As we move into 2025, the landscape of online payment methods is rapidly changing. While PayPal has long been a go-to for many businesses and consumers, there are plenty of alternatives that offer unique features and benefits. Whether you're looking for lower fees, better international support, or just something different, this guide will help you explore various online payment methods like PayPal that might suit your needs better.
Key Takeaways
- PayPal isn't the only option for online payments; many alternatives offer competitive features.
- Consider transaction fees and currency exchange rates when choosing a payment platform.
- Look for services that support international transactions if you have a global customer base.
- Some platforms provide additional features like invoicing and payment tracking, which can be beneficial for businesses.
- It's important to evaluate the user experience and customer support of each payment method to ensure it meets your needs.
1. Wise Business
Okay, so you're looking for alternatives to PayPal, especially for your business? Wise Business might just be what you need. It's not a bank, but it works like a charm for handling money, especially when you're dealing with international transactions. Think of it as a super-smart way to move your money around the globe without getting hit with crazy fees.
Wise Business uses some pretty cool tech to link up local bank accounts all over the world. This means you can send and receive money at the real exchange rate – the one you see on Google. No hidden markups, no nasty surprises. It's all about transparency, which is a big win in my book.
With Wise Business, you can:
- Sign up for free – who doesn't love free stuff?
- Get local account details for different regions (like the UK, EU, US, and Australia) to receive payments easily.
- Hold money in a bunch of different currencies and switch between them whenever you need to.
- Send money to over 50 countries with no crazy exchange rates.
I've heard some people say that Wise Business has saved them a ton of money compared to PayPal, especially when dealing with international clients and suppliers. It's worth checking out if you're tired of those hefty PayPal fees eating into your profits.
Plus, if you use QuickBooks, you can connect it to Wise Business to make things even easier. All your bills and payments sync up automatically, so you don't have to spend hours reconciling everything. It's a real time-saver!
2. Google Pay
Google Pay, which absorbed both Google Wallet and Android Pay back in 2018, is a pretty handy option. It's especially great for those quick transfers between friends and family. You might not even realize you can use it for business too!
Now, when it comes to international transactions, things get a little murky. Google Pay doesn't exactly shout from the rooftops about its international capabilities. In fact, finding any solid info on whether it even supports international transactions is like searching for a needle in a haystack. They do have a list of countries where Google Pay works, though.
On the bright side, Google says businesses can hook into their Google Pay API and start accepting payments in under a week. Plus, they claim neither you nor your customers will be charged fees for purchases. However, they will need you to submit a W-9 form, because Google's gotta report those gross payment transaction amounts to the IRS, as per Internal Revenue Code §6050W. All payment methods supported by Google Payments are affected by this.
If you're looking for alternatives, you might want to compare Xoom vs Wise to see which one suits your needs better.
3. Stripe
Stripe is a big name in online payments, and for good reason! Founded in the US back in 2010, it's now available in 25 countries. Stripe is designed for internet businesses, offering a suite of tools for billing, payments, and even setting up entire marketplaces. It's like having a financial toolkit at your fingertips.
One of the coolest things about Stripe is how customizable it is. You can drop a single line of code into your website to start accepting payments, or you can build a completely custom payment flow using Stripe's building blocks. It's all about flexibility, which is awesome. Plus, they have plugins for websites and blogs, making things super easy to set up.
Stripe uses a ‘Pay as you go' fee structure, meaning you pay a percentage plus a fixed fee for each transaction. For domestic card payments, it's around 2.9% + $0.30, with an extra 1.5% for international cards. If you're dealing with multiple currencies, there's an additional 1% charge for currency conversion. They also support cheaper payment methods like local ACH payments, which is a nice bonus. Just be aware that domestic wire payments might get a bit pricey.
4. Payoneer
Payoneer has been around for a while, since 2005! It's a pretty popular digital payment solution, especially if you're dealing with marketplaces like Airbnb, Fiverr, and Upwork. It's integrated right into those platforms, which is super convenient. It's a solid choice for getting paid from various sources.
