About Adyen
Hey SeHat Reader, let’s dive into what Adyen is all about. As SeHat Dr, I’m excited to break down this global payment processing platform that’s making waves for businesses worldwide. Adyen, a Dutch-based company founded in 2006, is a financial technology platform designed to simplify and streamline payment processes for businesses of all sizes. It’s a one-stop shop for handling payments, data analytics, and financial management, connecting online, mobile, and in-store transactions into a single, unified system. Think of it as the glue that holds your payment ecosystem together, whether you’re running an e-commerce store, a brick-and-mortar shop, or a marketplace.
What sets Adyen apart is its ability to integrate with a massive range of payment methods—over 250, to be exact—across more than 150 currencies and 200 countries. From Visa and Mastercard to local payment methods like AliPay or mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Adyen ensures businesses can cater to customers globally. It’s used by big names like Uber, Spotify, and Etsy, proving its reliability for enterprises, but it’s also flexible enough for smaller businesses looking to scale. The platform’s focus on data-driven insights, fraud prevention, and seamless customer experiences makes it a go-to for businesses with ambitious growth plans.
Here’s a quick snapshot of what Adyen offers:
- Unified Commerce: Combines online, in-store, and mobile payments into one system for a consistent customer experience.
- Global Reach: Supports payments in over 150 currencies and 200 countries, ideal for international businesses.
- Data Insights: Provides advanced analytics to track transactions and customer behavior, helping you optimize your payment strategy.
- Fraud Protection: Uses machine learning to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions without disrupting legitimate ones.
- MarketPay: A specialized service for marketplaces to manage payouts, compliance, and fraud detection for sub-merchants.
Pros and Cons
SeHat Reader, no platform is perfect, so let’s weigh the good and the not-so-good of Adyen. I’ve put together a clear breakdown of the pros and cons to help you see if it’s the right fit for your business.
Pros
- Global Payment Support: Adyen connects you to a vast array of payment methods, from credit cards to digital wallets, making it easy to serve customers worldwide.
- Seamless Integration: Its API is flexible and integrates with platforms like Salesforce, Magento, and Dynamics 365, allowing for customized payment solutions.
- Transparent Pricing: Uses an Interchange++ pricing model, breaking down fees into interchange, card scheme, and Adyen’s markup for clarity.
- Fraud Detection: The RevenueProtect module leverages machine learning to catch fraud while minimizing false declines, keeping transactions secure.
- No Setup or Monthly Fees: Adyen operates on a pay-as-you-go model, so you only pay per transaction, which is great for businesses with fluctuating volumes.
- Omnichannel Experience: Whether it’s online, in-store, or via mobile, Adyen ensures a smooth, unified checkout process for customers.
- Responsive Customer Support: Many users praise Adyen’s quick and helpful support, available 24/7 via email, phone, or web.
Cons
- Complex Setup: The initial integration can be tricky, especially for businesses with limited technical expertise.
- High Costs for Small Businesses: The pricing structure can be expensive for low-volume merchants, making it less ideal for startups or small-scale operations.
- Reporting Complexity: While reports are detailed, they can be hard to navigate, especially for those unfamiliar with spreadsheet-style formats.
- Limited Fraud Details: The Risk Detail section lacks depth, so businesses in high-risk industries may need additional fraud tools.
- Customer Service Access: Some users find it hard to contact support quickly, which can be frustrating when urgent help is needed.
- Not Ideal for Low-Volume Merchants: Adyen’s pricing and features are better suited for mid-to-large businesses rather than small vendors with minimal transactions.
Aspect | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Payment Options | Supports 250+ methods, 150+ currencies, and mobile wallets like Apple Pay | May be overkill for businesses with simple payment needs |
Integration | Flexible API for seamless integration with major platforms | Setup can be complex for non-technical users |
Pricing | Transparent Interchange++ model, no monthly fees | Expensive for low-volume merchants |
Fraud Prevention | Advanced machine learning for fraud detection | Risk Detail section lacks detailed insights |
Customer Support | 24/7 support with quick responses | Some users report difficulty reaching support |
Scalability | Ideal for global enterprises and marketplaces | Less suitable for small businesses or high-risk industries |
Details You Need to Know About Adyen
SeHat Reader, now that we’ve covered the basics and weighed the pros and cons, let’s dig deeper into the nitty-gritty details about Adyen. As SeHat Dr, I want to make sure you have a full picture of what this platform brings to the table, so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your business. Here’s what you need to know, broken down into key areas.
