Best Merchant Accounts for CPAs (2023)

CPAs Can Require Enhanced Payment Processing

As an accountant, you can tell when the numbers just don't add up — and they rarely add up in the credit card processing industry. Long-term leases that cost thousands of dollars for equipment that can be bought for less than $500? Hundreds of dollars in early termination penalties? Hidden markups on transaction fees? It takes a sharp eye to avoid common contract pitfalls. However, if you can steer clear of excessive costs and long-term leases, there are a number of beneficial payment processing services for CPAs, such as online invoicing, accounting software integration, and virtual terminals.

To help you find the right service for you, we've put together the following list of the best merchant accounts for accountants. The companies on this list offer invoicing tools, accounting integration, virtual terminals, and other features that make it easier for you to get paid. More importantly, though, they are also known to provide low-commitment contracts with transparent pricing and quality customer service. To find the right provider for your accounting firm, be sure to research each processor's products and features and compare their pricing and terms.

How to Select the Best CPA Credit Card Processor

When selecting a credit card processor for a CPA business in the USA, there are several factors to consider. Here are some specific things to keep in mind.

Credit Card Processing Fees

Look for a credit card processor that offers competitive processing fees for CPA businesses. These fees can include interchange fees, transaction fees, and monthly fees. It's essential to consider the overall cost of using a processor, as fees can add up quickly.

Security

As a CPA business, you handle sensitive financial information, making security a top priority. Look for a credit card processor that offers secure payment processing, including fraud detection and prevention measures.

Integration

Check if the credit card processor integrates with your existing accounting software, as this can help streamline your accounting process and reduce the chance of errors.

Payment Options

Make sure the processor accepts a wide variety of payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks. This ensures that your clients have the flexibility to pay how they prefer.

Superior Customer Service

Consider the level of customer service provided by the credit card processor. Look for a provider that offers 24/7 support and has a reputation for resolving issues quickly.

Reputation

Research the credit card processor's reputation and reviews from other CPA businesses. Consider working with a provider that has a proven track record of reliable payment processing and exceptional customer service. You can consider our review on this website, by simply searching for the processor in the search bar at the top of this page.

Compliance

The CPA industry has specific regulations and compliance requirements. Look for a credit card processor that is compliant with all relevant regulations and has experience working with CPA businesses.

Overall, selecting the right credit card processor for your CPA business requires careful consideration of these factors to ensure that you have a reliable, secure, and cost-effective payment processing solution.


Top Picks for Merchant Services for Accountants

helcim logo

#1 Helcim

Top Rated for CPA Merchant Services

Helcim is a merchant account provider headquartered in Alberta, Canada, and Seattle, Washington. The company provides merchant services and credit card processing to both U.S. and Canadian businesses. Helcim offers traditional payment processing equipment as well as a feature suite called “Helcim Commerce,” which is intended to serve as an all-in-one business management solution for merchants across all of their sales channels.

Why Helcim is the Best Choice for Processing CPA Payments

As a small business owner selling CPA products, you need a reliable payment processing service that can handle your transactions securely and efficiently. Helcim is a top choice for business owners in this field, offering a range of features that make it the best option for processing CPA payments.

Recurring Payments Supported

One of the key benefits of using Helcim is its ability to support recurring payments. Many CPA products require customers to pay for ongoing services or subscriptions, and Helcim makes it easy to set up and manage these types of transactions. With Helcim, you can automate your billing process and ensure that payments are processed on time, every time.

Robust Fraud Prevention Tools

Another advantage of using Helcim is its robust fraud prevention tools. As a business owner in the CPA industry, you may be at higher risk for fraudulent transactions. Helcim's advanced security measures, including real-time fraud monitoring and chargeback management, can help protect your business from financial loss.

Competitive Rates and Transparent Pricing

Helcim offers competitive rates and transparent pricing, with no hidden fees or long-term contracts. This makes it easier for you to budget and manage your payment processing costs, while also providing peace of mind that you won't be hit with unexpected charges.

If you're looking for a payment processing service that can handle CPA transactions with ease and security, Helcim is an excellent choice. With its advanced features, reliable service, and competitive pricing, Helcim is the best option for small business owners in the CPA industry.


