Finding the right UK payment processor can be a bit overwhelming, especially with so many options available. For small businesses in 2025, choosing a reliable payment solution is key to ensuring smooth transactions. This guide will break down the top payment processors in the UK, helping you understand their features, benefits, and what might work best for your business needs.

Key Takeaways

• Consider transaction fees and monthly costs when selecting a processor.
• Look for easy integration with existing business systems.
• Prioritize security features to protect customer data.
• Check for customer support options and availability.
• Evaluate compatibility with popular payment methods.

1. Stripe

Stripe is a big name in payment processing, and for good reason. Millions of businesses around the globe use it, thanks to its wide range of tools for handling payments and digging into data. Stripe really focuses on making the checkout process smooth for customers, which can help reduce those abandoned carts. They let you customize your checkout and accept payments in lots of different ways and currencies.

They take pretty much every major credit and debit card, plus bank transfers, direct debits, and those "click to pay" options. You can also use digital wallets like Alipay, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and WeChat Pay. They even support things like Clearpay and Klarna, plus a bunch of local payment methods, in over 135 currencies. That’s a lot!

Stripe gives you a few ways to integrate. There’s Stripe Checkout, which is their hosted payment gateway. They also have Stripe Elements, which are like building blocks you can easily add to your site. And if you want total control, they have an API. Plus, it works with tons of other systems, like shopping carts, invoicing tools, and even POS systems.

Stripe’s security is top-notch, especially with Radar for Fraud Teams. It’s built right into the payment flow and uses a mix of rules and machine learning to spot suspicious activity. It keeps an eye on payments from all businesses using Stripe, which is pretty reassuring.

Here’s a quick rundown of what Stripe offers:

• Accepts major credit and debit cards
• Supports digital wallets and local payment methods
• Offers various integration options

One thing to keep in mind is that some users have complained about funds being withheld and slow customer service when they really need help. Also, Stripe’s UK fees can be a bit on the higher side, so it’s worth comparing them to other options.

2. PayPal

PayPal is a big name, and most people have used it at some point. It’s super easy to add to your online store, offering customizable options from simple pay buttons that redirect to its payment page or fully customizable integrated checkouts. I remember setting it up for a small craft business I helped out with, and it was surprisingly straightforward.

PayPal is one of the easiest eCommerce payment gateways to add to your online store.

But, there’s a trade-off. The ease of use comes with higher transaction fees. Plus, I’ve heard stories about accounts getting suspended without much explanation, and resolving those issues can take forever. It’s something to keep in mind.

PayPal is great if you’re a small business with a low volume of card transactions and you’re willing to pay a bit more for the convenience. If you’re processing tons of payments, those fees can really add up.

Here’s a quick look at PayPal UK fees:

	Standard	Blended	Interchange
PayPal Online	Fee	Fee	Fee

I’ve seen some folks compare PayPal to Verifone (2Checkout), especially since Verifone acquired 2Checkout. 2Checkout is known for its global support, which is a big deal if you’re selling internationally. They support over 200 markets. However, some users have reported issues with their application process and unexpected account suspensions. So, do your homework before choosing.

3. Worldpay

Worldpay is a pretty big name in the payment processing world, and for good reason. They’ve been around for a while, and they handle a ton of transactions every single day. Worldpay is known for its robust infrastructure and ability to handle large volumes of payments, which makes them a solid choice if you’re expecting your business to grow.

One of the things that stands out about Worldpay is their global reach. They support a huge number of currencies, which is great if you’re dealing with international customers. Plus, they offer a variety of payment options, so you can accept payments in whatever way your customers prefer. They were recognized as Best Performing Gateway and for achieving the Fastest Transactions.

Worldpay’s pricing can be a bit complex, but generally, they offer competitive rates, especially if you’re processing a significant amount of transactions. They have different plans available, so you can choose one that fits your business needs. The transaction fees can be as low as 0.6%, depending on the card type and processing volume. However, keep in mind that some of their plans may come with monthly fees or other charges, so it’s important to read the fine print.