Payment Processing Capabilities
Adyen’s strength lies in its ability to handle payments across multiple channels—online, in-store, and mobile—through a single platform. This unified approach means you don’t need separate systems for each sales channel, which simplifies operations and provides a consistent customer experience. For example:
- Online Payments: Adyen supports e-commerce with a customizable checkout UI that integrates into your website or app. It handles everything from one-time payments to subscriptions.
- In-Store Payments: Adyen’s POS terminals are PCI-compliant and support contactless payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. However, some users note that terminal hardware could be improved.
- Mobile Payments: The platform supports in-app payments and mobile wallets, making it easy for customers to pay on the go.
- Marketplace Support: The MarketPay module is a standout for platforms like eBay, allowing secure onboarding of sub-merchants, payment splitting, and automated payouts.
Adyen’s global reach is a game-changer. It connects directly to major card networks like Visa and Mastercard, as well as local payment methods, ensuring you can cater to customers’ preferred payment options, no matter where they are.
Pricing Structure
Adyen uses an Interchange++ pricing model, which is transparent but can feel complex. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Interchange Fees: Paid to the cardholder’s bank, these vary by card type (e.g., Visa, Mastercard) and region.
- Card Scheme Fees: Paid to networks like Visa or Mastercard, covering authorization and capture.
- Adyen’s Markup: A fixed processing fee per transaction (e.g., 0.60% + 13 cents for Visa/Mastercard in some regions).
For example, in-person transactions might cost 0.40% + 8 cents, while online transactions could be 0.50% + 25 cents. There are no monthly or setup fees, which is a big plus, but additional fees may apply for specific scenarios, like third-party acquirer routing. SeHat Reader, if you’re a small business with low transaction volumes, these costs can add up, so compare with alternatives like Stripe or PayPal.
Security and Fraud Prevention
Adyen takes security seriously, which is critical for any payment processor. Its RevenueProtect module uses machine learning to analyze transactions and flag potential fraud without rejecting legitimate purchases. Key features include:
- Customizable Risk Profiles: You can set rules to block or allow transactions based on your business needs.
- Fraud Scoring: Assigns risk scores to transactions, though some users find the scoring unintuitive.
- PCI Compliance: Adyen’s API integration ensures customer data is encrypted and secure, reducing your compliance burden.
However, businesses in high-risk industries might find Adyen’s fraud tools insufficient on their own and may need to supplement with third-party solutions.
Analytics and Reporting
Adyen’s analytics are a highlight, offering insights into transaction patterns and customer behavior. The custom insights reporting module lets you filter data by minute, hour, day, or month, covering metrics like:
- Sales performance
- Transaction approvals and declines
- Settlement details
- Card scheme fees
That said, some users find the spreadsheet-style reports hard to navigate, and there’s room for improvement in customizing reports. For example, combining “Received Payment Details” and “Interactive Payment Accounting” into one report isn’t currently possible, which can be a hassle.
Customer Support and Integration
Adyen offers 24/7 support via email, phone, and web, with a detailed knowledge base and developer documentation. Many users report quick, helpful responses, but some struggle to get immediate assistance. Integration is a strong suit, with plugins for platforms like Magento and Salesforce, plus a flexible API for custom solutions. However, the setup process can be daunting for non-technical users, so you might need a developer’s help to get started.
Who It’s For
Adyen shines for mid-to-large businesses, especially those with global ambitions or complex payment needs. It’s ideal for:
- E-commerce stores expanding internationally
- Marketplaces managing multiple sellers
- Enterprises needing robust analytics and fraud protection
- Businesses using omnichannel strategies (online, in-store, mobile)
However, it’s not the best fit for small businesses with low transaction volumes or high-risk industries, as the costs and complexity can outweigh the benefits.
