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Author: Mallory Halley

  • The Evolution of Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: From Traditional to Modern Solutions

    The Evolution of Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: From Traditional to Modern Solutions

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    Twenty years ago, ringing up a customer meant punching numbers into a bulky register, printing a paper receipt, and hoping you didn’t make a mistake with the change. Today, you can accept payments on your phone in seconds.

    The shift from traditional cash registers to modern POS systems has changed more than just checkout speed. These systems now handle inventory, track customer preferences, integrate with accounting software, and provide real-time sales data. For business owners, upgrading your POS system isn’t just about accepting payments – it’s about running your entire operation more efficiently.

    From Analog to Digital: The POS Timeline

    POS technology has evolved to keep pace with the needs of both merchants and customers. Here’s how we got from mechanical registers to the systems we use today.

    Traditional POS features (and limitations)

    The earliest POS systems weren’t much more than glorified calculators. Traditional cash registers, which first appeared in the late 1800s, could add up purchases and pop open a cash drawer, but that was about it. 

    As technology progressed, electronic registers added some digital capabilities, but they were still pretty limited. There was no way to track inventory, generate sales reports, or analyze customer behavior or buying patterns beyond basic observation. If you wanted to know what your best-selling product was last month, you had to go through handwritten records.

    These systems weren’t exactly user friendly, either. Training new employees could take days, and any mistake meant manually correcting receipts and records. For growing businesses, these limitations became increasingly problematic. 

    Rise of cloud-based systems

    Then came cloud-based POS systems. This shift happened gradually in the 2010s as Internet connectivity became more reliable and affordable. 

    Cloud-based systems changed everything. Instead of storing all your data on a single terminal that could crash or get damaged, cloud systems save everything securely online. Suddenly, business owners could check sales from their phone while on vacation. They could manage multiple locations from a single dashboard. Updates happened automatically without anyone needing to install new software. And if a tablet or terminal broke, they could just log into another device and be back up and running.

    The subscription model that came with cloud systems also made sophisticated POS technology accessible to smaller businesses. Instead of paying thousands upfront for hardware and software, you could get started with a monthly fee and scale up as you grew.

    Key Milestones in POS Technology

    Several breakthrough technologies have shaped modern POS systems into what they are today.

    EMV & chip readers

    EMV chip card technology in the mid-2010s was a major security milestone. Unlike magnetic stripes that could be easily copied, chip cards generate a unique code for each transaction, making them much harder to counterfeit and dramatically reducing card fraud. 

    For businesses, adopting chip readers meant investing in new hardware, but it also meant shifting fraud liability. Today, accepting chip cards is standard practice, and customers expect it.

    Contactless and Tap to Pay

    With contactless payments, paying for things became almost frictionless. Tap to Pay on Phone technology took this even further, turning smartphones and tablets into payment terminals without any extra hardware. For small businesses, food trucks, and pop-up shops, this is revolutionary.

    It’s important to add that these particular innovations weren’t adopted for adoption’s sake. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated this trend, with businesses and customers prioritizing touchless payment options for health and safety reasons.

    Mobile and omnichannel POS

    Modern POS systems have moved beyond the checkout counter. Mobile POS solutions let staff process payments anywhere in a store, at a customer’s table, or anywhere in the world, for that matter. 

    Omnichannel capabilities mean your POS system connects online sales, in-store purchases, and mobile orders into a single view. Customers can buy online and pick up in-store, or return an online purchase to a physical location. This drastically improves inventory management and helps businesses unlock customer insights.

    Benefits of Modern POS Solutions

    Today’s POS systems have become central to how businesses operate and compete.

    Faster transactions

    Speed matters. Barcode scanners, saved customer profiles, and streamlined checkout flows mean customers spend less time waiting and more time shopping. During busy periods, this efficiency can make all the difference when it comes to the customer experience. 

    CRM and accounting integrations

    One of the biggest advantages of modern systems is their integration capabilities. When your POS can feed data directly into your accounting software and customer relationship management (CRM) tools, for example, you can automate loyalty programs and targeted marketing campaigns.

    Reporting and customization

    Modern POS systems offer powerful reporting capabilities that traditional systems never could. Want to know your sales by hour, day, or season? Which employees are selling the most? Which products are seeing the lowest demand? You can get all these answers instantly.

    The customization options also make it so you don’t have to change how you do business to accommodate the POS system. You can set up your interface to match your workflow, create custom discounts and promotions, and configure tax rates for different jurisdictions. The system adapts to your business, not the other way around.

    Industry-Specific Use Cases

    Different industries have unique needs. Here are a few examples of how specific businesses benefit from today’s modern POS systems.

    Salons and spas

    Salons and spas need appointment scheduling, client management, and inventory tracking for products and supplies. Modern POS systems designed for this industry can handle all of this while processing payments – tracking which services each stylist performs, managing booking calendars, and even sending appointment reminders to clients automatically.

    Retail and jewelry

    Retail businesses, especially high-value operations like jewelry stores, have very specific needs around inventory management and customer profile management. Modern systems can track individual items with serial numbers, manage layaway programs, and store customer preferences. The ability to process high-ticket sales securely, including Level 2 and Level 3 processing for business cards, helps jewelry retailers in particular maximize cost savings on processing fees.

    Funeral homes and auto services

    Service-based businesses like funeral homes and automotive shops have complex needs. They often deal with insurance claims and payment plans. Modern POS systems can manage all of this while maintaining the sensitivity and professionalism these industries require.

    How Aurora Modernizes the POS Experience

    Aurora’s ARISE platform delivers a complete, future-ready payment solution built for how businesses actually operate today. We combine the power of an all-in-one POS with advanced security, intelligent automation, and real-time visibility into every transaction. Whether you’re accepting payments in-store, online, or on the go, ARISE gives you seamless control over your entire payment ecosystem—with the reliability and support of our U.S.-based service team behind you.

    The evolution of POS systems has transformed from simple cash registers to intelligent, data-driven business hubs—and Aurora is leading the next phase. As technology advances, we’re continuing to redefine what merchants can expect from their POS: more flexibility, stronger integrations, faster funding, and a smoother customer experience. We’re committed to helping businesses thrive with tools that make accepting payments easier, more secure, and more profitable.

    Ready to see what the next generation of payments looks like? Connect with our team today and experience the Aurora advantage.

  • Aurora Payments Partners with Clarity to Power Embedded Payments in Clarity POS

    Aurora Payments Partners with Clarity to Power Embedded Payments in Clarity POS

    Reading Time: 2 minutes
    clarity

    TEMPE, AZ, UNITED STATES, October 9, 2025 — Aurora Payments, a full-service payments provider, today announced a strategic partnership with Clarity, the cloud-based point-of-sale platform built exclusively for jewelry retailers. This collaboration brings Aurora’s embedded payments platform, ARISE, into the Clarity ecosystem—delivering a seamless, integrated solution that enhances efficiency and unlocks new value for jewelers.

    “Working with Clarity gives us the opportunity to deliver an integrated payment experience tailored to the unique demands of jewelry businesses,” said John Badovinac, SVP of Embedded Commerce at Aurora Payments. “Whether it’s a custom engagement ring or a routine repair, our goal is to make the payment process effortless so jewelers can focus on craftsmanship and client relationships.”

    Built from the ground up to serve the specialized needs of jewelers, Clarity supports key features such as repair tracking, custom orders, consignment management, and client text messaging.

    Now, with ARISE fully embedded, Clarity users gain even more capabilities, including faster checkout and billing that enables them to manage in-store sales, custom jobs, and repairs through a unified platform. Secure payment processing ensures every transaction is protected with PCI compliance, tokenization, and fraud detection. And simplified daily operations help streamline reporting and reconciliation with accurate, end-of-day summaries.

    “We built Clarity to be simple and powerful. Jewelers needed a POS that understands their world, from custom designs and trade-ins to consignment and service work,” said Waqas Saeed, Founder of Clarity. “With Aurora integrated, payments become one less thing to worry about.”

