Top 10 Payment Gateway for Shopify in USA

Vishal Agrahari
12 min readJul 28, 2024

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Are you looking for Payment Gateway for Shopify in USA? If Yes, You are at the right place.

Payment Gateway for Shopify in USA
Payment Gateway for Shopify in USA

When setting up an e-commerce store on Shopify in the USA, one of the critical decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right payment gateway. A payment gateway is essential for processing online transactions securely and efficiently. With Shopify being a popular platform for online businesses, it offers several payment gateway options tailored to meet the needs of merchants in the United States.

In this article, we’ll explore the top payment gateway options available for Shopify stores in the USA, their features, fees, and considerations to help you make an informed choice.

Also, Read: What is White Label Payment Gateway

What are Shopify Payment Methods?

Shopify payment methods refer to the various options available for merchants to accept payments from customers through their Shopify stores. These methods include Shopify’s native payment processor, Shopify Payments, which integrates seamlessly with the platform and supports major credit and debit cards.

Additionally, merchants can choose from a range of third-party payment gateways such as PayPal, Stripe, and Authorize.Net, which expand payment options to include digital wallets, bank transfers, and other regional payment methods. Alternative payment solutions like Klarna for installment payments and Amazon Pay for transactions using Amazon accounts are also supported.

Shopify allows flexibility in configuring multiple currencies for international sales, ensuring customers can make purchases in their preferred currency. Overall, Shopify payment methods offer merchants versatility, security, and convenience to cater to diverse customer preferences and streamline the checkout process effectively.

Also, Read: Top 10 Best Payment Gateways in Norway

Types of Shopify Payment Methods

Shopify offers several payment methods that merchants can integrate into their online stores to accept payments from customers. These payment methods include:

  1. Shopify Payments: Shopify’s built-in payment processor, which simplifies the checkout process by allowing customers to pay directly on the store using credit cards and other payment methods.
  2. Third-Party Payment Gateways: Shopify allows integration with various third-party payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, Authorize.Net, and others. These gateways expand payment options beyond credit cards to include digital wallets, bank transfers, and other regional payment methods.
  3. Alternative Payment Methods: Shopify supports alternative payment methods such as Klarna (buy now, pay later), Amazon Pay, and others. These methods cater to customer preferences and can potentially increase conversion rates by offering more flexible payment options.
  4. Manual Payment Methods: Merchants can also offer manual payment methods like cash on delivery (COD) or bank transfers. These methods are suitable for businesses operating in regions where customers prefer or require alternative payment options.
  5. Multi-Currency Payments: Shopify allows merchants to sell in multiple currencies using Shopify Payments or supported third-party gateways. This feature facilitates international sales by displaying prices and processing transactions in the customer’s local currency.
  6. Buy Button: The Shopify Buy Button allows merchants to embed products or collections on their own website or blog. Customers can then purchase items directly from these embedded elements, using the payment methods configured by the merchant.
  7. Shopify POS Payments: For retail stores, Shopify offers Point of Sale (POS) systems that integrate seamlessly with online payments. This integration allows businesses to accept payments in-store and online using the same Shopify platform.

These Shopify payment methods are designed to offer flexibility, security, and convenience to merchants and customers alike, supporting a wide range of business models and customer preferences across various industries and regions.

Also, Read: Top 10 Best Payment Gateways in Israel

Top 10 Payment Gateway for Shopify in USA

Here are some of the most popular payment gateway options available for Shopify merchants based in the United States:

Shopify Payments

Shopify Payments is Shopify’s proprietary payment gateway, designed to seamlessly integrate with Shopify stores. It simplifies the payment process by eliminating the need for third-party payment gateways, providing merchants with a unified platform to manage their online transactions.

Features:

  • Seamless Integration: Integrated directly into Shopify, offering a straightforward setup process without requiring external accounts or complex configurations.
  • Automatic Setup: Upon creating a Shopify store, Shopify Payments is automatically enabled for eligible merchants, reducing setup time.
  • Unified Dashboard: Manage payments and orders within Shopify’s admin dashboard, providing a cohesive experience.
  • Multi-Currency Support: Allows merchants in multiple countries to accept payments in their local currency, enhancing global reach.
  • Fraud Prevention: Includes built-in fraud analysis tools to protect against fraudulent transactions, ensuring security for both merchants and customers.
  • Customer Support: Access Shopify’s robust customer support for assistance with payment-related issues, ensuring reliable service.

Pros:

  • Easy Setup: Simplifies the setup process with no additional accounts or integrations needed.
  • Unified Platform: Manages both store operations and payments within Shopify, streamlining management tasks.
  • Competitive Rates: Transaction fees typically start around 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction, competitive with other payment gateways.
  • Integration Benefits: Ensures compatibility and reduces technical issues associated with third-party integrations.