Before beginning the registration process with Adyen, SeHaT Dr encourages business owners to familiarize themselves with the overview screen that appears at the start. This screen provides a real-time snapshot of your registration progress and outlines each required step clearly.
Throughout the process, Adyen offers on-screen support and intelligent prompts to help ensure accuracy. If any details are missing or entered incorrectly, the system will automatically highlight those sections, allowing for quick and efficient corrections. This helps streamline the overall setup and reduces the likelihood of delays.
Once the required business and personal information has been submitted, Adyen will mark the status as “in review.” This verification process is typically completed within one business day, depending on the completeness and accuracy of the submitted documentation.
After the review is finished, Adyen will send a direct confirmation email to notify you whether your account is successfully registered or if additional steps are required. At the same time, Legl—a trusted platform partner—will also notify you that the registration has been finalized, typically on the same day you completed the initial submission.
With your account nearly ready, SeHaT Dr now shifts focus to a detailed breakdown of each step in the Adyen payment process, offering you a full understanding of how to activate, configure, and optimize your payment gateway in the current ecommerce environment.
Registering Your Business with Adyen
To begin using Adyen’s robust payment infrastructure, SeHaT Dr must first provide detailed and accurate business information. This verification process ensures compliance with financial regulations and enhances trust in the platform. Below is a step-by-step guide on completing the company details section during account registration in the current year.
1. Company Details
Step 1 - Name and Country
SeHaT Dr must enter the legal name of the business exactly as it appears on official registration records, such as those from Companies House in the UK. Accuracy at this step is essential, as discrepancies may delay the approval process.
- Choose the correct country: of incorporation from the dropdown list provided.
- Ensure the business name: includes any suffixes such as "LTD" or "LLP" if applicable.
Step 2 - Company Structure
During registration, it’s important to select the proper legal structure that reflects your business entity type. SeHaT Dr must choose based on the specific format used for law firms or any other professional practice.
- LTD: = Private Company (Select Option 1)
- LLP: = Incorporated Partnership (Select Option 1)
- Sole Proprietors: should refer to Adyen’s official guide tailored to individual traders.
Choosing the right legal structure not only ensures compliance but also affects how your business is taxed and managed on the platform.
Step 3 - Registration Details
Your trading name may differ from your legally registered name. For example, SeHaT Dr might operate under a brand name that excludes the suffix like “LLP” or “LTD.”
- If your trading name is different: fill it out in the “Trading name” field.
- If your trading name matches: your legal name exactly, tick the box “Same as legal name of the company.”
- Enter your 8-digit company registration number: even if it starts with a zero.
- Include “GB”: as a prefix for your VAT number if your business is VAT-registered in the UK.
Being consistent with official records ensures that Adyen can verify your business without complications.
Step 4 - Address
SeHaT Dr must enter the exact address registered with Companies House. To speed up entry and improve accuracy:
- Use the “Search address” function: by entering your postcode.
- If your headquarters is located elsewhere: select “Yes, our headquarters are at a different location” and enter the additional address.
Keeping this information updated helps ensure legal correspondence and financial notices reach the right destination.
2. Decision Makers: Assigning Signatories and Controllers
As part of regulatory compliance, Adyen requires each business to identify individuals responsible for key decisions and financial control. SeHaT Dr must designate at least one signatory and any individuals holding 25% or more ownership, or those in controlling positions.
Step 1 - Individual Details
Add information for each decision-maker involved in your firm’s operations. SeHaT Dr can assign one or multiple roles to the same person.
- Fill out the full name, personal details, and specific role: (e.g., Signatory, Controlling Person).
- For Signatories: include a valid email address and phone number.
Clear and complete role assignments help Adyen determine the appropriate points of contact for financial responsibilities.
Step 2 - Address
Enter the residential address of each decision-maker. SeHaT Dr should avoid using business addresses here.
- Only use the official home address: where the individual legally resides.
This is essential for background and identity checks.