Fees for international transfers can vary. It depends on the currency, whether the money is coming from another Payoneer user, a receiving account, directly from a customer, or through a platform that uses Payoneer. Plus, if you're sending money to a bank account in a different currency, Payoneer might tack on an extra fee. If the person you're sending money to doesn't have a Payoneer account, there's a charge of up to 3% of the transaction amount. So, it's good to keep those things in mind. You might want to check out some Payoneer alternatives to see if they fit your needs better.
Payoneer is a great option if you're already using platforms that integrate with it. It simplifies getting paid from those sources. Just be sure to check the fees, especially for international transfers and currency conversions, so you know what to expect.
Here's a quick rundown of some things to consider:
- Integration: Works well with popular freelance platforms.
- Fees: Can vary based on transfer type and currency.
- Recipient: Charges apply if the recipient isn't a Payoneer user.
5. Skrill
Skrill has been around since 2001, so they've got some experience in the digital payment game. Based in London, they focus on low-cost money transfers, both locally and internationally, supporting over 40 currencies. You can manage your funds through their app and easily withdraw to a linked bank account. It's pretty convenient to send money directly to a bank account or another Skrill wallet.
Skrill also offers a prepaid Mastercard, including one designed for travel. Plus, if you're into online betting or gaming, Skrill is a popular choice. Regular users can even join their VIP club for perks and discounts. It's a solid option if you need a versatile payment platform.
Just a heads up: while Skrill advertises "no fee" international transfers, they might make money by marking up the exchange rates. Always double-check the exchange rate against Google's to see what you're really paying. They specifically mention a 3.99% fee for transactions involving currency conversion, so keep an eye out!
6. Zelle
Zelle is another player in the online payment game, and it's been around since 2017. It's backed by some pretty big banks like Bank of America and JPMorgan Chase, so you know they've got some serious experience. Zelle lets you send, request, and receive money from other people.
If you're hoping to use Zelle for international transfers, though, you're out of luck. It only works if both the sender and receiver have bank accounts in the US. Also, not all banks play nice with Zelle business accounts, so you might want to check with your bank to see if you're eligible. The good news is that Zelle is generally pretty easy to use. For the most part, the service itself is free, but your bank might tack on some extra charges. You just need the recipient's email or mobile number. If they're already on Zelle, the money usually shows up in their account within minutes!
7. Dwolla
Dwolla is a US-based payment platform that's all about making ACH transfers easier for businesses. Think of it as a way to move money directly between bank accounts, cutting out the middleman. It's like setting up a digital handshake for payments, which can be pretty cool.
Dwolla is great if your business operates solely in the US. It's designed specifically for domestic transactions, so if you're dealing with international clients or suppliers, this might not be the best fit. But if you're focused on the US market, it's definitely worth checking out.
Dwolla lets businesses send and receive transfers, and even facilitate transfers between customers. It's all about streamlining those ACH payouts and making mass payouts a breeze.
Dwolla offers a couple of options: you can use their pre-built solution or, if you're feeling adventurous, you can use their API to create a custom payment system tailored to your business needs. It's like having a payment system that's made just for you. For online marketplaces, Dwolla can be a great way to facilitate payments between buyers and sellers.
Here's a quick rundown of what Dwolla brings to the table:
- Direct bank transfers via ACH.
- Customizable API for tailored solutions.
- Suitable for US-only businesses.
- Streamlined mass payouts.
8. Authorize.net
Authorize.net has been around since '96, so they've seen a thing or two in the payment processing world. It's basically a payment gateway that lets you accept card payments in a bunch of ways. You can take payments online, through a mobile device, or even the old-school way – by mail or telephone if someone gives you their credit card info. Plus, they've got options for in-person payments with a card reader.
This is super useful if you're doing both online and offline sales. Authorize.net can be a solid choice if you need a reliable and versatile payment solution. It's not just for online stores; it works if you're running a physical shop too. They've got different services for different business sizes, which is nice. If you're looking for online payment services, Authorize.net is worth checking out.
