Best Credit Card Processing for Nonprofits Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best credit card processing for nonprofits:
Managing a nonprofit can be tough, especially when it comes to handling donations efficiently. You need a reliable way to process credit card payments that won't eat into your funds with high fees or complex systems. That's where the right credit card processing solutions come in.
I've spent time evaluating various options to bring you my top picks for nonprofits. In this article, I'll share unbiased reviews of these solutions. You'll find insights on features, pricing, and what makes each one stand out.
My goal is to help you find the best fit for your team, making donation management easier and more effective. Let's dive into the best options available and see how they can meet your needs.
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Best Credit Card Processing for Nonprofits Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top credit card processing for nonprofits selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for event registration | Free trial available | From $25/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for donor retention | Free demo available | From $40/month | Website | |
| 3 | Best for flexible pricing | Free account; just pay for processing fees | From 0.15% + 8¢ per transaction plus hardware costs | Website | |
| 4 | Best for campaign tracking | Free demo available | From $550/mo | Website | |
| 5 | Best for fraud protection | Free demo available | From $25/month (2.9% + 30¢ per transaction) | Website | |
| 6 | Best for social fundraising | Free plan available | From $29/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 7 | Best for international donations | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best for small nonprofits | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for CRM integration | Free plan available | From $9/seat/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for zero transaction fees | Free plan available | From $0/month | Website |
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Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
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Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
Best Credit Card Processing for Nonprofit Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best credit card processing for nonprofits that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Qgiv enables nonprofits to securely process credit card donations with customizable forms and recurring giving options. It integrates transactions with donor records, ensuring seamless tracking and stronger donor engagement.
Why I picked Qgiv: The platform simplifies credit card processing with customizable donation forms that fit your nonprofit’s branding and recurring giving needs. Its event registration tools integrate directly with payment processing, making it easy to track both participants and contributions. With peer-to-peer fundraising capabilities and robust reporting, Qgiv not only streamlines credit card donations but also helps nonprofits expand reach and analyze campaign performance.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable donation forms that allow you to brand your fundraising pages. The platform offers peer-to-peer fundraising tools, enabling supporters to create their own fundraising pages. It also provides robust reporting tools that help you analyze donor data and track campaign success.
Integrations include Salesforce, Mailchimp, Constant Contact, Double the Donation, QuickBooks, Facebook, Google Analytics, DonorSearch, and NeonCRM.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Expands fundraising reach
- Insightful reporting tools
- Customizable donation forms
- Peer-to-peer fundraising capabilities
- Comprehensive event registration tools
Cons:
- Limited advanced customization options
- May need additional training
- Some features can be overwhelming
- Requires understanding of all features
- Initial setup may be complex
Bloomerang is a donor management platform that integrates credit card processing with donor data to help nonprofits securely accept and track donations. It ensures every credit card transaction is connected to donor profiles, supporting accurate records and long-term engagement.
Why I picked Bloomerang: The tool simplifies credit card processing by pairing transactions with donor engagement tools, making it easier to retain supporters. Its user-friendly dashboard provides visibility into giving trends and donation activity. With automated follow-ups and personalized communication, Bloomerang helps nonprofits strengthen relationships while managing credit card donations efficiently.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include donor engagement scoring, which helps you identify and prioritize key supporters. The platform offers automated email marketing tools to streamline communication with donors. It also provides retention insights that guide your team in developing strategies to keep donors engaged.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Mailchimp, Zapier, Constant Contact, DonorSearch, Eventbrite, Kindful, and WealthEngine.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy-to-use dashboard
- Retention insights available
- Automated communication tools
- Donor engagement scoring
- Focus on donor retention
Cons:
- May need additional training
- Requires understanding of donor scoring
- Some features can be complex
- May require initial setup time
- Limited advanced customization
Payline Data is a credit card processing service that provides nonprofits with secure, flexible options for handling online, in-person, and mobile donations. It’s designed to offer transparent pricing and adaptable solutions that fit organizations of different sizes.