Cons:

  • Availability Limitations: Not available in all countries or regions, potentially limiting global expansion for some merchants.
  • Chargeback Handling: While Shopify Payments manages chargebacks, policies and procedures may vary, impacting dispute resolution processes.

Also, Read: Best Payment Gateways for Online Gaming

PayPal

PayPal is a globally recognized payment method that integrates seamlessly with Shopify, offering customers flexibility in payment options. It allows customers to pay with their PayPal account or credit/debit card without needing to enter payment details directly on the merchant’s site.

Features:

  • Wide Acceptance: Widely trusted and recognized globally, offering customers familiarity and convenience.
  • Buyer Protection: Provides buyer protection for eligible transactions, enhancing customer confidence in making purchases.
  • Multi-Currency Support: Supports payments in multiple currencies, facilitating international transactions and expanding market reach.
  • Secure Checkout: Ensures secure transactions by redirecting customers to PayPal’s secure payment gateway, reducing security risks.
  • Funds Access: Provides access to funds through a PayPal account, with options for transferring funds to a linked bank account.

Pros:

  • Trusted Brand: PayPal’s established reputation enhances credibility and trustworthiness for both merchants and customers.
  • Global Reach: Available in numerous countries and supports multiple currencies, enabling cross-border transactions.
  • Easy Setup: Integration with Shopify is straightforward, with no monthly fees for using PayPal as a payment gateway.

Cons:

  • Transaction Fees: Fees may be higher for international transactions compared to other payment gateways, impacting cost-effectiveness.
  • Account Holds: PayPal may place holds on funds for review, affecting cash flow and liquidity for merchants.
  • Customer Redirect: Redirects customers to PayPal’s website for payment, potentially disrupting the checkout flow and user experience.

Stripe

Stripe is a robust payment gateway known for its developer-friendly tools and extensive customization options. It caters to businesses of all sizes, providing flexible payment solutions that integrate seamlessly with Shopify.

Features:

  • Customizable Checkout: Allows merchants to create a tailored checkout experience that aligns with their brand identity and customer preferences.
  • Supports Multiple Payment Methods: Accepts major credit and debit cards, digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay), and alternative payment methods.
  • Subscription Billing: Facilitates recurring billing for subscription-based services, enhancing customer retention and revenue stability.
  • Advanced Fraud Prevention: Utilizes machine learning algorithms and real-time data analysis to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions, ensuring security.
  • Global Reach: Operates in over 40 countries and supports multi-currency transactions, accommodating international sales.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Provides detailed insights into transactions, customer behavior, and revenue trends through robust reporting tools.

Pros:

  • Flexible Integration: Offers extensive API documentation and developer support for customized integrations and advanced functionalities.
  • Scalability: Suitable for businesses ranging from startups to enterprise-level operations, supporting growth and expansion.
  • Transparent Pricing: Transaction fees start at 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction, with no setup fees or monthly fees, ensuring cost-effectiveness.

Cons:

  • Technical Expertise Required: Setting up and customizing Stripe may require technical knowledge or developer assistance, potentially increasing initial setup complexity.
  • Account Stability: Stripe’s risk assessment policies may lead to account holds or terminations based on transaction activity, impacting business continuity.

Authorize.Net

Authorize.Net is a longstanding payment gateway known for its reliability and robust security features. It offers comprehensive payment processing solutions that cater to a wide range of businesses, from small startups to large enterprises.

Features:

  • Diverse Payment Options: Supports major credit cards, e-checks, and digital payment methods, providing flexibility for customers.
  • Recurring Billing: Enables merchants to set up automated recurring payments for subscription-based services, enhancing revenue predictability.
  • Virtual Terminal: Allows merchants to process payments manually via phone or mail orders using Authorize.Net’s virtual terminal, accommodating offline transactions.
  • Fraud Detection Suite: Includes advanced fraud prevention tools such as address verification and CVV checks, safeguarding against fraudulent activities.
  • Developer Resources: Offers comprehensive API documentation and support for custom integrations and advanced payment functionalities.

Pros:

  • Security: PCI DSS compliant, ensuring secure transactions and protecting customer data from unauthorized access.
  • Reliability: Established reputation for service reliability and uptime, providing peace of mind for merchants and customers.
  • Customizable Solutions: Tailors payment solutions to meet specific business needs, supporting scalability and operational flexibility.

Cons:

  • Costs: Involves setup fees and monthly gateway fees (approximately $25 per month), potentially higher compared to some competitors, impacting cost-efficiency.
  • Complexity: The interface and feature set may be more complex for smaller businesses or startups, requiring additional learning curve or technical assistance.

