How much does Stripe charge?
At the time of writing, Stripe's standard US price for online card payments is 2.9% + 30¢ per successful charge, with no monthly fee. Two common extras are added on top:
- International cards: +1.5% when the card was issued outside your country.
- Currency conversion: +1% when Stripe converts the payment into your currency.
- Other methods, like bank debits, in-person payments and invoices, have their own rates.
The Stripe fee formula
Fee = amount × 2.9% + $0.30. On a $100 payment that's $2.90 + $0.30 = $3.20, so you keep $96.80.
To receive an exact amount, work backwards: charge = (amount you want + $0.30) ÷ (1 − 0.029). To keep $100, charge ($100 + $0.30) ÷ 0.971 = $103.30. Add the extra percentages to the 2.9% if they apply.
Should you pass fees on to customers?
Adding a card surcharge is restricted in some US states and by card network rules, and customers rarely like it. Most creators and small businesses build fees into their prices instead. If you sell a $49 product, you'll keep about $47.28 per sale, so price with that in mind.
Ways to keep more
Fixed fees hurt most on small payments: 30¢ is 6% of a $5 sale but 0.3% of a $100 one. Bundle small items, offer annual plans instead of monthly ones, and consider bank payments for large invoices, which often cost less.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Stripe fee on $100?
At the standard US rate of 2.9% + 30¢, the fee is $3.20 and you keep $96.80. An international card would add another $1.50.
How much should I charge to receive $100 through Stripe?
$103.30 at the standard US rate. The formula is (amount + $0.30) ÷ (1 − 0.029).
Does Stripe refund its fees when I refund a customer?
At the time of writing, no. Stripe keeps the original processing fee on refunded card payments, so check its current refund policy if it matters for you.
Is Stripe cheaper than PayPal?
On standard US rates, Stripe's 2.9% + 30¢ is lower than PayPal Checkout's 3.49% + 49¢. Your real cost depends on your payment mix and any custom pricing.