Merchant Accounts for Non-Profit Credit Card Processing

This is an illustration of a non-profit organizations office space.

Finding Merchant Services for Non-profit Credit Card Processing

Non-profit organizations occupy a unique position within the credit card processing industry due to their donation-based revenue model. While standard businesses might require features like sales management, inventory, or point-of-sale solutions, non-profits tend to focus on necessities like recurring billing, donor outreach, and event planning. This means that many traditional payment processors that primarily cater to for-profit enterprises may not offer the tools necessary for a non-profit to grow its donor base and keep overhead low.

Generally speaking, there are two paths that a non-profit organization can take once it has chosen to accept credit cards. The first method is to set up payment processing through a traditional merchant account provider and then use integrated third-party solutions like SalesForce, NeonCRM, Exceed! Basic, or QuickBooks for donor management, tax filing, and online advertising. Although this method requires more initial effort and research, it is usually the cheapest option because it allows non-profits to negotiate the most competitive rates for each service and only pay for necessary features.

How to Select the Best NonProfit Credit Card Processor

When selecting a credit card processor for a nonprofit business in the USA, there are several key considerations to keep in mind as we have identified below.

Credit Card Processing Fees and Pricing

Nonprofit businesses often operate on tight budgets, so it’s important to choose a credit card processor with reasonable fees and pricing structures. Look for a processor that offers discounted rates for nonprofit organizations or waives certain fees altogether.

Donor Experience

Make sure the credit card processor you select offers a user-friendly interface that is easy for donors to navigate. The easier it is for donors to give, the more likely they are to make a donation.

Security

It is essential to choose a credit card processor that prioritizes data security. Look for a processor that is PCI-compliant and offers tokenization and encryption to protect donor information.

Integration

If your nonprofit uses a donor management system or fundraising platform, it’s important to choose a credit card processor that integrates seamlessly with these tools. This will help you streamline your operations and simplify your bookkeeping.

Excellent Customer Support

Look for a credit card processor that offers excellent customer support, with responsive and knowledgeable representatives available to help you with any issues that arise.

Reputation

Finally, make sure to choose a credit card processor with a good reputation in the nonprofit industry. Look for a processor that has experience working with other nonprofit organizations and that has positive reviews and feedback from other nonprofits. You can consider our review on this website, by simply searching for the processor in the search bar at the top of this page.

By considering these factors, you can select the best credit card processor for your nonprofit organization and ensure that you are able to accept donations securely and efficiently.


Top Nonprofit Merchant Account Providers

helcim logo

#1 Helcim

Top Pick for Non-Profit Credit Card Processing

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 the Best Credit Card Processing Service for Non-Profit Organizations

Non-Profit Organizations often rely on donations and sales of their products to fund their operations. Therefore, having a reliable and secure payment processing system is crucial for their financial stability. Helcim is an excellent option for Non-Profit Organizations that need to accept credit card payments from customers who are buying their products. Here are a few reasons why:

Transparent Pricing

Helcim offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees, making it easy for Non-Profit Organizations to budget their payment processing costs. The company charges a flat rate of 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction, regardless of the type of credit card used. This simplicity allows Non-Profits to know exactly what they are paying for and avoid unexpected charges.

Non-Profit-Friendly Features

Helcim offers several features that are particularly useful for Non-Profit Organizations. For instance, they provide recurring billing options that allow Non-Profits to charge their donors or members on a regular basis automatically. This feature is especially helpful for Non-Profits that rely on monthly donations from their supporters.

Security and Fraud Protection

Helcim takes security seriously and provides Non-Profit Organizations with several layers of protection against fraud. They use the latest encryption technology to ensure that credit card information is kept secure during the payment process. Moreover, they offer chargeback protection, which can help Non-Profits avoid losses from fraudulent chargebacks.

Helcim is an excellent option for Non-Profit Organizations that need to accept credit card payments from their customers. With transparent pricing, Non-Profit-friendly features, and robust security and fraud protection, Helcim is a great partner for Non-Profits looking to streamline their payment processing and improve their financial stability.

For more information and pricing, visit Helcim.


Host Merchant Services logo

Host Merchant Services

Top Rated for Non-Profit Merchant Accounts

Host Merchant Services is a Newark, Delaware-based merchant account provider that is a great fit for non-profit organizations. The company’s products and services include point-of-donation solutions, online marketing tools, an online payment gateway and virtual terminal, and mobile credit card processing. Host Merchant Services advertises that its HMS Gives program can help non-profits receive the lowest possible per-transaction rates.