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the things Worldpay offers:

• Extensive global support
• Secure transaction processing
• In-depth reporting and analytics

Worldpay is well-suited for merchants who prefer to stick with one provider over the long term, especially businesses that handle less frequent but higher-value transactions due to its fee structure. Given Worldpay typically offers longer contracts than most providers, merchants that want more flexible agreements will want to look elsewhere.

Worldpay’s versatile payments and speedy transfers are a plus. They can transfer funds in as little as 30 minutes. You can also accept over 120 currencies using Worldpay, with no need for APIs. Overall, Worldpay is a reliable and feature-rich payment processor that can be a great choice for small businesses looking to scale.

4. Adyen

Adyen is a Dutch fintech company that provides an end-to-end payment infrastructure, which means they handle everything from the payment gateway to merchant acquiring. They’ve put a lot of money into their own tech, which lets them cut down on fees they’d otherwise pay to other companies. Basically, they underwrite merchants based on their own rules.

Web and app developers will probably like Adyen’s options for making and changing checkout experiences. You can use prebuilt UI components or a customizable API with lots of resources for developers. Their platform works with over 100 payment methods, so most businesses should be able to find the currencies, local card networks, digital wallets, and bank transfer options their customers want to use. They support over 70 currencies for settlements and payouts, and 36 of those qualify for Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) for Visa, Mastercard and Maestro transactions.

Adyen offers full acquiring in the UK, as well as other countries. Merchants can also connect to other acquirers through their API if they don’t want to use Adyen’s acquiring services. You can integrate Adyen’s client-side libraries with different server-side flows, and they have guides for websites, iOS, Android, React Native, and Flutter.

Adyen is known for its straightforward approach to payment systems and reliable performance.

Some well-known companies that use Adyen include McDonald’s, H&M, Spotify, Uber, Netflix, and eBay. In the UK, some of their clients include Boohoo, Now TV, Debenhams, All Saints and Carwow.

Here’s what makes Adyen stand out:

• Integrated point-of-sale support
• Responsive interface
• Solutions tailored for different industries

Adyen focuses on straightforward approaches and reliable performance. Many users find its service helpful for growing businesses.

If you’re trying to figure out if Adyen fits your budget, you’ll want to look closely at Adyen’s 2025 pricing structure.

5. Revolut

Revolut has become a popular choice, especially for businesses dealing with international transactions. I’ve seen a lot of small business owners switch over because of the multi-currency support. It’s not just hype; it really does simplify things when you’re getting paid in different currencies. Revolut Business offers a multi-currency payment solution tailored for businesses with international customers, making it a top choice for small enterprises in 2025 multi-currency payment solution.

Here’s a quick rundown of why people like it:

• No monthly fees (which is always a plus).
• Support for over 135 currencies – pretty extensive.
• Good fraud detection and data protection measures.

Of course, it’s not perfect. Some users have mentioned that payout times can be a bit slow, and the card machines are on the pricier side. Plus, no 4G card machines, which might be a deal-breaker for some.

I remember when I first looked into Revolut, I was skeptical. Another fintech promising the world, right? But honestly, the ease of managing multiple currencies in one place is a game-changer. It’s saved me a ton on conversion fees, and the interface is pretty user-friendly. Definitely worth checking out if you’re doing business across borders.

6. Fondy

Okay, so Fondy is another payment processor that’s been popping up more and more. It’s not as well-known as some of the bigger names, but it’s definitely worth a look, especially if you’re a smaller business or just starting out. I’ve been doing some digging, and here’s what I’ve found.

Fondy seems to focus on providing a pretty straightforward platform. They offer a range of services, from payment gateway integration to things like invoicing and subscription management. It’s designed to be relatively easy to use, which is a big plus if you’re not super tech-savvy. Plus, they support a bunch of different payment methods, which is always good for reaching a wider customer base.

One thing that stands out is their focus on security. They’re PCI DSS compliant, which is pretty standard, but they also seem to put a lot of effort into fraud prevention. That’s always a good thing to see, especially with online transactions becoming more common.