Why I picked Payline Data: The platform uses interchange-plus pricing, giving nonprofits a cost-effective way to manage varying credit card transaction volumes. Its clear, no-hidden-fee structure makes it easier to budget for payment processing. With support for both retail and mobile credit card payments, it offers flexibility in how donations are accepted, backed by responsive customer support to ensure smooth operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a virtual terminal that allows you to process payments online without additional hardware. It offers mobile payment solutions, enabling you to accept payments on-the-go. The platform also provides detailed reporting tools to help you track and analyze your transaction data.
Integrations include QuickBooks, WooCommerce, Shopify, Magento, Authorize.Net, Salesforce, BigCommerce, NetSuite, and Zoho.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- No hidden fees
- Detailed reporting tools
- Multiple payment processing options
- Highly rated customer support
- Flexible pricing options
Cons:
- Some users report occasional delays
- May need technical support for integration
- Limited advanced features
- Setup can be complex
- Requires understanding of interchange-plus pricing
CharityEngine is an all-in-one nonprofit platform that includes secure credit card processing alongside donor and campaign management. It enables organizations to accept online donations, manage recurring giving, and keep donor payment data organized within a unified system.
Why I picked CharityEngine: This platform integrates credit card processing with donor records, automatically capturing each transaction in the CRM. Nonprofits can manage recurring donations and campaign contributions seamlessly while tracking payment activity through real-time reporting. Built-in automation for receipts, acknowledgments, and event registrations reduces administrative work and strengthens donor relationships.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated donor segmentation, which helps you target specific donor groups effectively. It offers built-in email marketing tools that allow you to create and send campaigns directly from the platform. The software also provides customizable dashboards that give you a clear overview of your fundraising performance.
Integrations include Salesforce, QuickBooks, Mailchimp, Eventbrite, Double the Donation, WealthEngine, DonorSearch, Constant Contact, and Microsoft Dynamics.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- All-in-one platform
- Customizable dashboards
- Automated donor segmentation
- Built-in email marketing tools
- Comprehensive campaign tracking
Cons:
- Some features can be overwhelming
- Limited customization options
- Requires training for effective use
- Initial setup can be complex
- Higher price point for small nonprofits
Authorize.Net is a payment gateway that enables nonprofits to securely process credit card donations online, in person, or via mobile. It offers a reliable way to handle transactions while protecting donor data with built-in fraud prevention tools.
Why I picked Authorize.Net: The platform provides advanced fraud detection features to reduce chargebacks and safeguard nonprofit donations. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to process and track credit card transactions. With 24/7 customer support, Authorize.Net ensures nonprofits can manage payments confidently and without disruption.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a virtual terminal that lets you process payments without a physical card reader. It offers recurring billing options, helping you manage ongoing donations effortlessly. The platform also provides extensive reporting tools to keep track of your transaction history and financial data.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Magento, X-Cart, Zoho, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Salesforce, and NetSuite.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive reporting options
- 24/7 customer support
- User-friendly interface
- Strong fraud detection tools
Cons:
- Higher fees for smaller transactions
- Some users report occasional downtime
- Limited customization for invoices
- May require technical knowledge
- Setup can be time-consuming
- Supports recurring billing
Givebutter is a fundraising platform that allows nonprofits to securely process credit card donations alongside other digital payment options. It simplifies online giving while connecting payments to donor engagement tools.
Why I picked Givebutter: Givebutter makes credit card processing easy with customizable donation pages that integrate directly with campaigns. Donors can also give through mobile-friendly text-to-donate options, ensuring convenience and accessibility. By combining secure payment processing with strong engagement features, Givebutter helps nonprofits maximize both donations and donor relationships.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include live streaming capabilities that let you host virtual events and engage with donors in real-time. The platform offers text-to-donate options, making it easy for supporters to give via mobile. It also provides detailed analytics to help you track campaign performance and donor engagement.
