Payment processing is a critical part of running a business on GoHighLevel. Whether you’re managing sales funnels, automating workflows, or handling recurring payments, choosing the right payment processor can directly affect your revenue and customer experience. This guide reviews 12 top payment processors, including Stripe, PayPal, Square, and others, focusing on fees, features, and integration with GoHighLevel.
Key Takeaways:
- Stripe: Best for subscription billing and global payments with native integration.
- PayPal: Trusted for international transactions but limited advanced features.
- Square: Ideal for in-person and online payments, though integration requires third-party tools.
- NMI: Great for agencies managing multiple accounts with native support.
- Authorize.net: Reliable for handling various payment types but includes a monthly fee.
- Razorpay: Tailored for businesses in India with extensive local payment options.
- Airwallex: A cost-effective solution for global and multi-currency transactions, though integration is complex.
- Shopify Payments: Designed for e-commerce stores but needs custom setups for GoHighLevel.
- QuickBooks Payments: Useful for small businesses managing invoices and recurring payments.
- HighLevel Mobile Payments: Native option for in-person card payments via Stripe or Square.
- Custom Integrations: Flexible for unique needs using GoHighLevel’s API.
- Braintree: Enterprise-level processing with PayPal infrastructure.
Quick Comparison:
| Processor | US Transaction Fee | Integration | Subscription Support | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stripe | 2.9% + $0.30 | Native | Yes | SaaS, recurring billing |
| PayPal | 3.49% + $0.49 | Native | Yes | International payments |
| Square | 2.6% + $0.10 | Third-party tools | Yes | In-person + online sales |
| NMI | 2.9% + $0.30 | Native | Yes | Agencies managing multiple clients |
| Authorize.net | 2.9% + $0.30 + $25/mo | API | Yes | Established businesses |
| Razorpay | 2% + $0.30 | API | Yes | Indian market |
| Airwallex | 0.5%-1% FX margin | API | Basic | Multi-currency transactions |
| Shopify Payments | 2.9% + $0.30 | Third-party tools | Yes | E-commerce stores |
| QuickBooks Payments | 2.9% + $0.30 | API | Basic | Small businesses |
| HighLevel Mobile | 2.9% + $0.30 | Native | Yes | In-person payments via GoHighLevel |
| Custom Integrations | Varies | API | Yes | Specialized needs |
| Braintree | 2.9% + $0.30 | Third-party tools | Yes | Enterprise-level processing |
To choose the right processor, consider your transaction volume, payment methods, and integration needs. Stripe is a top choice for recurring payments, while PayPal is excellent for international customers. For in-person transactions, Square or HighLevel Mobile Payments stand out. Evaluate costs and features carefully to find the best fit for your business.
GoHighLevel Payments Options Explained: Expert Advice w/ Josh Knox
1. Stripe
Stripe plays a key role for GoHighLevel users, powering essential payment and automation features. It’s become a favorite payment processor for businesses managing sales funnels, automating recurring billing, and streamlining client workflows through GoHighLevel.
Integration with GoHighLevel
Stripe integrates effortlessly with GoHighLevel, acting as the default payment provider for SaaS sellers and agencies. This integration links your payment processing directly with CRM data, enabling automated follow-ups based on payment status.
Setting up Stripe in GoHighLevel is simple – just connect your account in the payment settings, and all transaction data syncs automatically with customer profiles. Payments, refunds, and even failed transactions are logged in real time, giving you a clear view of each customer’s payment history without the hassle of manual updates.
Supported Payment Methods
Stripe supports a variety of payment methods, including major credit and debit cards like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. It also handles ACH transfers for larger transactions and mobile wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. This flexibility caters to customers who prefer quick, one-click checkouts as well as those needing bank payment options.
Pricing and Transaction Fees
Stripe offers a straightforward pricing model that’s appealing to GoHighLevel users. The standard fee is 2.9% + $0.30 per successful online transaction, with no monthly or setup fees. For ACH payments, the cost is just 0.8%, capped at $5.00 per transaction, making it an economical choice for high-value purchases.
An added bonus? GoHighLevel doesn’t charge any additional transaction fees on sales processed through its platform – you only pay Stripe’s processing fees. This keeps costs predictable and ensures you retain more of your revenue. Stripe’s subscription tools further enhance its value for GoHighLevel users.
Subscription and Recurring Payment Support
Stripe is particularly effective for managing subscriptions and recurring payments, which are crucial for businesses offering membership sites, SaaS products, or retainer-based services. It automates billing cycles, handles prorated charges, and retries failed payments automatically.
