Businesses and freelancers’ ultimate goal is to get paid!
Traditional payment methods were limited to a few options, but technology has changed everything. Anyone can view, create, send, receive, and pay for a service or product from anywhere.
This is the convenience of online payments.
Despite online payment being transparent to most, a few merchants need to master how to accept payments online. The predicament starts with what platforms to use and how to set them up. Maintaining them is yet another issue.
Lucky for you, this piece is here to help. We’ll highlight the entire process of setting up payment systems, beginning with introductions and ending with tips to smoothen your transactions.
Introduction to Online Payments
One of the most searched payment queries is “How to accept payment on my website.” Businesses and freelancers desperately seek the answers because operations stall without payments.
The oldest trading method, batter trade, was the exchange of a good or service with another one. As times changed, it became a good or service for a valuable commodity like gold. Then, that evolved into cash.
Online payments go beyond cash exchange, introducing a whole new class of trade. People still buy goods and services, but the mode of payment has become online exchanges.
Online payments are convenient, faster, and efficient. They allow service and product providers to reach a global market and become more profitable. Because transfers are almost instant, the cash flow of any business and freelancer improves.
Finally, the customer experience has seen a boost. Customers celebrate faster, more affordable, safer transactions by processing secure online payment methods. No more queueing or being redirected to unknown sites to make payments.
Popular Online Payment Methods
There are several ways to accept payments; we’ll highlight the most popular here. But before we do so, here are some facts regarding global digital payments:
- Revenue generated through digital payments is projected to reach $14.79 trillion by 2027. To put this into perspective, Japan’s GDP is around $4.23 trillion. China’s is $17.98 trillion.
- ⅔ of the global adult population uses online payments.
- Digital payments are to rise by 11% from 2019 to 2029.
The emergence of mobile wallets and digital payment options is the main reason behind this boom. Other reasons include the growth in online shopping, government initiatives, and smartphone use.
These reasons make using the following popular online payments a breeze.
Credit and Debit Cards
Bank cards are one of the oldest and most common online payment forms.
Typically, the seller links their account details at the checkout point. Then, the buyer keys in their bank card details, and the bank service authorizes the transfer. Some of the information a buyer inputs is their name, card number, and a special code called the CVV (card verification value.)
Many banks and financial institutions issue credit and debit cards. However, the biggest players in the industry are Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
This mode is riddled with high risks of identity theft, high transaction fees, and delays.
Mobile Transfers
The rise of mobile phones has also birthed a plethora of mobile money transfer gateways. You no longer have to have a bank account to buy or sell; you just need a mobile phone number. These transfers are instant and safe, taking their convenience to a new level!
The limiting factor with mobile money is that it is sometimes geographically restricted. This is because the transfer is dependent on the mobile service provider. If a buyer is outside the coverage area, they might be unable to make a trade. Also, if the mobile provider’s servers are down, it disables or delays online payments.
Bank Transfers
Businesses and freelancers are also accepting payments online through bank transfers.
In this case, customers use their bank’s website or apps to move the money. They key in the seller’s account details, and the banking system does the rest. This method was a bit sluggish a while back, but now, thanks to modern tech, it is almost instant.
Nevertheless, bank transfers can be limited when the bank systems are down. Delays might taint the client-business relationship, leading to losses.
Digital Wallets
Digital wallets include PayPal, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay. These modes are convenient for businesses and freelancers. Why?
First, sellers have global access to most of these platforms. Second, the payment channels are fast and secure. The issue with these modes is that both parties need a working internet connection for successful transactions. Also, some modes have specific device compatibilities. For example, Apple Pay is for iOS, and Samsung Pay is for Samsung or Android users.
Cryptocurrencies
Crypto is not as new as many think because David Chaum introduced it in 1983. But back then, online payment using crypto was not applicable. But all that has changed with the current crypto market carrying over 10,000 crypto coins.
Crypto transfers aren’t perfect despite being seamless, untraceable, affordable, and secure. Setting up payment systems in crypto can be a long process. The trade requires both parties to have connected crypto wallets for depositing and withdrawing coins.
The crypto market is also volatile, so many stakeholders opt for it as a last resort.
Setting Up Online Payment Systems
Setting up payment systems is essential because they first create convenience for customers. Clients are happy if they shop and pay on the same platform. No delays or long processes asking for the same details repeatedly.
It also boosts sales and expands your reach. Thanks to online payments, you can sell your offerings globally. Your business operations will also experience a boost in efficiency. You will experience fewer cash shortages because your cash flow is smooth. A secure cash flow system protects your funds. Additionally, monitoring these channels offers you valuable insights for future budgeting.
To harness all these benefits of a working online payment system, set it up in the following way:
Choose a Processor(s)
Start by researching and selecting reliable payment processors you trust. Thankfully, you can use all the above online payment methods. Segment your search by transfer and maintenance fees, durations, security features, and ease of use. Also, consider the processor’s integration.
Ensure your online payment processor fits your target audience’s daily use.
Create Accounts on All Platforms
When you settle on your processors, open merchant accounts with them. These online payment processors usually need to authenticate your business by asking for a few details. They will ask for business credentials, licenses, permits, and tax certificates.
Once they verify you are legit, you are in, and you can start receiving payments.
Integrate the Payment Gateway
Connecting your merchant account to all your client payment touchpoints is the most rewarding part. Customers often encounter these integrations when paying at the checkout point.
A client will select the most convenient method, so ensure the transfer is secure by testing. As an added service, add resources to teach clients how to make payments online.
Security and Compliance Managing Online Payments
You can never overlook the need for processing secure online payment methods. As a merchant, this layer of protection safeguards you and your clients. It protects their data, which could be dangerous if it falls into the wrong hands.
To ensure your online payments are secure,
- Implement SSL certificates to encrypt data.
- Have fraud detection tools on all your checkouts.
- Carry regular security checks and update them.
- Only allow authorized personnel to access your company’s financial data.
Besides security, compliance issues arise when managing online payments. Compliance encompasses how your enterprise adheres to a country’s laws. To do this:
- It would help to start by understanding all your legal and regulatory obligations. If it’s a client’s obligation, list it on your platform so that blame doesn’t bounce back on you.
- Comply with the PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard.
Tips for Smooth Transactions
If you would like a return on your business, be truthful. Learning and mastering how to accept online payment is just the beginning. The additional tips that will help you seamlessly integrate this system are:
- Always display all the prices, including tax and any additional fees.
- Ensure you streamline your payment process on mobile devices.
- Provide additional customer support on any payment-related issues.
- Integrate invoicing and payment tools like Ruul for faster transfers and better record-keeping.
- Track your income and regularly reconcile your funds.
Streamline All Your Online Payments Effortlessly
If you were ever asked, “Which payment option is not accepted online?” Your answer should be cash!
But should that limit your buying or selling online?
No, it shouldn’t because now you know how to accept payments online. Now, you have more than one way to do so. You have bank cards, mobile money, digital wallets, and cryptocurrency. You choose the ones most fitting for your business.
You also have guidelines for setting them up: research, select, open an account, and integrate. After that, pay attention to the maintenance. This might entail beefing up security through encryption as well as compliance. You prove your business’s transparency by adhering to all the taxation and regulatory obligations. All these work in your favor!
Post transparent fees with no hidden or inflated costs to ensure everything runs smoothly. Also, integrate mobile-friendly customer service, invoicing, and payment tools and solutions. Finally, consolidate your financial statements.
Your online freelance or e-commerce business will win because you’ve mastered accepting payments online.
