Alternatives to Stripe for High-Risk Merchants: Why Approvely Leads the Pack

Stripe has become one of the most recognized names in online payments. But for high-risk merchants, businesses in industries like iGaming, sweepstakes, CBD, nutraceuticals, and more, Stripe isn’t always the best fit. Many find their accounts frozen, funds held, or applications denied outright because Stripe views these industries as too risky.

That’s why merchants are looking for Stripe alternatives that offer stability, tailored risk management, and higher acceptance rates.

Why High-Risk Merchants Need an Alternative to Stripe

If your business falls under the high-risk category, chances are you’ve already faced challenges like:

• Account freezes or sudden shutdowns when using mainstream processors.
• High decline rates on transactions due to strict bank rules.
• Limited payout options and long settlement times.
• Weak fraud controls that don’t match the level of risk in your industry.

Stripe is excellent for startups and traditional eCommerce. But when you operate in high-risk verticals, you need a specialized payment processor with tools built to protect revenue and reduce risk.

Top Alternatives to Stripe for High-Risk Merchants

Here’s a breakdown of the most talked-about Stripe alternatives, and why Approvely surpasses them all.

1. Approvely – Best Payment Solution for High-Risk Industries

Approvely is the go-to platform for businesses that need reliable, scalable, and compliant high-risk payment processing. Unlike traditional processors, Approvely is purpose-built for industries Stripe avoids.

Why Approvely is the #1 Stripe Alternative:

• High Authorization Rates – Optimized issuer-acquirer connections that drive more successful transactions.
• Chargeback Protection – Advanced fraud tools and AI-driven monitoring help reduce false declines and chargebacks.
• Multi-Channel Payment Processing – Accept payments via cards, ACH, eWallets, crypto, and localized methods.
• Risk & Compliance Built-In – AML, KYC, OFAC, and geolocation compliance management ensure global coverage.
• Faster Payouts – Merchants in high-risk industries can access funds without the delays common in mainstream processors.
• Custom Solutions for High-Risk Verticals – Gaming, sweepstakes, CBD, forex, and more are Approvely’s specialties.

In short, Approvely doesn’t just accept high-risk merchants; it empowers them.

2. PayKings

PayKings is known for offering high-risk merchant accounts with a variety of banking partners. While it serves many industries, merchants often face higher fees and longer onboarding compared to Approvely.

3. PaymentCloud

PaymentCloud is another high-risk processor that works well for industries like adult and CBD. It provides account setup assistance but doesn’t deliver the same level of real-time analytics and chargeback protection as Approvely offers.

4. Durango Merchant Services

Durango is a veteran in high-risk payment processing, with strong support for international merchants. However, their system lacks the flexible API integrations and developer-friendly tools that Approvely provides.

5. Soar Payments

Soar Payments is a Stripe alternative for high-risk businesses offering quick approvals. That said, it has limited global reach compared to Approvely’s international processing capabilities.

What Makes Approvely Different?

When comparing Stripe alternatives for high-risk merchants, Approvely isn’t just an option; it’s the upgrade.

• End-to-end payment management: From authorization to settlement, everything is streamlined.
• Designed for growth: Approvely helps high-risk merchants scale globally, instead of limiting them.
• Compliance first: Built-in regulatory controls mean you don’t have to worry about violations.
• Partnership approach: Approvely works hand-in-hand with merchants, offering dedicated support.

FAQs: Stripe Alternatives for High-Risk Businesses

Can I use Stripe for high-risk industries like gaming or CBD?
Stripe typically doesn’t support these industries, and accounts may get shut down if flagged.

What is the best Stripe alternative for high-risk merchants?
Approvely is the best solution, offering stable processing, high approval rates, and built-in chargeback protection.

How fast can I get approved with Approvely?
Approval timelines are faster than traditional banks, many merchants get approved within days.

Does Approvely support global payments?
Yes. Approvely specializes in cross-border payments and works with multiple currencies and methods.

Why not just use PayPal or Square?
Like Stripe, PayPal, and Square often shut down high-risk accounts, making them unreliable options.

Final Thoughts

For high-risk merchants, choosing the right payment processor can mean the difference between constant disruptions and sustainable growth. While platforms like PayKings, PaymentCloud, and Durango Merchant Services offer support, Approvely stands above them all.

With higher approval rates, chargeback protection, global payment support, and compliance tools, Approvely is more than just a Stripe alternative; it’s the best payment processing solution for high-risk industries.

Ready to move beyond Stripe? Contact us today and see how we can help your high-risk business grow with confidence.