Host Merchant Services has received only positive feedback on public forums, with most reviewers singling out the company’s customer service for praise. The company 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: A Great Credit Card Processing Option for Non-Profit Organizations

Non-profit organizations require a reliable and affordable payment processing solution to accept credit card payments from donors and customers. Host Merchant Services is a top-rated credit card processing company that offers a range of payment processing solutions specifically designed for non-profit organizations. Here are some reasons why Host Merchant Services is the best option for small business owners who own non-profit organizations and need to accept credit card payments from customers who are buying non-profit products.

Affordable and Transparent Pricing

Host Merchant Services offers affordable and transparent pricing for non-profit organizations, with no hidden fees or surprises. Their pricing plans are straightforward and easy to understand, making it easy for non-profit organizations to budget for their payment processing costs. Moreover, Host Merchant Services offers a free cost analysis to ensure that non-profit organizations are getting the best deal possible.

Customized Payment Processing Solutions

Host Merchant Services understands the unique needs of non-profit organizations and offers customized payment processing solutions to meet their specific requirements. They offer a variety of payment processing options, including online payments, mobile payments, and point-of-sale solutions. Additionally, they can integrate their payment processing solutions with popular fundraising platforms to streamline the donation process for non-profit organizations.

Robust Security and Fraud Prevention Measures

Host Merchant Services takes security seriously and offers robust security and fraud prevention measures to protect non-profit organizations and their customers from data breaches and fraudulent activities. They are PCI compliant and use state-of-the-art encryption and tokenization technologies to protect sensitive data. They also offer chargeback management services to help non-profit organizations resolve chargeback disputes quickly and efficiently.

Host Merchant Services is the best credit card processing option for non-profit organizations that need to accept credit card payments from customers who are buying non-profit products. Their affordable and transparent pricing, customized payment processing solutions, and robust security and fraud prevention measures make them the ideal partner for non-profit organizations.

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


PaymentCloud Logo

PaymentCloud

Top Rated for Non-Profit Merchant Services

Based in Woodland Hills, California, PaymentCloud is a merchant account provider that specializes in serving retail businesses of nearly any type. This includes “high-risk” retail industries such as CBD and Kratom businesses. 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. 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.”

Why PaymentCloud is the Ideal Payment Processing Service for Non-Profit Organizations?

As a small business owner running a Non-Profit Organization, you may have encountered difficulties finding the right payment processing service that fits your unique needs. PaymentCloud provides an ideal solution for small businesses that require credit card processing services for Non-Profit products. With PaymentCloud, you can accept payments from your customers securely and conveniently.

Industry Expertise

PaymentCloud has extensive experience in providing payment processing services to Non-Profit Organizations, and their team of experts understands the unique challenges that Non-Profit businesses face. They provide tailor-made solutions to ensure that your organization can accept payments without worrying about high fees, chargebacks, or fraud. PaymentCloud is committed to helping Non-Profit Organizations focus on their core mission by providing an affordable, reliable, and secure payment processing service.

PaymentCloud’s Non-Profit Payment Processing Features

PaymentCloud offers a variety of payment processing features that are specifically designed for Non-Profit Organizations. With PaymentCloud, you can accept all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. They also offer a virtual terminal that allows you to accept payments over the phone, email, or even by mail. PaymentCloud’s payment processing solutions are PCI compliant, ensuring the highest level of security for your customers’ data.

Many Additional Features to Benefit Non-Profit Organizations

In addition to their payment processing services, PaymentCloud offers other features that can benefit Non-Profit Organizations, such as recurring billing, invoicing, and donation tracking. PaymentCloud’s reporting tools allow you to keep track of your transactions and generate reports for accounting and tax purposes.

If you’re a small business owner running a Non-Profit Organization, PaymentCloud provides the ideal payment processing solution for your needs. With their experience in serving Non-Profit Organizations and their tailor-made payment processing solutions, PaymentCloud can help you accept payments securely, efficiently, and affordably. So, whether you’re accepting donations, selling products, or providing services, PaymentCloud is the right choice for your Non-Profit payment processing needs.

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


cdg commerce logo

CDG Commerce

Top Pick for Non-Profit Merchant Accounts

CDG Commerce is yet another positively reviewed processor on this list that offers month-to-month contracts, no early termination fee, few complaints, and excellent customer support. Privately owned and operated since 1998, CDG Commerce can provide processing solutions for a non-profit organization’s on-site or online payments.

