce, Xero, QuickBooks, PrestaShop, Squarespace, and Wix.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Scalable infrastructure
- Risk management tools included
- Customizable payment setup
- Real-time payment insights
Cons:
- Basic mobile app features
- Limited offline capabilities
- Requires technical expertise
Learn more about Adyen:
Best for live fundraising events- 30-day free trial + free plan available
- From $29/month (billed annually)
Visit WebsiteCustomer Rating:4.7/5
Givebutter powers nonprofit fundraising with live events and campaigns. Givebutter is a fundraising platform designed for nonprofits to enhance their live event fundraising capabilities. It caters to organizations looking for tools to engage with donors through live events and campaigns.
Why I picked Givebutter: It offers features like live streaming and real-time donor interaction, which are perfect for hosting engaging fundraising events. The platform provides customizable campaign pages that let you tailor your fundraising efforts. You can also use the built-in ticketing system to manage event attendance. Additionally, Givebutter supports team fundraising, encouraging collaboration among your supporters.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a mobile-friendly interface that ensures donors can contribute from any device. The platform offers a social sharing feature to amplify your campaigns across different channels. You can also track campaign performance with detailed analytics to refine your strategies.
Integrations include Salesforce, Zoom, Mailchimp, Slack, PayPal, Stripe, Venmo, Google Analytics, Zapier, and Eventbrite.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Mobile-friendly interface
- Built-in ticketing system
- Offers real-time donor interaction
- Supports team fundraising
Cons:
- Requires consistent internet access
- Basic reporting features
- Limited offline functionality
Learn more about Givebutter:
DonorPerfect helps nonprofits track donations and manage fundraising. DonorPerfect is a comprehensive fundraising software designed for nonprofits to manage their donor relationships and fundraising efforts. It is ideal for organizations that need an all-in-one solution to track donations, manage contacts, and plan fundraising campaigns.
Why I picked DonorPerfect: It offers extensive donor management features that help you maintain detailed donor profiles and interactions. The platform includes automated thank-you notes and receipts, which save time and ensure consistent donor communication. You can also segment your donors for targeted outreach, enhancing your fundraising strategies. Additionally, DonorPerfect provides robust reporting tools to help you analyze your fundraising performance.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable dashboards that let you tailor the interface to fit your workflow. The platform also supports mobile access, allowing you to manage your fundraising efforts on the go. Furthermore, DonorPerfect offers event management tools to help you organize and track your fundraising events.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Constant Contact, Mailchimp, PayPal, Zapier, Salesforce, Google Analytics, WealthEngine, Double the Donation, and Eventbrite.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Offers event management tools
- Customizable dashboards
- Automated thank-you notes and receipts
- Extensive donor management features
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Basic mobile app features
- Limited offline capabilities
Learn more about DonorPerfect:
Keela Pay supports nonprofits with donations and data-driven insights. Keela Pay is a payment processing solution tailored for nonprofits to manage their fundraising and donation activities. It serves organizations looking to enhance their data analytics capabilities to improve decision-making.
Why I picked Keela Pay: Its data analytics features provide insights into donor behavior and fundraising trends. You can create detailed reports to track your fundraising progress over time. The platform also offers customizable dashboards, allowing you to visualize key metrics that matter most to your team. Additionally, Keela Pay supports automated workflows, which can save your team time and effort.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include donor management tools that help you maintain comprehensive donor profiles. The platform offers email marketing capabilities to engage with your supporters effectively. Keela Pay also provides project management features to coordinate your fundraising efforts.
Integrations include Salesforce, QuickBooks, Mailchimp, Google Analytics, Stripe, PayPal, Eventbrite, Zapier, Slack, and HubSpot.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Includes project management tools
- Comprehensive donor management
- Supports automated workflows
- Strong data analytics features
Cons:
- Limited customer support options
- Steep learning curve
- Basic mobile app features
Learn more about Keela Pay:
Authorize.Net enables secure online payments with fraud protection tools. Authorize.Net is a payment gateway solution designed for businesses and nonprofits to securely process online payments. It serves organizations that prioritize secure transactions and fraud prevention in their payment processing activities.