Optional - ID Verification
In certain cases, Adyen may request further identity verification for decision-makers. SeHaT Dr will be prompted to complete this process based on the person’s nationality and the type of document used. Two methods are available:
Instant Verification
Powered by Entrust Identity: this method allows for real-time ID verification.
- The decision-maker will need: A mobile device connected to the internet, a valid passport or driver’s license.
- To begin: the person scans a QR code or receives a link via SMS to complete the process securely.
Manual Upload
If instant verification is not preferred, SeHaT Dr may choose the manual upload route.
- Select the type of government-issued ID: from the dropdown list (passport, national ID, etc.).
- Only one valid document: is required.
- Upload a clear photocopy: or scanned image of the document for manual review.
3. How to Add and Verify Bank Account Details for Receiving Payments
To receive payouts efficiently, SeHaT Dr recommends providing the bank details for each account where payments should be deposited—this includes both client and office accounts.
Step 1 – Choose a Verification Method
You can select how to verify your bank account: either instantly using a mobile banking app or bank website, or by manually uploading bank statements on your computer.
Option A: Instant Verification via Tink
For instant verification, follow the on-screen steps to connect to your online banking platform. This process is facilitated by Adyen’s trusted partner, Tink, and requires access to your bank's digital environment. The verification completes within minutes.
Option B: Manual Upload via Bank Statement
If you prefer not to connect via your banking app, select the manual upload option. You’ll need to upload a recent bank statement for Adyen to review. This manual verification may take a few hours or up to several business days.
Step 2 – Setting Your Payout Account
You can choose between instant verification or the manual upload method. Here's how each works:
Option 1: Mobile Banking App or Website
If you choose to verify instantly through Tink, simply select “Accept” to proceed. This will automatically handle the entire verification and setup process. If you change your mind, you can always click “Go back” to return and upload your bank statement instead.
Option 2: Manual Bank Statement Upload
Manually input your account details and upload a valid bank statement. Make sure the account holder name matches exactly with the name registered with Companies House to avoid rejection.
Step 3 – Upload Your Bank Statement
For manual verifications, you’ll need to upload your bank statement:
- Select the correct file type.
- Add an optional reference name: to help you organize multiple statements or accounts.
Optional: Add More Bank Accounts
Once the first account is successfully added, SeHaT Dr can link additional accounts:
- Before adding your first account: You won’t see the “+ Add extra payout account” option.
- After the first account is added: Navigate to the bank account section on the main page and click “+ Add extra payout account” to link more.
Required Documents: Signing Agreements
Once decision-makers are confirmed, the documents to finalize your payment setup become accessible.
- Before confirmation: Document signing options remain hidden.
- After confirmation: You’ll be guided through two main agreements.
Sign the Services Agreement
SeHaT Dr’s appointed signatory (only one required) can electronically agree to the Adyen Payment Processing Terms using a simple tickbox method.
- You can review the terms within the platform: or download the PDF if you prefer to share or save a copy offline.
- After submission: the document status will change to “signed.”
Step 2 – Complete the PCI DSS Questionnaire
The authorized decision-maker must also complete the PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) questionnaire via tickbox.
- This form includes a few mandatory confirmations: pre-customized for firms using Adyen through Legl.
- Clear explanations and help texts: are provided beside each question, making the process quick and informative.
- To better understand PCI compliance: consult the PCI Guide available through Legl’s resources.
Payment Cadence: When and How You’ll Get Paid
SeHaT Dr’s firm will receive bulk payments to the connected bank account at two daily intervals:
- 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM: Monday through Friday.
- You’ll receive an email notification: directing you to the Transfers tab, where you can track all client fund breakdowns included in each lump sum.
Unlike traditional BACs processes—where reconciliation is often manual—Legl’s integration with Adyen ensures clarity and automation. You can see exactly who paid what, and for which legal matter, saving time and reducing errors.
What Happens After Registration Is Completed?
Once SeHaT Dr completes registration, an email will arrive within 1 business day confirming:
- Your successful registration.
- The date when your firm: will be switched over to Adyen for all future payment processing.
Another email will be sent on the switchover day to confirm that all payments are now being routed through Adyen.