Can anyone get a Square card reader?
Matthew Harrington
Updated on February 01, 2026
Square makes it possible for anyone, whether an individual or small business, to take payments via credit card. These readers have no moving parts and are so inexpensive to manufacture that Square can give them away. Anyone can sign up for the service and get a free reader.
How can I accept credit cards without a reader?
To accept card payments with the Square app without a reader:
- Select the menu icon in the navigation bar > Settings > Checkout > Payment Types.
- Toggle on Manual Credit Card Entry.
- Ring up a transaction by adding items or entering custom amounts using the keypad.
- Tap Charge to process the payment.
Are Square readers free?
The Square Reader for magstripe accepts magstripe payment cards (cards without a chip) on compatible devices. When you sign up for Square and your account is activated, we’ll ship you one for free. Note: The magstripe reader does not need to be charged. …
Can I use my phone as a card reader?
If you have a smartphone — be it an iPhone or an Android-powered phone — you can use a portable card reader to take credit card payments anywhere you can get an Internet connection.
Is there a monthly fee for Square?
Square’s standard processing fee is 2.6% + 10¢ for contactless payments, swiped or inserted chip cards, and swiped magstripe cards. There are no monthly or hidden fees for credit card processing.
What is the maximum amount you can charge on Square?
$50,000
Large Transactions All Square merchants have a per transaction limit of $50,000. If you’d like to accept individual transactions above $50,000 each, you’ll need to split the payment into multiple installments. Make sure to record the receipt number and the total amount charged for each installment.
Where can I get a credit card reader?
You’re in luck. Getting a credit card reader has become a simple process. If you’re already set on ordering a mobile credit card reader from PaySimple, you can do so here. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a resource to help you determine how to select the right credit card reader for your business, then you’ve come to the right place.
Can you get a credit card reader with smartswipe?
Upon approval you will receive a free credit card reader to accept all the major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express). SmartSwipe continues to lead the industry with its exceptional customer support and innovative technology.
Do you need a credit card reader to use square?
Just pick the credit card reader that works for you. Take in-person card payments by adding Square Reader to your Apple computer or Chromebook. anywhere—all in one place. Square Point of Sale is a free, easy-to-use app that gives you everything you need to manage your business. Credit card information is encrypted at the moment of swipe.
Where can I get a chip card reader for free?
The price of the Clover Go Bluetooth reader depends on where you buy it — several processors use Clover as their line of hardware options. However, if you want this chip card reader for free, you can get it from National Processing upon opening an account.