Why I picked Authorize.Net: It offers advanced fraud detection tools that help protect your transactions from fraudulent activities. The platform provides customizable fraud filters tailored to your specific needs. You can also manage recurring billing, which is essential for handling ongoing donations or subscription services. Additionally, Authorize.Net supports multiple payment methods, giving your donors flexibility in how they contribute.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a virtual terminal that allows you to process payments manually, which is useful for phone orders or in-person transactions. The platform offers a simple checkout experience to enhance user convenience. You can also access detailed transaction reports to monitor your payment activities closely.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Intuit, Magento, Shopify, WooCommerce, Salesforce, Zoho, BigCommerce, and Squarespace.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Detailed transaction reports
- Offers a virtual terminal
- Customizable fraud filters
- Advanced fraud detection tools
Cons:
- Basic mobile app features
- Limited offline functionality
- Requires technical setup
Learn more about Authorize.net:
Other Payment Processors for Nonprofits
Here are some additional payment processor for nonprofits options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- 11Charity EngineBest for CRM integration
- 12WePayBest for platform integration
- 13DonorboxBest for recurring donations
- 14ZeffyBest for zero transaction fees
- 15HelcimBest for transparent pricing
- 16QgivBest for auction capabilities
- 17GoCardlessBest for direct debit payments
- 18iATS PaymentsBest for nonprofit-specific solutions
- 19Snowball FundraisingBest for text-to-give options
- 20Payline DataBest for risk management tools
- 21Bloomerang PaymentsBest for donor retention features
- 22Personify PaymentsBest for event registration
- 23LiberapayBest for recurring micro-donations
Other Payments Software Roundups
If you want to look at other options in the payments space, we've done roundups for many use cases:
- Credit Card Processing Software
- Open Source Payment Processing Software
- Subscription Billing Software
- Recurring Payments Systems
How I Evaluate Payment Processors for Nonprofits
I look at two layers: the baseline capabilities every nonprofit retailer needs—like POS support, discounted rates, and donation tools—and the differentiators that set the best options apart.
Core Functionality (Table Stakes For This List)
When I'm selecting tools for my list, I rank each one on a scale from 0 (does not offer the functionality) to 5 (excels in this area) for each core functionality listed below. Then, I calculate the tool's total score into a percentage. Each tool needs to achieve a minimum total score of 55% to be considered for inclusion.
- Nonprofit Discounted Rates: I check whether the vendor publishes specific pricing tiers for verified nonprofits rather than just offering vague case-by-case discounts on request.
- Retail POS Integration: Whether a thrift store needs a full terminal or a museum shop uses a tablet, I look for compatible POS hardware and retail integrations.
- Donation Processing: I evaluate whether the platform handles recurring and one-time donations natively, not just standard sales routed through a separate giving tool.
- Tax Receipt Generation: Automated, compliant receipts matter here. I look for tools that generate donor acknowledgments with the detail needed for tax reporting.
- Multi-Channel Payment Acceptance: Vendors should accept payments in-store, online, and via mobile with unified reporting so revenue isn't siloed by channel.
- CRM/Donor Data Sync: I look for native integrations with nonprofit CRMs like Bloomerang or Salesforce NPSP that link each transaction to a donor record.
Once I have a list of tools that meet this criteria, I consider what sets each platform apart.
Differentiating Factors (What Sets Vendors Apart)
Here's how I compare and contrast different vendors:
Standout Features
A fee coverage option is one of the first things I look for. When donors or customers can voluntarily cover processing fees at checkout, your nonprofit keeps more of every transaction. I also evaluate how well the platform handles volunteer-heavy environments—simplified register workflows and role-based permissions make a real difference when staff turnover is constant. Donor-customer profiles that merge purchase history with giving activity give your team a complete view of each supporter's engagement across retail and donation channels.
Beyond Features
Pricing transparency matters a lot in this space. I check whether vendors publish their rates upfront and disclose all hardware, gateway, and monthly fees without burying costs in fine print or requiring a sales call. Tech stack compatibility is another big factor—your processor needs to sync with tools like QuickBooks Nonprofit or Aplos for accounting and connect to ecommerce platforms if you sell donated goods online. I also evaluate PCI compliance levels and whether the vendor offers tokenization and encryption across both in-store and online channels, since nonprofits handle sensitive donor payment data daily.
What Are Payment Processors for Nonprofits?
Nonprofit payment processing software is a digital tool that manages online donations and financial transactions for nonprofit organizations.
It’s used to process credit card payments, recurring donations, and ACH transfers securely while storing donor information and generating tax receipts.
These platforms help fundraising teams streamline donation collection, automate admin tasks, and ensure PCI-compliant handling of sensitive data.
Most tools also integrate with CRMs, email marketing systems, and accounting software to support donor engagement and reporting.
How to Choose a Payment Processor for Nonprofits
Picking a payment processor can feel overwhelming fast—pricing tiers, hidden fees, and vague feature lists don’t help. This checklist breaks down what actually matters, so you can choose a system that supports your fundraising goals without the guesswork.
| Factor | What to consider |
|---|---|
| FactorScalability | What to considerCan the platform handle growing donation volume, recurring gifts, and more users over time? |
| FactorIntegration | What to considerDoes it connect with your CRM, accounting system, fundraising tools, and ecommerce platform to avoid data silos? |
| FactorEase of use | What to considerIs the dashboard intuitive? Your team shouldn’t need tech support just to update a donation form. |
| FactorPayment options | What to considerDoes it support credit cards, ACH, and digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Venmo? |
| FactorSecurity | What to considerLook for PCI-compliant systems with fraud protection and secure donor data handling. |
| FactorPricing structure | What to considerAre transaction fees, monthly costs, and add-ons clearly explained—with nonprofit discounts available? |
| FactorOnboarding | What to considerWill setup be smooth? Check for import tools, live support, and clear how-to resources. |
| FactorIn-person support | What to considerIf you fundraise at events, make sure card reader or mobile app features are reliable. |
Features of Payment Processors for Nonprofits
The best nonprofit payment processing tools don’t just move money—they streamline your fundraising operations, protect donor data, and help you grow relationships over time. Here’s what to look for:
- Recurring donation support. Let donors set up automatic giving via credit card, ACH, or digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
- Customizable online donation forms. Match your nonprofit’s branding, collect key donor information, and optimize the donation process.
