Uncategorized — 4 min read

Choosing the right payment provider for your business in Setmore

Running a business takes a lot of blood, sweat, and tears. But there are some great moments along the way, though — and getting paid may be at the top of that list. Growing your brand from the ground up and watching people fall in love with it is rewarding, but dollars in your bank account are what keep it rolling.

Now, setting your prices, knowing the best time for clients to pay, and cutting down on those pesky no-shows are crucial. Choosing the right payment provider isn’t about what looks cool; it’s about how each one fits seamlessly into your day-to-day. With 92% of U.S. consumers using digital payments last year, making that choice matters more than ever.

With Setmore handling your scheduling (if it isn’t yet, what have you been doing? Get started here, then come right back), combining it with the perfect payment gateway can take automation to the next level. So strap in, read on, and let’s figure out which one’s best for you.

What a brand wants, what a business needs

Choosing a payment provider is a lot like buying a bike. Sure, you could go for the shiny red one your favorite fitness influencer has, but more importantly, you should assess your needs.

The same goes for selecting the best payment provider to pair with Setmore. There are a few things to consider:

Is my business primarily online or in person?
Does my business require deposits?
Do I want payment up front?
What fees should my business be paying?
How do my customers like to pay?
What equipment will I have in-store?

This is just the beginning, but it can go a long way in helping your business decide which payment method is the right fit.

With so many ways to pay – from card to CashApp – delivering on their expectations could be the difference in getting you booked. In fact, 13% abandon a purchase where their preferred payment method isn’t an option.

Choosing the best payment methods for you

Integration: Use a solution that works with your existing software, such as scheduling and accounting. This helps streamline your workflow and efficiency.
Fees: Get to know the transaction fees with each payment provider. Research helps you select one that is cost-effective but practical for you.
Online payments: Do you want pre-payments? Does your customers use Apple Pay or Google Pay? Maybe they prefer Venmo? Select what works best for you.
In-person: Your brand may benefit from using Tap to Pay terminals or card readers. Consider your customers preferences and speed of sale.

Square: In-person and online payments, all in one

With bookings, online payments become a key part of your business — from partial payments that help reduce no-shows, to prepayments that guarantee a spot, and flexible options that suit your customers. But if face-to-face payments are central to your brand, Square supports that too.

Connect Square to accept payments through your Booking Page using card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Cash App, or in person through their terminal and card reader. There are no additional Setmore fees for using terminals (though Square’s own charges apply). If you’re new to Square, you can sign up through Setmore and receive $5,000 in fee-free processing to get started.

Learn more about Square payments

Stripe: Go contactless with Tap to Pay

Stripe is all about flexibility. It lets your clients pay however they prefer online (Apple Pay or Google Pay) while giving you the ability to process transactions in person using your Setmore mobile app. With Tap to Pay enabled through Stripe, you don’t even have to leave your calendar—simply select the appointment, tap Payment, then choose Tap to Pay. No extra hardware needed.

With your phone acting as the card reader, you can take your business anywhere. You can also accept deposits or full payments online. Whether your business travels or customers come to you, you’re all set to get paid.

Learn more about Stripe payments

PayPal: Familiar, fast, and everywhere

We all know PayPal. While it’s hard to put a number on that recognition, one study found that offering PayPal as a payment option can boost checkout conversions by 46%¹. It’s a household name for a reason—and connecting it to your Booking Page unlocks trusted options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Venmo.

It’s super convenient if your customers already use PayPal, or if your services are primarily online—whether you’re taking payments through your site or running a virtual business. Tried, trusted, and recognized for quick digital payments.

Learn more about PayPal payments

LawPay: Tailored for legal professionals

Built specifically for law firms, LawPay enables lawyers and attorneys to accept secure, compliant payments online. Trusted by more than 50,000 practices and recommended by the American Bar Association (ABA), you can rest assured that every transaction follows industry regulations and guidelines, including IOLTA account requirements.

By connecting Setmore with LawPay, you show clients that you’re a trusted and respected firm—even before they book. Clients can schedule and prepay for consultations or services, confident that their payments are encrypted. Receipts are sent automatically, and every transaction is tracked in your app, freeing up your time for those who need it most.

Learn more about LawPay payments

The choice is yours

57% of U.S. adults used digital wallets, and 60% of in-app purchases were made using digital payments. So whatever works best for your business is entirely up to you. You’re supported no matter what for bookings and payments.

All features also come with quick payments on mobile, allowing you to take payment without attaching it to an appointment—perfect for walk-ins, selling merchandise, or tips. Each also has deposits, helping you guarantee attendance.

Get started today with a FREE Setmore account. Once you’ve started, connect your preferred payment provider, or book a demo to learn more.