Best High-Risk Merchant Accounts 2025

Best High-Risk Merchant Accounts

What Is a High-Risk Merchant Account?

“High-risk” merchant accounts cater to businesses that are typically considered more prone to financial risk by banks and payment processors, including adult entertainment, gambling, travel, telemarketing, ecigarettes and vaping, CBD, and pharmaceuticals. Businesses that have high-volume sales or provide membership services may also considered high risk, as well. 

The factors contributing to a high-risk status include a higher likelihood of chargebacks, regulatory challenges, legal restrictions, or a tendency for higher rates of fraud. Businesses that deal with large-ticket transactions or operate in industries with uncertain or fluctuating legal statuses also fall into this category. 

A high-risk designation affects how businesses are able to process payments and access banking services, often leading to stricter scrutiny and higher fees to offset the increased risk.

Our review focuses on the providers that excel in terms of features, customer service, pricing, and reliability, ensuring that businesses can conduct transactions securely and efficiently.

Top High-Risk Merchant Account Providers:

1. Moonlight Payments 
2. PaymentCloud
3. Payline
4. Durango Merchant Services 
5. High Risk Pay 
6. Soar Payments 

With dedicated support and tailored solutions for each business’s industry- and integration-based needs, Moonlight Payments is our top choice for high-risk merchant accounts.

Moonlight Payments provides comprehensive API integrations with a wide range of banking and accounting platforms, ensuring that even the most complex businesses can seamlessly connect their payment processing systems with essential financial software.

Keep reading our detailed review of the top high-risk merchant account providers below.

1. Moonlight Payments

Overview

Moonlight Payments stands out as a dedicated payment processing provider for high-risk merchants and specialized industries.

With an emphasis on personal attention and customized solutions for “bricks-and-clicks” companies (i.e., those with both physical and digital storefronts), Moonlight addresses the unique challenges faced by businesses in sectors like ecommerce, nutraceuticals, and skincare, with a strong focus on the CBD and hemp industries. 

They ensure a seamless post-account setup experience, offering continuous support and a range of services designed to meet the needs of businesses considered high-risk by underwriters.

Notable Features

• Ecommerce-Focused: Moonlight Payments offers expert services tailored to ecommerce businesses, acknowledging the surge in online sales and providing robust solutions.
• Industry Specializations: Their expertise spans a range of high-risk verticals, industries often deemed risky due to factors like regulatory challenges, high chargeback rates, or market volatility. This is particularly true in sectors like CBD and hemp, where traditional processors typically hesitate to engage.
• Comprehensive Support: From setup to day-to-day operations, they offer dedicated support to ensure businesses navigate the high-risk market successfully.
• Partner Networks: Moonlight Payments facilitates a robust network of robotic partners, ensuring their clients receive comprehensive assistance and support for all aspects of their business operations, extending from payment processing to supply chain management and fulfillment.
• Flexible Solutions: Their broad range of solutions, such as payment gateway integration, fraud protection services, and multi-currency support, can be customized to fit the specific needs of each business.

Pricing

Moonlight Payments provides custom quotes based on the specific needs and risk profile of each business.

Pros

• Expertise in specialized markets like ecommerce, nutraceuticals, skincare, CBD, and hemp, providing targeted solutions for these high-risk sectors.
• Ongoing support beyond the initial setup process
• A strong network of partners allows businesses to access a full suite of integration options and fraud support – all tailored to the unique needs of high-risk businesses.
• Customizable solutions ensure that specific business needs are met effectively.

Cons

• Lack of transparent pricing may require businesses to engage in consultations to get a clear understanding of costs.

Summary

Moonlight Payments distinguishes itself as a comprehensive payment processing solution for high-risk industries, particularly excelling in sectors like ecommerce, nutraceuticals, and CBD. 

Their expertise in these specialized markets, coupled with a strong emphasis on customized service and robust partner networks, positions them as a valuable ally for businesses navigating the complexities of high-risk market operations.

2. PaymentCloud

Overview

PaymentCloud is an established enterprise platform that offers tailored merchant services designed to mitigate risk and increase the chance of account approval, such as advanced fraud protection tools.

PaymentCloud also provides expert guidance on maintaining compliance with industry regulations, ensuring that businesses navigate the complexities of high-risk operations more effectively. 

Notable Features

• Adaptive Pricing: PaymentCloud has a sliding scale for monthly account fees, accommodating businesses of various sizes and risk levels.
• Flexible Terms: Month-to-month contracts with no long-term commitments give high-risk merchants the freedom to adapt as their business needs change.
• Cancellation Policy: Cancellation fees are waived, offering peace of mind and cost savings for businesses looking to switch providers without penalties.
• Chargeback Support: PaymentCloud’s advanced chargeback protection tools help merchants prevent and manage disputes effectively.
• MATCH List Support: PaymentCloud works with MATCH-listed businesses, which are businesses with previously revoked payment processing privileges. This list typically necessitates the need for a high-risk merchant account, as it signals to processors that the business poses a greater risk.