Opayo (formerly Sage Pay)

Opayo (formerly known as Sage Pay) provides comprehensive payment solutions primarily popular in the UK and Europe, offering secure and reliable payment processing for online transactions.

Features:

  • Payment Processing: Accepts payments via credit cards, debit cards, and digital wallets, supporting various payment methods for customer convenience.
  • Fraud Prevention: Implements advanced fraud screening tools to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions, ensuring security and trust.
  • Currency Support: Offers multi-currency capabilities, enabling merchants to accept payments in different currencies and facilitate international sales.
  • Integration Options: Integrates seamlessly with Shopify for a streamlined checkout experience, enhancing customer satisfaction and conversion rates.

Pros:

  • Security: Emphasizes data security and compliance with PCI DSS standards, safeguarding sensitive information and mitigating risks associated with online transactions.
  • Customer Support: Provides dedicated customer support for payment-related inquiries and technical assistance, ensuring prompt resolution of issues.
  • Scalability: Suitable for growing businesses and enterprise-level operations, offering scalable payment solutions to meet evolving business needs.

Cons:

  • Cost: Transaction fees and monthly fees may vary based on transaction volume and specific business requirements, potentially higher for lower transaction volumes or smaller businesses.
  • Regional Availability: While prominent in the UK and European markets, Opayo’s availability may be limited compared to global payment gateway providers, affecting global expansion plans for merchants.

Square

Square offers comprehensive payment solutions that integrate seamlessly with both online and in-person transactions.

Features:

  • Omnichannel Integration: Syncs payments across online stores and physical locations, providing a unified payment experience.
  • Transparent Pricing: Utilizes flat-rate transaction fees, ensuring predictable costs for merchants.
  • Digital Wallets: Supports popular digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, enhancing customer convenience.
  • Inventory Management: Integrated with Square’s Point of Sale (POS) system, streamlining inventory tracking and management.

Pros:

  • Simplicity: Easy setup and user-friendly interface.
  • No Monthly Fees: Avoids additional costs associated with monthly subscriptions.
  • Hardware Options: Provides hardware solutions for in-person sales, enhancing flexibility.

Cons:

  • Chargeback Fees: Incurs additional charges for disputed transactions.
  • Limited Customization: Offers less flexibility in customization compared to other platforms.

WorldPay

WorldPay offers expansive global payment processing solutions with robust support for a variety of payment methods.

Features:

  • Global Coverage: Operates in over 146 countries, facilitating international transactions.
  • Payment Options: Accepts major credit/debit cards and alternative payment methods tailored to local markets.
  • Security: Implements advanced security features to protect transactions and customer data.
  • Customer Support: Provides dedicated customer support for assistance with payment-related issues.

Pros:

  • Global Reach: Extensive presence across regions worldwide, supporting diverse market needs.
  • Diverse Payments: Offers flexibility with various payment methods to accommodate customer preferences.
  • Customizable: Tailors solutions to meet specific business requirements, enhancing operational efficiency.

Cons:

  • Complex Pricing: Fee structures may be intricate and vary across regions, potentially causing confusion.
  • Technical Requirements: Setup and integration may require technical expertise or assistance.

Also, Read; Best Payment Gateways that Accept USDT

Klarna

Klarna specializes in alternative payment options, including installment plans designed to enhance purchasing power for customers.

Features:

  • Flexible Payments: Offers buy now, pay later options and installment plans, appealing to budget-conscious shoppers.
  • Customer Appeal: Increases sales conversion by providing flexible payment options.
  • Integration: Seamlessly integrates with Shopify, enhancing checkout experiences.

Pros:

  • Boosts Sales: Attracts customers who prefer flexible payment schedules, thereby boosting sales.
  • Ease of Use: Simple integration process with Shopify for a smooth user experience.

Cons:

  • Fees: Transaction costs may be higher compared to traditional payment methods.
  • Limited Market: Appeals primarily to specific demographics interested in alternative payment options.

Amazon Pay

Amazon Pay enables customers to use their Amazon accounts for purchases on external websites, leveraging trust and familiarity.

Features:

  • Familiarity: Trusted by Amazon customers, enhancing credibility and reducing checkout friction.
  • Integration: Seamlessly integrates with Shopify, leveraging Amazon’s extensive customer base.

Pros:

  • Trust: Leverages Amazon’s brand reputation to build trust with customers.
  • Customer Convenience: Streamlines checkout by using stored Amazon account information.

Cons:

  • Restrictions: Limited to customers with Amazon accounts, potentially excluding others.
  • Transaction Fees: Incurs costs per transaction, impacting overall transaction profitability.

Verifone

Verifone provides secure payment processing solutions globally, catering to businesses of varying sizes and industries.