It's worth noting that Authorize.net primarily focuses on businesses within the US. If you're planning on expanding globally, you might need to consider other options that offer broader international support.
9. 2Checkout
2Checkout, now known as Verifone, is a solid option if you're aiming for global reach. They handle payments in over 200 countries and a bunch of different currencies. It's got a support team that can help you in any one of 15 different languages.
Verifone provides global payments, hosted checkouts, a payment API, shopping cards, and recurring billing. You can embed the code in your own site for a fully integrated payment option, or you can use a hosted checkout option, where you use the default options available online.
2Checkout (Verifone) is highlighted for its extensive global reach, accepting payments in over 200 countries and various currencies, making it a top choice among payment gateways.
In the US, the cost per transaction from each of your customers is currently 3.5% + $0.35 for the smallest subscription package. However, if you’re dealing with international payments, prices can go up quite quickly. If your customer is outside of the US you may have to pay an additional 2% cross-border fee for certain countries.
10. Venmo
Venmo! It's hard to believe it's been around for so long, right? It feels like just yesterday we were all figuring out how to split that dinner bill without fumbling for cash. Now, it's practically a verb – "Just Venmo me!" But is it still the best option out there? Let's take a look. Venmo is super convenient for splitting costs with friends and family. It's got that social feed thing going on, which some people love and others… not so much. But hey, it's undeniably easy to use. If you're looking for alternatives to Venmo for personal transactionsalternatives to Venmo, there are a few things to consider.
One thing to keep in mind is that Venmo is primarily designed for personal use. If you're running a business, you might want to explore other options that offer more robust features and protection.
11. Square
Square has become a household name, especially for small businesses. It's super versatile, working both online and in physical stores. I remember when Square first came out – it was just that little white card reader that plugged into your phone. Now, it's a whole ecosystem of tools!
Square is great because it's easy to use and has a ton of features. It handles everything from payments to inventory management, and even payroll. Plus, their customer service is pretty solid. If you're just starting out, Square is definitely worth checking out. It's like having a mini-business partner in your pocket.
Square's appeal lies in its simplicity and comprehensive suite of tools, making it an excellent choice for businesses seeking an all-in-one solution. It's particularly beneficial for those who need to manage both online and offline sales seamlessly. Square's user-friendly interface and robust features make it a strong contender in the payment processing landscape.
Here's a quick rundown of what Square offers:
- Payment processing (credit cards, debit cards, etc.)
- Point of Sale (POS) systems
- Inventory management
- Payroll services
Square's pricing is pretty straightforward, which is always a plus. They typically charge a percentage per transaction, so you only pay when you make a sale. Transparency is key, and Square delivers on that front. Compared to other platforms, Square is versatile for both online and offline sales.
12. Cash App
Cash App is super popular, especially for quick transactions between friends. Splitting the bill after brunch? Cash App makes it a breeze. Need to send your roommate money for rent? Done in seconds. It's all about convenience and speed.
But how does it stack up as a PayPal alternative for your business in 2025? Let's take a closer look. While it's great for personal use, there are some things to consider for business purposes. For example, if you're trying to decide which payment app is better, you can compare Cash App and Venmo to see which one fits your needs.
13. Neteller
Neteller is another e-money service that's been around for a while, since 1999, actually. They offer options for both personal use and for merchants who need to accept payments. You can send and receive money internationally using just an email address, which is pretty convenient. It supports 22 currencies, and they even have prepaid Mastercards available.
Now, here's the thing: you really gotta watch out for the fees with Neteller. They can vary a lot depending on how you're using the service. For example, adding funds to your wallet can cost you, ranging from free (if you use a local bank transfer) to around 2.5% charged by some banks. Plus, there are currency conversion charges to keep in mind.
All transactions involving currency exchange come with a markup of up to 4.99% above the average daily interbank market rate, plus up to 3.99% foreign exchange fee.