CDG Commerce offers mobile and in-person card acceptance for the same fixed, low per-transaction rates, and its online processing costs only slightly more. The company provides a payment gateway that enables reporting, recurring billing, and built-in QuickBooks integration, which is essential for most small non-profits that need to stay on top of their accounting.

CDG Commerce provides phone support, live chat support, and email support to all of its organizations. The company currently has an “A+” rating with the BBB and an “A+” rating on CardPaymentOptions.com.

CDG Commerce: A Great Credit Card Processing Solution for Non-Profit Organizations

Non-profit organizations require a payment processing solution that is tailored to their unique needs. CDG Commerce is an excellent option for small business owners who own non-profit organizations and need to accept credit card payments from customers who are buying non-profit products. Here are a few reasons why CDG Commerce stands out as a great credit card processing solution for non-profit organizations.

Discounted Processing Rates

CDG Commerce provides non-profit organizations with a discounted processing rate. This is because non-profit organizations typically have lower profit margins than for-profit businesses, and CDG Commerce recognizes this by offering discounted rates to help non-profit organizations save money on credit card processing fees.

Variety of Payment Options

CDG Commerce offers a variety of payment processing options that are ideal for non-profit organizations. For example, CDG Commerce can integrate with popular donation platforms such as DonorPerfect and Donately. This makes it easy for non-profit organizations to accept donations online, which is crucial for organizations that rely on donations to fund their operations.

Advanced Security Technology

CDG Commerce prioritizes the security of its clients’ data. Non-profit organizations often handle sensitive data, such as donors’ personal and financial information. CDG Commerce utilizes advanced encryption and tokenization technologies to protect this data, ensuring that non-profit organizations can process credit card payments with confidence and peace of mind.

If you’re a small business owner who owns a non-profit organization and needs a credit card processing solution, CDG Commerce is an excellent option to consider. With discounted processing rates, integration with popular donation platforms, and a strong focus on data security, CDG Commerce is well-suited to meet the unique needs of non-profit organizations.

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


Additional NonProfit Payment Processing Options

Blackbaud Logo

Blackbaud

Founded in 1981, Blackbaud is one of the largest and best-known all-around software providers for non-profit organizations. The company offers a massive number of services, including donor management, accounting software, event planning, social media engagement, training, analytics, and payment processing.

Blackbaud offers every service that a non-profit could conceivably need, but its closed software ecosystem is generally more expensive and restrictive than competitive third-party offerings. For this reason, Blackbaud is best suited for medium-to-large non-profits that are willing to pay a little more for the convenience and simplicity of keeping all their solutions with one provider. Smaller organizations may find the overall service package a little too costly or robust for their needs.

Blackbaud is headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina. The company does not have a rating with the BBB but you can find Blackbaud reviews in our article about the company.

Why Blackbaud is a Top Choice for Non-Profit Payment Processing

For small business owners running non-profit organizations, finding a reliable payment processing solution is crucial to accepting credit card payments from customers who are buying non-profit products. Blackbaud is a leading provider of payment processing services for non-profit organizations, offering a wide range of features and benefits that make it an excellent option for small businesses in this industry.

Specialized in the Non-Profit Organization Industry

One of the key advantages of using Blackbaud is their expertise in serving non-profit organizations. Unlike many other payment processors that cater to a broad range of industries, Blackbaud specializes in providing payment solutions specifically for non-profits. This means that they have a deep understanding of the unique challenges and requirements that non-profit businesses face, such as managing donations and grants, and complying with complex tax regulations.

Security and Compliance

Another reason why Blackbaud is a top choice for non-profit payment processing is their focus on security and compliance. Non-profit organizations deal with sensitive financial information, and protecting this data is essential to maintaining the trust of donors and customers. Blackbaud is fully compliant with PCI-DSS and other industry standards, providing advanced encryption and security protocols to ensure that transactions are safe and secure.

User-Friendly Payment Processing

In addition to their expertise and focus on security, Blackbaud offers a user-friendly payment processing platform that is easy to set up and use. Their platform is designed with non-profit businesses in mind, and includes features like recurring donations, customized donation forms, and integrations with popular fundraising tools. With Blackbaud, non-profit organizations can streamline their payment processing and focus on what matters most – making a difference in their communities.