Pricing

Information about PaymentCloud’s fees indicates that their pricing is not entirely transparent and varies depending on several factors:

• Fee Overview: PaymentCloud’s fees vary based on business risk category and merchant type. You will have to call and request a quote to know for sure what the fees are that you’ll pay.
• Virtual Terminal Costs: PaymentCloud offers custom pricing for virtual terminals, with the average cost ranging from $10 to $30 per month. Additionally, per transaction fees may vary from $0.05 to $0.15​​.

Pros

• No long-term contract, providing flexibility and ease of mind.
• Comprehensive chargeback protection tools to safeguard merchants.
• Accommodating businesses that are on the MATCH list, which is rare in the industry.

Cons

• Chargeback fees, while standard, can add up if not managed properly.
• High-risk focus may mean more scrutiny and due diligence during the application process.

Summary

PaymentCloud is notable for its adaptive pricing and flexible terms tailored to high-risk businesses, offering advanced fraud protection tools and comprehensive chargeback support. 

Their services are designed to mitigate risk and increase account approval chances while ensuring compliance with industry regulations. 

The sliding scale for fees and month-to-month contracts caters to various business sizes and risk levels, providing significant flexibility. However, the potential accumulation of chargeback fees and the need for detailed scrutiny during the application process are key considerations for prospective clients.

3. Payline

Overview

Payline, a payment processing solution, showcases adaptability and a user-friendly interface, making it a strong competitor in the high-risk merchant account market.

What makes Payline stand out is its interchange-plus model, also known as “cost-plus pricing.” It allows merchants to see the exact cost of each transaction and the processor’s margin, making it a preferred choice for businesses seeking clarity in their payment processing fees. 

Notable Features

• Monthly Fee Structure: With monthly fees starting at $10 for in-person and $20 for online transactions, businesses can choose what best fits their operations without commitment.
• No Cancellation Fee: Offering month-to-month agreements without cancellation fees encourages flexibility and ease for businesses.
• Next-Day Funding: Payline ensures next-day deposit of funds, aiding in better cash flow management for businesses.
• Broad Compatibility: PaymentCloud aims to provide secure, affordable, and compatible payment gateway services for all business types, ensuring reliable processing, fast speeds, easy setup, and PCI compliance.
• API and Integration Expertise: PaymentCloud works with a variety of providers like Authorize.net, NMI, and USAePay.

Pricing

• Payline Swipe: For in-person payments, merchants are charged a $10 monthly fee with transaction costs of 0.4% + $0.10.
• Payline Keyed-In: For online payments, merchants are charged a $20 monthly fee with transaction costs at 0.75% + $0.20.

Pros

• Transparent interchange-plus pricing model eliminates surprises on bills.
• No hidden fees, with a straightforward monthly fee and transaction cost structure.
• No cancellation fees and no long-term contracts for ease of business operations.
• Quick deposit times enhance liquidity for businesses.
• PaymentCloud’s extensive integration capabilities allow compatibility with various e-commerce platforms, POS systems, and accounting software.

Cons

• Some businesses might find the interchange-plus model more complex than flat-rate pricing.
• Monthly fees may not be ideal for businesses with very low transaction volumes.

Summary

Payline is a competitive player in the high-risk merchant account market, distinguished by its transparent interchange-plus pricing model and user-friendly interface. The company excels in offering straightforward pricing, no hidden fees, and quick deposit times, enhancing liquidity for businesses. 

While its monthly fee structure and interchange-plus model offer clarity and flexibility, they might pose challenges for businesses with low transaction volumes or those unfamiliar with more complex pricing strategies.

4. Durango Merchant Services

Overview

With over 20 years of history in the field, Durango Merchant Services caters to those who might otherwise be sidelined due to the high-risk nature of their business or operating overseas. 

Durango Merchant Services is particularly specialized in serving high-risk merchants and industries. Here are the key points highlighting their specialization:

• Diverse High-Risk Industries: They offer merchant accounts to a broad range of high-risk industries, demonstrating their extensive experience and capability in this sector​​.
• Expertise in Hard-to-Place Merchants: Durango is known for its ability to place high-risk and other hard-to-place merchants, including providing offshore merchant accounts for certain high-risk industries.
• Support for Challenged Merchants: Durango specializes in finding accounts for merchants with poor credit or those on the Terminated Merchant File (TMF) or MATCH List.

Notable Features

• Multi-Currency Support: For merchants dealing with international transactions, Durango facilitates the acceptance of multiple currencies.
• Chargeback Protection: Durango provides tools to help businesses minimize chargebacks, a common issue for high-risk merchants.
• Personal Account Manager: Each merchant is assigned a dedicated account manager, ensuring personalized and ongoing support.

Pricing

• Estimated Monthly Account Fee: $30 (includes payment gateway)
• Estimated Chargeback Fees: $25

Pros

• Transparent monthly fees and no cancellation penalties promote a business-friendly environment.
• The absence of a long-term contract allows businesses to remain agile and responsive to market changes.
• Access to chargeback protection tools and support for MATCH list businesses shows a comprehensive understanding of high-risk account challenges.

