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Best overall: Donorbox
Best for quick and easy setup: PayPal
Best for in-person donations and growing a donor base: Square
Best for low fee rates: Helcim
Best all-in-one nonprofit solution: iATS
Best for rapid payouts: Stripe
Nonprofits face many of the same challenges as for-profit businesses. One major difference, though? Terminology. Instead of “purchases” or “sales,” nonprofits handle “donations.” They need merchant services too, but these services must cater to a different type of transaction.
If you’re a nonprofit searching for payment solutions, you have several options. Here’s a snapshot of some top contenders with pros and cons to help guide your decision.
Nonprofit Credit Card Processor Comparison
Payment processors handle the money movements, while donation platforms usually partner with processors to manage transactions.
| Our Rating | Lowest Transaction Fee | Processor/Donation Platform | Non-Profit Discounts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Donorbox | 4.49 | 1.99% + $0.49 | Pass-on fee option |
| PayPal | 4.41 | 1.99% + “fixed fee” | Discounted rates |
| Square | 4.34 | 2.6% + $0.10 | None |
| Helcim | 4.31 | 0.75% + $0.06 | Pass-on fee option |
| iATS | 4.22 | Call for quote | None listed |
| Stripe | 4.12 | 2.9% + $0.30 | Call for quote |
Donorbox: Best Overall
Donorbox is a dedicated donation platform that aligns perfectly with the needs of nonprofits. While it doesn’t process payments directly, it integrates seamlessly with other services, making it a strong choice for organizations focused on fundraising.
Why Donorbox? It’s tailored for nonprofits, with features like recurring donations. Donors can set up regular contributions easily, ensuring consistent support for your cause.
Pricing:
- Standard: Free (transaction and platform fees apply)
- Pro: $139/month + 1.5% on donations
- Premium: Custom pricing; call for details.
Pros:
- Designed only for nonprofits
- Lower fees for paid users
- Donors can cover fees themselves
Cons:
- Must use a third-party processor (like Stripe or PayPal)
- Free users face higher fees
PayPal: Best for Quick Setup
PayPal is a widely recognized payment solution, perfect for nonprofits just starting out. With no monthly fees and straightforward pricing, it’s easy to integrate and get going. Plus, nonprofits often enjoy reduced transaction fees.
Why PayPal? Its simplicity and speed make it a go-to option for organizations looking to accept donations without the frills.
Pricing:
- No monthly fees
- Donation fees: Typically around 1.99% + a fixed fee based on currency
- International donations may incur extra charges.
Pros:
- Simple to implement
- Instant access to funds
Cons:
- Limited donation-specific features
- No option for donors to cover fees
Square: Best for In-Person Donations
Square shines when it comes to in-person donations. While mainly a payment processor, it offers additional tools that can help grow your donor base.
Why Square? Its easy-to-use POS system lets you accept donations on the spot, building connections with donors directly.
Pricing:
- Basic Square POS: Free, with a transaction fee of 2.6% + $0.10
- Additional services (like marketing and payroll) come with fees.
Pros:
- Excellent POS tools
- Affordable add-on services
Cons:
- No pass-on fee options
- Transaction fees could be lower
Helcim: Best for Low Fees
Helcim focuses on keeping costs down, perfect for nonprofits that need to maximize every dollar received. With low standard rates and options for donors to cover fees, it’s a strong contender.
Why Helcim? They offer a unique pricing model that helps minimize your overall costs.
Pricing:
- No monthly fees; you pay only for processing
- Nonprofit discounts apply, especially for network cards.
Pros:
- Discounts directly passed on to you
- Useful features for managing donations
Cons:
- No pass-on fees for some transaction types
- Fewer nonprofit-specific features
iATS: Best All-in-One Solution
iATS combines donation management with payment processing, making it a premium choice for nonprofits. While it doesn’t publish prices, you can contact them for quotes tailored to your organization.
Why iATS? Their focus solely on nonprofits sets them apart, and their client satisfaction is noteworthy, evidenced by long-term relationships with customers.
Features:
- Accepts various payment types
- Offers advanced fraud protection
Pros:
- Secure payments
- Transparent pricing
Cons:
- Need to reach out for detailed pricing info
Stripe: Best for Fast Payouts
Stripe is a solid payment solution known for its quick fund delivery. Once set up, nonprofits can access funds swiftly, a key advantage for those needing money immediately.
Why Stripe? They provide rapid payouts and numerous integration options, making it a versatile choice for many organizations.
Pricing:
- No subscriptions; only transaction fees
- Standard rate: 2.9% + $0.30, with potential discounts for nonprofits.
Pros:
- Fast fund delivery
- Extensive customization options
Cons:
- No pass-on fee options
- May require technical knowledge for full benefits
When choosing a credit card processor, consider what your organization truly needs. Think about who your donors are, the nature of the donations, and where they come from. Tailoring your choice based on these factors can make a significant difference in your fundraising efforts.