Even better, Stripe’s recurring billing tools integrate seamlessly with GoHighLevel’s automation workflows. For instance, you can set up automated welcome sequences for new subscribers, send reminders for upcoming renewals, or launch win-back campaigns for customers who cancel – all without lifting a finger. With these features, Stripe becomes an indispensable part of any GoHighLevel payment setup.
2. PayPal
PayPal is one of the most well-known payment platforms globally, making it a reliable choice for businesses using GoHighLevel. It’s particularly useful for selling products, services, and handling affiliate payments [2]. For businesses in regions where Stripe isn’t available, PayPal remains a practical option.
Integration with GoHighLevel
PayPal’s integration with GoHighLevel is tailored to specific scenarios. It’s primarily used for selling products and services through online order forms and managing affiliate payments [2]. However, it doesn’t support advanced features like SaaS plan billing, calendar booking payments, or text-to-pay options.
To get started, you’ll need to connect your PayPal business account in GoHighLevel’s settings. This syncs transaction data directly with customer profiles.
Supported Payment Methods
When paired with GoHighLevel, PayPal allows customers to pay using credit cards or bank accounts [4]. Its widespread popularity means many customers already have PayPal accounts, simplifying the checkout process. Plus, with support for over 25 currencies [2], PayPal is an excellent tool for businesses operating internationally or in regions where Stripe isn’t an option. These features make it a versatile payment solution, but understanding its fees is essential.
Pricing and Transaction Fees
Here’s how PayPal’s fees break down for U.S. transactions:
- One-time transactions: 3.49% + $0.49 [2]
- International card fees: 1.5% [2]
- Currency conversion: 4% [2]
- Dispute handling: $15 [2]
GoHighLevel doesn’t add any extra transaction fees when using PayPal [5]. You’ll only need to account for PayPal’s standard processing costs.
Subscription and Recurring Payment Support
PayPal offers basic support for recurring payments and subscription billing. However, its integration with GoHighLevel doesn’t extend to advanced subscription management features.
3. Square
Square is a go-to solution for businesses handling in-person transactions. While GoHighLevel doesn’t currently offer a native integration with Square, one is reportedly in the works [2]. In the meantime, third-party tools like Appy Pie Automate can help bridge the gap [3][6][4].
Integration with GoHighLevel
Since Square lacks direct integration with GoHighLevel, automation tools step in to fill the void. This setup is especially useful for businesses already using Square for in-person payments, as it allows you to consolidate online and offline payment data into one system [1].
By using automation, you can sync transaction data between Square and GoHighLevel. While this process involves an extra step compared to native integrations like Stripe, it still provides a clear, unified view of your sales across multiple channels. For businesses that rely on both online and offline sales, integrating Square ensures a smoother and more cohesive payment workflow.
Supported Payment Methods
Square supports all major credit and debit cards, making it a versatile choice for businesses handling both online and in-person transactions. Its strength lies in its ability to operate across multiple channels. Whether customers are making purchases online through your GoHighLevel funnels or paying in person at your physical location, Square has you covered. This dual functionality is particularly advantageous for service-oriented businesses that engage customers both digitally and face-to-face.
Pricing and Transaction Fees
Square’s pricing is straightforward and competitive. The platform charges approximately 2.5% + $0.10 per transaction [5], which is notably lower than Stripe’s standard rate of 2.9% + $0.30 and PayPal’s fee of 3.49% + $0.49. For example, on a $100 transaction, you’d pay $2.60 with Square, compared to $3.20 with Stripe and $3.98 with PayPal. This transparent fee structure makes Square an appealing option for businesses looking to manage costs effectively.
4. Authorize.net
Since 1996, Authorize.net has been a trusted name in payment processing, offering reliable and tailored solutions for businesses. For GoHighLevel users, it provides a seamless way to handle payments while benefiting from decades of expertise. Its integration with GoHighLevel is straightforward, ensuring businesses can quickly get up and running.
Integration with GoHighLevel
Authorize.net connects directly to GoHighLevel using API credentials, making the setup process quick and simple. Once integrated, you can process payments through your funnels, forms, and checkout pages, with all transaction data syncing automatically to your GoHighLevel dashboard.
For agencies, this setup is particularly useful, as it allows you to manage multiple merchant accounts from one centralized GoHighLevel dashboard.
5. NMI
Network Merchants Inc. (NMI) serves as a flexible payment gateway that supports multiple merchant accounts, making it a valuable tool for agencies using GoHighLevel. This feature is particularly helpful for agencies managing a wide range of client accounts.