Cons

• Higher processing fees might be a downside for businesses with tighter margins.
• The need for a detailed application process could be a hurdle for businesses looking for quick account setups.

Summary for Durango Merchant Services

Durango Merchant Services specializes in serving high-risk and hard-to-place merchants, including those with poor credit. They stand out with their transparent monthly fees, absence of cancellation penalties, and robust chargeback protection tools. 

Although they offer personalized support and are adept at managing high-risk account challenges, the potentially higher processing fees and detailed application process could be deterrents for some businesses.

5. High Risk Pay

Overview

High Risk Pay provides competitive rates, a straightforward fee structure, and tailored payment processing solutions with a particular focus on adult-themed businesses.

Notable Features

• Specialized for Adult Businesses: High Risk Pay is one of few merchant vendors – even high-risk vendors – that offer services specifically for adult-themed businesses.
• Competitive Rates: With transaction fees in line with other high-risk solutions on the market, High Risk Pay positions itself as an affordable option.
• Variable Monthly Fee: Their monthly fees are designed to be accommodating for businesses of various sizes and transaction volumes.
• Credit Flexibility: Fee structures that may vary depending on credit or transaction type, offering adaptability for merchants.

Pricing

• High Risk Pay Standard: The standard transaction fee of 2.95% + $0.25, though certain industries may face different fee levels.
• Monthly Fee Structure: The base monthly fee begins at $9.95, scaling up as needed based on the merchant’s specific requirements and processing volume.

Pros

• Targeted solutions for adult-themed and other high-risk businesses, ensuring that niche markets are adequately supported.
• Transparent and competitive per-industry fee structure allows for clear financial planning.
• Adaptable pricing based on credit or transaction types can provide tailored financial arrangements for individual businesses.

Cons

• Businesses outside of the adult-themed industry might not find the specialized services as beneficial.

Summary for High Risk Pay

High Risk Pay offers specialized payment processing solutions, especially for adult-themed businesses, with competitive rates and a clear fee structure. They provide tailored services with adaptable pricing that caters to various business sizes and transaction volumes. 

While their targeted solutions are a significant advantage for niche markets, businesses outside the adult-themed industry might find less relevance in their offerings.

6. Soar Payments

Overview

Soar Payments offers competitive monthly account fees and are well-equipped with chargeback protection tools, which are critical for high-risk industries. 

Their contract terms and cancellation policies are structured with an industry-focused approach, balancing commitment and flexibility for their clients.

Notable Features

• Competitive Monthly Fees: Their ranging pay scale provides businesses with various service options to fit their budget.
• Extended Contract Length: Contracts span two to three years and are aimed at offering stable processing services for high-risk merchants.
• Chargeback Assistance: Offers integrated tools for an additional fee to help manage and mitigate chargeback instances.

Pricing

• Monthly Account Fee: Ranges from $19 to $45 based on the level of service chosen by the merchant.
• Cancellation Fee: Variable based on industry, ranging from $0 to $395.
• Chargeback Fees: Estimated chargeback fees are $25 to $30.

Pros

• Tailored monthly fees accommodate different sizes and types of high-risk businesses.
• Long-term contracts could provide stability for high-risk merchants in volatile industries.
• Integrated chargeback protection tools help merchants actively manage and reduce chargebacks.
• No cancellation fee for certain industries can offer additional flexibility.

Cons

• Contract length may be restrictive for some businesses seeking shorter-term commitments.
• Cancellation fees can be significant, especially for industries on the higher end of the scale.
• Lack of service for MATCH list businesses could exclude merchants with prior processing issues.

Summary for Soar Payments

Soar Payments is tailored for high-risk industries, offering competitive monthly fees, extended contract lengths, and integrated chargeback protection tools. Their tiered account management fee structure and variable cancellation policies cater to a diverse range of high-risk businesses. 

While long-term contracts and chargeback management are benefits, the potential cancellation fees and absence of services for MATCH list businesses may limit their appeal to certain merchants.

More Reviews on High-Risk Merchant Accounts

When it comes to high-risk industries, finding a merchant account that can handle your specific requirements is crucial. 

Our in-depth reviews provide a look at the top merchant accounts designed for high-risk businesses, equipping you with the knowledge to choose the right one in 2025. 

From CBD to tech support, our comprehensive guides cover a wide range of industries facing high-risk challenges.

Explore our collection of related reviews to find the perfect payment processing partner for your high-risk business needs:

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• Best Collection Agency Merchant Account 2025
• Best Continuity Subscription Merchant Account 2025
• Best Credit Repair Merchant Account 2025
• Best Online Dating Merchant Account 2025
• Best Ecommerce Merchant Account 2025
• Best High Volume Merchant Account 2025

With the right high-risk merchant account, your business can confidently manage transactions and navigate the complexities of your industry.