Authorize.net vs First ACH API

Authorize.net helps businesses accept electronic and credit card payments online, in person and by phone. It supports major cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal and eChecks, with channels for website checkout, mobile payments, in-person card readers, phone orders through Virtual Terminal and digital invoicing. Automated Recurring Billing supports subscriptions, retainers and payment plans. Customer Information Manager stores payment details for returning customers, while Advanced Fraud Detection Suite offers customizable rules to flag suspicious activity. The service lists web, iOS, Android and API platforms, XML and JSON API variants, and a certified network of technology and solution partners. Merchant support is available 24x7 except major holidays. Authorize.net says its processing is designed for small businesses and that it has worked with merchants and small businesses since 1996. There is no free plan. All listed plans cost $25 per month: All-in-one adds 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction; Gateway only adds 10¢ per transaction plus a 10¢ daily batch fee and requires an existing merchant account. Gateway + eCheck lists 0.75% for eCheck and 10¢ per card transaction plus a 10¢ daily batch fee; eCheck is available only to U.S.-based businesses.

First ACH API connects a business’s own interface to the First ACH payment gateway, allowing transactions to move through an existing sales process. Businesses can manage transactions from their account database, submit them as they occur, and receive updates for monitoring inside their own system. The API supports recurring ACH payments and ACH credits. Listed applications include embedding ACH payments in another product, depositing across multiple accounts, and consolidated processing for distributed networks. First ACH describes it for businesses integrating payments with existing systems, merchants adding customer-initiated payments to software or websites, and companies needing custom features. Integration requires a live Internet connection to begin. A 30-day ACH processing trial has no cancellation penalty or termination fee, although processed-payment fees still apply. Technical support is free by phone and email from trained US-based professionals. First ACH cites managed firewalls, encrypted account data, 128-bit SSL web traffic, intrusion detection, NACHA standards, and PCI requirements. Pricing is on request.