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the things Fondy offers:

• Payment gateway
• Invoicing tools
• Subscription management
• Support for multiple currencies

Fondy is a payment platform that allows businesses to accept online payments from customers around the world. It supports a variety of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, as well as alternative payment options. Fondy also offers features such as fraud prevention, reporting, and analytics.

I think one of the coolest things about Fondy is that you can create a payment link super easily. It’s a great way to get paid without needing a full-blown e-commerce setup. It’s also worth checking out their pricing structure, as it can vary depending on your business type and transaction volume. Overall, Fondy seems like a solid option, especially if you’re looking for something that’s easy to use and offers a good range of features.

7. Planet

Okay, so Planet. I’ve heard of them, but I don’t know a ton. From what I gather, they’re all about helping businesses deal with international payments. Which, let’s be honest, can be a total headache. You’ve got different currencies, exchange rates that fluctuate like crazy, and then all the local regulations to worry about. It’s enough to make you want to stick to just selling stuff down the street.

Planet Payment aims to simplify cross-border transactions by allowing customers to pay in their preferred currency.

Here’s what I’ve gathered about Planet:

• They focus on international payments, which is great if you’re selling to customers overseas.
• They offer solutions for various business types, from small shops to bigger enterprises.
• They seem to emphasize customer service, which is always a plus.

Dealing with international payments can be a real pain. You have to worry about currency conversion, exchange rates, and different payment methods in different countries. It’s easy to make mistakes that can cost you money or lose customers. A service that simplifies this process can be a lifesaver.

I think the big thing with Planet is that they handle the currency conversion for you. So, your customer in France pays in Euros, and you get the money in pounds (or whatever currency you use). No need to mess around with exchange rates yourself. Plus, they handle chargeback requests, which is a nice bonus. I guess if you’re doing a lot of international business, it’s worth checking them out.

8. Opayo

Opayo, previously known as Sage Pay, is a pretty well-known payment provider in the UK. It was bought by Elavon back in 2020. Opayo focuses on keeping data safe, using encryption and secure systems.

You can use Opayo to take payments online, in person with card terminals, and even over the phone. They also have this analytics thing that gives you insights about your customers. Plus, they offer customer service around the clock, which is pretty handy.

Opayo lets you accept payments from credit and debit cards, plus PayPal and some local payment options like Sofort and iDeal. They also have different ways to integrate, like redirect, hosted, and self-hosted checkouts. If you’re looking for online payment solutions, Opayo is worth considering.

Here’s a quick look at their gateway fees:

Plan	Flex	Plus	Bespoke
Monthly fee	£32	£45	Custom
Transactions	350	More	Custom

Opayo used to be a separate brand, but since 2023, the Opayo websites redirect to Elavon. They handle payments from Visa, Mastercard, and others, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. Standard settlement is 48 hours, but you can pay extra for faster access to your funds.

9. Square

Square is pretty popular, especially with smaller businesses, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a range of hardware and software solutions that are designed to work together seamlessly. It’s like they’ve thought of everything, from the point of sale to online payments. I remember when my cousin started her little bakery, she went with Square because it seemed less intimidating than some of the other options.

Square’s pricing can be a bit of a mixed bag. It’s straightforward in some ways, but it can also feel a little expensive if you’re processing a lot of transactions. You really have to look at your business’s volume and average transaction size to see if it makes sense. They do have different plans, so it’s worth checking out all the options. If you’re trying to decide between Square and Stripe, it’s worth doing a detailed comparison.

One thing I appreciate about Square is their focus on small businesses. They seem to really understand the challenges that come with running a small operation, and their products reflect that. It’s not just about taking payments; it’s about helping businesses manage their inventory, track sales, and even market themselves.

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the things Square offers:

• Point-of-sale systems
• Online payment processing
• Inventory management
• Customer relationship management (CRM) tools
• Payroll services

10. Klarna

Klarna is that payment option you see popping up everywhere online, especially with clothing retailers. It’s become super popular, and for good reason. It lets customers buy stuff and pay for it later, often in installments. This can be a big help for small businesses because it can boost sales by making purchases more manageable for customers.

Klarna offers a few different ways for customers to pay:

• Pay in 3: Splits the purchase into three equal payments.
• Pay Later: Gives customers a set amount of time to pay (like 30 days).
• Financing: Offers longer-term payment plans with interest.

