When You Start an Activity AsSelf-employed Or Independent Professional, Choosing the Right Solution for Collect Online Payments It is strategic. Stripe is one of the most used players in the world of e-commerce and digital services. But what exactly do you do the Stripe Fees ? And above all, how is this solution positioned in the face of Alternatives available on the market ?

Here is a complete and neutral decryption to help you see more clearly.

Stripe: a powerful and international payment solution

Stripe is a Payment infrastructure Online used by millions of businesses around the world. It allows you to accept payments by bank card, Apple Pay, Google Pay or even by bank transfer via SEPA.

It is a solution API-first, designed for developers, but it also offers Simplified interfaces For Small Structures That Want Cash Out Easily From Their Site or a hosted payment page.

What are the Stripe fees?

Stripe fees vary depending on the type of transaction and the customer's location.

Card payments (in the EEA):
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• 1.5% + €0.25 For European maps
• 2.5% + €0.25 For non-European cards

International payments:
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• Of Currency Conversion Fees Can be added (generally) 2% At an additional cost)

Other possible costs:
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• Refunds : Free, but the initial costs are not returned
• Argues/arguments : €15 per dispute (refundable if won)
• Advanced Services (split payment, billing, etc.): according to use

Who is Stripe suitable for?
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Stripe is particularly interesting for:

• Les digital entrepreneurs
• Les Freelancers With international customers
• Les startups Who Want to Automate Their Payments
• Les SaaS platforms And the sites e-commerce.

What Self-Employed Entrepreneurs Should Look Out For

For a Self-employed, every euro counts. Even if Stripe Doesn't Charge No subscription, its costs may weigh if:

• The Average basket is low
• The Trading volume Is high
• The customer is outside the eurozone

Your note: No VAT is charged by Stripe, but you must integrate it into your accounting if you are subject to it. Les VAT-exempt auto-entrepreneurs (article 293 B of the CGI) must simply indicate “VAT not applicable — article 293 B of the CGI” on their invoices.

Simpler and less expensive alternatives?

Solutions like SumUp, PayPal, gold Tap to Pay May sometimes be better suited to certain profiles, in particular:

• Les Face-to-face salespeople
• Les Liberal professions
• Les micro-businesses without an e-commerce site

Of Professional Neobanks Like Klark also integrate these tools directly into their banking application. This allows Centralize Payment, Billing and Accounting In a single interface, while keeping costs under control.

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In summary: Stripe, at what price?
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European card fees: 1.5% + €0.25 -> Competitive online
Non-EU card fees: 2.5% + €0.25 -> Can quickly increase
Subscription: None -> Pay as you go
Litigation fees: €15 -> Refundable if won
Integrated banking interface: No -> Third-party solutions required
Ideal for: SaaS, e-commerce, digital nomads -> Not always suitable for small businesses


Choosing a solution adapted to your business

Stripe is a solid, reliable solution, designed to scalability. But its Transaction Fees May be high for some low-margin activities. aceSelf-employed or professional, the main thing is to:

• Compare current costs According to your volume and your clientele
• Evaluate ergonomics and banking integration
• Provide a backup or alternative solution In Case of Need

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