Want your own numbers? The Square calculator shows every fee and your profit as you type.
Open the Square US fee calculatorCard fees are a real cost, and many small businesses want customers who pay by card to cover them. There are a few legal ways to do this, and some that can get you into trouble. This is general information, not legal advice. The take-home field in the Square fee calculator shows the right amount to charge.
Option 1: Build fees into your prices
The simplest approach. Raise prices by enough to cover the average fee on card sales. Everyone pays the same, and there are no rules to follow beyond your normal pricing.
Option 2: A credit card surcharge
A surcharge is an extra fee added only when a customer pays by credit card. Card network rules allow it in most US states, with conditions:
- You usually need to register your intention with the card networks or your processor before starting.
- The surcharge is capped, commonly at 3% or your actual cost, whichever is lower.
- You must clearly disclose it at the entrance and at checkout, and show it on the receipt.
- Surcharges are not allowed on debit cards, even when run as credit.
A few states restrict or ban surcharges, and rules change, so check your state’s current law and your processor’s terms first.
Option 3: A cash discount
Instead of adding a fee for cards, you offer a discount for cash or bank payments. This is widely allowed but must be presented as a genuine discount from the posted price.
Working out the amount
Because card fees include a fixed part, adding the percentage alone is not enough. The table shows what to charge so you receive the full amount.
| You want to receive | Charge to net amount (Square in person) | Charge to net amount (Stripe online) | Charge to net amount (PayPal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $20.00 | $20.70 | $20.92 | $21.24 |
| $50.00 | $51.50 | $51.81 | $52.33 |
| $100.00 | $102.83 | $103.31 | $104.13 |
| $250.00 | $256.84 | $257.79 | $259.56 |
| $500.00 | $513.51 | $515.25 | $518.60 |
Before you decide
Customers notice surcharges, and some will pay less often or leave. For many businesses, a small price increase is less visible than a line on the receipt. For rates across processors, see Square fees explained, Stripe fees explained and PayPal fees explained.
Frequently asked questions
Is it legal to charge a credit card surcharge in the US?
It is allowed in most states with conditions such as a cap and clear disclosure. A few states restrict it, so check your state’s current rules.
Can I add a surcharge to debit card payments?
No. Card network rules do not allow surcharges on debit cards.
Run your next sale through the calculator before you commit.
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