Here’s a quick look at some of Klarna’s fees. Keep in mind these can change, so always double-check the latest info on their site:

Payment Method	Fees
Klarna Pay Now	1.45% + 25p (Austria, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands)
Klarna Pay Later	2.99% + 35p (Austria & Germany), 2.99% + £1 (Netherlands & Belgium)
Klarna Pay in 3	3.99% + 95p (Netherlands), 3.69% + 20p (France)
Klarna Slice It	2.99% (Austria & Germany), 0.99% + 59p (Finland)

Using Klarna can be a smart move, but it’s important to understand the fees involved. Make sure the increased sales outweigh the transaction costs. Also, consider how offering payment plans might affect your cash flow. It’s all about finding the right balance for your business.

11. Elavon

Elavon is a pretty big deal in the payment processing world. Based in Dublin, they’re actually owned by US Bancorp. They made a splash in the UK market when they bought Sage Pay (which then became Opayo) back in 2019. Now, they’ve dropped the Opayo name altogether and everything redirects straight to Elavon.

They handle all the major card networks like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, plus some others. You can also process payments through Apple Pay and Google Pay. One thing to keep in mind is that they don’t support as many alternative payment methods as some of their competitors. Standard settlement time is 48 hours, but you can pay extra for faster next-day settlements.

Elavon works with all sorts of businesses, from restaurants to airlines. They’re especially strong in the travel industry, with a bunch of airline clients, including Virgin Atlantic. Elavon is a global acquirer, gateway, and payment processor.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Handles major card networks
• Processes mobile payments
• Strong in the travel sector

Elavon’s acquisition of Opayo significantly boosted its presence in the UK. This move allowed them to expand their reach and offer a wider range of services to businesses of all sizes. It’s a good example of how the payment processing landscape is constantly evolving.

12. Global Payments

Global Payments is a big player in the payment processing world. They’re not just a gateway; they’re also an acquirer and a payment processor. It’s like a one-stop shop for handling transactions. They aim for both small and large businesses, with a focus on sectors like retail, restaurants, finance, gaming, travel, and even crypto. They also team up with software platforms and marketplaces.

Global Payments provides payment processing services for a significant portion of UK merchants.

They support various payment methods, including Clearpay, Klarna, Open Banking, PayPal, paysafecard, SEPA, and Trustly. For businesses operating internationally, they offer global acquiring in many markets and currencies. They also have solutions for different channels in Europe, North America, and Australia, plus support for alternative payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay.

Choosing the right payment processor can be tough. It’s important to consider your business needs, transaction volumes, and the types of payments you accept. Don’t just go for the cheapest option; think about reliability and customer support too.

Here’s a quick rundown of what they offer:

• Global acquiring in 68 domestic processing markets.
• Support for 135 currencies.
• Omni-channel payment solutions.

Global Payments UK fees are based on a fixed processing fee plus a fee determined by the payment method. For example, Visa, Mastercard & Maestro: 11p + 0.60% + Interchange+. American Express: 3.95%. It’s worth comparing these fees with other providers to see what works best for your business. You can find a list of top payment gateway solutions here.

13. Barclaycard

Barclaycard is a pretty big deal in the UK payments scene. They handle a huge amount of transactions every year, working with tons of businesses. They’re one of the top players when it comes to providing card-acquiring services. However, some say they’ve been losing ground to newer fintech companies that are offering more innovative solutions.

Here’s a quick look at some indicative Barclaycard merchant service fees:

Visa & Mastercard	In Person	Online & Phone
Debit	0.60% – 1.75%	0.85% – 2.05%
Credit	Depends on card used	Depends on card used
JCB	3.75%
Klarna	4.99% + 20p
Maestro	Interchange ++
Mastercard	Interchange ++
PayPal	PayPal contract

Choosing a payment processor can be tough. It really depends on what your business needs. Think about the types of payments you accept, how much you process each month, and what kind of integrations you need with other systems. Don’t just go for the cheapest option; consider the overall value and support you’ll receive.