Integrations include Salesforce, Mailchimp, Zapier, QuickBooks, Google Analytics, Stripe, PayPal, Slack, and Facebook.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Engages a wide audience
- Customizable donation pages
- Text-to-donate options
- Live streaming capabilities
- Strong social fundraising tools
Cons:
- May need additional training
- Requires social media strategy
- Limited advanced customization
- Some features can be overwhelming
- May require learning curve
iATS Payments is a credit card processing solution built specifically for nonprofits. It helps organizations of all sizes securely accept donations and manage recurring credit card payments. The platform also supports international transactions, making it easier for nonprofits to serve donors worldwide.
Why I picked iATS Payments: This solution simplifies credit card processing across multiple currencies, including USD and CDN, while also supporting ACH transactions. Nonprofits gain from advanced fraud protection and transparent pricing with no hidden fees, helping maximize donation revenue. Its Salesforce-integrated app, Brickwork, and responsive support make donor and payment management more efficient and secure.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced fraud protection that blocks over $64 million in fraud annually. It offers customizable donation forms to fit your organization's branding. The platform also includes a dedicated Salesforce payment processor app, Brickwork, for seamless integration with your CRM.
Integrations include Salesforce, Raiser’s Edge, DonorPerfect, Sage, NeonCRM, Little Green Light, and Blackbaud.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- No hidden fees
- Knowledgeable nonprofit support
- Comprehensive payment options
- Customizable security settings
- Strong international support
Cons:
- Limited reporting features
- Requires training for new users
- Occasional technical glitches
- Complex initial setup
- Limited customization options
Network for Good enables small nonprofits to securely process credit card donations with options for recurring giving to capture ongoing support. By connecting transactions directly to donor records, it ensures accurate data management and strengthens donor relationships.
Why I picked Network for Good: The platform makes credit card processing straightforward, with customizable donation pages that align with your nonprofit’s branding. Nonprofits can manage recurring donations and donor communications in one place, reducing the need for multiple tools. With personalized coaching and support, Network for Good helps organizations maximize donations while ensuring smooth and secure transactions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable fundraising pages that let you maintain consistent branding. It offers a built-in email marketing tool to manage donor communications efficiently. The platform also provides personalized coaching to help you optimize your fundraising strategies.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Constant Contact, Mailchimp, Salesforce, Eventbrite, Double the Donation, DonorSearch, Zapier, and Microsoft Dynamics.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong donor management
- Simple tools for small nonprofits
- Built-in email marketing
- Customizable fundraising pages
- Personalized coaching available
Cons:
- May need additional training
- Requires some technical setup
- Basic reporting capabilities
- Higher price for small budgets
- Limited advanced features
HubSpot Payments is a credit card processing solution built into the HubSpot ecosystem, enabling nonprofits to securely accept donations while managing donor data in the same platform. It unifies payment processing with CRM functions, streamlining both transactions and donor relationship management.
Why I picked HubSpot Payments: The platform makes credit card processing seamless by integrating transactions directly with HubSpot CRM, ensuring donor records stay accurate and up to date. Automated payment workflows simplify recurring donations and reduce manual work for nonprofit teams. With built-in reporting tools, nonprofits can track credit card donations and fundraising performance while aligning payment processing with their overall engagement strategy.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated payment workflows that help reduce manual entry errors. The platform offers detailed reporting tools to give you insights into your financial data. It also provides customizable payment links, making it easy to request payments via email or chat.
Integrations include Salesforce, QuickBooks, Mailchimp, Zapier, Stripe, Shopify, WooCommerce, Xero, and Google Analytics.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Enhances CRM strategy
- Customizable payment links
- Detailed financial reporting
- Automated payment workflows
- Seamless CRM integration
Cons:
- Some features may be unnecessary
- May need additional training
- Limited customization options
- Initial setup can be complex
- Requires HubSpot CRM for full use
Zeffy is a credit card processing platform built exclusively for nonprofits, offering 100% fee-free transactions. It allows organizations to accept donations without losing a percentage to processing costs, helping maximize fundraising impact.
