Opening a New Business with Square
Start with the Square pricing path that fits your business.
Most new businesses should begin with Square's standard published pricing. If your business has enough processing volume and you are open to a longer processing agreement, CHS can also help you ask about custom rate options.
Built for new stores, first locations, and businesses preparing to open. If you are replacing an existing POS, CHS can also help review your current processing volume and costs.
Start Here
Pick the path that sounds most like your business.
Compare Square's standard published pricing with the custom-rate conversation path. For most new businesses, standard pricing is the cleaner first step. Custom rates should be treated as a fit-dependent review, not the default signup path.
Standard Square pricing
Uses Square's published pricing and normal plan structure. Best for merchants who want a simple launch path, predictable published rates, and no processing contract discussion.
Monthly software plan fees
Square Free: $0/mo. per location
Square Plus: $49/mo. per location
Square Premium: $149/mo. per location
Published card-present processing
Free: 2.6% + 15 cents per tap, dip, or swipe
Plus: 2.5% + 15 cents per tap, dip, or swipe
Premium: 2.4% + 15 cents per tap, dip, or swipe
Published online processing
Free: 3.3% + 30 cents for online or invoice card payments
Plus: 2.9% + 30 cents for online or invoice card payments
Premium: 2.9% + 30 cents for online or invoice card payments
Best fit
New businesses, lower-volume merchants, online or mixed-channel sellers, and anyone who wants the simplest published pricing path.
Custom rate review through CHS
For merchants who want CHS to review whether projected or current processing volume may qualify for custom pricing with a 36-month processing agreement.
Monthly software plan fees
The Square software plan still depends on the merchant's business needs. Custom processing rates, if available, do not automatically replace paid software plan fees.
Processing review
Custom processing rates are not guaranteed and must be reviewed based on business profile, expected or current processing volume, and Square or partner approval.
Commitment
Merchant should be prepared to discuss a 36-month processing agreement if pursuing custom rates.
Best fit
Merchants with enough projected or existing card volume to justify a rate review and willingness to consider a 36-month processing agreement.
Square pricing is based on Square's published pricing page. Custom rates should be presented as a review conversation, not as a guaranteed offer. Any custom-rate path should be described as fit-dependent and subject to approval, terms, and a 36-month processing agreement.
Your Next Step
Start with the option that matches your business best.
Once you review the choices below, continue to the signup path that fits your answers, or talk with CHS before you decide.
Continue with standard Square pricing
Use this if you want Square's normal pricing and plan structure without a custom processing agreement discussion.
Talk with CHS about custom rates
Use this if you have enough processing volume to justify a rate review and are open to a 36-month processing agreement.
Talk to CHS first
If you are still comparing options or want help choosing the right starting point, we can walk you through it before you sign up.
FAQ
Questions new businesses usually ask.
Why not show both signup links immediately?
Because the better path depends on how you plan to sell, take payments, and present pricing. Starting in the right place helps avoid unnecessary confusion later.
Is the cash discount option right for every business?
No. It is usually a better fit for many in-person businesses, but not every business model or checkout flow.
What if I plan to sell online too?
Businesses with online or mixed-channel sales often fit better on Square's standard pricing path, or they may benefit from a quick review before choosing.
Can I talk to someone before signing up?
Yes. If you want guidance before opening the account, CHS can help you choose the more practical path for your business.
Crystal Hospitality Systems
Local guidance for businesses starting with Square, including setup planning, launch support, and help choosing the right signup path.
Need help before you choose?
Talk with CHS about your business model, launch timeline, and payment flow before moving into the final signup step.
Let's talk about your needs.
No pressure, we can help you with a free Consultation
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