    As point-of-sale platforms continue to evolve, Aurora’s embedded payments platform enables software providers like Clarity to meet merchant expectations for seamless transactions while creating consistent revenue opportunities with every sale.

    To learn more about Aurora’s embedded payments platform, visit: https://risewithaurora.com/saas-software-isv/

    About Aurora Payments

    Aurora Payments is a full-service payments provider delivering the financial infrastructure that powers embedded commerce for small and medium-sized businesses and the software platforms that serve them. Aurora’s platform combines payments, instant settlement, capital access, and risk management tools into a single, ready-to-use solution. Supporting more than 30,000 merchants, Aurora is headquartered in Tempe, Ariz. and backed by Corsair, a leading private equity firm focused on payments, software, and financial services.

    About Clarity Point of Sale

    Clarity Point of Sale is a cloud-based POS platform created specifically for jewelers. It brings together inventory management, custom jobs, repairs, consignment, customer communication, and reporting into one modern system accessible from any device. Learn more at https://claritypointofsale.com/.

    Sherrie Bryant
    Aurora Payments
    +1 702-401-5681
    sherrie.bryant@risewithaurora.com
    Visit us on social media:

  • Credit Card Processing Rates: What They Are and How to Lower Them

    Credit Card Processing Rates: What They Are and How to Lower Them

    Reading Time: 7 minutes

    Every time a customer makes a purchase with a credit card, a small slice of that sale is carved out in processing rates, typically 1.5% to 3.5%.

    Imagine selling a $100 item: your customer swipes, and behind the scenes, about $1.50 to $3.50 is divided among banks, networks, and processors before the rest reaches your business’s bank account. If your business does $100,000 a month in credit card transactions, it will cost your business about $1,500 to $3,500 in fees, on average.

    For small businesses, these seemingly small fees add up. In fact, U.S. merchants paid $224 billion in credit card processing fees alone in 2023, according to The Merchants Payments Coalition. That’s why understanding how these fees work—and how to reduce them—is critical to protecting your margins.

    As a leading credit card processor, Aurora Payments offers a transparent, low-cost pricing model designed to help businesses understand their credit card processing fees and learn how to keep more of what they earn.

    What Are Credit Card Processing Fees?

    Credit card processing fees—or processing rates—are the cost merchants pay to accept credit and debit card payments for goods and services.


    These fees are split among multiple players in the payment chain:

    • The card-issuing bank (like Citi, Chase, or Bank of America)
    • The card network (like Visa or Mastercard)
    • The payment processor (like Square, Stripe, or Aurora Payments)

    Rates typically range from 1.5% to 3.5% of each transaction, depending on the type of card used and method of payment.

    How Processing Rates Affect High-Risk Businesses

    For businesses in high-risk industries—such as CBD and firearms—processing rates usually skew higher. That’s because these sectors face elevated risks of fraud, chargebacks, or legal restrictions, which increase the cost of underwriting and compliance for processors. As a result, high-risk merchants may see rates closer to 4% to 6%, and they often have fewer processing partners to choose from.

    How Processing Rates Affect B2B Transactions

    Business-to-business (B2B) transactions often involve high-ticket payments, like invoices for equipment, materials, or services. These transactions are eligible for Level 2 or Level 3 processing, which allows for more detailed transaction data to be submitted (like invoice numbers, tax amounts, and shipping info).

    If this enhanced data is passed correctly, the interchange fees charged by card networks can be significantly reduced.

    How Processing Rates Affects Seasonal and Nonprofit Businesses

    Nonprofits and seasonal businesses often have irregular or low-volume payment activity, which makes flat monthly fees or high minimums costly.

    Many processors charge monthly minimums, PCI non-compliance fees, or other surcharges that can eat into limited revenue during off-seasons or donation lulls.

    Who Gets a Cut of Each Transaction?

    Every time your customer swipes, dips, or taps their card, the multiple entities in the payment chain take a slice of the sale. Here’s where that processing fee goes:

    Issuer Bank – Interchange Fee

    The card-issuing bank (like Citi, Chase, or Wells Fargo) earns the largest portion of the fee. This interchange fee compensates them for assuming credit risk, fraud protection, and handling the transaction.

    Card Network – Assessment Fee

    Networks like Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express charge assessment fees for access to their infrastructure. These payment processing fees support the secure, global systems that allow card transactions to occur in seconds.

    Payment Processor – Markup or Service Fee

    Companies like Aurora Payments, Square, or Stripe charge a markup to manage transaction logistics, deposit funds into your merchant account, and offer tools like reporting, customer support, or POS integration.

    Payment Gateway (if separate) – Gateway Fee

    In online transactions, a payment gateway (like Authorize.net) securely transmits the customer’s payment information to the processor. Sometimes built into the processor’s platform, this may also be a separate fee if using a third-party gateway.

    Understanding who gets what helps demystify the true cost of accepting credit cards and gives you leverage when comparing providers.

    Types of Merchant Processing Fees You Might See

    Credit card fees go beyond the standard percentage cut per transaction. Here’s a breakdown of the most common fees you might encounter as a business owner:

    Interchange Fees

    The typical range for interchange fees is 1.15% to 3.25% + $0.10 per transaction.

    Paid to the issuing bank, these fees vary by:

    • Card type – A standard debit or credit card with no rewards programs will often have lower fees compared to a credit card with a generous rewards program.
    • Transaction method – A card that is swiped in person often has lower fees compared to a card manually entered for an online transaction.
    • Industry – High-risk industries will typically have higher fees than low-risk ones.

    Assessment Fees

    The typical range for assessment fees is 0.13% to 0.15% per transaction.

    These are paid to the card networks (such as Visa or Mastercard) and remain fairly consistent across most transactions.

    Processor Markup Fees

    Processor markup fees will vary based on your pricing model. Common options include:

    • Flat-rate pricing
    • Tiered pricing
    •  Interchange-plus

    We’ll explore these options more in depth below.

    Gateway Fees

    Gateway fees are usually $10–$25/month or a per-transaction charge (e.g., $0.05–$0.10)

    If your payment processor doesn’t include a gateway, you may pay separately for services like Authorize.net or NMI to handle secure online transactions.

    PCI Compliance Fees

    PCI compliance fees will run you about $75–$150 annually (or spread out across monthly installments).

    These fees are charged to cover costs of maintaining PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) compliance, which helps protect customer card data.

    Monthly Minimums

    Some providers require you to process a minimum volume (for example, $25–$50 in fees per month), or you’ll be

    Chargeback or Retrieval Fees

    Chargeback or retrieval fees can cost $15–$100 per occurrence.

    These processing rates are charged when a customer disputes a transaction. Some processors also charge for retrieval requests, even if the dispute is resolved in your favor.

    Statement or Account Fees

    These fees are monthly administrative or “junk” fees (usually $5–$15) for account maintenance or printed statements. These are often negotiable or avoidable with the right provider.

    Common Pricing Models Explained

    Credit card processing fees are structured in different ways depending on the payment provider. Here are the three most common pricing models you’ll encounter, along with their pros and cons.

    Flat-Rate Pricing

    Flat-rate pricing is typically offered by aggregators like Square and PayPal, companies that are not considered true credit card processors. An example of a common processing rate is 2.6% + $0.10 per transaction. This is the most expensive pricing structure and while it can be convenient for certain merchants, its processing rates can quickly affect profit margins in high-volume businesses.

    Pros and cons of the flat-rate pricing model:

    • Pros:
      • It’s easy to understand.
      • Costs are predictable.
      • It’s suitable for small or low-volume businesses.
    • Cons:
      • It’s often more expensive overall.
      • You may end up paying more than necessary for lower-cost transactions.

    Tiered Pricing

    Tiered pricing divides transactions into three categories based on card type and how the payment is processed.