Integration with GoHighLevel
Integrating NMI with GoHighLevel is straightforward thanks to its API connection. Once set up, NMI unlocks essential features like order forms (Funnels Version 2), invoices, and Text2Pay. It also offers 3D Secure (3DS) functionality, which requires just a one-time configuration within both accounts.
NMI operates smoothly across GoHighLevel’s platform, supporting payments for surveys, e-commerce stores, and course sales. For agencies handling in-person payments, the HighLevel mobile app works with NMI to process credit card transactions, whether using saved payment methods or capturing new card details. This seamless functionality ensures a streamlined experience across various payment scenarios.
Supported Payment Methods
NMI’s integration with GoHighLevel is primarily geared toward processing credit and debit card payments. However, mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are not supported through this setup. Additionally, eCheck and ACH direct debit payments are unavailable for most GoHighLevel features[7][8]. If your business needs mobile wallet capabilities, adding a processor like Stripe can fill that gap. For now, focus on strategies centered around card-based transactions.
Subscription and Recurring Payment Support
NMI’s SaaS Mode integration allows agencies to handle recurring payments and subscription billing for membership sites, course platforms, and service fees. It also provides the flexibility to switch between multiple connected merchant accounts. This is particularly useful for diversifying payment processing and managing monthly client charges more efficiently[9].
6. Razorpay
Razorpay is a payment gateway tailored for the Indian market, while also supporting international transactions. This makes it a great option for GoHighLevel users focused on India.
Integration with GoHighLevel
You can connect Razorpay to GoHighLevel using its API. This integration allows you to handle both one-time and recurring payments, helping to simplify your payment processes within the GoHighLevel platform.
Supported Payment Methods
Razorpay offers a wide range of payment options, including domestic and international credit and debit cards, eight mobile wallets, various digital wallets, and netbanking services through 58 banks [10][11][12]. While ACH direct debit isn’t available, netbanking provides a dependable alternative for bank-to-bank transfers.
Recurring Payment Support
Razorpay is equipped to handle recurring billing, making it an excellent choice for subscription or membership-based models. This feature helps automate regular payments, ensuring a steady cash flow.
7. Airwallex
Airwallex is a global payment platform designed for seamless multi-currency transactions. While it doesn’t currently offer native integration with GoHighLevel, it’s frequently requested by users for its competitive exchange rates and low fees on cross-border payments [13][14].
Integration with GoHighLevel
Although Airwallex isn’t natively integrated with GoHighLevel, users with technical expertise can connect the two through custom API integrations [15].
Supported Payment Methods
Airwallex stands out for its flexibility in payment methods. It supports both domestic and international transactions, handling major credit and debit cards as well as region-specific local payment options. Additionally, its multi-currency accounts allow businesses to receive and hold funds in various currencies, making it a practical choice for global operations [16].
Pricing and Transaction Fees
One of Airwallex’s key advantages is its cost structure. It charges no fees for domestic, international, or multi-currency accounts in EUR, AUD, GBP, and USD. The only cost involved is a foreign exchange margin of 0.5%–1% [16].
When compared to other payment solutions compatible with GoHighLevel, Airwallex offers noticeable savings. For example, Stripe charges 2.9% + $0.30 for international transactions and 4.3% for international cards, while PayPal charges 3.6% + $0.30 for international sales, along with a 4% currency conversion fee [13][16]. These lower costs make Airwallex an attractive option for businesses with a global focus.
User Feedback
User feedback often emphasizes Airwallex’s affordability, particularly for international transactions. Its lower currency conversion fees and transfer costs have made it a popular choice among users willing to invest in setting up a custom integration [13].
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8. Shopify Payments
Shopify Payments is Shopify’s built-in payment system designed specifically for e-commerce stores. However, it doesn’t directly integrate with GoHighLevel. To bridge this gap, you can use webhook integrations or third-party automation tools. These methods allow you to sync customer data, order details, and payment confirmations between Shopify and GoHighLevel, making it possible to set up automated workflows triggered by payment activities.
9. QuickBooks Payments
QuickBooks Payments, a tool from Intuit designed for small businesses, integrates with GoHighLevel through custom API connections. These integrations allow seamless syncing of payment data and customer information.
Integration with GoHighLevel
With QuickBooks Payments, you can create invoices that include payment links directly in QuickBooks [17]. However, to enable recurring transactions, users need to save card details from the initial payment [18]. This integration helps simplify payment data management within GoHighLevel, making it easier to track and handle transactions.
