How to Calculate Payment Processing Fee
What is Payment Processing Fee?
Payment processors like PayPal, Stripe, and Square charge a percentage plus a fixed fee per transaction. To receive a specific net amount, you need to charge more than that amount to cover the processor's cut.
Formula
Fee = Amount × Rate% + Fixed fee | Charge amount = (Desired net + Fixed) ÷ (1 − Rate%)
- F
- Transaction Fee ($)
- r
- Fee Rate (%)
- f
- Fixed Fee ($)
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Fee = Amount × Rate% + Fixed fee
- 2To receive $X net: Charge = (X + Fixed) ÷ (1 − Rate%)
- 3PayPal/Stripe: 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction
- 4Monthly fees and chargebacks are additional costs not included
Worked Examples
Input
Receive $100 via PayPal (2.9% + $0.30)
Result
Fee = $3.20, you receive $96.80. Charge $103.38 to net $100.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do payment processors charge fees?
Fees cover fraud prevention, chargeback risk, payment infrastructure, PCI compliance, and the processor's operating costs.
Can I pass fees to customers?
It depends on your processor and industry. Many allow surcharges, but credit card networks prohibit charging card fees higher than your actual cost.
What is the cheapest payment method?
ACH bank transfers cost $0.20–1.00 flat but take 3–5 days. Credit cards cost 2.9–3.5% but settle in 1–2 days.
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