ACH vs Credit Card: Which Is Better for Client Invoices?

When accepting client payments, contractors and freelancers usually compare credit card vs ACH bank transfer options. While debit cards also pull funds directly from a client’s bank account, most invoicing platforms — including Scope-Kit — process credit cards, which behave differently in fees, limits, and chargebacks.

This guide breaks down ACH vs credit card payments for client invoices, including cost differences, payment speed, and when each option makes the most sense — especially for larger projects.

💳 Credit Card Payments

Credit cards are familiar, fast, and convenient for clients. Payments authorize instantly, making them popular for smaller invoices or situations where speed matters.

Pros:

• Instant authorization and confirmation
• Widely accepted and familiar to clients
• Rewards and points for cardholders
• High success rate

Cons:

• Higher processing fees (typically ~2.9%)
• Chargeback risk
• Credit limits may block large payments

🏦 ACH Bank Transfers

ACH (Automated Clearing House) transfers move funds directly from one bank account to another. Clients enter their routing and account number once, and payments typically settle in 1–3 business days.

Pros:

• Much lower processing fees
• No credit limits on large invoices
• Minimal chargeback risk
• Fee caps make large payments cost-effective

Cons:

• Slower settlement (1–3 business days)
• Some clients less familiar with ACH
• Requires bank account information

ACH vs Credit Card: Key Differences

• Fees: ACH is significantly cheaper, especially for large invoices
• Speed: Credit cards authorize instantly; ACH settles in days
• Limits: Credit cards may hit limits; ACH typically does not
• Risk: Credit cards allow chargebacks; ACH generally does not

How Scope-Kit Supports Both

Scope-Kit lets you accept both credit card and ACH payments, and gives you the option to pass processing fees to clients — helping protect your margins while offering flexibility.

• Set ACH as the default for large invoices
• Show fee differences clearly at checkout
• Use fee pass-through when appropriate
• Educate clients on ACH savings for big payments