Blackbaud is an excellent option for small business owners who run non-profit organizations and need to accept credit card payments from customers who are buying non-profit products. With their expertise, security, and user-friendly platform, Blackbaud can help non-profits efficiently manage their payment processing and focus on their mission.


DonorPerfect

An all-in-one software solution from Softerware, Inc., DonorPerfect provides donor management, membership tracking, integrated payments, QuickBooks syncing, and advanced custom reporting for non-profits. DonorPerfect is partnered with TransFirst as its integrated payment processor.

DonorPerfect is a slightly more affordable service than Blackbaud overall, with various pricing tiers that scale up according to the number of donor accounts a non-profit needs to manage. It also offers some third-party integrations that may help organizations keep costs down. Its payment processing through TransFirst is about average for the industry in terms of cost, but the company does state that it may be possible in some cases for organizations to use a different merchant account provider. Taken as a whole, DonorPerfect is a solid solution for non-profits of most sizes.

You can find more DonorPerfect reviews in our article about the company.

DonorPerfect: A Great Choice for Non-Profit Credit Card Processing

Non-profit organizations have unique payment processing needs. They need to accept payments for donations, events, and merchandise while keeping their donor’s sensitive information secure. DonorPerfect offers a comprehensive payment processing solution for non-profit organizations that is safe, easy to use, and affordable.

Secure Payment Processing

DonorPerfect’s payment processing solution is PCI-compliant, which means it adheres to the highest security standards in the industry. Non-profit organizations can trust that their donor’s information is secure when they make a payment online, over the phone, or in person. The payment gateway is encrypted and offers fraud detection and prevention tools to protect against unauthorized access.

Affordable Rates

DonorPerfect offers competitive rates for non-profit payment processing. They understand that non-profits need to be cost-efficient, so they offer affordable pricing with no hidden fees or contracts. Non-profits can benefit from their customized pricing plans that are designed to fit their unique payment processing needs. They can also take advantage of DonorPerfect’s integrations with leading non-profit payment processors to get the best rates possible.

Easy Integration

DonorPerfect’s payment processing solution integrates seamlessly with their non-profit CRM software, allowing non-profits to manage their payments and donor data in one place. They can easily process payments, issue refunds, and generate reports on their payment history. DonorPerfect also offers support for recurring donations and pledge payments, making it easier for non-profits to manage their cash flow.

DonorPerfect offers an excellent payment processing solution for non-profit organizations. Their PCI-compliant, secure payment gateway, affordable rates, and easy integration make them a great choice for non-profits that need to accept credit card payments from customers who are buying non-profit products.


Fundly Logo

Fundly

Fundly is an online crowdfunding platform specifically designed for non-profit fundraising. Instead of offering a wide array of long-term organizational software solutions, Fundly provides non-profits with a simple online profile, social integration, and payment acceptance in a similar fashion to Kickstarter or Indiegogo.

Fundly does not charge any monthly or annual fees, but its per-transaction fees are relatively high for the industry. There is no upfront cost to use Fundly, but the service charges roughly 5-7% of a campaign’s earnings depending on volume. This makes it a strong option for young, small, or one-off non-profit initiatives, but not a viable solution for large or growing organizations. Its social share features make it even more optimal for small, close-knit donor communities where a small online presence might provide a clear advantage.

Fundly is headquartered in Palo Alto, California, and was founded in 2009. Find more Fundly reviews in our review of the company.

Fundly: A Top Choice for Non-Profit Credit Card Processing

Accepting credit card payments is essential for Non-Profit organizations to sell their products and services online. However, finding a payment processor that caters to the unique needs of Non-Profit organizations can be challenging. This is where Fundly comes in. Fundly is a payment processing service designed specifically for Non-Profits, making it an excellent option for organizations looking for a reliable and affordable payment processing solution.

Streamlined Donations and Fundraising

Fundly’s platform is built to simplify the process of accepting donations and fundraising for Non-Profit organizations. With its intuitive interface and easy-to-use tools, Non-Profits can quickly set up fundraising campaigns and accept donations online. Moreover, Fundly offers customization options that allow organizations to personalize their fundraising pages, making it easier to attract donors and sponsors.

Affordable and Transparent Fees

As a Non-Profit, managing finances is critical, and that includes payment processing fees. Fundly offers affordable transaction fees, ensuring that organizations can keep more of their funds. Additionally, Fundly’s fee structure is transparent, with no hidden costs or setup fees, making it easier for Non-Profits to budget and plan for expenses.