Here are some things to consider about Barclaycard:

• They partner with independent software vendors.
• They are an acquirer to several UK ISOs.
• They offer competitive credit card processing rate.

14. Lloyds Cardnet

Okay, so Lloyds Cardnet. They’ve been around for a while, and they’re a pretty big player in the UK, processing payments for over 33,000 businesses. They’re actually a joint venture between Lloyds Banking Group and First Data (now Fiserv), with Lloyds owning the majority stake. They heavily rely on the bank’s corporate relationships to sign up new merchants.

But here’s the thing: they’ve been losing ground to some of the newer, more tech-focused companies. Apparently, their revenue from merchant service fees went down a bit in 2023, and their total payment volume also took a hit. It sounds like they’re facing some challenges keeping up with the times. They do offer a payment gateway solution, though, if you’re looking for that kind of thing.

Here’s a quick look at some indicative rates for retail businesses:

Visa & Mastercard	In Person	Online & Phone
Debit

I’ve seen some chatter online about Lloyds Cardnet, and it seems like opinions are mixed. Some people have had good experiences, while others have complained about the fees and customer service. It’s probably worth doing your research and comparing them to other options before making a decision.

Here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about using Lloyds Cardnet:

• They’re a well-established company with a long history.
• They offer a range of payment solutions, including online and in-person processing.
• They’re heavily focused on small businesses with face-to-face payments.
• Their fees may not be the most competitive, especially if you’re an international or digital-first business.

15. GoCardless

GoCardless is all about direct debit payments. If your business relies on recurring payments, like subscriptions or invoices, they might be a good fit. It’s not your typical card processor, but it’s worth considering if direct debits are key to your business model.

GoCardless works by letting your customers authorize you to pull payments directly from their bank accounts. This cuts out the middleman (card networks) and can lead to lower fees, especially for larger transactions. It’s pretty popular in the UK and Europe, so if you’re dealing with customers there, it’s definitely something to look into.

• Recurring Payments: Ideal for subscriptions, memberships, and regular invoices.
• Lower Fees: Often cheaper than card payments for larger transactions.
• International Reach: Strong presence in the UK and Europe.

Setting up GoCardless can take a little time upfront, as you need to get your customers to authorize the direct debit mandate. But once that’s done, payments are automated, and you don’t have to chase invoices every month. It can really streamline your billing process.

GoCardless has even launched capital financing options for small businesses, utilizing the services of Pipe, a fintech company that offers integrated financial solutions. It’s interesting to see them expanding beyond just payment processing.

16. PaymentSense

Okay, so Paymentsense. I’ve heard some things. They’re pretty big in the UK, especially with small to medium-sized businesses. They’ve been around for a while, and it seems like they’ve been making some moves to get even bigger. They even launched their Dojo brand in 2020 and became an acquirer.

Paymentsense is focused on SMEs and centers its offering around its Dojo card reader (a rebranded PAX A920) and in-house processing platform.

They offer a bunch of different ways to take payments, which is cool. You can use their ecommerce checkout with a redirect, plugin or hosted fields. Payment links, recurring payments, and a virtual terminal are also available.

Here’s a quick rundown of what they offer:

• POS Terminals: Sunmi, PAX (A920 Pro), NEXGO (N86), Verifone (T650P), unattended terminal, in-house axept PRO Android app.
• Online: Hosted payments (Connect), Lloyds Bank Online Payments (LBOP) gateway integrated via API, pay-by-link, virtual terminal for phone payments, and recurring payments.
• Card Schemes: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Amex, UPI, and Discover (Diners).

Paymentsense seems to be trying to make things easier for small businesses to accept payments. They’ve got a decent range of options, and they’re clearly focused on the UK market. It’s worth checking them out if you’re looking for a payment processor.

Paymentsense boasts an impressive average customer review rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot.

17. Zettle

Zettle, now a part of PayPal, has really stepped up its game to compete with other payment processors like Square and SumUp. It’s known for being super easy to set up and having simple, flat-fee pricing, which is great for small businesses. You can get started with just your phone and the Zettle app, which lets you take card payments in person and send payment links and invoices. They also offer card machines for purchase, so you don’t have to worry about monthly rental fees. The Zettle reader is a solid choice for businesses that need to accept card payments.