Why I picked Zeffy: Zeffy stands out for its zero-fee model, ensuring nonprofits keep the full amount of every credit card donation. Customizable donation pages make it easy to align fundraising with your brand while supporting recurring giving. Zeffy also includes event registration tools, giving nonprofits a versatile and cost-saving solution for donation processing and fundraising activities.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable donation pages that enhance your organization's branding. It offers event management tools, allowing you to handle registrations and ticketing with ease. The platform also provides detailed analytics to help you understand donor behavior and optimize your fundraising efforts.
Integrations include Salesforce, QuickBooks, Mailchimp, Eventbrite, Shopify, Zapier, and Google Analytics.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Focus on cost savings
- Detailed donor analytics
- Versatile event management tools
- Customizable donation pages
- Zero transaction fees
Cons:
- Not ideal for very large nonprofits
- Occasional feature limitations
- Some technical knowledge needed
- May require initial setup time
- Limited advanced features
Best Credit Card Processing for Nonprofit Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best credit card processing for nonprofits that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
- Square
For mobile payments
- Helcim
For transparent pricing
- Donorbox
For recurring donations
- Adyen
For multi-currency processing
- Clover
For in-store payments
- DonorPerfect Payment Services
For donor management
- PayPal Enterprise Payments
For global reach
- Stripe for NonProfits
For online donations
Credit Card Processing for Nonprofit Selection Criteria
When selecting the best credit card processing for nonprofits to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like transaction fees and ease of integration. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Process online donations
- Handle recurring payments
- Provide secure transaction processing
- Offer detailed transaction reporting
- Support multiple payment methods
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Customizable donation forms
- Mobile payment support
- Advanced fraud protection
- Integration with CRM systems
- Multi-currency processing
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive user interface
- Easy navigation
- Clear instructions and tooltips
- Responsive design
- Accessibility features
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to webinars
- Use of chatbots for guidance
- Ready-to-use templates
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels
- Responsive live chat
- Comprehensive knowledge base
- Dedicated account managers
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Transparent fee structure
- Discounts for nonprofits
- Range of features included
- Flexibility in payment plans
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Feedback on ease of use
- Reports on customer support experiences
- Comments on feature usefulness
- Insights on pricing satisfaction
How to Choose Credit Card Processing for Nonprofits
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
| Scalability | Will the tool grow with your organization? Consider future donation volumes and whether the tool can handle increased transactions without extra cost. |
| Integrations | Does it work with your existing systems? Check if it connects with your CRM, accounting software, and any other tools you rely on. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to your needs? Look for options to customize donation forms and workflows to match your branding and processes. |
| Ease of use | Is it straightforward for your team? Test the interface to ensure it's intuitive, reducing the need for extensive training. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How quickly can you get started? Check for available resources like training videos, product tours, and setup support to speed up the transition. |
| Cost | Is it within your budget? Compare the pricing structure and look for hidden fees. Consider any discounts available for nonprofits. |
| Security safeguards | Does it protect donor data? Ensure it complies with PCI standards and offers robust fraud prevention measures. |
| Support availability | What support options exist? Look for 24/7 availability, multiple contact methods, and a reliable support team to assist when needed. |
What Is Credit Card Processing for Nonprofits?
Credit card processing for nonprofits is a system that allows organizations to accept and manage donations via credit and debit cards. These tools are generally used by nonprofit professionals, including fundraising managers and financial officers, to facilitate donations and track financial transactions. Secure transaction processing, customizable donation forms, and integration with existing systems help with efficient donation management and financial transparency. Overall, these tools enable nonprofits to increase donations and enhance donor engagement.