Host Merchant Services logo

Host Merchant Services

Top Pick for CPA Credit Card Processing

Host Merchant Services is a Newark, Delaware-based merchant account provider that is well-suited for independent CPAs and CPA firms. The company's products and services include point-of-sale solutions for contractors, online marketing tools, custom third-party software integration, an online payment gateway and virtual terminal, and merchant cash advance. Host Merchant Services specializes in e-commerce businesses and provides a free website and business-class email address to interested merchants. Host is an ideal option for accountants who would like to accept online and in-person payments at a reasonable cost.

Host Merchant Services has received only positive feedback on public forums, with most reviewers singling out the company's customer service for praise. Host offers interchange-plus pricing with no early termination fees to all of its merchants, meaning that users will enjoy the most transparent pricing model and can cancel service without penalty. The BBB gives Host an “A+” rating, and CPO also gives the company an “A+.”

Host Merchant Services: The Best CPA Payment Processing Option for Small Business Owners

As a small business owner selling CPA products, finding a reliable credit card processing service provider can be a challenging task. That's where Host Merchant Services comes in. With years of experience in the industry, Host Merchant Services has established itself as one of the best options for businesses that sell CPA products and need to accept credit card payments from their customers.

Competitive Pricing Structure

One of the main reasons why Host Merchant Services is an excellent choice for CPA payment processing is its competitive pricing structure. They offer transparent pricing, with no hidden fees or surprises, allowing you to budget effectively for your business. Additionally, they offer customized pricing plans that cater to the unique needs of your business. This means that you can choose a plan that aligns with your business model, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Top of The Line Security Features

Another critical factor that makes Host Merchant Services the best option for small business owners is their commitment to security. They provide top-of-the-line security features, including PCI-compliant payment processing, to ensure that your customers' sensitive information is safe and secure. With Host Merchant Services, you can rest easy knowing that your customers' information is protected at all times.

Intuitive Online Portal and Excellent Customer Service

In addition to their excellent pricing and security features, Host Merchant Services offers a user-friendly platform that makes it easy to process payments. They provide an intuitive online portal that allows you to manage your payments, view transaction reports, and reconcile your accounts with ease. Furthermore, they provide exceptional customer support, ensuring that you get the help you need when you need it.

Host Merchant Services is an excellent option for small business owners selling CPA products and looking for a reliable credit card processing service provider. With their competitive pricing, commitment to security, user-friendly platform, and exceptional customer support, you can't go wrong with Host Merchant Services. Contact them today to learn more about how they can help your business grow.

For more information, visit the Host Merchant Services website or call (888) 727-4538.


PaymentCloud Logo

PaymentCloud

Top Pick for CPA Merchant Accounts

Based in Woodland Hills, California, PaymentCloud is a merchant account provider that specializes in serving high-risk business types. The company's products and services include point-of-sale solutions, mobile phone swipers, an online payment gateway and virtual terminal, EMV-compatible terminals, and merchant cash advances. With this kind of flexibility in payment options, PaymentCloud is a good option for CPAs.

PaymentCloud provides a dedicated account rep to all new merchants for the life of the account. The company has not received any negative complaints on consumer forums, and it customizes its pricing according to each merchant's business type and processing history. The BBB does not maintain a profile for PaymentCloud at this time, but CPO gives the company an “A.”

PaymentCloud: Credit Card Processing Service for Small Businesses Selling CPA Products

PaymentCloud is an excellent option for small businesses selling Cost Per Action (CPA) products and need to accept credit card payments from their customers. CPA products are typically digital goods or services that require payment upon completion of a specific action, such as signing up for a newsletter or completing a survey. PaymentCloud understands the unique payment processing needs of businesses selling CPA products and offers customized solutions to meet their requirements.

Proficient in High-Risk Transactions

One of the main reasons why PaymentCloud is an excellent option for small businesses selling CPA products is its ability to handle high-risk transactions. Many credit card processing companies shy away from businesses selling CPA products because they are considered high-risk. However, PaymentCloud specializes in working with high-risk merchants, including those selling CPA products. They have extensive experience in handling these types of transactions and can help businesses reduce chargebacks and fraud.

Exceptional Fraud Detection and Prevention

Another reason why PaymentCloud is a great option for small businesses selling CPA products is its advanced fraud detection and prevention tools. PaymentCloud uses state-of-the-art technology to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions, which is crucial for businesses selling digital goods or services. These tools include real-time fraud monitoring, chargeback alerts, and customized fraud filters that can be tailored to the specific needs of each business.

