Card Payments
Card terminal fees explained: what are you really paying?
Taking card payments involves more than a terminal. Costs usually come from several places, and they are not always shown in one headline figure.
Common costs to look for
- Transaction fees. A charge on each payment, as a percentage, a fixed amount, or both.
- Terminal cost. Bought outright or rented monthly.
- Monthly or service fees. Some providers charge for the account or for support.
- Contract length and exit charges. Some terminals are tied to a fixed term.
Questions to ask a provider
- What is the full cost for the kind of payments I take?
- Is there a minimum monthly charge?
- What happens if I want to leave early?
- How quickly do funds reach my bank account?
Compare like with like
Work out your approximate monthly takings and average sale, then ask each provider to show what you would pay on that basis.
This article is general information, not financial advice.
Related service: Card Terminals. We introduce you to specialist partners, and a provider makes every decision.
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