    Transactions are categorized as:

    • Qualified — Debit or basic credit cards
    • Mid-Qualified — Cards that are entered manually and cards with some rewards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
    • Non-Qualified — Premium rewards or corporate cards, such as the American Express Platinum card

    In tiered pricing, interchange rates (the largest portion of credit card fees that go to the issuing bank) are the lowest for Qualified transactions and the highest for Non-qualified transactions. This structure also includes a percentage-based fee, but the fee is based on the type of card presented for payment and varies based upon the card. It’s less expensive than flat-rate pricing because you pay less for qualified transactions. As an example, a non-rewards Visa card might have an interchange rate of 1.56% and that’s what you would pay instead of flat-rate price of 2.6%.

    Pros and cons of the tiered pricing model:

    • Pros:
      • It can be more nuanced than flat-rate pricing.
      • It involves potentially lower credit card fees for qualified transactions.
    • Cons:
      • It can be hard to audit or predict.
      • It lacks transparency—you often don’t know which tier a transaction falls into until after the fact.

    Interchange-Plus Pricing (Aurora’s Model)

    This model charges you the actual interchange fee (set by the card networks) plus a fixed markup from the processor. For example, you might pay 1.80% + $0.10, depending on the card and how it’s used.

    Pros and cons of the interchange-plus pricing model:

    • Pros:
      • It’s transparent so you see exactly what goes to the bank and what goes to the processor.
      • It scales well with business growth.
      • It is typically the most cost-effective model.
    • Cons:
      • It’s slightly more complex to understand at first.
      • Your monthly statements may include more line items.

    We know that interchange rates vary based on card brand (Visa, Mastercard, etc.), card type (rewards vs. non-rewards), and method of entry (in-person vs. online). With the interchange-plus pricing structure, you always pay the true underlying rate plus a consistent, clearly defined markup that goes to the processor. You will enjoy the lowest interchange rate based upon the card presented to you with this pricing method and that makes it the best for merchants.

    Aurora Payments uses the interchange-plus pricing model, but also offers:

    • Cash discounting – lets you offset processing fees by offering a lower price to customers who pay with cash.
    • Dual pricing – displays both cash and card prices, giving customers a clear choice at checkout.
    • Surcharging – adds a small fee to credit card payments to help recoup processing costs.

    Consider Your Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) When Choosing a Pricing Model

    Credit card processing rates aren’t just a transactional expense—they directly impact your total cost of ownership over time. A seemingly small difference in credit card processing fees (say, 2.9% vs. 2.3%) can translate into thousands of dollars annually, especially for businesses with high sales volume. Hidden fees, inflated markups, and unnecessary equipment leases can quietly erode margins month after month. Choosing a transparent, cost-efficient pricing model—like interchange-plus—can significantly lower your long-term expenses and improve profitability without changing how you do business.

    How to Lower Your Credit Card Processing Rates

    Credit card processing fees can add up quickly. But with the right strategies, you can reduce what you pay without sacrificing service. Here are a few practical ways to lower your costs:

    • Choose interchange-plus pricing – This transparent model separates the true card network costs from your processor’s markup, so you know exactly where your money is going and can often save more in the long run.
    •  Negotiate processor markups or flat fees – Many payment processors have wiggle room in their pricing. Ask about lowering the per-transaction fee or monthly service charges, especially if your business has steady volume.
    • Avoid equipment leasing; buy instead – Leasing card terminals may sound convenient, but the long-term cost is often much higher. You could pay as much as five times the cost of a terminal if you lease. Purchasing equipment outright usually pays off after just a few months.
    • Ensure PCI compliance to avoid extra charges – Being PCI compliant helps protect your customers’ data and prevents costly non-compliance fees that can be tacked on monthly.
    • Monitor for junk fees or hidden line items – Watch for vague charges labeled as “regulatory fees,” “service add-ons,” or “batch fees” on your statement. They might be unnecessary or inflated.
    • Review monthly statements carefully — Take time to understand your monthly breakdown. If something looks off or unclear, ask your provider to explain or justify the charges.

    Small changes can lead to major savings, especially as your business scales. Aurora Payments helps merchants stay on top of processing rate costs with transparent pricing and proactive support.

    Email us at sales@risewithaurora.com.

  • Aurora Payments Partners with iVerticle to Power Integrated Payments in BravaPOS

    Aurora Payments Partners with iVerticle to Power Integrated Payments in BravaPOS

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    LAS VEGAS, NV, UNITED STATES, August 5, 2025 — Aurora Payments, a full-service payment technology provider, today announced a strategic partnership with iVerticle, the developers behind the BravaPOS retail software platform. This collaboration brings Aurora’s embedded payments platform, ARISE, into the BravaPOS ecosystem offering a seamless, integrated solution that enhances operational efficiency and unlocks new revenue potential for iVerticle and their merchants.

    “We’re excited to welcome iVerticle and BravaPOS to our expanding partner network,” said John Badovinac, SVP of Embedded Commerce at Aurora Payments. “Their modular approach helps merchants deploy customized solutions quickly, combining CRM, project management, payments, and financial reporting. iVerticle consistently delivers meaningful value to their customers.”

    Integrating ARISE with BravaPOS simplifies transactions, reduces manual reconciliation, speeds checkout, and ensures PCI compliance and security. Merchants benefit directly from improved operational efficiency and a comprehensive retail solution.

    “Working with Aurora has been a true collaboration,” said Joel Blouin, Business Systems Architect at iVerticle. “Their hands-on support and dedicated specialists made the integration smooth. Most importantly, they’ve enabled our merchants to cut processing costs and see faster, more predictable revenue.”

    As retailers increasingly expect integrated payments within their POS platforms, ARISE helps software companies like iVerticle meet those needs while creating consistent revenue from each transaction.

    For more information, visit: https://risewithaurora.com/saas-software-isv/

    About Aurora Payments

    Aurora Payments is a united network of processing, technology, and payments solutions, supporting over 27,000 merchants and $12 billion in annual processing volume. Founded in 2005, Aurora has carved out leadership in several industries through its innovative products, exceptional service, and deep vertical expertise. The company’s proprietary platform—ARISE—provides ISVs with fast, secure, and scalable Payments-as-a-Service capabilities, flexible APIs, real-time reporting, and rapid merchant onboarding. Headquartered in Las Vegas, Aurora Payments is backed by Corsair, a leading private equity firm focused on payments, software, and financial service investments.

    About iVerticle

    iVerticle develops BravaPOS, a comprehensive retail point-of-sale solution that streamlines operations for independent retailers. BravaPOS provides easy-to-use tools for inventory management, sales tracking, and customer engagement, enabling retailers to operate efficiently and stay competitive.

    Learn more at https://www.iverticle.com/.

  • Get Paid Faster with Payment Links

    Get Paid Faster with Payment Links

    Reading Time: 5 minutes

    Did you know that businesses using payment links typically get paid 40% faster than those relying on traditional invoices or manual payment collection?

    In a world where customers expect instant, mobile-friendly experiences, payment links offer the speed, flexibility, and simplicity modern businesses need. Whether you’re in the field, at your desk, or on the go, you can accept payments instantly. No special software, apps, or technical skills required.

    In our payments processing platform, Aurora Payments offers payment link options that make getting paid as easy as sending a text.

    What Is a Payment Link?

    A payment link is a secure, shareable URL that allows your customers to pay for a product or service online, with no website or app required. Just generate the link, produce a QR code, or send the link by email, text, or social media—and your customer can click to pay.

    Think of it as a “Pay Now” button you can send anywhere. It takes your customer to a mobile-optimized checkout page where they can pay with a card, wallet (like Apple Pay), or even store their info for faster future payments.

    • Some common ways you can implement payment links include:
    • Adding links to digital invoices and email reminders
    • Sharing online payment links via text messages, direct messages, or QR codes
    • Placing links in Instagram bios or email signatures

    Payment links make it incredibly easy for customers to pay and for you to get paid faster.

    How Do Payment Links Work?

    Using payment links is as easy as 1-2-3 for both you and your customer.

    Here’s how to accept online payments:

    1. You create a link – Using the Aurora Payments dashboard, you can generate a secure payment link in seconds. Add details like amount, description, and whether it’s one-time or recurring.
    2. You share the link – Send it via email, SMS, invoice, or social media—wherever your customers already are.
    3. Your customer can pay instantly – Customers click the link, enter payment info, and receive a confirmation. They can pay by card, digital wallet, or even save their info for future payments.

