Can I accept online payments with WordPress?
Yes, and it's more straightforward than most people expect.
Here's a clear overview of what you need to start accepting payments online. Every business is a little different, so the right setup depends on what you're selling and how. I can help you navigate the options and put together a solution that actually fits the way you work.
Website Basics
If you already have a Wordpress website, you can skip this part. If you don't already have a website, you'll need:
- A domain name
- A web hosting account
- An SSL certificate
The domain name is the address of your website. Often times, the domain name contains the company name (such as apple.com, amazon.com, target.com). Some companies prefer to use keywords in their domain name, to rank higher in search engine results for the words that people will type or speak to find a product or service.
A web hosting account stores your website files and database. It is connected to the internet, making your website available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
An SSL Certificate protects your site visitors. It encrypts data that is passed from the web server ( the actual device where your website files are stored ) and your website visitors' computer or mobile device. When a website is secured this way, the website address will start with https instead of http. Browsers will alert visitors if your website is not secure. SSL is always a good idea, whether you accept payments online or not.
Payment Gateways
Wordpress itself does not process online payments. You need an account with a payment gateway provider. Each company has their own fee structure. Some companies charge a monthly fee, others only charge you when a transaction is processed.
Some of the more popular providers in the US and Canada are:
- PayPal
- Stripe
- Square
Popularity matters here. If your visitors already recognize — or have an account with — your payment provider, they're more likely to follow through on a transaction. PayPal, Stripe, and Square all accept major credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, so the right choice often comes down to what your audience is most comfortable with.
What you sell
Before choosing a solution, it helps to be clear on what you're actually selling. A few things worth thinking through: Do you need a product catalog, or just a single purchase option? Will customers check out with multiple items or pay for one thing at a time? Are you collecting recurring payments, service fees, or membership dues? Do you want invoice links that clients can pay online?
The answers shape the recommendation. There's no one-size-fits-all solution, and getting this right from the start saves a lot of rework later.
What if my website is not on Wordpress?
WordPress is a popular platform, but it's not the only one. Online payments can be set up on most website platforms, and even on simpler custom-built sites. If you're not on WordPress, that's not a problem — reach out and I'm happy to talk through what would work for your specific setup.