Supported Payment Methods
QuickBooks Payments processes both credit and debit card payments through links generated from QuickBooks invoices.
Subscription and Recurring Billing
Whether it’s for one-time payments or recurring billing, QuickBooks Payments handles both efficiently [18], making it a great fit for businesses with subscription-based models.
10. HighLevel Mobile Payments
HighLevel Mobile Payments transforms your device into a fully functional POS terminal, enabling seamless in-person transactions [5]. This built-in feature eliminates the need for additional payment hardware while still offering professional-grade payment processing.
Integration with GoHighLevel
The mobile payment system works directly within the GoHighLevel platform, offering native integration with Stripe, Authorize.Net, NMI, and Square [8]. For users who require external hardware, HighLevel is compatible with Stripe card readers (M2, BBPOS Wisepad 3) and Square devices [8]. This setup ensures a consistent experience across all payment options.
Supported Payment Methods
HighLevel Mobile Payments supports credit and debit card transactions across all integrated processors [5][8]. Additionally, contactless payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are available when using Stripe as the processor [5][8]. However, ACH Direct Debit transactions are not available with the mobile POS feature [8].
| Payment Method | Mobile POS Support |
|---|---|
| Credit/Debit Cards (Stripe) | Yes |
| Apple Pay/Google Pay (via Stripe) | Yes |
| Credit/Debit Cards (Authorize.Net) | Yes |
| Credit/Debit Cards (NMI) | Yes |
| Credit/Debit Cards (Square) | Yes |
| ACH Direct Debit | No |
11. Custom Payment Integrations
Custom payment integrations are designed to address specific payment needs by enabling developers to connect virtually any payment provider with GoHighLevel. Using GoHighLevel’s Custom Payments Integration Framework, marketplace app developers can seamlessly incorporate their preferred payment providers into the platform [19][20].
Integration with GoHighLevel
This setup utilizes GoHighLevel’s API to handle both one-time and recurring payments [15][19][20]. By leveraging this direct API connection, the integration process becomes more efficient, simplifying the configuration of payment options.
Supported Payment Methods
The framework supports storable payment methods, making it ideal for recurring billing and off-session transactions [15][20][21]. GoHighLevel’s API specifically supports card and us_bank_account as payment types, ensuring smooth processing of credit/debit card payments and ACH transfers [15][20].
12. Braintree
Braintree offers payment processing at an enterprise level for GoHighLevel, utilizing third-party automation platforms and tapping into PayPal’s infrastructure for reliable transactions.
Integration with GoHighLevel
Braintree connects with GoHighLevel through automation platforms like Integrately and Appy Pie Automate. This setup makes it easy to create customers and handle transactions within your workflows seamlessly[23][24][25]. These integrations enable triggers and actions that fit right into your GoHighLevel processes.
Additionally, Braintree functions as an acquiring bank connection through NMI[22], providing another option for integrating payment processing into the GoHighLevel system. This flexibility makes Braintree a strong choice for users looking to streamline their payment workflows.
Payment Processing Apps Comparison
Based on our in-depth reviews, here’s a streamlined comparison of the top payment processing apps for your GoHighLevel platform. This breakdown considers factors like business requirements, transaction volume, and integration preferences.
Transaction fees can vary greatly, with some platforms offering competitive rates for businesses handling large volumes, while others focus on simplicity for smaller operations. Payment method support also differs significantly. For example, Stripe stands out with its global reach and support for diverse payment methods, including digital wallets, bank transfers, and buy-now-pay-later options. PayPal is known for its strong consumer trust and international usability, while Square primarily caters to card payments with limited digital wallet integration. Use the table below for a quick side-by-side comparison:
| Payment Processor | US Transaction Fee | Monthly Fee | Integration Difficulty | Subscription Support | Key Payment Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stripe | 2.9% + $0.30 | $0 | Easy (Native integration) | Yes | Cards, Digital Wallets, ACH, International |
| PayPal | 2.9% + $0.30 | $0 | Easy (Native integration) | Yes | PayPal, Cards, Pay in 4 |
| Square | 2.6% + $0.10 | $0 | Moderate (Third-party integration) | Yes | Cards, Digital Wallets |
| Authorize.net | 2.9% + $0.30 | $25 | Moderate (Third-party integration) | Yes | Cards, eChecks |
| NMI | 2.9% + $0.30 | $25 | Easy (Native integration) | Yes | Cards, ACH, International |
| Razorpay | 2% + $0.30 | $0 | Moderate (Third-party integration) | Yes | Cards, UPI, Wallets |
| Airwallex | 2.8% + $0.30 | $0 | Difficult (API) | Basic | Cards, Local Methods |
| Shopify Payments | 2.9% + $0.30 | $0 | Difficult (Third-party integration) | Yes | Cards, Shop Pay |
| QuickBooks Payments | 2.9% + $0.30 | $0 | Moderate (Third-party integration) | Basic | Cards, ACH |
| HighLevel Mobile | 2.9% + $0.30 | $0 | Easy (Native integration) | Yes | Cards, Mobile Payments |
| Braintree | 2.9% + $0.30 | $0 | Moderate (Third-party integration) | Yes | Cards, PayPal, Digital Wallets |
When choosing a payment processor, integration complexity plays a significant role. Platforms like Stripe, PayPal, and NMI offer native GoHighLevel integrations, ensuring a smooth setup process. On the other hand, processors requiring third-party tools like Zapier or Integrately might demand more effort but can provide broader customization options.