    One-Time vs Recurring Payments

    Whether you’re charging a customer once or setting up a regular billing cycle, payment links give you the flexibility to handle both with ease. Choose the payment frequency that fits your business model:

    • One-time payments – Perfect for invoices, event tickets, or service payments.
    • Recurring payments – Great for subscriptions, memberships, or ongoing billing.

    Aurora Payments lets you automate the process so no reminders are needed.

    Built-In Security & Compliance

    Our payment links use Level 1 PCI-DSS-compliant infrastructure and tokenization to keep customer data safe. Each link is encrypted and handled through our secure gateway, ensuring protection for both you and your customers. Plus, network tokenization ensures credentials stay current even after reissues or expirations, reducing declines and improving the payment experience without increasing your compliance burden.

    Who Should Use Payment Links?

    Payment links are incredibly versatile and can streamline payments across a wide range of industries. No matter your business type, payment links help you get paid faster and simplify the transaction experience for your customers. Here’s how different sectors benefit from payment links:

    Healthcare

    Easily send secure payment links for bills, co-pays, or appointments remotely. This reduces in-office wait times and accelerates cash flow by allowing patients to pay quickly and conveniently from their phones or computers.

    Service Businesses

    Whether you’re a contractor, cleaner, or consultant, you can email or text payment links immediately after a job is done. This speeds up payments, reduces paperwork, and offers a contactless payment option that clients appreciate.

    Retail & Ecommerce

    Share payment links in social media bios, direct messages, or newsletters to quickly close sales without the need for a full ecommerce site. Customers enjoy flexible payment methods and a mobile-friendly checkout experience.

    Field Sales & Events

    Accept payments on the spot by sending a payment link via text or email from your phone or tablet. Perfect for vendors at farmers markets, trade shows, or mobile sales teams, this removes the need for bulky hardware and speeds up transactions.

    Payment Link Benefits

    Payment links aren’t just convenient—they offer real advantages that can transform how your business handles payments. For example:

    • Get paid faster – Businesses using payment links get paid up to 40% faster, thanks to instant access and simplified checkout.
    • Offer multiple payment methods – Accept credit and debit cards, ACH payments, digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, and more to give your customers flexibility.
    • Enjoy mobile-friendly, no-app needed payment  – Customers can pay easily on any device without downloading an app or creating an account.
    • Reduce accounting effort – Automated payment tracking and reporting mean fewer manual reconciliations and less back-and-forth with customers.
    • Enhanced customer experience – A seamless, branded payment page with saved payment info options encourages quick, hassle-free payments and reinforces your brand.
    • Track performance and campaigns – Implementing URL parameters and UTM codes allow you to track where customer traffic originated from (such as social media or your website), the marketing method in which customers accessed your payment link (such as an email or text), and the specific campaign tied to the payment link, among others.

    Real-World Online Payment Links In Action 

    As a proud member of the American Gem Society, Aurora Payments understands the unique needs of jewelers, including how critical it is to maintain a seamless, frictionless journey for their customers. Our payment platform is loaded with features built for high-ticket sales and luxury margins. But more importantly, it allows our jeweler clients to offer branded payment options for custom designs or repair services with easily shareable invoices and secure payment links.

    Our Payment Links: What Sets Us Apart

    Aurora Payments goes beyond just offering payment links—we deliver a tailored experience designed to fit your business needs. What sets us apart from other payments processors? Here are just a few examples:

    Custom Branding on Payment Link Pages

    Make every payment feel personal with your logo, colors, and brand identity featured prominently, ensuring a professional and trustworthy checkout experience.

    White-Glove Onboarding

    Our dedicated team guides you through setup and integration, ensuring you’re up and running smoothly without any technical headaches. And if you need our assistance, our U.S.-based customer service team is available 24/7.

    Support for One-Time and Recurring Payments

    Whether you need a simple one-off payment option or ongoing subscription billing, payment links through Aurora Payments handle both with ease and flexibility.

    No Coding Required, But APIs Are Available for ISVs and Developers

    Use our easy, no-code tools to create and share payment links quickly. But ISVs and developers can tap into integrable APIs for deeper customization and automation into existing software.

    Online Payment Link FAQs

    Can I add a payment link to a text message?
    Yes! You can easily include payment links in SMS or MMS messages to get paid quickly on any mobile device.

    Do payment links support subscriptions or recurring billing?
    Absolutely. Our payment links support both one-time and recurring payments, making it simple to manage subscriptions.

    Are online payment links secure?
    Yes. Our payment links use industry-standard PCI compliance and tokenization to protect your customers’ payment information.

    What payment methods do you support?
    We support a wide range of payment methods including credit and debit cards, ACH transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and more.

    Can I see a demo before getting started?
    Definitely. Contact us to schedule a personalized demo and see how solutions from Aurora Payments can work for your business.

    Discover the Benefits of Payment Links For Yourself

    Ready to get paid faster and offer your customers a seamless, modern payment experience? Whether you need a simple way to collect payments or a fully branded solution that fits into your workflow, Aurora Payments makes it easy.

    Email sales@risewithaurora.com. We’re standing by to help you simplify your payments, one link at a time.

  • What Are ACH Payments & How Can These Transfers Help Your Business?

    What Are ACH Payments & How Can These Transfers Help Your Business?

    Reading Time: 5 minutes

    ACH payments are a type of electronic bank-to-bank payment. The ACH (or Automated Clearing House) network facilitates that transfer of money from one U.S. bank account to another. It is similar to a wire transfer, paper checks, or moving cash between accounts, except bank-to-bank transfers are much faster and less expensive than a wire transfer.

    Which Industries Benefit from ACH Payment Processing?

    ACH payments are widely used across industries for their affordability, reliability, and ease of automation. Here are just a few examples of how different sectors benefit:

    Professional Services

    Attorneys, consultants, and accountants use ACH to collect retainers or invoice clients on a recurring basis.

    Healthcare

    Clinics and private practices accept co-pays or set up automated payment plans for patients via ACH debits.

    Property Management

    Landlords and property managers use ACH to collect monthly rent without processing paper checks.

    Nonprofits

    Charitable organizations simplify donations with recurring or one-time ACH contributions.

    Payroll Providers

    Businesses and payroll platforms rely on ACH for direct deposit of wages to employees, often with same-day or next-day delivery.

    Understanding Direct Deposits, Direct Payments, and ACH Payment Flows

    ACH transactions fall into two primary categories: direct deposits and direct payments, both of which can be processed as either ACH credits or ACH debits. Direct deposits typically involve pushing funds into a recipient’s bank account—employers sending paychecks, government agencies distributing tax refunds or benefits, or businesses disbursing reimbursements are examples. These transactions are almost always initiated by the payer and are an everyday use case for most consumers.

    On the other hand, direct payments are initiated to move money between individuals, businesses, or both, often for things like bill payments, product purchases, or donations. Depending on who initiates the transaction, a direct payment can either be an ACH credit (pushing funds) or an ACH debit (pulling funds with authorization). ACH debits are especially valuable for businesses looking to collect recurring payments, settle overdue balances, or simplify customer billing. Together, these mechanisms make ACH payments a versatile and efficient method for both sending and receiving money in a variety of business and personal contexts.

    How Long Does it Take to Process a Bank-to-Bank Transfer?

    ACH payment timing depends on the type of processing used, and businesses can choose between speed and cost-efficiency based on their needs. While standard ACH transfers are reliable for everyday use, faster options like same-day and instant ACH are available for time-sensitive payments. Here’s how each option works:

    • Standard ACH – Most transactions settle within 1–2 business days after initiation.
    • Same-Day ACH – Available for eligible payments submitted before daily cutoff times. Funds often arrive on the same business day.
    • Instant ACH – Some providers offer near-instant settlement for a premium fee, though availability depends on participating banks.