Basically, if your transaction involves multiple currencies, you're looking at an extra 3.99% on top of a not-so-great exchange rate. Ouch! Even if you're a Neteller VIP member, the fees might not be much better. The lowest VIP package still has 3.19% FX Fees. The highest package gets those fees down to 1.29%, but you'd need to transfer to a merchant or buy and sell crypto worth $600,000 per quarter to qualify. If you're a business doing cross-border transactions, these fees can really eat into your profits. Consider exploring Remitly alternatives for potentially lower fees.
14. ProPay
ProPay is another option in the world of online payment processing. It aims to provide solutions for businesses that want to accept credit card payments online, through text, or even email. It sounds pretty convenient, right?
They've got different services tailored for various business sizes, from tiny startups to larger enterprises. They even have tools designed for specific fields, like software vendors. That's a nice touch, showing they're thinking about different needs.
With ProPay’s Global Payment processing, you can send payments to over 180 countries and in more than 130 currencies. That's a huge plus if you're dealing with international clients or suppliers. It's great to have that kind of global reach.
ProPay could be a solid choice if you're looking for a versatile payment solution, especially if you're planning to expand internationally. It's always good to have options, and ProPay seems to offer quite a few.
ProPay offers a range of services, including the ability to accept payments via credit card, text, or email. They also provide global payment processing, which allows businesses to send payments to over 180 countries in more than 130 currencies. This makes ProPay a versatile option for businesses of all sizes, especially those with international clients or suppliers.
When considering payment solutions, it's important to compare Square Payments and ProPay to see which one fits your business needs best.
15. Xoom
Xoom, a PayPal service, is all about sending money internationally to friends and family. Think of it as your go-to for remitting money back home. It's super convenient for person-to-person transfers. However, it's not really designed for business transactions, so paying supplier invoices might not be the best use case here.
Xoom is tailored for personal remittances, not business dealings. While you might try sending money to a business, the transaction could get rejected because the business won't be able to link it to an invoice.
Keep an eye on those international transfer fees, though! Xoom makes money on the exchange rate, and the more you send, the better the rate you'll usually get. So, while it's handy, always check the fees to make sure you're getting a good deal. It's all about making smart choices with your money, right?
16. Revolut
Revolut has become a popular choice, especially for those who travel a lot or deal with multiple currencies. It's more than just a payment platform; it's a financial hub right in your pocket. I've heard so many people rave about how easy it is to use, and honestly, I can see the appeal.
It's designed to make international transactions smoother and cheaper.
Revolut offers a range of services, from currency exchange to stock trading, all within one app. It's like having a mini-bank that caters to the modern, global citizen. If you're looking for something that can handle your international money needs, it's definitely worth checking out. There are many Revolut Business Account alternatives to consider.
Revolut is constantly adding new features and expanding its services, so it's a platform that's always evolving. It's exciting to see where they'll go next and how they'll continue to innovate in the fintech space.
Here are some of the things that make Revolut stand out:
- Multi-currency accounts: Hold and exchange various currencies.
- Budgeting tools: Track your spending and set budgets.
- Crypto trading: Buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies.
17. WePay
WePay is another option that's been around for a while, and it's got some cool features. It's designed with platforms and marketplaces in mind, which is pretty neat. Basically, if you're running a site where multiple people are selling stuff, WePay could be a good fit.
I remember when I first heard about WePay. I was helping a friend set up an online marketplace for local artists, and he was pulling his hair out trying to figure out payments. He needed something that could handle multiple sellers, split payments automatically, and integrate with his platform without too much hassle. That's when someone suggested WePay, and it seemed like a lightbulb went off. It wasn't perfect, but it solved a lot of his problems. It's definitely worth checking out if you're in a similar situation. It's only available for use within the US at the moment, so international payments are a no-go. If your online business is currently trading globally, or if you might ever intend to reach customers, employees or suppliers based overseas, then WePay might not suit you.