Simple and Transparent Credit Card Processing Fees

In addition to its specialized solutions for businesses selling CPA products, PaymentCloud also offers competitive pricing, transparent fees, and excellent customer service. Their pricing is simple and transparent, with no hidden fees or long-term contracts. They also offer 24/7 customer support, so businesses can get help when they need it most.

PaymentCloud is an excellent option for small businesses selling CPA products and needing to accept credit card payments. With its expertise in high-risk payment processing, advanced fraud detection and prevention tools, competitive pricing, and excellent customer service, PaymentCloud is a reliable and trustworthy partner for any business looking to grow and succeed in the digital marketplace.

For more information, visit the PaymentCloud website or call (888) 506-7859.


CDG Commerce

cdg commerce logo

Top Pick for CPA Merchant Services

Located in Chesapeake, Virginia, CDG Commerce is another reliable option for CPA firms of all sizes and types. CDG has been privately owned since 1998 and offers a proprietary online payment gateway (as well as a discount on Authorize.Net's payment gateway), a virtual terminal, QuickBooks integration, mobile phone processing, sales reporting, security breach protection, and vulnerability scanning. CDG Commerce is ideal for accountants who require a simple, low-cost, fully integrated processing solution across all payment channels.

CDG Commerce only charges a low, fixed fee per transaction and offers competitive contractual terms, including no annual fees, monthly minimums, or termination fees. CDG also offers next day funding to most business types. CDG has earned an “A+” rating in our review as well as an “A+” rating with the Better Business Bureau.

CDG Commerce Meets All of Your CPA Credit Card Processing Needs

CDG Commerce is an excellent option for business owners who sell CPA products and need to accept credit card payments from customers. CDG Commerce specializes in payment processing for high-risk industries, such as the CPA industry. They understand the unique challenges that come with accepting credit card payments for these types of businesses and have tailored their services to meet their specific needs.

Advanced Fraud Detection Technology

One of the key benefits of using CDG Commerce for CPA payment processing is their advanced fraud detection and prevention technology. With the rise of online transactions, fraud is a significant concern for any business that accepts credit card payments. CDG Commerce's fraud prevention measures are top-notch, helping to protect your business from chargebacks and other types of fraudulent activity.

Competitive Fees and Comprehensive Pricing

Another advantage of using CDG Commerce for CPA payment processing is their competitive pricing. They offer transparent and affordable pricing plans that cater specifically to small businesses. Unlike many other payment processing companies, CDG Commerce doesn't charge excessive fees for chargebacks, PCI compliance, or termination. This means you can have peace of mind knowing that you won't be hit with unexpected costs down the line.

Strong Customer Support

In addition to their robust fraud prevention measures and competitive pricing, CDG Commerce also offers top-notch customer support. As a small business owner, you need a payment processing partner that you can rely on when you have questions or concerns. CDG Commerce's customer support team is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have and provide assistance when you need it.

CDG Commerce is a great option for business owners who sell CPA products and need to accept credit card payments from customers. Their payment processing services are tailored to meet the unique needs of high-risk industries like CPA, with advanced fraud detection and prevention technology, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer support. If you're looking for a reliable payment processing partner for your CPA business, CDG Commerce is definitely worth considering.

For more information, see the CDG Commerce website or call (888) 393-1079.


Additional Options

national processing logo

National Processing

National Processing offers several small business processing options and can assist CPAs with identifying the right POS system or virtual terminal for their needs. The company offers two pricing options: one an interchange-plus program or a “zero-fee” program, both of which offer competitively priced rates.

National Processing has a clean reputation with just one complaint filed in the last three years, which is not concerning in nature. Our independent review finds National Processing to be a solid option for most CPAs.

National Processing: A Great Payment Processing Solution for Selling CPA Products

If you're a business owner who sells CPA products, you know that accepting credit card payments from customers is essential to keeping your business running smoothly. That's where National Processing comes in. With its robust payment processing solutions, National Processing is the ideal option for businesses selling CPA products.

