How to choose a payment gateway for your business
A payment gateway lets you accept online payments (UPI, cards, net banking) on your store, invoices or links. Here is how to pick the right one and start collecting.
Step 1: List what you need
Do you need payment links, a checkout on your site, subscription billing, or all three? Match the gateway to how you actually sell.
Step 2: Compare fees and settlement
Gateways charge a percentage per transaction and settle to your bank on a cycle (often T+1 or T+2). Compare the fee and how fast you get your money.
Step 3: Check payment modes
Make sure it supports UPI (the most-used in India), major cards, net banking and wallets, so no customer is turned away at checkout.
Step 4: Integrate it
Use payment links for the simplest start, or plug the gateway into your website or invoices. Test with a small live transaction.
Step 5: Reconcile to invoices
Match each settlement to the invoice it paid so your books stay clean. Billing software that links payment to invoice makes this automatic.
Frequently asked questions
What fees do payment gateways charge?
Typically a small percentage per transaction, varying by payment mode (UPI is often cheapest, cards higher). Compare the rate plus any setup or annual fees.
How fast do I get my money?
Most gateways settle on a T+1 or T+2 cycle to your bank account. Faster settlement is available on some plans, sometimes for a fee.
Do I need a website to use a payment gateway?
No. Payment links and QR codes let you collect without a website. You just share the link on WhatsApp or on the invoice.