As consumers continue to move away from cash, small businesses need a system that allows them to easily process credit card payments. Several third-party payment processors provide services to do this, including embedding pay links or QR codes into invoices and providing an online portal that enables customers to make credit card payments.

eChecks

For B2B customers who prefer to pay by check, eChecks offer a convenient, secure option. In addition to reducing costs associated with paper, printer ink, and envelopes, the digital transaction log provides an accurate accounting of each payment. Adding this payment type to your online business offerings can boost your customer satisfaction rates and increase revenue potential.

Like traditional paper checks, eChecks are authorized via a client’s routing number and bank account number. The process is faster than credit card payments and more cost-effective for businesses. It’s also safer because ACH transfers are not subject to the same fraud risks as physical checks. Combined with a variety of other security measures, your clients’ bank information is better protected.

Adding eChecks to your online payment options is relatively simple for most merchants. Your clients will need to submit an ACH authorization form, which can be a signed document, an online form, or even a recorded voice message. After a client provides the necessary information, your payments system will then process the funds using its ACH gateway. Payments can be one-time or recurring, and you and your client can set up automatic debits at specific intervals (e.g., once a week, twice a month, or until a certain dollar amount is reached).

Credit Cards

Credit cards are a popular option for small business owners. They provide a convenient way to access financing for short-term costs and can offer rewards like cash back or points that can be used toward future expenses. However, they come with a number of fees and can also have a negative impact on a company’s credit score if not used responsibly.

Many card companies offer solutions that are best for businesses of different sizes and types, from in-person retail to online ecommerce. Square, for example, is a favorite among small-business owners because it offers hardware and a payments portal that can be integrated into a point of sale system at brick-and-mortar stores. The company also provides a mobile app that allows merchants to accept payment with just a swipe, an inserted chip or a contactless tap. Its platform also supports multiple currencies and can be easily used to create an online checkout process for your website.

Unlike personal credit cards, which typically report the cardholder’s account activity to the three major consumer credit bureaus and can have a positive or negative impact on the cardholder’s personal credit score, most business credit cards offer only commercial liability. This means that the business is liable for debts and can be held responsible if the cardholder fails to pay off the balance in full each month.

PayPal

You’re probably familiar with PayPal as a consumer, but you may not realize that the company offers an extensive suite of merchant services for small businesses. These solutions can be used to create seamless ecommerce and payments experiences for customers, including flexible checkout options. Additionally, PayPal is one of the few payment processors that don’t charge monthly fees or cancellation fees.

The company’s online payment gateway enables SMBs to accept card, mobile and digital wallet payments on their websites or ecommerce platforms. It also provides a variety of features that help SMBs manage their businesses, such as Fraud Protection, Chargeback Prevention and Seller Protection. It also offers one of the lowest rates for credit and debit card processing at just 2.59% + 49 cents per transaction.

In addition to its online payment solutions, PayPal offers a range of other merchant services for small businesses, including invoicing and business loans. The company’s mobile payment solution, PayPal Here, allows retailers to accept credit and debit card payments on the go. It can be used with a portable card reader or with the PayPal Point of Sale app. The company also offers an invoicing feature that makes it easy to send invoices to customers.

However, there are some limitations to using PayPal as a merchant service provider. For example, the company doesn’t allow merchants to sell age-restricted items or drugs and alcohol. It also has fairly strict standards for accepting certain types of transactions, so it’s best to check their Acceptable Use Policy before deciding whether or not to use the service.

Square

Square is known for their point of sale (POS) systems, but the company also offers a wide range of other software and hardware tools that make running a business easier. These include payments, sales, bookings, customer loyalty programs, payroll, and more. Its all-in-one system allows small businesses to create a customized technology stack without paying hidden fees and long-term contracts.

Unlike traditional payment services, which charge transaction-based fees, Square charges a flat fee on all transactions regardless of how they’re made. Its swipe, dip, and tap payments cost 2.60% plus 10 cents, while other transactions—including online and in-app purchases—are 2.75% plus 15 cents. Square also provides a number of free tools that can be used to help businesses optimize their operations and increase revenue. For example, its reporting tools allow businesses to track performance and identify trends.

Some small business owners have complained about the company’s customer service, which can be difficult to reach during regular business hours. Other users have cited unrealistic timelines for resolution. This can be frustrating if you’re trying to get your issue resolved quickly and efficiently.

Despite the complaints, some users still find Square to be an excellent solution for their small business needs. Whether you run your business from a storefront, a market stall, or remotely, you can use Square to accept credit cards, debit, ACH bank transfers, and even mobile phone payments.Payment system for small businesses