WePay focuses on providing integrated payment solutions for platforms, which means it handles the complexities of managing payments for multiple users. This can be a huge time-saver and can help you avoid a lot of headaches down the road.
Here's a quick rundown of what WePay brings to the table:
- Integrated payments for platforms
- Customizable solutions
- Fraud protection
If you're looking for a payment solution that can handle the unique needs of a platform or marketplace, consider Authorize.net.
18. Alipay
Alright, let's talk about Alipay! If you're doing business in or with China, you've almost certainly heard of this one. It's HUGE over there. Think of it as the Chinese equivalent of PayPal, but even more deeply integrated into daily life. From street vendors to massive online retailers, everyone uses it.
Alipay is a major player in the digital payment space, especially in China. It's not just for online shopping; people use it to pay for everything, everywhere. It's super convenient, which is why it's become so popular. It's definitely something to consider if you're looking to expand your business into the Chinese market. It's a good idea to compare Xoom vs Wise to see which one can save you more money.
Getting set up with Alipay can be a bit tricky if you're not familiar with the Chinese market, but it's worth the effort if you're serious about doing business there. The potential customer base is enormous, and Alipay is often the preferred payment method.
Here's a quick rundown of why it's so popular:
- Ubiquitous in China: Everyone uses it.
- Integrated Ecosystem: Works with everything from e-commerce to in-person payments.
- Convenient: Makes transactions super easy for users.
19. TransferWise
Okay, so TransferWise… or Wise, as it's now known. I remember when they rebranded! Anyway, it's another solid option for sending money internationally. They're pretty transparent about their fees, which is always a plus in my book. It's all about knowing where your money is going, right? They use the mid-market rate, which is a big deal.
I've used Wise a few times to send money to friends overseas, and it's always been a smooth experience. The app is easy to use, and I appreciate that I can see exactly how much the recipient will get before I even send the money. Plus, their fees are usually lower than what my bank charges.
Here's a quick rundown of why people like Wise:
- Multi-currency accounts: Hold and manage money in multiple currencies.
- Transparent fees: Know exactly what you're paying upfront.
- Mid-market exchange rate: Get a fair exchange rate on your transfers.
- Fast transfers: Often quicker than traditional bank transfers.
If you're looking for a global solution or just need a way to accept money from your clients locally in a major region like the US, the UK, the EU or Australia, then Wise Business may be the low-cost answer you’ve been searching for.
20. Payza
Okay, so Payza… or should I say, the former Payza. It's a bit of a ghost in the payment processing world these days. Once upon a time, it was a contender, but things got complicated. It's essential to do your research before committing to any payment platform.
Payza had its moment, offering services in many countries and currencies. However, due to legal issues and operational changes, it's no longer a viable option for most users. Always check the current status and user reviews before relying on a payment processor.
Here's a quick rundown of why you might want to steer clear:
- Legal Troubles: Payza faced significant legal challenges, leading to its decline.
- Service Disruption: Users experienced frequent disruptions and limitations.
- Limited Availability: The platform's services became increasingly restricted.
If you're looking for reliable alternatives, there are plenty of other options on this list that offer secure and stable payment processing. For example, freelancers might consider Stripe payments as a leading choice.
21. BitPay
Alright, let's talk about BitPay! If you're knee-deep in the cryptocurrency world, this one's for you. Basically, BitPay lets businesses accept Bitcoin and other cryptos without the headache of actually dealing with the crypto volatility themselves. Pretty neat, huh?
Think of it as a bridge between the traditional finance world and the wild west of digital currencies. It's designed to make crypto payments feel a bit more…normal.
With BitPay, you can invoice customers, process payments, and even get paid in your local currency. It's like having a crypto-savvy accountant on your side. It's a solid option if you're looking to expand your payment options and tap into the crypto market.
