Episode 132: Payment Processors- What to Know and What to Use

Episode Summary: 

In this episode, I answer a listener question about payment processors: should you use them, which one is best, and what fees really mean for your business. I walk through how I use Stripe, when I opt for integrated payment systems like those in HoneyBook or Jane, and why platform convenience sometimes outweighs lower fees. I also break down what payment processors actually do, why passing fees on to clients isn't the move, and how to price your services to account for them.

Topics I chatted about:

• Quick update on my ear piercing healing journey (spoiler: don’t wait ‘til you're older to get them done 😅)

• Monthly recap email sent and general business life updates

• Shanté’s new podcast ChatGPT Curious launching this Thursday

• Why understanding how ChatGPT works matters for business owners and creatives

• Big (mystery) decision I’m sitting on for my business — more soon!

• Explaining how my anonymous “Ask Lex” form works

• Listener question: Do I use Stripe or is there something better?

• What payment processors are and how they work

• Stripe vs. PayPal — why I always choose Stripe

• How I use Stripe inside platforms like Acuity Scheduling
  Platforms that have their own integrated payment processors: Kajabi, Jane, and HoneyBook

• Why I still use integrated systems even if the fees are a little higher

• When it’s worth paying more for streamlined onboarding, payment plans, or automated billing

• The mistake of charging clients extra fees to “cover” processor costs

• Legal and tax notes: processor fees as write-offs and compliance around surcharging

• Why trying to avoid fees altogether is a waste of energy

• Final takeaway: price your services to include payment fees and move on — it’s just part of business

Important links mentioned: 

• Letters to Lex (anonymous questions)

• My resources page

• Join the Monday Minute (my weekly newsletter)

• Shante's new podcast, ChatGPTCurious

Up In My Business' gracious sponsor:

• JaneApp! Use the code LEX1MO for a complimentary month of JaneApp 

Work with me + learn more!

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