- Built-in donor management. Track giving history, notes, and interactions in one place—no separate CRM required.
- PCI-compliant security. Meet industry standards and protect every transaction with fraud detection and encryption.
- Multiple payment methods. Accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, debit cards, bank account transfers, and mobile payments.
- Text-to-give options. Capture spontaneous donations during events or campaigns with simple SMS-based giving.
- Real-time analytics. Spot trends in donor behavior and fundraising performance without waiting for end-of-month reports.
- CRM and accounting integrations. Connect with tools like Salesforce, QuickBooks, and Mailchimp to avoid double entry.
- Automated tax receipts and thank-you emails. Save your team time while giving donors a consistent, professional experience.
- Mobile app access. Accept in-person donations or manage donor records from anywhere—whether at a gala or on the road.
Benefits of a Payment Processor for Nonprofits
Good payment processing tools do more than just run transactions—they simplify operations, improve donor relationships, and help stretch every dollar further.
- Streamlined donation workflows. Automate recurring billing, receipts, and reporting to reduce admin overhead and keep fundraising moving.
- Better donor engagement. Branded donation pages, personalized emails, and one-click payment options improve the giving experience.
- Improved financial transparency. Real-time reporting and clear transaction data help with audits, board reporting, and trust-building.
- Global reach and flexibility. Accept credit card payments, ACH transfers, and digital wallets across borders and devices.
- Secure, compliant processing. Meet PCI compliance standards and protect donor payment information with encrypted transactions.
- Lower fundraising costs. Cut down on manual tasks and high processing fees by using nonprofit-specific pricing and features.
- More reliable donor data. With integrated donor management, you get clean, centralized records that sync with your nonprofit CRM.
- Support for all donation types. From one-time gifts to event ticketing and in-person swipe donations, manage everything in one platform.
Costs and Pricing of Payment Processors for Nonprofits
Pricing models vary widely across platforms, especially when it comes to monthly fees, transaction rates, and feature access. Some tools charge flat rates, others work on a per-transaction basis, and many offer nonprofit discounts—but always read the fine print.
Use this table to get a realistic sense of what you might pay depending on your needs and donation volume:
| Plan type | Average price | Common features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan typeFree plan | Average price$0 | Common featuresBasic online donation forms, limited CRM features, standard credit card processing. | Best forSmall teams or trial runs |
| Plan typePersonal plan | Average price$5–$25/user/month | Common featuresRecurring donations, ACH support, secure payment processing, basic analytics. | Best forSolo fundraisers or startup nonprofits |
| Plan typeBusiness plan | Average price$50–$100/user/month | Common featuresCRM integration, customizable donation pages, text-to-give, in-person payments. | Best forGrowing nonprofits with multi-channel needs |
| Plan typeEnterprise plan | Average price$150–$300/user/month | Common featuresAdvanced reporting, custom workflows, API access, dedicated account support. | Best forLarge organizations or complex fundraising |
Note: Many platforms charge separate transaction fees—often around 2.2% to 3.5% plus $0.30 per donation—depending on the card type (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) and payment method (credit, debit, ACH).
Payment Processor for Nonprofits FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about a payment processor for nonprofits:
Do we still pay transaction fees with a “free” nonprofit payment processor?
Usually, yes—but it depends. Some platforms (like Zeffy) absorb the credit card processing fees entirely, letting 100% of the donation reach you. Others promote a free base plan but still pass along standard transaction fees from Visa, Mastercard, or PayPal.
Always check for the actual fee structure, especially if you’re handling large donation volumes.
Can we accept in-person donations with these tools?
Many nonprofit payment processors support in-person giving through mobile apps or card readers. If you fundraise at events, make sure the platform offers reliable in-person payment options that sync with your backend—so donations don’t get siloed from your online fundraising data.
How do we integrate a payment processor with our nonprofit CRM?
Look for tools that offer native integrations with CRMs like Salesforce, Bloomerang, or DonorPerfect. Some also support Zapier or have open APIs for custom setups. Seamless integration saves time, avoids duplicate data entry, and ensures your donor engagement stays on point.
Is our donor data safe on these platforms?
Yes, as long as you’re using a PCI-compliant processor. These platforms encrypt all sensitive payment information, use tokenization to avoid storing credit card data, and include built-in fraud protection.
Still, it’s smart to confirm what security standards each platform meets—especially if you handle international donations.
What’s the best processor for recurring donations?
Donorbox and Stripe are both strong here. They make it easy for donors to set up automatic contributions and for your team to manage them.
Features like flexible schedules, auto-receipts, and donor self-service portals make recurring gifts a lot less hands-on.
Can we switch processors later without losing donor info?
Usually, yes—but there’s a process. Most platforms let you export donor data, but you may need to reauthorize recurring payments if your new provider can’t port over billing credentials. Look for providers that support data portability and will help guide you through migration.