Zettle’s iPad POS app is really easy to use, letting you charge for different items or add discounts without any hassle. The interface feels modern and works well for all kinds of businesses.

Here’s a quick rundown of what Zettle brings to the table:

• No long-term contracts or monthly fees: You only pay for what you use.
• User-friendly iPad system: Easy to use and adaptable for different business types.
• Integrations: Zettle works with a bunch of other software, like accounting and e-commerce platforms.

Zettle’s fees are mainly based on transactions, so you don’t have to worry about monthly fees for using their payment gateway. You’ll pay 1.75% for in-person transactions and 2.5% for online transactions. The card machines start at £29 + VAT, which is pretty reasonable. After that, you own the machine and don’t have to pay any monthly rental fees. Zettle also offers transaction protection of up to £250 in eligible chargebacks per month, which is a nice security blanket.

18. SumUp

SumUp has become a popular choice for small businesses, especially those needing a simple and mobile payment solution. They’ve grown quite a bit since launching in Europe back in 2012 and now serve over 4 million businesses globally. It’s interesting to see how they’ve expanded through acquisitions, like Shoplo and Debitoor. They even use Worldpay for their global acquiring and Starling Bank for settlements here in the UK. Let’s take a closer look.

SumUp’s card machines are great for businesses that sell on the go because some come with a built-in SIM and free unlimited data. Setting up an account is easy, and the app interface is clean and modern. Plus, using a smartphone eliminates the need for extra hardware, making it a low-risk option for startups. You can compare merchant service providers to see how SumUp stacks up against the competition.

Here’s a quick rundown of what SumUp offers:

• Accept payments through card, payment link, QR code, or online store.
• Integrates with online stores like Wix and WooCommerce.
• Supports various payment methods, including Visa, Apple Pay, Discover, and JCB.

SumUp is a solid option for small businesses needing a straightforward payment solution. However, it’s worth noting that they do perform a credit check on new merchants, and their payout times can be slower compared to other providers. Despite these drawbacks, their affordable hardware and user-friendly app make them a strong contender in the payment processing market.

19. Payza

Okay, so Payza… well, here’s the thing. Payza is no longer operating. It’s a bit of a ghost from the past in the payment processing world. It used to be an option, but it’s not anymore.

Think of it like Blockbuster. Remember them? They were everywhere, and now… poof. Payza is kind of like that. It had its moment, but it’s gone now. So, if you’re looking for a payment processor, Payza isn’t going to be an option for your small business in 2025.

Instead of Payza, you might want to consider some other options. There are tons of payment gateways out there that are still up and running. Here are a few to get you started:

• Stripe
• PayPal
• Worldpay
• Adyen
• Square

These are all solid choices that are actively supporting businesses. They offer a range of features and pricing plans, so you can find one that fits your needs. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare payment processing fees before making a decision.

20. Skrill

Skrill is another player in the payment processing game, and it’s been around for a while. I remember when it was Moneybookers! It’s one of those options that pops up when you’re dealing with international transactions or specific online platforms. Skrill lets businesses accept payments online, focusing on international transfers and digital wallets.

Skrill supports a bunch of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and various local payment options. They also deal with digital wallets like Google Pay and Apple Pay. This makes it easier to reach customers in different parts of the world, which is a big plus if you’re not just selling to folks in the UK.

Here’s a quick rundown of some things to consider:

• International Focus: Skrill is strong with international payments, supporting many currencies.
• Digital Wallet Integration: They work with various digital wallets, which is increasingly important.
• Fees: Like any payment processor, Skrill has fees, so you’ll want to check those out carefully. They can vary depending on the type of transaction and where the money is going.

Skrill can be a solid choice if you’re dealing with international customers or need a payment processor that integrates well with digital wallets. Just make sure you understand the fee structure and how it fits with your business model.

21. Venmo

Okay, so Venmo. Most people think of it as that app you use to split the dinner bill with friends, right? And you’re probably right. But could it be a payment processor for your small business? Let’s take a look.