    How Much Does an ACH Payment Cost?

    ACH payments are known for their affordability, with typical fees ranging between $0.20 and $1.50 per transaction depending on volume, payment provider, and whether the business connects directly or through a third-party processor. In contrast, credit card processing fees typically range from 2.5% to 3.5% of the total transaction amount, making ACH a significantly more cost-effective option, especially for larger or recurring payments.

    While some large enterprises choose to obtain direct access to the ACH network, this route can be complex and expensive due to regulatory overhead, staffing requirements, and technical infrastructure. Most businesses instead opt to work with a third-party payment processor like Aurora Payments, which provides simplified access to low-fee ACH payments, fast onboarding, and transparent pricing, all without the need for extensive internal resources.

    Are ACH Payments Safe?

    Yes, because ACH transfers are built on a secure and regulated system operated by the ACH Network, which is governed by the National Automated Clearing House Association (Nacha). Nacha sets and enforces the rules that every participating financial institution, business, and processor must follow to ensure safe, consistent, and compliant transactions across the U.S.

    While Nacha doesn’t process payments directly, it plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the network. Payments move securely between bank accounts using strict protocols, including bank-level encryption, digital authentication, and fraud detection practices. Compared to credit cards, ACH presents lower fraud risk and fewer chargebacks, and all transfers are digitally recorded, providing an auditable trail that supports reconciliation and dispute resolution.

    Why Should You Accept ACH Payments?

    ACH is no longer a niche payment method—it has become a critical component of the U.S. financial system. In 2024, the ACH Network processed over 33.6 billion transactions, totaling more than $86.2 trillion, according to Nacha . This growth reflects rising adoption across industries for use cases like direct deposits, recurring billing, and B2B payments and highlights increasing demand for fast, low-cost alternatives to checks and wire transfers.

    If your business collects payments from customers, clients, or partners, accepting ACH payments can offer significant advantages. ACH is especially beneficial for recurring billing, large transactions, and businesses looking to cut down on processing fees while improving payment reliability. Whether you’re a service provider, subscription business, nonprofit, or property manager, ACH is a flexible and low-cost solution that helps streamline operations and get you paid faster.

    Benefits of accepting ACH payments include:

    • Lower transaction fees compared to credit cards and wire transfers
    • Faster settlement options with same-day or instant ACH
    • Improved cash flow forecasting
    • Ideal for recurring payments, subscriptions, and invoices
    • Reduced manual processing and paperwork
    • Secure, bank-to-bank transfers with digital tracking
    • Easily integrated with accounting and billing systems
    • Helps reduce late or missed payments through automation

    How to Set Up ACH Payments with Aurora

    Aurora Payments makes all types of payment processing easier, including bank-to-bank transfers. And getting started your business set to accept with ACH payments is quick and flexible with us. Our customers enjoy:

    • Fast onboarding – Most businesses are ready to accept ACH transfers within one business day.
    • No-code or integrated tools – Use our standalone portal or connect with your existing systems.
    • Custom branding – We offer a white-labeled ACH experience for clients and customers, helping to reinforce your brand.
    • Flexible billing support – Set up one-time invoices, recurring billing, or payment plans to suit your business model.

    If you have an in-house development team or SaaS platform, Aurora offers API-based ACH integration to streamline your payment workflows. Developers can connect ACH functionality directly into your app or back office system, supporting real-time status updates, recurring billing, and secure bank account tokenization. We also offer no-code options for non-technical teams, ensuring everyone can benefit from ACH without added complexity.

    FAQs About ACH Payments

    Can I accept ACH transfers from customers without a website?
    Yes, Aurora provides no-code portals and invoice links that allow you to collect ACH payments without a website.

    How long do ACH payment returns or chargebacks take?
    ACH returns for insufficient funds (return code R01) typically occur within 2–5 business days. Unauthorized returns (return code R10) may be filed by the customer up to 60 days after settlement.

    Are ACH bank-to-bank transfers reversible?
    Yes, but only under specific conditions. Customers can dispute unauthorized debits, and businesses must follow Nacha guidelines to respond.

    What’s the difference between ACH payments and eChecks?
    An eCheck is essentially a type of ACH debit that uses the customer’s routing and account number. The terms are often used interchangeably.

    Can I use ACH for international payments?
    ACH payments are primarily designed for transactions within the United States and U.S. territories. While it is technically possible to send International ACH Transactions (IATs), they are subject to strict compliance requirements, including screening by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Due to these complexities and slower processing times, most cross-border payments are better handled using wire transfers or international payment rails. However, if you’re working with U.S.-based accounts owned by international entities, ACH may still be a viable and cost-effective option.

    Get Started with ACH Payments

    Ready to reduce fees and get paid faster? Contact Aurora Payments and discover why you should accept ACH payments to lower transaction fees, improve cash flow forecasting, and increase payment processing security for your business.

    Email sales@risewithaurora.com to learn more and schedule a demo.

  • Recurring Payments: How to Get Paid Automatically and On Time

    Recurring Payments: How to Get Paid Automatically and On Time

    Reading Time: 6 minutes

    80% of subscription-based businesses rely on recurring payments to generate predictable revenue and deliver a seamless customer experience. In today’s fast-paced world, automation isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. That’s where recurring payments come in: an easy way to get paid on time, every time, without lifting a finger.

    Recurring payments are automatic, scheduled transactions that ensure businesses collect revenue without manual intervention. Aurora Payments makes it simple to set up recurring billing for your business, no matter your size or industry.

    What Are Recurring Payments?

    Recurring payments—also known as subscription billing or automatic payments—are transactions that happen on a set schedule. They can be set up to occur on whatever schedule works best for a business and their customers. Customers then authorize a business to charge them automatically using their preferred payment method.

    There are two main types:

    • Fixed recurring payments – The amount is the same each cycle (e.g., $30/month for a subscription service).
    • Variable recurring payments – The amount changes based on usage or services (e.g., utility bills).

    Supported methods include credit/debit cards, bank transfers, ACH debits, and digital wallets like PayPal or Apple Pay.

    How Recurring Billing Works, Step-by-Step

    Here’s a simple breakdown of how recurring billing works from the customer’s perspective. This process ensures a smooth, automated experience that eliminates the need for manual invoicing or payment reminders.

    1. First, a customer subscribes and opts in to the recurring billing option.
    2. They choose a payment method.
    3. The business and customer agree to the amount and frequency of the payments (such as monthly or yearly), as well as the withdrawal date and duration of payments.
    4. The payment is charged automatically to the customer’s account on the agreed upon date. The funds are then transferred directly to the company’s bank account. A merchant services provider such as Aurora Payments facilitates this transaction.
    5. A receipt or confirmation is sent to the customer, usually via email.

    Who Should Use Recurring Payments?

    A wide variety of industries can take advantage of automated payments to save time and improve cash flow. Whether you offer services, memberships, or physical products, recurring charges create a smoother experience for both you and your customers.

    Gyms and Fitness Studios

    Gyms, fitness studios, spas, and other health and wellness clinics can offer unlimited class passes or monthly memberships that renew without customers needing to swipe their card each time.

    Childcare and Education

    From daycares to private tutors, recurring billing helps parents pay on time while providers reduce administrative overhead.

    Professional Services (such as Legal, Coaching, and Design Services)

    Service providers can bill retainers or milestone payments, giving clients flexibility and reducing missed payments.

    Clubs, Associations, and Nonprofits

    These organizations can charge recurring payments for monthly or annual dues effortlessly and improve retention with “set it and forget it” automation.

    Subscription Products (such as Food Boxes, SaaS, and eCommerce)

    Physical goods and digital services can both benefit from recurring payment plans that support customer loyalty and business forecasting.

    It’s important to note that recurring billing can also benefit B2B services and enterprise clients, despite the complex billing they often face. Unlike consumer payments, B2B transactions often involve custom pricing, volume discounts, multi-seat licenses, and invoice-based payments with terms like Net-30. Some clients may require purchase orders, approval chains, or ACH payments instead of cards. Aurora Payments’ platform accommodates these challenges with flexible billing setups and seamless renewals.

