If you’re running a small business in the U.S. and you’re ready to accept online payments, the good news is: you have great options. From simple plug-and-play tools to more customizable gateways, the best online payment providers in 2025 offer flexibility, security, and transparent pricing. In this guide, we break down five top platforms used by small business owners and independent professionals.
Stripe Payment Gateway for Small Business
Stripe is a favorite among developers, but it’s also friendly for non-tech users. You can use pre-built checkout tools or create a fully custom experience. Stripe supports credit cards, digital wallets (like Apple Pay), subscriptions, and global currencies.
Why choose it: Easy to scale, transparent pricing, and powerful APIs.
What’s good: Flexible checkout options, international support, developer-friendly tools, and no hidden fees.
Drawbacks: Customer support is mostly via chat/email (no phone), and it lacks native point-of-sale solutions unless integrated separately.
Cost: 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction. No setup or monthly fees.
Best for: Online businesses with growth plans, especially those who want flexibility.
PayPal and Braintree Checkout Options
PayPal is trusted by millions and makes it easy for customers to pay with cards, PayPal balances, or Venmo. You can start with just a button or go deeper with Braintree for custom checkout.
Why choose it: Widely recognized, fast setup, and includes Venmo.
What’s good: Consumer trust, mobile-friendly, supports multiple wallets, simple no-code tools.
Drawbacks: Default checkout redirects customers off your site unless advanced setup is used. Fees can be higher for Venmo and international transactions.
Cost: Around 2.9% + $0.30. Venmo fees are slightly higher.
Best for: Businesses that want instant brand recognition and simple setup.
Square Online Payments and POS Integration
Square isn’t just for in-person sales. Its online tools let you sell through a free e-commerce site, send invoices, or share payment links. Everything connects with your in-person system, which is perfect for hybrid businesses.
Why choose it: One ecosystem for POS and online, great for service providers.
What’s good: Free online store, easy invoicing, unified dashboard, fast deposits.
Drawbacks: Slightly higher fees for invoiced or manually entered payments. Limited international currency support.
Cost: 2.9% + $0.30 for online sales. No monthly fee.
Best for: Local businesses, professionals, or anyone selling both online and offline.
Authorize.net Gateway for U.S. Small Business
This Visa-owned gateway gives you more control, especially if you already have a merchant account. It works with many shopping carts and supports recurring billing, ACH, and more.
Why choose it: Dedicated merchant account support and robust features.
What’s good: 24/7 support, fraud detection, recurring payments, flexible merchant options.
Drawbacks: $25 monthly fee even if unused, setup is more technical, no native POS or storefront tools.
Cost: $25/month plus 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction (or lower if using own processor).
Best for: Businesses with moderate to high volume or technical needs.
Shopify Payments for E-Commerce Stores
If you’re building an online store with Shopify, its built-in payment system is seamless. Everything from your website to your checkout and payment tracking is handled in one place.
Why choose it: All-in-one platform for e-commerce.
What’s good: Seamless setup, no extra transaction fees, unified dashboard for products, payments, and analytics.
Drawbacks: Requires a paid Shopify subscription. Not ideal for businesses that don’t need a full online store.
Cost: Shopify plan starts at $39/month. Transaction fee: 2.9% + $0.30.
Best for: Online retailers who want an easy, professional setup.
Quick Comparison Table: Best Payment Providers for U.S. Small Businesses
| Provider | Monthly Fee | Transaction Fee | Best For | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stripe | None | 2.9% + $0.30 | Online businesses, developers | APIs, subscriptions, global currency support |
| PayPal/Braintree | None | ~2.9% + $0.30 (Venmo higher) | Easy setup, brand recognition | PayPal/Venmo wallets, easy buttons |
| Square | None | 2.9% + $0.30 (online) | Local stores, service providers | Free e-commerce site, POS integration |
| Authorize.net | $25 | 2.9% + $0.30 (or lower) | Businesses with merchant accounts | ACH, phone support, recurring billing |
| Shopify Payments | $39 (Shopify plan) | 2.9% + $0.30 | Full-featured online stores | All-in-one solution, lower fees on higher plans |
Choosing the Best Online Payment Processor for Your Small Business
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but there are excellent tools for every kind of business. Stripe and PayPal are strong general-purpose platforms. Square is ideal if you sell in-person and online. Authorize.net is for more advanced setups, and Shopify Payments is perfect if you’re building your store on Shopify. Choosing the right payment processor means smoother checkouts and more sales—so start where your needs are today, and grow from there.