Venmo is owned by PayPal, and it’s primarily designed for personal use. It lets you send and receive money quickly and easily, usually without fees if you’re using a bank account or debit card. It’s super popular, especially with younger folks. But here’s the thing: using it for business isn’t exactly what it was designed for, and there are some limitations.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Ease of Use: It’s incredibly easy to set up and use. Most people already have it on their phones.
• Popularity: Lots of people use Venmo, so your customers might already be familiar with it.
• Fees: Personal transactions are often free, but business transactions have fees. More on that in a bit.

Using Venmo for business can be a bit of a gray area. While it’s not explicitly prohibited in all cases, it’s really meant for personal transactions. If you’re running a legitimate business, you should probably look into a dedicated business payment solution to avoid any issues with Venmo’s terms of service.

So, what are the downsides?

• Limited Functionality: It doesn’t have all the features a proper business payment processor has, like detailed reporting or integration with accounting software.
• Transaction Limits: There are limits on how much you can send and receive, which might be a problem for some businesses.
• Potential Account Issues: If Venmo suspects you’re using your personal account for business, they might freeze or close your account. Not fun.

If you’re thinking about using Venmo for your business, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Check the Fees: Venmo charges a fee for business transactions, which is usually around 1.9% + $0.10 per transaction. Make sure you factor that into your pricing.
2. Consider a Business Account: Venmo does offer business profiles, which come with some extra features and are designed for commercial use. Look into that.
3. Be Transparent: Let your customers know you accept Venmo, and be clear about any fees or limitations.

Ultimately, while Venmo can be a convenient option for very small businesses or side hustles, it’s not a replacement for a dedicated payment processor. If you’re serious about your business, you’re better off going with something like PayPal for business or Stripe.

22. Apple Pay

Apple Pay is becoming a pretty standard payment option, and for good reason. It’s convenient for customers and relatively easy for businesses to integrate. Let’s take a closer look.

Apple Pay allows customers to make payments using their iPhones, Apple Watches, iPads, and Macs. It’s all about that seamless experience, right?

Here’s a quick rundown of why it’s a good idea to consider Apple Pay:

• Convenience: Customers don’t have to fumble for their cards.
• Security: Transactions use tokenization, which adds a layer of protection.
• Speed: Payments are generally faster than traditional card transactions.

Implementing Apple Pay can improve customer satisfaction and potentially increase sales. It’s one of those things that customers expect these days, especially if they’re already in the Apple ecosystem. Plus, it can give your business a modern edge.

It’s worth noting that transaction fees for Apple Pay usually depend on the card used, so keep that in mind when budgeting. Some processors, like Mollie, support Apple Pay, while others might not support similar options like Google Pay. Worldpay UK Fees and Cashflows UK Fees may vary, so it’s important to compare rates.

23. Google Pay

Google Pay is a digital wallet platform and online payment system developed by Google to power in-app, online, and in-person contactless purchases on mobile devices, enabling users to make payments with Android phones, tablets, or watches. It’s a pretty convenient way to pay, especially if you’re already in the Google ecosystem. I mean, who doesn’t have a Google account these days?

Google Pay is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. It’s simple to use, secure, and widely accepted. More and more businesses are starting to accept Google Pay, making it a viable option for small businesses looking to offer their customers more payment choices. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about staying competitive in a market where customers expect options.

Here’s a quick rundown of why Google Pay might be a good fit for your business:

• Wide acceptance: A growing number of retailers and online stores accept Google Pay.
• Security: Google Pay uses tokenization, which means your actual card number isn’t shared with the merchant.
• Convenience: Customers can pay with their phone or watch, making the checkout process faster and easier.

Integrating Google Pay into your business can be a smart move, especially if you’re targeting a younger, tech-savvy demographic. It’s all about making the payment process as smooth as possible for your customers. Plus, it can give your business a modern edge.

While Google Pay is great, it’s worth noting that some payment processors, like Mollie, don’t support it. So, if Google Pay is a must-have for your business, make sure to check which processors offer it. You’ll want to consider the best payment methods for your business.