    Benefits of Recurring Payments for Businesses

    Recurring charges offer a wide range of advantages that help businesses streamline operations and improve financial health. Here are the key benefits of adopting recurring payments:

    Get Paid on Time, Every Time

    Recurring billing ensures consistent, on-schedule revenue without the delays of manual invoicing. With automatic payments, businesses no longer have to chase down late payments or wait for checks to clear.

    Reduce Manual Follow-Ups and Admin Work

    Automating payments means your team spends less time on billing tasks and more time growing the business. It eliminates the need for monthly reminders, manual data entry, and follow-up emails. This can be especially important if you run your business yourself or have a small team.

    Improve Customer Retention and Satisfaction

    A smooth billing experience builds trust and convenience. Customers are more likely to stay loyal when they don’t have to think about payments or face service interruptions.

    Predictable Cash Flow

    Recurring payments help businesses forecast revenue more accurately. This predictability improves budgeting, planning, and overall financial stability.

    Fewer Missed Payments or Billing Errors

    Automation greatly reduces the chance of human error or missed deadlines. When systems handle charges consistently, payment failures drop, and account reconciliation becomes easier.

    Seamless Customer Experience

    From sign-up to billing confirmation, the recurring model provides a hassle-free journey. Customers enjoy a frictionless payment process with timely receipts and minimal disruption.

    Benefits of Recurring Payments for Customers

    Recurring payments simplify financial planning and give customers freedom from manual bill paying. Below are the main advantages that customers enjoy when they choose automated billing:

    • Set it and forget it – Customers no longer have to track due dates or remember recurring charges, making everyday expenses hassle-free.
    • No missed due dates – Automatic billing eliminates the risk of late fees and service interruptions by ensuring payments are always on time.
    • Easy budget-friendly installments – Breaking costs into predictable, smaller payments helps customers manage their budgets and avoid large one-time expenses.
    • Peace of mind – With payments handled automatically, customers can focus on what matters most without worrying about manual transactions.
    • Secure and transparent – Automated receipts sent via email and tokenized payment methods provide security and clarity with every transaction.

    Recurring Payment Methods We Support

    At Aurora Payments, we support the following recurring payment methods:

    • Credit and debit cards
    • ACH payments and bank debits
    • Wallets (PayPal, Apple Pay, etc.)
    • Custom payment links via email or text message

    How Aurora Payments Makes Recurring Billing Easy

    Aurora Payments streamlines every aspect of recurring charges, from customer onboarding to secure payment processing. Our platform combines flexibility with reliability, so you can focus on growing your business. You’ll enjoy our:

    • Custom-branded payment pages – Create seamless, on-brand checkout experiences that reinforce trust and encourage completion.
    • Easy customer enrollment – Get customers signed up in seconds with intuitive UIs and minimal friction.
    • White-glove setup – Our expert team handles integration, configuration, and testing, so you can hit the ground running. And if you need help at any point, we offer 24/7, U.S.-based customer support.
    • Text-to-pay or invoice integrations – Offer versatile payment options via SMS text links or traditional invoices, adapting to customer preferences.

    Security, Compliance, and Customer Trust

    Security and compliance are at the heart of everything we do at Aurora Payments, ensuring that every transaction meets the highest standards. We implement robust protocols to safeguard your data and foster customer confidence. With our platform, you can rely on our:

    • Level 1 PCI-DSS compliance to ensure secure card processing
    • Tokenization that protects sensitive data and keeps credit card information up to date when it expires or is reissued
    • Email confirmations that reassure your customers with every transaction
    • GDPR-ready solutions for global businesses

    We take customer trust seriously and use secure encryption at every stage.

    Common Use Cases for Recurring Charges

    Recurring payments power everything from fitness memberships to enterprise software licensing by automating billing and ensuring consistent cash flow. Here are a few real-world examples of how businesses leverage recurring billing:

    • A yoga studio charges a monthly recurring payment of $99 for unlimited classes.
    • A wedding planner offers four milestone payments for her services via recurring billing.
    • A software company bills annually for licenses.

    Recurring Payments FAQs

    Do you customers have questions about recurring billing? Below are answers to the most common queries to help you navigate setup, management, and troubleshooting of automated payments.

    Can customers cancel a recurring payment?
    Yes, customers can cancel at any time through their account or by contacting your business.

    How do customers update a credit card?
    Customers can log in and update their payment method securely. But with network tokenization enabled in our platform, network tokens automatically update card details when they expire or are reissued, ensuring stored credentials are always current. That means fewer declines, uninterrupted recurring billing, and a smoother customer experience for all parties.

    Do I need a website to use this?
    No. Aurora Payments offers hosted payment pages and text/email links.

    Are recurring payments secure?
    Absolutely. We are PCI-DSS compliant and use tokenized card storage.

    Can I set up payment plans?
    Yes, you can split payments into installments over time.

    What are some strategies to maximize recurring payments signups?
    Consider psychological pricing to maximize signups. Techniques like anchoring (presenting a high-priced plan first) or offering tiered pricing can subtly influence customer choice and increase average revenue. Flat monthly fees often feel more manageable than large upfront costs, which can help improve sign-up rates.

    Get Started with Recurring Payments Today

    Ready to automate your payments and get paid on time, every time? Aurora Payments makes it simple. Talk to our team and let us tailor a recurring payment solution that benefits your business.

    Contact us today at sales@risewithaurora.com to learn more and schedule a demo.

  • How to Choose the Right Embedded Payments Partner for Your SaaS Business

    How to Choose the Right Embedded Payments Partner for Your SaaS Business

    Reading Time: 5 minutes

    Choosing embedded payment platform partners is one of the most strategic decisions a SaaS company can make. It influences product experience, revenue potential, and long-term scalability. Whether you’re a founder, product manager, or tech leader, this guide will help you cut through the noise and choose a partner that supports your growth.

    Highlights

    • Clear framework for evaluating embedded payments partners
    • Practical insights for SaaS leaders at every stage: startup, growth, and mature
    • Monetization opportunities with the right payments partner
    • Expert quote from Aurora’s Director of Partner Enablement
    • Real-world red flags to avoid

    Why Embedded Payments Matter for SaaS

    Embedded payments aren’t just a backend feature. They have a direct impact on how your users interact with your software. When payments are integrated into your platform, users benefit from a smoother, more intuitive experience. This reduces friction, helps with retention, and can elevate customer satisfaction.

    But there’s more to it than convenience. Embedded payments also offer the chance to unlock new revenue streams and improve the financial health of your business. By taking control of the payment flow, your SaaS platform can generate income from every transaction processed. It also improves your investor appeal, as recurring revenue streams and higher margins are often key metrics in valuation discussions.

    Build vs. Buy vs. Partner: What’s Right for You?

    SaaS leaders often debate whether to build their own payments infrastructure, buy from a processor, or embed payments through a partner. Each path has distinct trade-offs.

    Building in-house gives you complete control over the payment stack. You can customize every detail and tailor the user experience to fit your product. However, this comes with major overhead. You’ll need a dedicated team for compliance, ongoing maintenance, fraud prevention, and customer support. For large or well-funded companies, this route might be viable, but for most, it’s not realistic.

    Buying from a third-party processor can get you to market quickly, but you’ll sacrifice customization and brand control. Many processors also limit your ability to monetize payments directly, so the long-term upside may be small.

    Partnering with an embedded payments provider can offer the best of both worlds. You maintain control over the experience while benefiting from APIs, integration support, compliance, and go-to-market enablement. This route is ideal for SaaS businesses looking to scale without rebuilding core infrastructure.

    Evaluating Embedded Payment Platforms

    Not all partners are created equal. Choosing embedded payment platform providers requires more than comparing rates or tech specs. A good partner should align with your goals, support your teams, and deliver a strong experience for your merchants.

    Start by looking at integration capabilities. Are their APIs straightforward and well-documented? Do they offer direct support for your development team? A complex integration can slow your launch and distract your resources.