Features of Credit Card Processing for Nonprofits
When selecting credit card processing for nonprofits, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Secure transaction processing: Protects donor information and ensures compliance with industry standards, reducing the risk of fraud.
- Customizable donation forms: Allows organizations to tailor forms to match their branding and collect necessary donor information.
- Recurring payments: Enables donors to set up automatic donations, providing a steady stream of funding.
- Integration capabilities: Connects with existing CRM and accounting software, streamlining data management and reporting.
- Mobile payment support: Allows donations to be processed on-the-go, increasing convenience for donors and staff.
- Detailed reporting tools: Provides insights into donation trends and financial performance, helping with strategic planning.
- Multicurrency processing: Supports international donations by accepting various currencies, expanding donor reach.
- Automated workflows: Reduces manual entry and errors by automating routine tasks, improving efficiency.
- Fraud protection measures: Safeguards transactions against fraudulent activities, ensuring donor trust.
- Donor engagement scoring: Helps prioritize donor interactions by analyzing engagement levels, enhancing relationship management.
Benefits of Credit Card Processing for Nonprofits
Implementing credit card processing for nonprofits provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Increased donations: Recurring payment options and mobile payment support make it easier for donors to contribute regularly and on-the-go.
- Enhanced donor engagement: Customizable donation forms and donor engagement scoring help tailor interactions and build stronger relationships.
- Improved financial management: Detailed reporting tools and integration capabilities streamline financial tracking and strategic planning.
- Greater security: Secure transaction processing and fraud protection measures safeguard donor information and enhance trust.
- Global reach: Multicurrency processing allows for international donations, expanding your donor base.
- Operational efficiency: Automated workflows reduce manual tasks, freeing up time for your team to focus on mission-critical activities.
- Consistent cash flow: Recurring payments ensure a steady stream of donations, aiding in budget planning and financial stability.
Costs and Pricing of Credit Card Processing for Nonprofits
Selecting credit card processing for nonprofits requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in credit card processing for nonprofits solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Credit Card Processing for Nonprofits
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic transaction processing, limited reporting, and standard security measures. |
| Personal Plan | $10-$30/ month | Recurring payments, customizable donation forms, and basic integration options. |
| Business Plan | $50-$100/ month | Advanced reporting tools, enhanced security features, and mobile payment support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $150-$300/ month | Full integration capabilities, dedicated account management, and tailored support services. |
Credit Card Processing for Nonprofits FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about credit card processing for nonprofits:
How do nonprofits benefit from using credit card processors?
Nonprofits benefit from credit card processors by simplifying donation collection and enhancing donor convenience. These tools support recurring donations, provide secure transactions, and often offer integration with CRM systems, helping nonprofits manage donor relationships effectively.
What security measures should be in place for nonprofit transactions?
Security is crucial for nonprofit transactions to protect donor information. Look for PCI compliance, encryption, and fraud detection features in your payment processor. These measures help maintain trust with your donors by ensuring their data is safe.
Can nonprofits accept international donations through credit card processing?
Yes, many credit card processors for nonprofits support international donations. This feature allows you to expand your donor base globally, but ensure the processor can handle multiple currencies and complies with international transaction regulations.
What are the typical fees associated with credit card processing for nonprofits?
Fees can vary, but typically include transaction fees, monthly service charges, and setup fees. Some processors offer special rates for nonprofits. It’s important to compare these costs and consider how they impact your overall fundraising efforts.
How do recurring payments work for nonprofits?
Recurring payments allow donors to set up automatic donations at regular intervals. This feature provides a steady stream of income for nonprofits and simplifies the donation process for donors, encouraging consistent contributions.
What should nonprofits consider when choosing a payment processor?
Consider factors like transaction fees, security features, ease of integration with existing systems, and the ability to handle different payment methods. Additionally, assess the customer support and onboarding resources provided to ensure a smooth implementation.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching credit card processing for nonprofits, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.