Secure and Reliable Payment Processing

Security is a top priority for Fundly. They use encryption technology to protect Non-Profit organizations and their donors’ sensitive information, ensuring that every transaction is secure. Furthermore, Fundly’s payment processing services are reliable, with 99.9% uptime, meaning Non-Profits can accept donations at any time, without worrying about downtime.

Fundly is an ideal payment processing solution for Non-Profit organizations looking to accept credit card payments from customers buying Non-Profit products. With its streamlined donation and fundraising tools, affordable and transparent fees, and secure payment processing, Fundly offers everything Non-Profits need to manage their online transactions effectively.


Frequently Ask Questions: Merchant Accounts for Non-Profits Credit Card Processing

What are merchant accounts for non-profits?

Merchant accounts for non-profits are financial services that cater specifically to charitable organizations and non-profit entities. These accounts enable non-profits to accept credit card and electronic payments from donors and supporters, facilitating seamless and secure donation processing.

Why do non-profits need specific merchant accounts?

Non-profits have unique payment processing needs, including the acceptance of tax-deductible donations and the ability to manage recurring contributions from donors. Specific merchant account providers for non-profits understand these requirements and offer solutions tailored to meet the needs of charitable organizations.

How can I find the best merchant account provider for my non-profit organization?

To find the best merchant account provider for your non-profit organization, consider the following steps:

a. **Research Non-Profit-Focused Processors:** Look for payment processors that specialize in serving non-profit organizations. These providers will understand the specific needs and challenges faced by non-profits and can offer suitable solutions.

b. **Verify Tax-Deductible Donation Support:** Ensure that the merchant account provider can process tax-deductible donations and provide receipts or acknowledgments to donors as needed.

c. **Check for Recurring Donation Options:** If your non-profit relies on recurring donations or membership contributions, choose a merchant account that supports recurring billing to streamline donor management.

d. **Compare Transaction Fees and Rates:** Assess the processing fees, transaction rates, and any other costs associated with each potential merchant account provider. Choose a provider with transparent and competitive pricing that aligns with your non-profit’s size and donation volume.

e. **Check for Security Measures:** Verify that the merchant account provider offers secure payment processing to protect donor information and financial data.

Can non-profits use regular merchant accounts for payment processing?

While non-profits can use regular merchant accounts offered by mainstream providers, specific merchant accounts for non-profits are often more suitable. These accounts are designed to handle the unique needs and challenges faced by charitable organizations and often offer features tailored to non-profit donation processing.

Are there any specific legal considerations for non-profits when choosing a merchant account provider?

Yes, non-profits must adhere to legal requirements related to tax-deductible donations, donor data protection, and compliance with charitable organization regulations. Choose a merchant account provider that has experience in serving non-profits and understands the legal landscape to ensure proper compliance.

How long does it take to set up a merchant account for a non-profit organization?

The time it takes to set up a merchant account for a non-profit organization can vary depending on the provider and the nature of your non-profit. Typically, the setup process can take a few days to a couple of weeks.

Can non-profits accept international donations with a merchant account?

Yes, many merchant account providers for non-profits offer support for international donations, including multi-currency transactions. This can be beneficial for non-profits with a global reach and international donor base.

Can non-profits process both one-time donations and recurring contributions with a merchant account?

Yes, merchant accounts for non-profits usually support both one-time transactions for individual donations and recurring billing for monthly or annual contributions.

Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of when choosing a merchant account for non-profits?

Carefully review the contract terms and fees of potential merchant account providers to identify any hidden costs. Watch out for setup fees, monthly minimums, and any other charges that might impact your overall costs.

Can non-profits switch merchant account providers if they are not satisfied with the service?

Yes, non-profits can switch merchant account providers if they are not satisfied with the service or find a better fit for their specific needs. However, be mindful of any contractual obligations and potential termination fees that might apply.

Finding the best merchant account provider for your non-profit organization is essential for facilitating smooth and secure donation processing. Take the time to research and compare different options to choose a provider that understands the unique needs and challenges of non-profit payment processing.

Reader Comments

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1 User Reviews

  • Stephanie

    As someone who works with a non-profit organization, I can definitely relate to the unique challenges that we face when it comes to accepting credit card payments. It’s really helpful to have a clear list of considerations to keep in mind when choosing a credit card processor that works for our needs. I appreciate the emphasis on finding a processor with good customer support – it’s so important to have someone you can reach out to when things don’t go according to plan.

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