Features:

  • Global Reach: Operates in numerous countries, supporting multi-national transactions.
  • Security: Complies with global standards such as PCI DSS, ensuring secure transactions.
  • Integration: Works seamlessly with Shopify, facilitating reliable payment processing.

Pros:

  • Reliability: Established reputation for reliability and service excellence.
  • Versatility: Supports multiple payment methods to meet diverse customer needs.

Cons:

  • Cost: Transaction fees may vary, affecting overall transaction costs.
  • Setup Complexity: Initial setup and integration may require technical knowledge or assistance.

Reasons Why You Need the Right Shopify Payment Solution

Choosing the right payment solution for your Shopify store is crucial for several reasons:

  1. Customer Convenience: A seamless checkout experience encourages customers to complete purchases without friction.
  2. Trust and Security: Secure payment processing builds trust with customers, protecting their sensitive information.
  3. Global Reach: The right payment methods enable you to cater to customers worldwide, expanding your market reach.
  4. Reduced Abandonment: Streamlined payment processes can reduce cart abandonment rates, improving conversion rates.
  5. Integration with Shopify: Integration with Shopify’s platform ensures compatibility and ease of use.

Also, Read; Best Cryptocurrency Payment Gateways for International Business

Why Choose the Right Payment Gateway?

Selecting the right payment gateway is crucial for the success of your Shopify store. A reliable payment gateway should provide:

  • Security: Ensuring that customer payment information is encrypted and transactions are processed securely.
  • Compatibility: Seamless integration with Shopify to provide a smooth checkout experience for customers.
  • Features: Support for various payment methods (credit cards, digital wallets, etc.) and additional features like fraud prevention and recurring billing.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Transparent pricing with reasonable transaction fees and no hidden charges.
  • Customer Support: Access to responsive customer support to resolve any issues promptly.

Features to Look for in a Shopify Payment Gateway in USA

When choosing a payment gateway for your Shopify store, several key features are crucial to consider to ensure smooth transactions and a positive customer experience. Here are the essential features to look for:

  1. Ease of Integration: Choose a payment gateway that seamlessly integrates with Shopify without requiring complex coding or technical expertise. This ensures quick setup and compatibility with your store’s checkout process.
  2. Security and Compliance: Ensure the payment gateway is PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) compliant to protect sensitive customer data. Look for additional security features such as encryption, fraud detection tools, and tokenization to safeguard transactions.
  3. Supported Payment Methods: Verify which payment methods the gateway supports, including major credit/debit cards, digital wallets (like Apple Pay, Google Pay), and alternative payment options (e.g., PayPal, Klarna). The more options available, the better you can cater to diverse customer preferences.
  4. Multi-Currency Support: If you plan to sell internationally or in multiple currencies, choose a gateway that supports multi-currency transactions. This feature enables customers to pay in their local currency, improving convenience and reducing currency conversion fees.
  5. Transaction Fees: Compare transaction fees across different gateways, including setup fees, monthly fees, and per-transaction costs. Look for transparent pricing structures to understand the financial impact on your business.
  6. Settlement Period: Consider the gateway’s settlement period — the time it takes for funds to reach your bank account after a successful transaction. Shorter settlement periods improve cash flow and operational efficiency.
  7. User Experience (UX): A smooth checkout experience is crucial for reducing cart abandonment. Choose a gateway that provides a seamless UX with minimal redirects and intuitive design to enhance customer satisfaction.
  8. Customer Support: Reliable customer support is essential for resolving payment-related issues promptly. Look for gateways that offer 24/7 support via multiple channels (phone, email, live chat) to address concerns efficiently.
  9. Scalability and Flexibility: Select a gateway that can scale with your business growth and adapt to changing needs. This includes supporting higher transaction volumes, offering customization options, and integrating with other business tools and platforms.
  10. Reputation and Reliability: Research the gateway’s reputation within the industry and read customer reviews to gauge reliability. Choose a trusted provider with a proven track record of uptime, security, and customer satisfaction.

By prioritizing these features when selecting a Shopify payment gateway, you can ensure secure transactions, optimize checkout experiences, and support your business’s growth while meeting customer expectations effectively.

Conclusion

Choosing the right payment gateway is a critical decision for any Shopify store in the USA. Whether you opt for Shopify Payments for its simplicity, PayPal for its broad acceptance, Stripe for its customization options, Authorize.Net for its robust security, or Square for its comprehensive solution, each option offers distinct advantages to suit different business needs.

Evaluate your specific requirements and preferences to select the payment gateway that best supports your e-commerce operations and enhances the shopping experience for your customers. With the right payment gateway in place, you can streamline transactions, build trust with customers, and drive the growth of your online business effectively.

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Vishal Agrahari
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Vishal Agrahari, a dedicated individual passionate about digital marketing and SEO, embarked on his journey in the vast world of online content in 2019.