Introduction
As cryptocurrencies gain mainstream adoption, businesses need reliable ways to accept digital payments. NowPayments is a leading non-custodial cryptocurrency payment processor that enables merchants to receive Bitcoin, Ethereum, and over 100 other cryptocurrencies securely.
Unlike traditional payment gateways, NowPayments.io ensures direct wallet-to-wallet transactions , eliminating intermediaries and reducing fees. Whether you run an eCommerce store, a SaaS platform, or a freelance business, this guide explores how NowPayments works, its key features, fees, integrations, and legitimacy.
What is NowPayments?
NowPayments.io is a crypto payment gateway developed by NowPay LLC , designed for businesses that want to accept digital currencies without hassle. It supports 100+ cryptocurrencies , including:
Bitcoin (BTC)
Ethereum (ETH)
Litecoin (LTC)
Stablecoins (USDT, USDC, DAI)
Altcoins (DOGE, XRP, SOL, etc.)
Why Choose NowPayments?
✔ Non-Custodial System – Funds go directly to your wallet, reducing third-party risks.
✔ Automatic Conversions – Option to convert crypto to USDT or fiat instantly.
✔ Easy Plugins – Seamless integration with Shopify, WooCommerce, WHMCS, WordPress .
✔ Low Transaction Fees – Only 0.5% – 1% per transaction (cheaper than competitors).
✔ No Chargebacks – Crypto payments are irreversible, preventing fraud.
✔ Developer-Friendly API – Customizable for advanced users.
Is NowPayments Legitimate and Safe?
Yes, NowPayments is a trusted and secure payment processor with:
Positive Reviews – Rated 4.5/5 on Trustpilot for reliability.
Transparent Operations – Operated by NowPay LLC , a registered company.
No Major Security Breaches – Non-custodial model ensures users control their funds.
Active Community Support – Helpful discussions on Reddit and crypto forums .
How to Use NowPayments: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Sign Up & Complete KYC Verification
Visit NowPayments.io and create an account.
KYC (Know Your Customer) verification is required for higher transaction limits.
2. Choose an Integration Method
NowPayments supports multiple ways to accept crypto:
A. E-Commerce Plugins
Shopify – Install the NowPayments Shopify app for crypto payments.
WooCommerce – Use the NowPayments WooCommerce plugin for WordPress.
WHMCS – Ideal for hosting providers.
WordPress – Direct integration for blogs and membership sites.
B. API Integration (For Developers)
NowPayments API Docs – Full documentation for custom integrations.
Sandbox Mode – Test payments before going live.
IPN (Instant Payment Notifications) – Get real-time payment confirmations.
C. Manual Payment Links
Generate one-time or reusable payment links for invoices.
3. Start Accepting Crypto Payments
Customers pay via their preferred cryptocurrency.
Funds are deposited directly into your wallet (no holding period).
4. Withdraw or Convert Funds
Withdraw crypto to an external wallet.
Auto-convert to stablecoins (USDT, USDC) to avoid volatility.
NowPayments Fees & Pricing Breakdown
This NowPayments offers some of the lowest fees in the industry:
Fee Type Cost Transaction Fee 0.5% – 1% Auto-Conversion Fee +0.5% Withdrawal Fee Blockchain network fee only No Hidden Charges Transparent pricing
🔹 Competitor Comparison:
Coinbase Commerce: ~1% + spread
BitPay: 1% + settlement fees
NowPayments: 0.5% – 1% (cheaper overall)
NowPayments API & Developer Tools
For businesses needing custom integrations , NowPayments provides:
REST API – Secure and scalable payment processing.
Sandbox Environment – Test transactions without real funds.
Webhooks (IPN) – Instant payment confirmations.
Open-Source Libraries – SDKs for Python, PHP, Node.js.
Popular Use Cases
Crypto Donations – Integrate into websites or Discord bots.
Subscription Services – Accept recurring crypto payments.
Gaming & NFTs – Enable in-game purchases with crypto.
NowPayments Alternatives: Which One is Best?
While NowPayments is a top choice, alternatives include:
Service Fees Key Features Best For NowPayments 0.5% – 1% Non-custodial, 100+ cryptos Small to large businesses CoinGate 1% Lightning Network support Quick BTC payments Coinbase Commerce 1% + spread High liquidity Enterprise merchants BitPay 1% + settlement fee Long-standing reputation US-based businesses
NowPayments wins for low fees, flexibility, and non-custodial security .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is NowPayments.io?
A crypto payment processor allowing businesses to accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies.
2. How Do I Pay with NowPayments?
Customers can pay via crypto wallets by scanning a QR code or sending funds to a generated address.
3. Does NowPayments Require KYC?
Yes, identity verification is needed for higher transaction limits .
4. Is NowPayments Safe?
Absolutely—it’s non-custodial , meaning you retain full control of your funds.
5. Can I Use NowPayments with Shopify?
Yes, the NowPayments Shopify plugin enables crypto payments in minutes.
Final Verdict: Should You Use NowPayments?
✅ Best for:
Small & medium businesses
Freelancers & content creators
Developers needing API flexibility
Crypto-friendly eCommerce stores
🚀 Get Started Today: NowPayments.io