The surge in online transactions and the growing popularity of mobile giving have increased the need for dependable nonprofit payment processors. While there’s an array of choices, from household names like PayPal and Authorize.net, it’s Stripe that often stands out in the crowd for charity donations.
Why, you ask? In this blog, we’ll delve into what makes Stripe a great payment gateway for nonprofits and mission-driven organizations, offering six compelling reasons to help organizations streamline their donation processes.
The Benefits of Payment Processing for Nonprofits
Most nonprofits are already processing payments online. If you’re still on the fence, let’s explore why enabling online donations can significantly amplify a nonprofit’s reach.
- Secure Transactions: Embracing a digital payment processor ensures that every financial transaction, from credit card donations to membership fees, is handled securely, offering peace of mind to both the nonprofit organization and its donors.
- Essential for Diverse Transactions: Payment processors are pivotal for nonprofits, facilitating smooth and efficient exchanges across various activities, whether it’s selling event tickets, running an e-commerce store, or taking crowdfunding donations.
- Global Reach: Donors from around town and the world can contribute, breaking geographical barriers.
- Real-time Donations: Instant contributions mean quicker utilization of funds for the cause.
- Recurring Giving: A digital gateway can automate monthly contributions and membership programs, ensuring a steady cash flow.
Understanding the Importance of PCI Compliance in Payment Processing
PCI stands for the Payment Card Industry, and its compliance refers to a set of security standards designed to ensure online transactions are secure. Every business and organization that collects payments by credit card is required to adhere to PCI standards.
Adopting a PCI-compliant payment gateway means both the nonprofit and its donors are shielded from potential threats. This compliance safeguards sensitive data, preventing issues like credit card theft and other malicious activities.
- Building Trust: Utilizing a PCI-compliant processor, coupled with platforms like our proprietary applications, instills confidence in donors. They can rest assured that their private information remains protected during the donation journey.
- A Modern Necessity: In today’s digital age, adhering to PCI standards isn’t just about security—it’s a fundamental expectation for contemporary online transactions.
Stripe is a PCI Service Provider Level 1 which is the highest grade of payment processing security. Trusting in Stripe means benefiting from top-tier security measures.
7 Reasons to Use Stripe as Your Nonprofit’s Payment Gateway
In the world of online nonprofit donations, the right payment gateway can make all the difference. Here’s why Stripe stands out as a prime choice for mission-driven organizations beyond required PCI compliance.
1. Affordability: Reduced Stripe Fees for Nonprofits
One of the pivotal factors when choosing a nonprofit payment processor is cost-effectiveness. Stripe understands this, offering discounted rates specifically tailored for charitable organizations.
Stripe’s pay-as-you-go rates are all-inclusive and even include refunds at no charge. There are no setup or monthly fees with Stripe; only per-transaction fees apply. Here are Stripe’s basic rates, keeping in mind that international processing will differ:
- In the US and Canada – 2.9% and $.30 per transaction
- In the UK -1.5% + £0.20 per transaction
- In Australia -1.75% + A$0.30 per transaction
Organizations that apply for and receive the Stripe nonprofit discount can expect to pay the following rates:
- In the US and Canada – 2.2% and $.30 per transaction
- In the UK -1.2% + £0.20 per transaction
- In Australia -1.4% + A$.30 per transaction
Read more on applying for Stripe’s nonprofit discount and contact them directly for specific information.
2. Effortless Onboarding and Integration
Integrating a new payment system can be daunting, especially for groups without a dedicated IT team. Stripe’s user-friendly onboarding process and interface means it can seamlessly integrate with most platforms.
From DoJiggy, one click takes you to Stripe’s secure onboarding area, where all required information is entered. No faxes or paper documentation is needed. The ease of adding Stripe payment processing reduces the stress that often comes with digital transitions.
3. Versatile Donation Options (Like Apple Pay and Google Pay!)
Offering multiple payment methods can significantly increase donation rates. Stripe offers a broader array of options. Donors can contribute via credit and debit cards, digital wallets (Apple Pay and Google Pay), and direct bank transfers.
Users in the United States can use any of these credit or debit cards to make online donations:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- American Express
- Discover
- JCB
- Diners Club
Offering this versatility means that supporters are more likely to feel comfortable with their payment choices and give to your group.
4. Stellar Reporting
Nonprofits need reporting they can rely on. Stripe allows users to export transactions, payments, and payout information right from their Dashboard. Users can customize their reports by filtering and adding custom columns. We have found Stripe’s reporting to be the best in the business.
5. All-Encompassing Solution
Every nonprofit deserves a robust and efficient payment system. Stripe offers a platform that is adaptable, meaning whether you’re a local charity or an international organization, Stripe scales to meet your needs. Stripe offers solutions for invoicing and in-person payments, as well as online payments.
6. Immediate Access to Funds
With Stripe’s payment processing, there’s no more waiting for your money. As soon as a donation is made, funds are generally accessible to the nonprofit through Stripe’s instant payout method. Regular payouts can be scheduled on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis and go directly into your designated bank account.
7. Trust and Credibility
In the digital age, trust is paramount. Donors need assurance that their financial data is secure and their contributions are reaching the intended cause. Stripe, with its global presence and an unblemished reputation, provides this assurance. Its PCI-compliant infrastructure safeguards donor data, bolstering confidence in the donation process and often leading to repeat contributions.
Using Stripe with DoJiggy
DoJiggy is known for its comprehensive state-of-the-art fundraising software, providing nonprofits with tools for peer-to-peer fundraising, fundraising raffles, and online eCommerce stores, to name a few.
When it comes to payment processing, DoJiggy places its trust in Stripe. Stripe is our main payment processor, providing all processing on the fundraising platform as well as optional processing on our golf tournament software.
Here’s why this partnership is beneficial to your organization:
- Streamlined Transactions: By integrating Stripe with DoJiggy’s platform, nonprofits can ensure that all financial transactions occur smoothly and securely right on your DoJiggy website.
- PCI Compliance: The combined strength of DoJiggy’s secure platform and Stripe’s PCI-compliant infrastructure ensures that donor data is always protected. When Stripe is selected, no financial data is stored by DoJiggy.
- Ease of Use: Both DoJiggy and Stripe pride themselves on user-friendly interfaces. Integrating the two means even those with minimal technical know-how can navigate the system with ease.
- Supportive Ecosystem: From start to finish, from setting up to troubleshooting, nonprofits can rely on robust support from both DoJiggy and Stripe.
Learn how to get started with DoJiggy and Stripe.
Last Thoughts
Stripe is one of the leading payment gateways available. Nonprofits seeking a blend of reliability, affordability, and ease of setup and integration should look no further. Embracing Stripe payments can usher in a new era of fundraising, ensuring that your cause garners the support it truly deserves.
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