22. Payza
Okay, so Payza… or should I say, the former Payza. It's a bit of a ghost in the payment processing world these days. Once upon a time, it was a contender, offering services similar to PayPal. But, things took a turn, and it's no longer operating in the same way. It's like that old gadget you used to love – now it's just sitting in a drawer, a relic of the past.
It's important to note that Payza faced legal issues and is no longer a viable option for online payments. You're much better off exploring the other alternatives we've listed, which are actively providing secure and reliable payment solutions. Think of it as avoiding a detour on your road to e-commerce success – stick to the well-paved paths!
While Payza might have been a topic of discussion in the past, focusing on current and trustworthy payment methods is key for your business's financial health. Don't get caught up in outdated solutions when there are so many great options available. Consider integrating local digital wallets to accommodate consumer preferences.
23. Skrill
Skrill has been around for a while, since 2001, so they know what they're doing. Based in London, they focus on low-cost money transfers, which is always a plus. You can use their app to manage your funds and easily withdraw to your bank. Sending money to another Skrill wallet or directly to a bank account is super straightforward.
They even offer a prepaid Mastercard, including one specifically for travel. If you're into online betting or gaming, Skrill highlights that as a use case too. Regular users can join their VIP club for perks and discounts. It's a pretty solid all-around option.
Just a heads up: while Skrill might advertise "no fee" international transfers, they often make money on the exchange rate markup. Always double-check the exchange rate against Google's rate before you send to see what you're really paying. Skrill will add a fee of 3.99% for transactions involving currency conversion.
If you're looking for alternatives, remember that this article lists nine popular alternatives to PayPal, highlighting Skrill as one option, which charges a $5 service fee if the account remains inactive for over a year.
24. WorldPay
WorldPay, now part of FIS, is a big player in the payment processing world. They've been around for a while, helping businesses of all sizes accept payments, both online and in-person. WorldPay offers a pretty comprehensive suite of services, from payment gateways to point-of-sale systems, making it a solid choice if you want a one-stop shop for all things payments. It's worth checking out their offerings to see if they align with your business needs. According to Worldpay's 2025 Global Payments Report, the digital payments landscape is constantly evolving, so choosing a provider that stays ahead of the curve is key.
25. And More
Okay, so we've covered a bunch of the big names in online payment processing, but the world of fintech is always changing! There are tons of other options popping up all the time, each with its own unique features and focus. It's worth doing a little digging to see if there's a hidden gem that perfectly fits your specific needs.
Think about things like:
- Specific industry solutions (some are tailored for e-commerce, others for subscription services, etc.)
- Niche international markets (if you're dealing with customers in less common countries, some processors might have better support).
- Emerging technologies like blockchain payments (keep an eye on this space, it's evolving fast!).
Don't be afraid to explore beyond the mainstream. You might find a smaller provider that offers better rates, more personalized support, or features that the big guys just don't have. The key is to do your research and find a payment solution that aligns with your business goals and customer base.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it! A bunch of solid alternatives to PayPal that can help you manage your online payments in 2025. Whether you're running a small side hustle or a full-blown business, these options can fit your needs without breaking the bank. From Wise to Stripe, each service has its perks, so take a little time to find the one that clicks for you. The online payment world is evolving, and it’s exciting to see more choices out there. So go ahead, explore these options, and find the perfect fit for your business!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular alternatives to PayPal for online payments?
Some popular alternatives include Wise Business, Google Pay, Stripe, Payoneer, and Skrill.
Is Wise Business a good option for international transfers?
Yes, Wise Business is great for international transfers because it uses the mid-market exchange rate, which is often cheaper than PayPal.
Can I use Google Pay for online shopping?
Absolutely! Google Pay can be used for online shopping and in-store payments.
How does Stripe work for businesses?
Stripe allows businesses to accept payments online easily. You can set it up on your website to handle credit card payments.
Is Zelle available for international payments?
No, Zelle is only for payments within the U.S. It cannot be used for international transactions.
What is the main advantage of using Skrill?
Skrill offers low fees for international transfers and allows you to send money to many countries quickly.