Our Recommended Credit Card Processors

When choosing a credit card processor, consider the specific needs of your business, including transaction volume, the importance of POS hardware, and whether you require eCommerce capabilities. Each of these processors offers unique advantages, from transparent pricing with Helcim and National Processing to robust POS systems with Clover and Square​.

Here are seven guides to help you choose the best credit card processor for your business:

Evaluate Your Business Needs

• Transaction Volume: Determine your monthly transaction volume as some processors are better suited for high-volume businesses (e.g., Clover, Paysafe, Stax, etc, see above list).
• Business Type: Consider the nature of your business. For instance, retail and restaurants might benefit from a processor with strong POS hardware like Clover.
• Industry Specifics: If you’re in a high-risk industry, you might need a processor that specializes in that area, such as PaymentCloud​

Understand Pricing Models

• Transparent Pricing: Opt for processors with clear pricing and no hidden fees. Helcim and National Processing are known for their straightforward pricing.
• Types of Fees: Be aware of setup fees, interchange fees, transaction fees, and monthly minimum fees. Some processors, like Payment Depot, offer membership-style pricing that could be more predictable.

Assess Customer Support and Service

• Support Quality: Look for providers that offer reliable customer support, especially if you foresee needing assistance with transactions or system issues. Helcim and Square are known for strong customer service.
• Onboarding and Setup: Choose a provider that offers easy setup and integration to minimize downtime. Square and Clover are often highlighted for their ease of use​.

Consider Integration and Compatibility

• Software Integration: Ensure the processor integrates with your existing software systems, such as accounting, inventory, or CRM tools. Stripe and Clover are highly regarded for their wide range of integrations.
• Hardware Requirements: If you need specific POS hardware, make sure the processor can provide or support the necessary equipment.

Security and Compliance

• PCI Compliance: Your processor must ensure PCI compliance to protect customer payment data. This is critical for avoiding security breaches and maintaining customer trust.
• Fraud Protection: Look for additional security features like tokenization and encryption, which are offered by many top processors.

Review Contract Terms and Flexibility

• Contract Length: Be cautious of long-term contracts that include hefty early termination fees. Look for processors that offer month-to-month contracts, like Helcim or Square.
• Flexibility: Check if the processor allows you to scale services as your business grows, which is important for businesses that anticipate changes in transaction volume

Read Reviews and Get Recommendations

• User Feedback: Research user reviews to understand the real-world experiences of other businesses. Platforms like Merchant Maverick and Business News Daily offer in-depth reviews of various processors.
• Industry Recommendations: Consider recommendations from businesses in your industry to find a processor that understands your specific needs and challenges.

By following these guides, you can choose a credit card processor that best suits your business’s unique requirements, ensuring cost-effectiveness, reliability, and security in your payment processing​.