    Next, assess how well the provider works with your internal teams. Do they support your onboarding, support, and sales teams? Or are they just another vendor? A true partner should operate as an extension of your business.

    Also consider the end-user experience. Can your merchants get fast support when they need it? Do they have access to onboarding tools, reporting, and troubleshooting resources?

    Finally, think about the business opportunity. The right provider will offer transparent pricing, revenue sharing options, and help you turn payments into a growth engine.

    “As someone who works directly with software partners to drive adoption and performance, I’ve seen firsthand that the right embedded payments partner is a strategic growth lever. It’s not just about plugging in a payment solution. It’s about aligning with a partner that enhances your platform, supports your merchants, and helps you scale smarter. The right partner integrates seamlessly, accelerates onboarding, and acts as an extension of your team.” — Sherrie Bryant, Director of Partner Enablement at Aurora

    Bryant’s perspective reflects a few critical elements that SaaS companies should prioritize when evaluating providers. A partner-first approach means finding a payments provider who doesn’t operate in a silo but collaborates with your onboarding, support, and sales teams. This creates a unified experience across your business and delivers smoother merchant launches.

    Frictionless integration is another must-have. Look for providers offering simplified APIs and direct developer support. This can make or break your timeline when trying to go live. Fast, responsive communication and support for your technical team ensures integration issues don’t delay your growth.

    It’s about aligning with a partner that enhances your platform, supports your merchants, and helps you scale smarter.

    Sherrie Bryant – Director of Partner Enablement at Aurora

    The merchant experience is just as important. A quality payments partner extends your brand’s promise. That includes reliable uptime, self-service tools, and support that makes you look good when issues arise. A seamless merchant experience builds trust and keeps users on your platform longer.

    Most importantly, the right provider should help you grow through both revenue and retention. The best embedded payments strategy boosts your bottom line while making your product more valuable to customers.

    Matching the Right Partner to Your SaaS Stage

    Your needs will vary based on your company’s maturity. A startup launching an MVP will need different capabilities than an enterprise SaaS managing thousands of transactions daily.

    In the startup phase, simplicity is key. Look for partners that can offer quick deployment and hands-on integration help. You may not be focused on monetizing payments yet, so prioritize ease of use and low technical lift.

    During the growth stage, your payment needs become more complex. You’ll want APIs that support customization, onboarding support for scaling users, and merchant support that can scale with your customer base. This is also the time to start exploring how to turn payment processing into a revenue stream.

    If your SaaS business is mature, flexibility is a top priority. You may need multi-channel support, such as enabling both card-present and card-not-present payments. Your partner should offer advanced analytics, flexible pricing models, and deep integration options to help you fine-tune your payment offering.

    Monetizing Payments: Beyond the Basics

    Payments aren’t just a feature to check off your list. They can be a serious growth lever. The right partner will offer revenue-sharing options that let you capture a percentage of each transaction. This becomes a predictable, scalable income stream.

    You can also create new pricing tiers or product bundles by integrating premium payment features. Some platforms offer opportunities for upselling, such as instant payouts or custom invoicing, which can improve the overall lifetime value of your customers.

    And most importantly, embedding payments into your platform increases user stickiness. Once customers run payments through your system, it’s much harder for them to churn.

    Red Flags to Watch Out For

    There are plenty of providers promising fast, easy payment integration. But not all deliver.

    Watch for limited or poorly documented APIs. If your developers struggle during onboarding, that’s a sign the platform isn’t ready for prime time. Lack of direct support is another issue. If you can’t talk to a real person when things go wrong, that’s a risk.

    Opaque pricing is also a major concern. If you don’t have a clear view into costs, you could be leaving money on the table. Inflexible contracts and minimal compliance support are other warning signs that you’re not working with a true partner.

    A Real-World Example: ARISE in Action

    Consider the example of a home services SaaS platform, representative of the kinds of ISV partners Aurora supports. This illustrative scenario demonstrates the type of impact ARISE can have. In this case, the platform needed both card-present and card-not-present payment capabilities, along with a way to streamline onboarding for new merchants.

    By embedding Aurora’s ARISE platform, they would be able to offer a fully integrated, branded onboarding experience. They could also embed payments directly into their user flow and benefit from revenue-sharing that turns payment processing into a new source of income. With support from Aurora’s partner enablement team, including technical assistance and launch coordination, the rollout would be efficient and merchant experience seamless.

    While this is a composite example, it reflects real results Aurora customers can expect, including faster onboarding, stronger monetization potential, and smoother merchant support, all through a strategic embedded payments partnership.

    Next Steps

    Choosing embedded payment platform providers is a decision that will shape your product, your customer experience, and your revenue strategy. Take the time to evaluate your options carefully and match your needs to a partner that supports your long-term goals.

    Aurora’s ARISE platform is built specifically for SaaS platforms that want to scale faster, monetize payments, and deliver great experiences to their users. If your current payments setup isn’t helping you grow, it’s time to reevaluate.

    Ready to level up your embedded payments strategy? Connect with Aurora and see how ARISE can transform the way your platform handles payments.

  • Navigating PCI Compliance in 2025: What Merchants and Payment Providers Need to Know

    Navigating PCI Compliance in 2025: What Merchants and Payment Providers Need to Know

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    As our payment technology landscape evolves, so do the tactics of today’s threat actors. For merchants and service providers, protecting consumers from credit card fraud is a moving target. We’re taking a look at the evolution of payment card industry (PCI) compliance standards, including the newest requirements that went into effect in March 2025.

    What is PCI compliance?

    In 2004, with eCommerce and credit card fraud reaching disruptive levels, five major payment card brands – American Express, Discover Financial Services, JCB International, MasterCard and Visa – came together to form the PCI Security Standards Council. They developed the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) with the goal of creating a more secure payment ecosystem. 

    While compliance doesn’t guarantee security, it provides a structured foundation to mitigate risk and protect cardholder data. Today, every business that handles, processes, stores or transmits payment card information must comply with the PCI DSS. 

    There are 12 PCI compliance requirements, organized into six categories:

    Build and maintain a secure network and systems

    1. Install and maintain network security controls.
    2. Apply secure configurations to all system components.

    Protect account data

    1. Protect stored account data.
    2. Protect cardholder data with strong cryptography during transmission over open, public networks.

    Maintain a vulnerability management program

    1. Protect all systems and networks from malicious software.
    2. Develop and maintain secure systems and software.

    Implement strong access control measures

    1. Restrict access to cardholder data by business need-to-know.
    2. Identify users and authenticate access to system components.
    3. Restrict physical access to cardholder data.

    Regularly monitor and test networks

    1. Log and monitor all access to system components and cardholder data.
    2. Test security of systems and networks regularly.

    Maintain an information security policy

    1. Support information security with organizational policies and programs.

    The evolution of PCI standards

    In order to stay relevant, the PCI DSS must continuously evolve. The security council periodically updates the requirements to reflect advancements in both digital payments innovation and the threat landscape. 

    Here’s a timeline of that evolution, from 2004 until today, by the Merchant Risk Council:

    December 2004: PCI DSS 1.0 is released
    September 2006: Version 1.1 adds requirements for web-facing application firewalls and professional code reviews
    October 2008: Version 1.2 introduces new antivirus and wireless network defense requirements
    August 2009: Version 1.2.1 provides clarity and consistency updates
    October 2010: Version 2.0 adds data encryption guidelines and user access restrictions
    November 2013: Version 3.0 addresses emerging security concerns, cloud technologies, and penetration testing
    April 2015: Version 3.1 offers short-term updates for upcoming 3.2 compliance
    April 2016: Version 3.2 introduces multi-factor authentication guidelines and more
    May 2018: Version 3.2.1 provides clarifications and standard requirement changes
    March 2022: Version 4.0 is released with significant updates
    March 2025: Version 4.0 is officially in effect

    Meeting PCI compliance

    Meeting PCI compliance isn’t a one-size-fits-all playbook. Businesses fall into one of four compliance levels based on annual transaction volume:

    • Level 1: More than 6 million transactions per year
    • Level 2: 1 to 6 million transactions per year
    • Level 3: 20,000 to 1 million transactions per year
    • Level 4: Fewer than 20,000 transactions per year

    For level 1-classified businesses to demonstrate compliance with the standards, they must develop an annual Report on Compliance (ROC) performed by a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA), work with an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV) to conduct quarterly network scans, complete an Attestation of Compliance (AOC) form and perform annual penetration testing and regular internal vulnerability scans.

