Authorize.net

What Authorize.net is

Authorize.net helps businesses accept electronic and credit card payments online, in person, and by phone. It supports major cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and eChecks, with channels including website checkout, mobile payments, card readers, Virtual Terminal phone orders, and digital invoicing. Automated Recurring Billing handles subscriptions, retainers, and payment plans. The Customer Information Manager stores payment details for returning customers, while the Advanced Fraud Detection Suite offers customizable rules to flag suspicious activity. The service provides an API in XML and JSON variants and a certified network of technology and solution partners. Merchant support is available 24x7 except major holidays, by phone, online chat, or support case. Authorize.net describes its processing as designed for small businesses and says it has worked with merchants since 1996. There is no free plan. All listed plans cost $25 a month: All-in-one also charges 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction; Gateway only adds 10¢ per transaction and a 10¢ daily batch fee and requires an existing merchant account. Gateway + eCheck lists 0.75% for eChecks and card transaction and batch fees.

Who it suits

Authorize.net may suit small businesses seeking to take payments through websites, mobile devices, card readers, phone orders, or invoices. Gateway-only pricing is for businesses that already have a merchant account.

Limits

All plans cost $25 a month. Gateway only requires an existing merchant account; eCheck is available only to businesses based in the U.S. Transaction charges and the daily batch fee vary by plan.

Getting started

1. Visit the Authorize.net website.
2. Choose All-in-one, Gateway only, or Gateway + eCheck based on the account and payment options you need.
3. Use the web, iOS, or Android platform, or connect through the API.
4. For Gateway only, have an existing merchant account; for eCheck, be a U.S.-based business.

Verdict

Authorize.net supports several payment channels and recurring billing, with fraud tools and merchant support. Compare the monthly fee and transaction charges, and note that some legacy API methods are being phased out.