Map the sales channel.
In-person, mobile, invoice, ecommerce, subscription, event, or mixed sales all need different payment features.
Buyer Guide
How to choose a payment processor.
Start with how the business gets paid, then compare the full operating cost: hardware, transaction fees, settlement timing, refunds, disputes, records, and support.
Steps
Use this order.
Calculate total cost.
Add transaction fees, hardware, monthly fees, refund costs, chargeback fees, FX costs, and payout delays.
Check records.
Settlement reports, fee exports, refunds, taxes, and accounting integrations matter after the first sale.
Test support risk.
Ask what happens when funds are held, a card reader fails, or a customer disputes a payment.
Next
Compare the options.
Educational only. Verify official terms before using any payment provider.
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