    Businesses that are levels 2 or 3 must complete an annual Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ), an AOC form and conduct quarterly network scans by an ASV. Level 4 businesses must do the same, except they are exempt from completing the AOC form. 

    Failing to meet PCI standards can be financially devastating. Fines range from $5,000 per month for early offenses to $100,000 per month for persistent non-compliance. And, that doesn’t include the potential costs of data breaches, which also include loss of customer trust and damage to your brand reputation.

    What’s New in PCI DSS 4.0?

    PCI DSS 4.0 was introduced in March 2022, giving merchants and service providers a full two years to familiarize themselves with the changes, update reporting templates and forms and implement changes to comply with the requirements. This version addresses four main objectives – keep pace with the changing payment industry, promote continuous security, provide flexibility in maintaining payment security and improve validation methods and procedures.

    PCI DSS 4.0 marks a shift in how merchants and businesses should view and meet PCI compliance in three significant ways.

    Phased implementation

    Unlike past releases, version 4.0 introduced a phased timeline. Implementing this version’s complex technical changes, especially around encryption, authentication and software development practices, would require some significant resource planning and budgeting.

    The phased approach followed this timeline:

    • March 2024: Implementation of critical security controls
    • June 2024: Role documentation, encryption, software security and authentication controls (Phase 1)
    • September 2024: Asset inventory, TLS implementation, security assessments and logging enhancements (Phase 2)
    • December 2024: System hardening, data retention, key management and vulnerability management (Phase 3)
    • March 2025: All DSS 4.0 requirements fully implemented

    Implementation flexibility

    In years past, there was little room for interpretation in how merchants and businesses could demonstrate compliance to the PCI standards. New in version 4.0, organizations can now develop their own security controls that meet specific requirements, rather than following the prescribed methods exactly as written. 

    While an outcomes-based approach gives businesses more flexibility, it also adds more responsibility and rigor – businesses must provide significantly more documentation in order to justify their compliance to QSAs. 

    Expanded testing requirements

    PCI DSS 4.0 looks at compliance as an ongoing responsibility vs. meeting requirements at a moment in time. Instead of just regular testing at defined calendar dates, businesses must conduct more rigorous and frequent security testing, especially after any significant changes to their environment. 

    Version 4.0 also introduces targeted risk assessments for specific requirements and enhanced penetration testing of both application and network layer security. Overall, the focus is now on measuring effectiveness of measures – not just whether or not they’re in place.

    Embracing the new approach to PCI compliance

    The shift from point-in-time compliance to continuous security monitoring represents a huge change in how businesses must approach payment security. While maintaining compliance in this way may seem overwhelming, the flexibility introduced in version 4.0 acknowledges that security solutions aren’t one-size-fits-all. Aurora has a number of solutions that can help you strengthen your payment security processes.  

    Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal or PCI QSAC advice.

  • What Is Network Tokenization? How It Works & Why Your Business Needs It

    What Is Network Tokenization? How It Works & Why Your Business Needs It

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Digital payments are now the preferred choice for most consumers.In fact, only 9% of Americans use cash as their everyday, primary payment method. It’s not even an option anymore at half of all U.S. concerts and events, where only digital payments are accepted. What the majority of consumers are using in its place are debit and credit cards, which dominate the transaction landscape. 

    It’s no surprise that as usage increases, credit card fraud does too. From 2019 to 2023, digital transactions increased by 90% – while suspected digital fraud grew by 105%. That threat is even more concerning for online merchants and sellers, who have experienced a 140% increase in credit card fraud attacks over the past three years.

    Fortunately, the evolution of technology is allowing for more robust security solutions. In this post, we’ll explore network tokenization—an innovative approach to payment security that’s reshaping how businesses protect sensitive customer data while improving the overall payment experience. 

    Network tokenization vs. Traditional Tokenization

    What is Traditional Tokenization?

    Traditional tokenization is a security process that securely stores the primary account number (PAN) and other sensitive cardholder information and replaces it with a unique identifier, called a token, when a digital transaction takes place. 

    Tokenization has one very important advantage over encryption, another type of security measure. While tokens are randomly generated characters that hold no intrinsic value, encryption converts data into an unreadable format using algorithms; however, it is possible for that data to be decrypted by sophisticated hackers and stolen.

    That said, traditional tokenization has limitations. Typically, the tokens that merchants or payment processors generate are static, and because they’re static, the same token is used over time, which could create some potential security risks. Second, the tokens only protect sensitive card data within a single merchant or transaction context, so they can’t be used across merchants or companies. And third, when cards expire or are stolen, new tokens must be manually generated.

    What is Network Tokenization?

    Network tokenization varies from traditional tokenization in a few distinct ways.

    • Network tokens are issued by card networks (like Visa or Mastercard) vs. merchants or payment processors
    • Network tokens are automatically refreshed in the case of lost, stolen, or expired cards
    • Network tokens change after each use, dramatically reducing fraud risks
    • A single network token can be used across multiple merchants.

    Benefits of Network Tokenization

    Increased Security

    When compared to traditional online card transactions with PANs, token-based transactions reduce fraud by 30%. In the event of a security breach, tokenization reduces the scope of that breach by 60%. 

    Network tokens, specifically, offer even more security. When tokens are generated dynamically, or created anew for each transaction, they provide 20% more security than static encryption. 

    Reduced Declines

    Payment declines can be devastating to businesses. Consider this example: if a subscription service experiences even a 1% failure rate due to outdated card information, it could lead to significant monthly losses – up to $100,000 for a company with 1 million subscribers.

    The stakes are even higher when you consider consumer behavior. Research shows that 35% of cardholders abandon a merchant completely after experiencing a card decline. Network tokenization helps prevent both of these scenarios by ensuring payment information remains current, and is responsible for increasing approval rates by nearly 5%.

    Cost Savings and Avoidance

    Implementing network tokenization delivers a slew of financial benefits. First, it greatly reduces fraud costs – fewer fraudulent transactions mean fewer chargebacks and associated fees. It can even help to lower interchange rates. Visa’s network token can reduce interchange rates by up to 10 basis points compared to non-tokenized rates. 

    Improved Checkout and User Experience

    All consumers expect fast, seamless transactions. Network tokenization delivers this by eliminating friction points in the payment process. With network tokens, there’s no need to update payment methods or verify cards with CVV/CVC codes. This streamlined experience leads to higher customer satisfaction and increased conversion rates.

    Streamlined Recurring Payments

    For SaaS businesses and subscription-based models, network tokenization offers significant advantages when it comes to processing recurring payments. By automatically updating card information when it changes, businesses gain recurring billing stability and card lifecycle continuity.

    This means fewer interrupted subscriptions, reduced customer service inquiries about failed payments, and more predictable revenue streams.

    Reduced PCI Burden

    Because network tokens hold no intrinsic value, they enable businesses to reduce their PCI DSS compliance scope, effectively lowering both the costs and the security risks. According to one report, 90% of financial institutions consider tokenization a key strategy for compliance. 

    Implementing Network Tokenization

    Implementing network tokenization begins with choosing the right payment platform. Some solutions, like ARISE, come seamlessly integrated with network tokenization capabilities. In the case of ARISE, this can be achieved with minimal disruption. Adoption requires no development work, hardware updates, or operational downtime. 

    For merchants and SaaS companies concerned about payment security, customer experience, and operational efficiency, network tokenization is quickly becoming an essential component of a comprehensive payment strategy.

    Learn more about adopting network tokenization through our ARISE platform by reaching out to our team today.