5 Awesome ways to get paid easier

As a freelance contractor or sole trader, it can be difficult staying on top of bill payments and invoicing – but the vast majority of businesses simply cannot operate without an effective billing and invoicing software solution in place. 

Here are my Top 5

1. GoCardless

This integrations with more than 150 existing accounting software tools, including Sage, Quickbooks and Xero.

Ideal for setting up direct debits, as it includes a mandate functionality, is user-friendly for customers and allows businesses to collect both variable and fixed payments on a one-off or repeat basis.

The GoCardless Standard package features no monthly fee, and simply charges 1% per transaction up to a cap of £2.

2. PayPal

PayPal has rolled out a dynamic suite of business solutions offering a one-stop shop for all your online billing needs – from invoicing or collecting payments on the web, to in-store POS terminals, overseas transactions and financing opportunities.

A unique aspect of PayPal's offering is its Invoicing tool, which enables users to create and send detailed invoices via email that customers can action and pay via card or their existing PayPal account in just a few clicks.

Businesses can register for PayPal free of charge, and then pay a transaction fee calculated based upon overall sales volume.

3. Square

One of the web’s easiest online invoicing services – Square’s customisable invoices are free to send and monitor. Customers are then given a range of payment options, and funds paid are deposited directly into business bank accounts in as little as a day. 

Square doesn’t charge a transaction fee if invoices are paid via BACs or cash – although bills collected via card come with a fee of 2.5% per invoice.

4. Stripe

Stripe Billing features a customisable API that’s simple to integrate into existing sites, apps or CRMs. It can also integrate with Quick Books, Sage and Xero. 

Customers can use Stripe Billing on a flat rate fee structure or pay based on usage.

5. Sum up 

A stand-alone Air card Reader system.  Idea for those out and about with lots of small sales to deal with.  The card machine (which fits in a handbag) can be linked to your mobile phone and only costs £19 + VAT. There is no monthly fee and simply charges 1.69% per transaction.It doesn't integrate with accounting software but has easily downloadable reports.

If you need more info on how these integrate with the cloud software I provide my clients, please get in touch

www.purplebookkeeping.com