For businesses relying on recurring revenue, subscription billing capabilities are critical. Stripe and PayPal deliver advanced subscription features, including dunning management, proration, and flexible billing cycles. Square and Authorize.net offer more basic options, while platforms like Airwallex have limited subscription functionality.
Stripe’s extensive features and global reach make it a great choice for high-volume businesses. PayPal’s familiarity and ease of use appeal to agencies prioritizing simplicity. For those needing customization, NMI offers flexibility, while businesses focused on cost savings might opt for processors with lower transaction fees.
Ultimately, your decision should align with your transaction volume, average ticket size, and international payment needs. By matching these factors to your operational goals, you can identify the payment processor that best suits your business.
Conclusion
Choosing the right payment processor can elevate your GoHighLevel workflows and help drive revenue growth. A well-synced payment system ensures smoother customer follow-ups, keeps records updated automatically, and maintains data accuracy throughout your sales funnel.
With optimized workflows in place, integrating payments seamlessly takes operations to the next level. Built-in connections with Stripe, PayPal, and NMI make payment processing easier while triggering timely follow-ups.
Take time to assess fee structures to ensure processing costs fit your transaction volume and growth plans. Look for features like recurring billing or multi-currency support that align with your business needs.
Before fully implementing, run tests with a small transaction volume. This helps confirm that workflows, refunds, and dispute management function as expected. Even the most highly rated processor can create headaches if it complicates daily operations or causes issues at checkout.
FAQs
How can I choose the best payment processor for my business on GoHighLevel?
Choosing the right payment processor for GoHighLevel largely depends on what your business needs and what your customers prefer. For instance, Stripe is a solid choice for SaaS businesses, offering a variety of features to streamline payments. PayPal, on the other hand, stands out for its global recognition and user-friendly setup. If you’re looking for more flexibility and customization, NMI might be worth exploring. For businesses based in the US and Canada, Authorize.net is a reliable option, while Razorpay is a popular pick for companies operating in India.
When making your decision, think about factors like transaction fees, available features, and the payment methods your customers are most likely to use. Choose the processor that best fits your sales and marketing workflows to ensure a smooth payment experience.
What are the differences in transaction fees for the top payment processors compatible with GoHighLevel?
Transaction fees among the leading payment processors for GoHighLevel in 2025 differ based on the provider:
- Stripe: Charges 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction. For international cards, there’s an extra 1.5% fee, and currency conversion adds 1%. Disputes come with a $15 fee.
- PayPal: Costs 3.49% + $0.49 per transaction. International card payments incur a 1.5% fee, and currency conversion carries a 4% charge.
- Authorize.net: Has a standard rate of 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction, along with a $25 monthly fee for certain plans.
Other options like NMI and Razorpay usually provide custom pricing tailored to specific business needs. It’s essential to review each provider’s terms to choose the one that aligns best with your payment setup in GoHighLevel.
What’s the best way to integrate a payment processor with GoHighLevel for smooth transaction management?
To set up a payment processor with GoHighLevel, begin by linking your chosen gateway – whether it’s Stripe, PayPal, or Square – through the platform’s settings. You’ll need your API keys or account credentials to establish the connection. Once everything is linked, you’ll have access to tools for handling one-time payments, subscriptions, and payment links, making it easier to manage transactions and automate tasks.
Be sure to check that the payment processor is compatible with GoHighLevel, review any transaction fees, and activate security features like encryption and two-factor authentication. It’s also important to keep your integrations updated and regularly review transaction data to maintain accuracy and address any potential issues promptly.