Farewell, PayPal Here: A Look Back and How to Move Forward

For many small business owners, PayPal Here was a familiar companion. Launched in 2012, it offered a convenient and affordable way to accept credit card payments on the go. Simply by attaching a small card reader to their smartphone or tablet, businesses could transform their mobile device into a portable payment terminal.

However, in September 2023, PayPal Here officially ended its run. While this may be disappointing news for some, it’s important to remember that technology evolves rapidly, and PayPal Here’s discontinuation paves the way for even more advanced solutions.

So, what are your options now? Let’s take a closer look at the legacy of PayPal Here, explore the reasons behind its retirement, and delve into the superior alternatives offered by PayPal today.

The Rise and Shine of PayPal Here

Before PayPal Here, accepting credit card payments often meant hefty fees and complex point-of-sale (POS) systems. PayPal Here disrupted the market by offering a simple and cost-effective solution. The card reader was free (with a processing fee per transaction), and the app was easy to use. This empowered countless small businesses, from food trucks and farmers markets to independent contractors and solopreneurs, to accept electronic payments with ease.

Here are some of the key features that made PayPal Here so successful:

• Mobility: The ability to accept payments anywhere with an internet connection was a game-changer.
• Simplicity: The user-friendly app made it easy for anyone to get started, regardless of their tech experience.
• Affordability: The free card reader and competitive processing fees made it a budget-friendly option for small businesses.
• Versatility: PayPal Here accepted a wide range of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and contactless payments.

PayPal Here’s impact went beyond just processing transactions. It fostered a culture of financial inclusion, allowing small businesses to tap into a wider customer base and operate more efficiently.

Why Did PayPal Here Say Goodbye?

The decision to discontinue PayPal Here wasn’t taken lightly. Here are some of the possible reasons behind its retirement:

• Evolving Technology: The mobile payment landscape has become increasingly competitive. New solutions offer more advanced features and functionalities that cater to the growing needs of businesses.
• Security Enhancements: As technology advances, so do security threats. Newer solutions may offer more robust security measures to protect sensitive customer data.
• Integration and Scalability: Businesses today require integrated solutions that seamlessly connect their payment processing with other aspects of their operations, such as inventory management and customer relationship management (CRM).

While PayPal Here was a great starting point, it may not have been able to keep pace with these evolving demands.

Moving On: Your New PayPal Options

Even though PayPal Here is no longer available, PayPal remains committed to empowering small businesses with innovative financial solutions. Here are two superior alternatives to consider:

• PayPal Zettle: This is the natural successor to PayPal Here. It offers a wider range of features, including the ability to send invoices, track inventory, and manage sales data. Additionally, PayPal Zettle provides a variety of card readers and POS hardware options to suit different business needs.

Here’s a breakdown of some key advantages of PayPal Zettle over PayPal Here:

• Advanced POS features: Manage inventory, track sales data, and send invoices.

• Hardware options: Choose from a variety of card readers and POS systems to suit your business needs.

• Integrations: Connect seamlessly with other business tools and platforms.

• Enhanced security: Benefit from robust security measures to protect sensitive customer data.

• PayPal Payments Pro: This is a more comprehensive solution ideal for businesses with a higher transaction volume or online presence. It allows you to accept payments on your website, through invoices, and via mobile payments.

Here are some of the benefits of opting for PayPal Payments Pro:

• Omnichannel payments: Accept payments online, in-store, and on the go.
• Customization options: Tailor the checkout experience to your brand.
• Subscription management: Easily manage recurring payments and subscriptions.
• Advanced reporting: Gain valuable insights into your sales data.

Making the Switch

Transitioning from PayPal Here to a new solution is a smooth process. PayPal offers resources and support to help you migrate your account and data. They can also guide you in choosing the right solution for your business needs.

Here are some steps to take to make a seamless switch:

1. Compare options: Explore the features and pricing of PayPal Zettle and PayPal Payments Pro to determine which one best suits your business.
2. Set up your new account: The process is straightforward and can be done online.
3. Transfer your data: PayPal can assist you in migrating your transaction history and customer data to your new account.

3. Choose your hardware (if applicable): For PayPal Zettle, select the card reader or POS system that best fits your needs.
4. Start accepting payments: Once set up, you can begin accepting payments with your new solution.

Beyond PayPal: Exploring Other Alternatives

While PayPal offers excellent options, there are other competitive solutions in the market. Here are a few to consider:

• Square: A popular choice known for its user-friendly interface and wide range of features.
• Stripe: A powerful platform offering robust payment processing capabilities and developer tools.
• Clover: Offers a comprehensive POS system with inventory management, loyalty programs, and marketing tools.

The best choice for you will depend on your specific business needs and budget. Research each option carefully and consider factors like processing fees, features, hardware options, and customer support.

The Future of Mobile Payments

The future of mobile payments is bright. We can expect to see even more innovative solutions that are:

• More secure: Utilizing advanced security protocols to safeguard sensitive data.
• Contactless and frictionless: Offering faster and more convenient payment experiences for both customers and businesses.
• Integrated and connected: Seamlessly connecting with other business tools and platforms to streamline operations.
• Globally accessible: Facilitating cross-border transactions and catering to an increasingly international marketplace.

As technology continues to evolve, mobile payment solutions will become even more essential for small businesses to thrive in the digital age.

While the end of PayPal Here marks a chapter closed, numerous exciting possibilities lie ahead. By embracing the new generation of mobile payment solutions, small businesses can unlock a world of opportunities to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and achieve long-term success.

Taking Action

Don’t let the retirement of PayPal Here hold you back. Take this opportunity to explore the advanced features and functionalities offered by new solutions. By making an informed decision and transitioning smoothly, you can ensure your business is well-equipped to accept payments in today’s dynamic and digital landscape.