Secure and Efficient Payment Processing

National Processing offers specialized payment processing solutions that cater specifically to the needs of businesses selling CPA products. These solutions are designed to ensure that you can accept payments from your customers in a secure and efficient manner. National Processing's advanced fraud prevention tools and chargeback management systems help to protect your business against fraudulent transactions and chargebacks, which are particularly common in the CPA industry.

Fully Customizable Payment Processing Solutions

National Processing's payment processing solutions are fully customizable, meaning that you can tailor them to meet the unique needs of your business. Whether you need to accept payments online, in-store, or on-the-go, National Processing has a solution that will work for you. Plus, their solutions are scalable, so they can grow with your business as your needs change over time.

Cost Effective Pricing for Small Businesses

National Processing's payment processing solutions are cost-effective, making them an ideal option for small businesses. With competitive pricing and transparent fee structures, National Processing helps businesses save money on payment processing fees. This means that you can keep more of your hard-earned revenue and reinvest it back into your business.

If you're a business owner who sells CPA products and needs to accept credit card payments from customers, National Processing is the payment processing solution for you. Their specialized payment processing solutions, customizable options, and cost-effective pricing make them the perfect partner for businesses of all sizes.

For more information, see the National Processing website or call (385) 777-1235.


Shopify Logo
Shopify Logo

Shopify

Shopify is primarily known as an e-commerce platform for online merchants, but the company also offers a point-of-sale software solution for iPad and iPhone. The Shopify POS app can accept cards via a headphone jack card swiper, or a $129 EMV reader and includes features like inventory syncing with a web store, emailed receipts, automatic tax calculations, basic email marketing, and in-store refunds. These online payment options and the familiarity of the Shopify brand are great for CPA clients who will feel safe and comfortable using the platform.

The Shopify payment service can also be paired with a Shopify online store, which comes with numerous customization options. Shopify POS is a great fit for CPAs who would like to accept payments on-site using their phones as well as through online billing. Shopify has an “A+” rating with the BBB, and we give it an “A+” rating as well.

Why Shopify is a Top Rated Option for CPA Payment Processing

Shopify is one of the most popular e-commerce platforms available, and for good reason. If you are a business owner who sells CPA (cost per action) products and needs to accept credit card payments from customers, Shopify is an excellent option for your payment processing needs. Here are just a few of the reasons why:

Seamless Integration

Shopify makes it incredibly easy to integrate credit card processing into your online store. The platform comes with its own payment gateway, Shopify Payments, which is designed to seamlessly integrate with your online store. This means you can start accepting credit card payments from your customers right away without any hassle.

Secure Transactions

Security is a top priority when it comes to payment processing, especially for CPA products where transactions can be higher in value. Shopify offers a robust security system to ensure that all transactions are safe and secure. The platform is certified Level 1 PCI DSS compliant, which is the highest level of security certification available.

Affordable Fees

When it comes to payment processing, fees can add up quickly. Shopify offers competitive rates for credit card processing, and there are no hidden fees or surprises. This makes it easy for business owners to understand their costs and budget accordingly.

Mobile Payments

With more and more customers shopping on their mobile devices, it's important to have a payment processing solution that is mobile-friendly. Shopify Payments is designed to work seamlessly with mobile devices, so your customers can easily make payments from their smartphones and tablets.

Shopify is a fantastic option for business owners who sell CPA products and need to accept credit card payments from customers. With its seamless integration, robust security, affordable fees, and mobile-friendly payment processing, Shopify is a top choice for small businesses looking to streamline their payment processing system.

For more information, visit the Shopify website or call (888) 746-7439.


Frequently Asked Questions: CPAs Credit Card Processing

What is a merchant account?

A merchant account is a type of bank account that allows businesses to accept payments in multiple ways, usually debit or credit cards. It acts as an agreement between a retailer, a merchant bank, and payment processors for the settlement of credit card and/or debit card transactions.

Why do CPAs need a merchant account?

CPAs (Certified Public Accountants) often deal with various transactions involving their services, such as accounting, auditing, tax preparation, and consulting. A merchant account facilitates smooth, secure transactions, providing a convenient way for clients to pay for these services.

What should I consider when looking for a merchant account for my CPA firm?

Some key factors to consider are:
  – Pricing and Fees: Understand the costs involved, including transaction fees, monthly fees, and any additional charges.
  – Security: Ensure that the provider complies with PCI-DSS standards to protect client data.
  – Integration: The system should easily integrate with your accounting software.
  – Customer Service: Reliable customer support is crucial for addressing any issues or concerns.
  – Features: Look for features like automatic payment reminders, recurring billing, and online payment options.

