Silent auction payment processing & fees
By the 32auctions team•Updated June 2026•Powering auctions since 2008How payments work, what fees to expect, and how to keep more of what you raise.
Free to start · No credit card · No app to download
Silent auction payment processing lets you collect card payments from winners online. A standard processing fee applies to each transaction (a small percentage plus a flat per-transaction amount), which is normal across all platforms. Choosing software that’s free to start means you avoid subscriptions or revenue cuts on top of processing fees.
How payment processing works
When a winner pays by card, a payment processor securely handles the transaction and deposits the funds to your organization. A processing fee is deducted per transaction — this is standard everywhere card payments are accepted, online or in person.
Types of costs to understand
| Cost | What it is | Typical? |
|---|---|---|
| Processing fee | % + flat fee per card payment | Standard everywhere |
| Platform subscription | Recurring fee to use the software | Avoid for once-a-year events |
| % of funds raised | Platform takes a cut of revenue | Can get expensive |
| Optional add-ons | Pay for specific extra features | Pay only if you want them |
With 32auctions you start free and pay only for optional add-ons plus standard processing — no subscription, no cut of your revenue. Confirm current rates and limits on the pricing page before you publish.
Tips to keep more of what you raise
- Choose free-to-start software to avoid subscriptions and revenue cuts
- Run online to skip venue, catering, and printing costs
- Some platforms let winners optionally cover the processing fee
- Use donated items so item cost stays at zero
Key takeaways
- A standard processing fee applies to card payments — normal everywhere.
- Free-to-start software avoids subscriptions and revenue cuts on top.
- Running online minimizes your other costs.
- Always confirm current rates on the official pricing page.
Collect payments without the overhead
Free to start, no subscription, no cut of your revenue. Pay only standard processing on payments collected.
Common questions
Payment Processing & Fees FAQs
What fees apply to silent auction payments?
A standard payment processing fee (a small percentage plus a flat amount per transaction) applies to card payments. Confirm the exact current rate on the pricing page.
Does 32auctions charge a subscription or take a cut of funds raised?
No. You start free and pay only for optional add-ons plus standard processing fees — there’s no subscription and no percentage of your revenue taken.
Can winners cover the processing fee?
On many platforms, winners can optionally choose to cover the processing fee at checkout, leaving more for your cause. Check your platform’s settings.
How do funds reach my organization?
Card payments are processed securely and deposited to your organization’s connected account, minus the standard processing fee.
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