Square is one of the easiest ways to start taking cards. As your sales grow, it's worth knowing exactly what you pay and how it compares. Here's a plain look at Square's published fees.
Square's published processing fees
As published on Square's website when checked in October 2026, in-person (tap, dip or swipe) payments cost 2.6% + 15¢ on the Free plan, 2.5% + 15¢ on Square Plus ($49/month per location) and 2.4% + 15¢ on Square Premium ($149/month per location). Online and invoice payments, keyed payments and other types have their own rates. Check Square's fee page for current pricing.
What that adds up to
At $30,000 a month in card sales with a $40 average ticket (750 transactions), the Free plan's in-person rate works out to about $892.50 a month, or roughly $10,710 a year, before any subscription. At $10,000 a month it's about $297.50; at $75,000, about $2,231.
Why the flat rate matters more as you grow
A flat rate covers the expensive cards in the mix, so you pay that rate on low-cost debit cards too. At small volume the simplicity is worth it. At steady, larger volume, interchange-plus or a cash discount program frequently costs less.
Want someone to check your numbers?
Send one recent statement and get a plain-English breakdown of every fee, with options side by side. Free, no obligation.
When Square still makes sense
If you're just starting, sell seasonally, or value doing everything yourself in one app, Square can be a great fit. Not every business should switch.
How to compare
Use your real statement. Calculate your effective rate (total fees divided by total sales), then compare it against a written quote that includes all monthly fees and equipment terms. See our Square comparison.
Trademark note
Square is a trademark of Block, Inc. Cedarline Payments is not affiliated with Block, Inc.
General information only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rates and rules change; confirm current details before acting.