Where can I find reviews or ratings for different merchant account providers?

Websites like Capterra, G2, Trustpilot, and Google Reviews provide user reviews and ratings for different service providers, including merchant account providers. You can also refer to financial publications or forums for professional reviews and recommendations.

Can I negotiate fees with merchant account providers?

Yes, some aspects of the fees can sometimes be negotiated with the provider. However, this depends on various factors such as your transaction volume and the provider's policies.

What are some good merchant account providers for CPA firms?

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, some good providers include Square, Stripe, PayPal, QuickBooks Payments, and Authorize.net. However, the “best” provider depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Be sure to check recent reviews and do thorough research to choose the right provider for you.

Are there any risks involved in having a merchant account?

While having a merchant account generally poses minimal risk, it's crucial to be aware of potential issues like fraud, chargebacks, and data breaches. Choosing a provider with robust security measures helps mitigate these risks.

How long does it take to set up a merchant account?

The time it takes to set up a merchant account can vary depending on the provider. Some providers can have your account set up within a few hours, while others may take a few days. The process usually involves completing an application, undergoing a credit check, and setting up your payment gateway or card reader.

What is PCI Compliance and why is it important?

PCI Compliance refers to meeting the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), which sets the standards for all businesses that handle card payments. Compliance is crucial as it helps protect sensitive cardholder data and reduces the risk of data breaches.

What happens if there's a dispute with a transaction (a chargeback)?

In case of a dispute, the credit card issuer may initiate a chargeback, reversing the transaction. The merchant will then have an opportunity to respond and provide evidence to challenge the chargeback. If the merchant can't prove the validity of the transaction, they will have to refund the amount to the customer.

Reader Comments

Tell Us What You Think

1 User Reviews

  • Liam

    I want to express my heartfelt thanks for your informative and detailed article on “Best Merchant Accounts for CPAs”. As a practicing CPA, your guide has been instrumental in helping me navigate the intricacies of this specific area.

    Your comprehensive evaluation of each merchant account, highlighting their unique benefits, possible drawbacks, and notable features, was impeccably executed. The clear and concise manner in which you presented complex information made it easy for readers like myself to understand and appreciate.

    Your emphasis on key elements such as transaction fees, customer service, and security measures offered a well-rounded view of what one can expect from these providers. I found your insights on the integration with accounting software and the handling of recurring payments particularly useful.

    It’s clear that this article is the result of extensive research, time, and a deep understanding of the needs of CPA professionals. Your commitment to delivering accurate, relevant, and helpful information has not only simplified a typically complicated decision-making process, but it has also empowered professionals like me to make informed decisions.

    Thank you once again for your invaluable contribution to this field. Your hard work, dedication, and expertise are deeply appreciated.

Tell Us How They Treated You

Sharing your experience influences our rating and helps other business owners make informed decisions. Please take a moment to tell us if they are serving you well. Your email address will never be published, shared or sold. We only use it to authenticate that you are a real person and, if you select the option for it, to let you know if someone replies to your comment. Required fields are marked *

Comments must contain details about your experience. Please do not use ALL CAPS. Self-promotion, marketing content, or contact information of any kind will not be published. By submitting a comment, you are agreeing to our Comment Policy

Copyright

Copyright © 2024 CardPaymentOptions.com, Inc. (Digital Fingerprint: 0d38c6720f0d78a701b74d58653af608). Getting paid to re-write this page? Click here to earn a reward.

Any unauthorized copying and reproduction of the content of this page, including all meta data and computer code, is strictly prohibited. While the information in the above article is believed to be accurate as of its publish date, the author and publisher make no representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the contents. The author and publisher shall in no event be held liable to any party for any direct, indirect, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of this material, which is provided “as is,” and without warranties. Any and all use of trade names and/or marks are for identification purposes only and shall not be construed as a claim of affiliation, or otherwise, with CardPaymentOptions.com, Inc. ("CPO") in any form. The sole purpose of the material presented herein is to alert, educate, and inform readers. It is not intended as legal or financial advice. We may earn revenue if you obtain services from a provider that we recommend. See this page to learn how we support our operations.