Using Stripe for Small Businesses in 2023

In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape, small businesses need powerful and flexible payment processing systems to ensure smooth transactions. One such system that many merchants across all kinds of industries rely on is Stripe. Stripe offers a variety of features and capabilities, cementing it as a formidable player among popular payment processing solutions. Whether you’re a budding solopreneur or a seasoned small business owner, it’s important to consider your options carefully before settling on a payment processing solution. Learn more about whether or not Stripe is the best choice for your business below.

Overview of Stripe

Stripe is a comprehensive payment processing platform that offers several key features for businesses:

• Merchant Account Functionality: Stripe can extend merchant account functionality directly to your business, meaning you don’t need to open a separate account.
• Developer-Friendly API Kits: Stripe provides developer-friendly API kits, making it easier for businesses to integrate Stripe’s payment processing capabilities into their websites or applications.
• Security and Anti-Fraud Measures: Stripe Radar utilizes machine learning to detect and block fraudulent activities.
• Payment Processing Fees: Stripe’s payment processing fees vary depending on the type of transaction. For in-person payments, the fees are 2.6% of the transaction amount, plus 10 cents. For online payments, the fees are 2.9% of the transaction amount, plus 30 cents. Stripe does not charge any monthly fees.
• Point-of-Sale (POS) Application: Stripe does not include a built-in point-of-sale (POS) application. Businesses that require a POS solution must purchase hardware or consider using one of Stripe’s partner card readers, such as the Stripe Reader M2.

Stripe Features & Benefits

Stripe offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive choice for businesses. Here are some of the advantages of using Stripe:

• Simplified payment processing: Stripe simplifies the payment processing experience for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, Stripe’s user-friendly platform streamlines the payment process and makes it easy to accept payments and process transactions.
• Global reach: Stripe supports numerous currencies and payment methods, allowing businesses to expand their reach and cater to customers internationally.
• Seamless checkout experience: With Stripe, merchants can offer a seamless and hassle-free checkout experience. Stripe handles the intricate details of the payment process, ensuring a smooth and efficient checkout process for your customers.
• Subscription management: Use Stripe’s built-in subscription management tools for managing subscriptions to easily handle recurring payments, billing cycles, and subscription upgrades.
• Developer-friendly infrastructure: Stripe is renowned for its developer-friendly infrastructure. The platform provides robust APIs and developer tools that empower businesses to integrate payment solutions seamlessly and customize them according to their specific needs.
• Mobile-ready solutions:Stripe offers mobile software development kits (SDKs) and responsive design options, enabling businesses to optimize their payment processes for mobile devices. 
• Robust security: Stripe incorporates advanced fraud detection and prevention measures to safeguard businesses and their customers against fraudulent activities.

Is Stripe Best For My Business?

Stripe is best for businesses:

• With a software developer/web developer on their team due to its somewhat complicated open API tools.
• With a lot of online sales.
• That need support for a wide range of payment types or have a global customer base.
• That need heavily customizable payment processing.

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Stripe Alternatives

Stripe is a powerful payment processing platform that provides advanced features and customization options for accepting credit cards online. With its developer-friendly platform and open API tools, businesses with software developers or web developers on their team can leverage Stripe’s flexibility and seamless integration.

Square offers an all-in-one solution for online and offline transactions. The platform is a reliable and affordable point-of-sale system, making it a popular choice for small businesses and brick-and-mortar stores.

PayPal is known for its customer-friendly checkout options, making it a trusted payment platform for online shoppers. With its widespread recognition and acceptance, PayPal offers convenience and familiarity to customers, reducing friction during the payment process.

How to Get Started With Stripe

With their straightforward application process and seamless payment processing solutions, Stripe makes it easy for businesses to accept online payments and unlock new growth opportunities. Follow these simple steps below to get started.

Step 1: Fill Out The Stripe Application

The first step is to fill out a Stripe account application. Next, Stripe will require the following information to get started:

• Business identification, including address and website ownership.
• Bank account information for receiving payments.
• Details about your business, such as what you sell and whether it aligns with Stripe’s supported product categories.

To complete the application, ensure you have the following ready:

• Business name
• Address, email, and phone number
• Business Website URL
• Financial statements or reports that allow for risk assessment.

Step 2: Set Up Payment Processing

Once Stripe confirms your account, it’s time to set up payment processing:

Setting up with Stripe is a straightforward process. After activating your account, obtain your API keys to connect with your website or application. Additionally, you’ll need to install webhooks to ensure seamless communication.

Step 3: Process your first transaction

After setting up your Stripe account, it’s time to process your first transaction and ensure everything functions smoothly.

Please note that it typically takes 7-14 days to receive your first payout after receiving your initial payment. This waiting period allows Stripe to complete necessary verifications and ensure a secure payment process.

Is that too long for your business to wait? Get funding fast with Mantis Funding today. Our revenue-based financing could be the perfect solution for you. Check out our funding solutions today!

Revenue-Based Financing with Mantis Funding

If you’re seeking a quick payout while waiting for your Stripe account setup, revenue-based financing with Mantis Funding can be an excellent solution.

With revenue-based financing, you can access the capital you need to fuel your business growth without the lengthy wait. With Stripe’s seamless payment processing and our flexible funding options, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your business goals.

Start your journey today and unlock the potential of your business with revenue-based financing from Mantis Funding. Learn more about how it works or contact us today!

About Mantis Funding

Mantis Funding is a business financing solutions firm catering to small and mid-sized business owners in the United States.