Performer Magazine

4 Easy Ways For Bands to Accept Mobile Payments

Everything is on the go these days, and the more convenient you can make things for your client, the better. Whether you’re selling merchandise or taking a payment for the gig, accepting mobile payments is almost a necessity these days. Check out some of the best services available for taking payments on your phones or tablets. Who needs a cash register anymore? (Although, the buttons are kind of fun to push…)

 #1 Square 

Probably the most recognized, Square is a device that you plug into the headphone jack of your iPhone, Android smart phone, or iPad. They’ll hook you up with a free reader when you sign up for the service, and they also have a free app that makes it easy to take payments anywhere. There are no monthly service charges or commitments. Even if you don’t have an internet connection, you can swipe in offline mode. Fees are pretty standard, at 2.75% per swipe for Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Lastly, you can email or text receipts for your customers’ records.
Bonus: Deposits are fast and you’ll see them in 1-2 business days.

#2 Venmo 

This service is better used between people who know each other, and is a money transfer rather than a reader like Square. Venmo is probably better used for getting paid for your gig or taking deposits from your client, versus accepting payment for merch from a stranger. Security is guaranteed, and Venmo prevents unauthorized transactions on the bank accounts used. If something does happen, they’ll cover your losses. This app is also free as long as the sender’s payment is being funded by a Venmo balance, bank account, or debit card. Credit card transactions do have a 3% fee.
Bonus: Receiving money is always free.

#3 Popmoney 

Popmoney is very quick and easy to use, but is also best for trusted transactions. If you’re requesting payment, you send a request through the service (telling them who to collect from and how much). They send a notification to the client, and the client sends money directly into your bank account. To send money, simply enter their mobile number, the amount, and payment info. They’re notified of their deposit, and voila! Money in the bank.
Bonus: When asking for cash, the client doesn’t have to sign up with Popmoney to send it.

#4 PayPal Here 

Paypal might be giving Square a run for its money, even though Square is currently more popular. Their new reader, called the PayPal Here, also plugs into the headphone jack of your iPhone, iPad, or Android smart phone. While Square charges 2.75%, you can save a little with 2.7% fees on each swipe with PayPal. They also offer live customer support, and you can access your funds in minutes rather than days because it’s linked to your PayPal account (obviously). They also accept non-U.S. cards for an extra 1% fee.
Bonus: It comes with a PayPal debit card that gives you 1% cash back on signed purchases.
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Bottom line, checks are so yesterday. Try out one of these apps and get mobile with your money!*

*This article originally appeared on GigSalad.com

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