Payment Guides

A Guide to Merchant Services Providers in Ireland and How to Choose the Best One 

Summary & key takeaways 

• Merchant services give you the tools you need to take card and online payments safely and easily. 
  

• There are many ways to take payments online, such as through your website, booking system, or via invoice.   
  

• There is no one-size-fits-all option. The right choice depends on how your business runs and how your customers prefer to pay. 
  

• Most payment solutions today are quick and easy to set up, with built-in security to help protect you and your customers. 
  

Every business needs an easy way to take payments. Whether customers pay online, in person, or over the phone, a simple system makes checkout quick and hassle-free. When payments are easy, customers are happier and it helps your business run better. 

That’s where merchant services providers come in. They give businesses the tools they need to take card payments, online payments, and more, all in a secure and trustworthy way. 

In this guide, we’ll explain what merchant services are, how online payments work, and the payment choices available. We’ll also show you how we help businesses choose a provider that suits their needs. 

What are merchant services? 

Merchant services are tools and systems that help businesses accept payments from customers. They allow you to take payments by card, online or over the phone. Together, these services make it easy for customers to pay quickly and safely, no matter the payment method or location. 

For businesses, merchant services help keep payments coming in and reduce time spent on admin. For customers, they make checkout quick and easy, helping build trust in your business. 

How do merchant services providers work? 

First, the payment details are securely sent to the payment processor. The processor checks with the customer’s bank to make sure there are enough funds and that the transaction is valid. If everything is approved, the payment goes through. 

The money is then transferred to your business bank account, usually within a few days. During this process, the merchant services provider also runs security checks to help prevent fraud and keep customer data safe. 

How to accept online payments for your business 

There’s no single best way to accept online payments. The right option depends on how your business works and how your customers prefer to pay. Some common ways include: 

Website 

One of the most popular ways to take payments online is directly through your website. This works well for online shops and businesses that take bookings or orders online. Your website connects to a payment gateway, which securely processes your customers’ card details and transfers the funds to your business. Most platforms, such as Shopify, WooCommerce, or Wix, offer built-in integrations, so setting this up is much simpler than it used to be. 

Via online invoicing or payment links 

For many service-based businesses, online invoicing and payment links are a great option. Instead of paying through a website, customers receive a secure payment link by email or text. This works especially well for businesses in the beauty industry. 

Booking systems with built-in payments 

If your business runs on appointments, such as a salon or fitness studio, booking systems with built-in payments can be a big help. They allow customers to book and pay in one step, which reduces no-shows and the need for admin. Everything is dealt with in one place, making the experience much easier for both parties.  

Virtual payment terminals 

A virtual payment terminal is the software that allows you to take payments over the phone or online. To use it, you simply log in, enter the customer’s card details, and process the payment, no card machine necessary. This method is great for businesses that take bookings over the phone or simply want a quick and easy way to get paid.  

Types of merchant services providers 

Merchant services providers have different offerings depending on how your business takes payments. Here are the main types you can choose between:  

Traditional merchant services providers

These providers let you take card payments in person using a card machine, with the money sent straight to your bank account. They are popular with shops, cafés, pubs, and other customer-facing businesses. 

Payment gateways

Payment gateways are what makes online card payments work. They work in the background of your website or checkout, processing the payment and paying the money into your bank. 

Payment terminals 

Payment terminals are used to take card payments in person. Most machines accept contactless payments, digital wallets such as Apple Pay, and PIN. 

POS systems 

POS (point-of-sale) systems allow you to take payments and manage sales in one place. As well as processing payments, many POS systems also help you track sales, view reports, and manage stock. This makes it easier to keep an eye on how your business is performing day to day.

Mobile payment processors 

Mobile payment solutions make it easy to take payments on the go, using your phone or a small card reader. They’re a great fit for mobile businesses, pop-ups, and tradespeople. 

All-in-one payment solutions 

Some providers offer all the tools you need in one place. This can include online payments, reporting, and customer support. Having everything under one roof can make things easier to manage and help create a simpler setup for your business. 

E-commerce platforms with integrated payments 

Platforms like Shopify include built-in payment tools along with your website and checkout. This can be a convenient option if you only sell online. 

Merchant services providers in Ireland 

There are many merchant services providers in Ireland, offering solutions for small businesses, online sellers, retailers, and larger organisations. Each provider is different, so be sure to compare your options carefully before making a decision. Some of the merchant services providers operating in Ireland include: 

• AIBMS 

• BOIPA 

• Worldpay 

• Barclaycard 

• Elavon 

• Square 

• Stripe 

• MyPos 

• Dojo  

• Ecomm 

• PaymentPlus 

• New Payment Innovation  

• Payzone 

• Revolut 

• SumUp 

How to set up online payments 

While setting up online payments might sound complicated, it’s a lot easier than most people think. With the right tools and a bit of guidance, you can start taking payments online in no time. 

Choose a merchant services provider 

Start by choosing a provider that can help you take payments online securely. Look for transparent pricing and options that match how your business trades. 

Select a payment gateway 

After choosing your provider, you’ll need a payment gateway. This is what connects your website or checkout page to your bank, making sure every payment is handled safely. 

Most platforms, like Shopify or Wix, already integrate with popular gateways, so setup is typically straightforward. Once this step is complete, you can start taking payments online right away. 

Connect it to your sales system 

Once you’ve chosen your provider and gateway, connect them to whichever platform you use to take payment, like your website or booking system. The good news is that most platforms make setup simple, with easy-to-use plugins and straight-forward steps. 

Test before going live 

It’s wise to run a few tests before you start taking real payments. These checks make sure everything works as it should, allowing you to troubleshoot any issues before customers are affected.  

Ensure security is a top priority 

Security should be your top priority when taking payments online. It protects your customers and your business from potential fraud. 

A few key things to check include: 

• Is your provider PCI compliant?  

• Do they use encryption? 

• Is two-factor authentication available?  

• Do they monitor fraud? 

Get support when you need it 

Even with the simplest, bullet-proof set-up, having reliable expert support on hand can give you peace of mind. Here at Procure.ie, we’re here to help you compare options and make sure everything runs as smoothly as possible.  

Find the right merchant services provider with Procure.ie 

With so many options available, choosing a merchant services provider can feel overwhelming. At Procure.ie, our experts helps Irish businesses compare providers and find payment solutions that suit how they actually work. Whether you need a card payment terminal for in-store transactions or want to accept payments online, we can help you find the right merchant services solution. 

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