Authorize.net vs Stripe ACH Direct Debit

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.

Stripe ACH Direct Debit lets businesses collect reusable payments from customers’ US bank accounts through Stripe’s API and web checkout tools. It is described as suitable for large or recurring transactions. Customers must be in the US, transactions use USD, and the minimum is 0.50 USD. Standard settlement is $0.80 transaction, capped at 5.00 USD, with settlement four business days after payment creation. Faster settlement costs $1.20 for eligible US users and settles in two business days. Confirmation can take up to four business days. Bank details can be verified through Financial Connections or hosted microdeposits. Checkout, Payment Links, embedded forms, and Payment Element are supported; Express Checkout Element and in-app payments are not. Payments require a mandate, can fail or be disputed, and ACH disputes are final. Full refunds are supported within 180 days; partial refunds are not.