24. Trustly

Trustly is another payment processor to consider for your small business in 2025. It’s a bit different from some of the others, focusing on direct bank transfers. I remember when I first heard about them; I was a little skeptical. Paying directly from my bank account online? Seemed risky, but it’s actually pretty secure and convenient.

Trustly lets customers pay directly from their bank account without using a card or creating an account. This can be a big plus for some customers, especially those who are wary of using credit cards online. Plus, it can reduce fraud since the payment is verified directly with the bank. Spreedly is partnering with Trustly to enhance its merchants’ payment options by integrating Trustly’s pay-by-bank capabilities.

Here’s a quick rundown of some things to keep in mind:

• Fees: Trustly’s fees can vary, so it’s important to get a quote. I’ve seen figures around €0.50, with additional rates up to 3% for gaming, gambling, travel and financial services. It really depends on your business type and volume.
• Integration: They offer a hosted API, which means you’ll need some technical know-how or a developer to get it set up on your website.
• Customer Base: Trustly is popular in Europe, so if you’re targeting customers there, it’s definitely worth considering. They support local European payments like Giropay, SOFORT, esp, and iDEAL.

I think Trustly is a solid option if you’re looking to offer an alternative payment method that’s secure and popular in Europe. It might not be for everyone, but it’s worth checking out if you want to expand your payment options and reach a wider customer base. Just make sure you understand the fees and integration requirements before you jump in. They are a global acquirer, gateway and payment processor so they can handle a lot of your payment needs.

25. Paysafe and more

Okay, so we’ve covered a lot of ground, but the payment processing world is vast. Let’s talk about Paysafe and some other options you might run into.

Paysafe is definitely a player, especially if you’re dealing with international transactions. They handle a bunch of different payment methods, which can be super helpful if you’ve got customers all over the globe. It’s not always the first name that comes to mind, but it’s worth considering, especially since Paysafe is a viable option for small businesses.

Here’s a quick rundown of some other payment gateways and methods you might encounter:

• APMs (Alternative Payment Methods): Think things like Alipay, iDEAL, SEPA, and WeChat Pay. These are big in specific regions, so if you’re targeting those markets, you’ll want to support them.
• Digital Wallets: Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming more and more common. People love the convenience, so it’s a good idea to accept these.
• Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL): Klarna is the big name here, but there are others. BNPL can boost sales, but be aware of the fees and risks.

It’s easy to get lost in the details of payment processing. The key is to understand your business needs and your customers’ preferences. Don’t be afraid to shop around and compare different options to find the best fit.

And remember, fees can vary wildly. Here’s a glimpse of what Paysafe might charge:

Payment Method	Fees (Example)
PaySafeCard	10-12% (depending on your business)
SOFORT	1% (min €0.12) for physical goods, more for digital
Trustly	€0.50, plus extra for certain industries

Keep in mind that these are just examples, and you’ll need to get a custom quote based on your specific business. Don’t forget to factor in things like chargeback fees and monthly minimums, too!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it. We’ve gone through some of the best payment processors in the UK for 2025, like Revolut, Stripe, and PayPal. Choosing the right one isn’t just about security or fees. You also want to think about how well it fits with what you’re already using. Whether you need something that’s easy to set up, offers good customer support, or works with popular payment methods, this guide should help you make a solid choice. Getting the right payment processor can really help your small business thrive in the UK’s online market!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are payment processors?

Payment processors are companies that help businesses take payments from customers. They make sure money moves safely from the buyer’s bank to the seller’s bank.

Why are payment processors important?

Payment processors are key because they help businesses get paid for what they sell. Without them, handling money transactions would be really hard.

What types of payment processors are there?

There are several types of payment processors, including ones for online stores, mobile apps, and regular shops.

How do I choose the best payment processor for my business?

To find the best payment processor, think about your business needs, the fees, and how well it works with your current tools.

Can I use a payment processor for both online and in-store sales?

Yes, many payment processors can handle both online and in-store sales, making it easier for businesses to manage all their transactions.

What should I look for in a payment processor?

Look for a payment processor that is easy to use, has good customer support, and offers fair fees.