Authorize.net – Services, pricing, comparisons and reviews

Last updated on 16 June 2023

Authorize.net, a prominent payment gateway provider, has become a staple in the global eCommerce industry. Famed for its ease of use and robust security measures, this article will delve into the company’s history, products, pricing, reviews, and alternatives.

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Headline numbers

  • More than 430,000 merchants worldwide
  • Available in more than 33 countries
  • Processes over 1 billion transactions annually
  • Handles over $149 billion in payments every year

Key information

Key InformationDetails
Founded1996, Utah, USA
Website URLwww.authorize.net
Phone number+44 800 358 7929 (UK Contact)
FSCS protected?No
FCA regulated?No
Key information

Pros and cons of Authorize.net

Pros

  • Wide array of features including advanced fraud detection and recurring billing
  • Robust security measures
  • 24/7 customer support

Cons

  • Relatively higher transaction fees compared to some competitors
  • Not FCA regulated or FSCS protected
  • Can be complicated for non-technical users

Authorize.net products and services

Payment Gateway

The payment gateway service allows businesses to accept payments online with a range of features such as recurring billing and customer information management. Pricing starts at £20 per month plus a 2.9% + 30p per transaction fee.

Advanced Fraud Detection Suite

This suite of 13 configurable filters and tools is designed to identify, manage and prevent suspicious and potentially fraudulent transactions. This service is included free with the Payment Gateway.

Virtual Terminal

The virtual terminal service allows merchants to manually enter payment details and process transactions from any internet-connected device, without the need for a website. This is particularly useful for taking payments over the phone or via mail order. The Virtual Terminal is included in the Payment Gateway service at no additional cost.

eCheck.Net

This service allows businesses to accept electronic checks from customers, providing an alternative to card payments. Fees for this service start at 0.75% per transaction.

Mobile Point of Sale

The Authorize.net mobile app allows businesses to accept card payments in person using a mobile device. The app integrates with a range of compatible card readers, making it a practical solution for businesses of all sizes.

Customer Information Manager (CIM)

This service allows businesses to securely store customers’ sensitive payment information on Authorize.net’s secure servers, simplifying the payment process for return customers and enhancing security. CIM is included in the Payment Gateway service at no additional cost.

Authorize.net reviews

Review sourceRating
TrustPilot4.0/5
Google Reviews4.2/5
Reviews.io3.9/5
Average4.03/5
Authorize.net reviews

Alternatives to Authorize.net

Competitors that offer similar services include PayPal, Stripe, and Square. These companies also provide payment gateways and are known for their comprehensive security measures and user-friendly interfaces.

Additional considerations

While Authorize.net is not regulated by the FCA or protected by the FSCS, it does conform to and exceed many international security standards including the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS).

Authorize.net company history

Founded in 1996, Authorize.net has been at the forefront of online payment solutions for over 25 years. The company was originally based in Utah but expanded rapidly, quickly becoming a trusted partner for businesses across the globe.

FAQ

Is Authorize.net suitable for small businesses?

Yes, Authorize.net’s pricing structure and feature set are designed to accommodate businesses of all sizes.

Does Authorize.net offer support for non-technical users?

Authorize.net provides 24/7 support, including phone and live chat services, to assist users with any issues or queries they might have.

What currencies does Authorize.net support?

Authorize.net supports transactions in major currencies such as GBP, USD, CAD, EUR, and many others. However, it’s always best to confirm with their customer service for specific currency support.

What e-commerce platforms does Authorize.net integrate with?

Authorize.net integrates with numerous eCommerce platforms, including Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, and BigCommerce, making it easy to incorporate into a variety of online retail environments.

Is Authorize.net available for use outside of the US?

Yes, Authorize.net is available in more than 33 countries across the globe, including the UK, Canada, Europe, and Australia.

Can I use Authorize.net for in-person transactions?

Authorize.net also supports point-of-sale (POS) transactions through compatible card readers, making it a versatile option for businesses that have both online and physical stores.

How does Authorize.net handle chargebacks and disputes?

Authorize.net provides a detailed guide on their website on how to handle and prevent chargebacks. They also provide tools to merchants that help them identify potentially fraudulent transactions to prevent disputes before they happen.

Does Authorize.net support recurring payments?

Yes, Authorize.net provides a recurring payment feature which is useful for businesses that offer subscription services or payment plans to their customers.

How quickly are funds from transactions available in my bank account?

Authorize.net typically transfers funds from transactions to your bank account within 2-3 business days. However, the exact timing can depend on your bank’s policies.

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Reviewed by , Managing Director

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