Knowing how to accept contactless payments is no longer optional — it’s essential.
Whether you’re a freelancer, vendor, or run a brick-and-mortar shop, giving your customers the ability to pay with a tap can boost your sales, simplify your operations, and keep you competitive.
This quick guide walks you through how contactless payments work, how to start accepting them with ease (even without extra hardware), and why it makes sense for growing businesses.
How to accept contactless payments?
You can accept contactless payments in seconds¹ using JIM, an app that turns your iPhone into a full payment terminal — no card reader, dongle, or extra device required.
After installed, JIM enables you to receive contactless payments from cards, Apple Pay or Google Pay, using just your iPhone's built-in NFC technology.
To get started, all you need is:
- An iPhone with iOS 17 or later
- The JIM app (available on the App Store)
- A quick registration to verify your seller profile
Once that’s set, your customers can pay in seconds — whether they’re tapping a card or using their smartphone or smartwatch.
JIM is built for in-person contactless payments, but if you also sell remotely, here are other payment methods to consider:
- Payment links shared via email or text messages
- Checkout pages embedded in your website or social media
- QR codes customers can scan to pay
- Digital invoices with built-in card payment options
These are especially useful for ecommerce, coaching, or remote consulting — but they usually require more setup and a web-based platform.
How much does it cost to accept payments using a phone?
The cost of accepting payments with a mobile device depends on your provider and how you plan to get paid.
While some services offer flexibility, others come with hidden charges or hardware requirements that increase your overhead. Here are the most common types of fees to look out for:
- Transaction fees: This is a small percentage taken from each sale. It's the core cost for most payment platforms and applies whether you're accepting payments through cards, digital wallets, or tap-to-pay methods.
- Hardware costs: Some providers require you to buy a physical card reader or payment terminal to process contactless transactions. These can be one-time purchases or rentals, and may cost anywhere from $30 to several hundred dollars.
- Monthly fees: In some cases, you'll pay a flat monthly rate just to use the service. These fees often unlock additional features like analytics, CRM tools, or integrations, but can be a burden for smaller operations that don't need advanced capabilities.
- Chargeback or service fees: If a customer disputes a transaction, some platforms charge an extra fee to handle it. There may also be added costs for tools like recurring billing, online invoicing, or POS system upgrades.
For small businesses, freelancers, and on-the-go sellers, these expenses can make it harder to get started — or eat into already slim margins. That’s why choosing a platform with simple, transparent pricing is so important.
One example is JIM, which charges a flat 1.99% per transaction, with no monthly fees, no hardware to buy, and no hidden costs.
You don’t need a terminal — just an iPhone and the JIM app. And since your earnings become available in seconds after each approved sale, there's no waiting period to access your funds¹.
If you're looking for a way to accept payments without complexity or commitment, a solution like JIM offers a straightforward and budget-friendly path forward.
What are the benefits of using Tap to Pay?
Tap to Pay has quickly become one of the most convenient ways for businesses to accept payments — and for good reason.
It combines speed, simplicity, and flexibility in a way that improves both the seller and customer experience.
Whether you're at a storefront, a pop-up event, or meeting clients face-to-face, Tap to Pay helps you move faster and sell more efficiently.
Faster checkouts
Tap to Pay transactions take just seconds. Customers don’t need to insert a card, type a PIN, or count cash — they simply hold their card or device near your phone and the payment is done.
That means shorter lines, smoother service, and a more modern buying experience.
Better cash flow
Unlike traditional payment systems that may take days to settle funds, Tap to Pay options — especially mobile-first solutions — often release funds in seconds after approval.
This helps businesses maintain a healthier, more predictable cash flow.
Professional and contactless
Today’s customers expect contactless options.
Whether it’s a tap from a smartwatch or a phone using Apple Pay or Google Pay, offering these modern payment methods shows your business is up-to-date — and makes customers feel more comfortable, especially in fast-paced or high-touch environments.
Lower setup costs
Tap to Pay often eliminates the need for bulky or expensive hardware.
Some systems still require a card reader, but many — like JIM — work directly from your mobile device, reducing your upfront investment and simplifying your toolkit.
Flexible and mobile
Because Tap to Pay works anywhere there’s a connection and an NFC-enabled device, it’s ideal for businesses on the go.
Whether you’re at a market, a client’s home, or a coworking space, you don’t need to be tied to a traditional checkout counter.
With JIM, all of these benefits come built in. You don’t need extra equipment or complex systems — just your iPhone and the app.
Every transaction is processed securely, your money is available in seconds¹ after the sale is approved and you only pay a flat 1.99% fee.
It’s a fast, affordable way to run your business from anywhere.
Which types of business should accept contactless payments
Contactless payments aren’t just for big retail chains or trendy cafés.
They're becoming a must-have for small businesses and independent professionals across a wide range of industries.
If your work involves meeting customers face-to-face — or even just moving around often — accepting Tap to Pay can streamline how you get paid and make your business look more professional.
Here are some of the most common business types that benefit from accepting contactless payments:
Creators and freelancers
Artists, designers, photographers, writers, and coaches often meet clients in-person or at events.
Instead of sending invoices or waiting on bank transfers, you can get paid immediately using just your phone — no terminals or apps for your client to install.
Market vendors and pop-up sellers
Whether you’re selling food, crafts, clothing, or vintage items at a local fair or market, Tap to Pay allows you to take payments anywhere — no cables, no cash box, no POS system required.
It speeds up your checkout and gives customers a frictionless way to pay.
Home service providers
Plumbers, electricians, cleaners, personal trainers, and pet groomers often perform services at the client’s home or office. Accepting contactless payments on the spot removes the need for cash or delayed payments — and shows you run a modern, reliable business.
Beauty and wellness professionals
Hair stylists, nail technicians, massage therapists, and estheticians often operate in studios or shared spaces. With Tap to Pay, you can complete the service and accept payment right away, all from your own device.
Consultants and independent contractors
If you provide consulting, tutoring, or freelance work and meet clients in person, offering contactless payment options helps you close the loop faster.
You get paid on the spot, and your client gets a seamless experience.
In short, any business that values mobility, speed, and simplicity can benefit from Tap to Pay.
With JIM, getting started is easy — you just need your iPhone. It’s the ideal choice for professionals who want to stay lean, look professional, and never miss a payment.
Ready to get paid with just a tap?
Accepting contactless payments doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
Whether you're a creator, freelancer, market vendor, or service provider, you can start taking fast, secure payments right from your iPhone — without buying extra hardware or waiting days to get paid.
With JIM, setup takes just a few minutes, and every sale goes straight to your balance instantly. You get all the benefits of Tap to Pay, backed by a flat 1.99% fee and no hidden costs.
Turn your iPhone into a payment terminal today.
