Best Buy Now Pay Later Solutions for Retailers USA
Non-sponsored, Expert Verified and Transparently Ranked Buy Now Pay Later Solutions for Retailers USA
Published: December 17, 2025 | Verified by: Ted Scheiman & Rob Watts
Executive Summary
We analyzed 5 solutions. Top Recommendation: Klarna Payments by Klarna scored highest due to Most comprehensive with multiple payment flexibility options, strong consumer protections, and largest merchant network..
Content Verification
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | #1 Klarna Payments (Klarna) | #2 Affirm Buy Now, Pay Later Payment Platform (Affirm) | #3 Afterpay Buy Now, Pay Later Platform (Afterpay) | #4 Zip App (Buy Now, Pay Later Platform) (Zip) | #5 Sezzle Buy Now, Pay Later Platform (Sezzle) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Most comprehensive with multiple payment flexibility options, strong consumer protections, and largest merchant network. | Best for large purchases with upfront pricing, broad adoption, and customer trust through predictable payments. | Pioneered Pay in 4 model with strong focus on fashion retail and recent Cash App integration for mobile-first shoppers. | Highest spending limits, virtual card for broad online use, and simple API integration for custom sites. | Focus on financial wellness with credit-building Up feature and payment rescheduling flexibility. |
| Integration Ease | Turnkey plugins enable quick setup on major platforms (e.g., Shopify via a simple toggle; Adobe Commerce via Marketplace extension). For custom builds, Klarna offers REST APIs with sandbox/regional endpoints and Web/Mobile SDKs providing a drop‑in widget and 3‑step session→authorize→order flow. (docs.klarna.com) | Plug-and-play via official plugins for Shopify, BigCommerce, Adobe Commerce/Magento, SFCC, WooCommerce, and Wix; Shopify setup is “easy and quick.” (businesshub.affirm.com) For custom sites, use Direct API with Affirm.js; sandbox and test plan provided. (affirm1675973158.zendesk.com) Affirm Lite offers a faster, minimal‑development option. (businesshub.affirm.com) | Quick setup via e‑commerce plugins (Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Magento): paste Merchant ID/Secret Key, enable, optional Test Mode/sandbox. (developers.cash.app) US: offered as Cash App Afterpay with platform migration guides. (developers.cash.app) For custom builds, REST APIs with sandbox and idempotency. (developers.afterpay.com) Stripe merchants can enable Afterpay in minutes via seamless integration. (afterpay.com) | Easy merchant integration via prebuilt plugins for Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, and Magento, install/activate, enter Zip keys/MID, and go live in minutes. (docs.us.zip.co) Also available via no-code enablement in Stripe Dashboard. (zip.co) For custom builds, REST API with sandbox. (developers.zip.co) Typical setup: ~30 minutes. (merchant-help.us.zip.co) | Prebuilt plugins (Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento 2, Wix, SFCC) plus direct API and lightweight JS SDK. (docs.sezzle.com) Sandbox, test cards, and a public Postman collection speed testing. (docs.sezzle.com) Shopify install takes minutes. (merchant-help.sezzle.com) Express Checkout available for WooCommerce and custom integrations. (merchant-help.sezzle.com) |
| Payment Flexibility | Flexible options: Pay in 4, four interest‑free biweekly payments; Pay in 30, no upfront payment and no interest/late fees when paid on time; Pay over time, 6, 24 month financing (interest may apply); or Pay in full. (klarna.com) Pay anywhere via Apple Pay/Google Pay, One‑time Card, or Klarna Card (Visa). (klarna.com) You can extend a due date once per order. (klarna.com) | Flexible options: Pay in 2, Pay in 30, Pay in 4 (interest‑free), or monthly installments from 3, 60 months at 0, 36% APR. Works online, in‑app, and in‑store via Apple Pay. Affirm Card lets you pay in full or request a plan post‑purchase. No late fees; early payoff saves interest. (investors.affirm.com) | Pay in 4 over six weeks; schedule aligns to a Preferred Payment Day (2nd installment 8, 14 days non‑CA, 15, 21 CA). (afterpay.com) You can reschedule the next Pay‑in‑4 payment up to 7 days (limits) or push back up to 2 weeks for refunds. (help.afterpay.com) Make early or pay‑all payments. (help.afterpay.com) Pay Monthly offers 3, 24 months. (afterpay.com) | Installment options: Pay in 4 (6 weeks) or Pay in 8 (14 weeks), with biweekly payments. (zip.co) Customers can move a payment date up to 7 days in-app; first change each calendar month is free, then $2 per change, one per order. (help.us.zip.co) Early payoff is supported. (help.us.zip.co) Real-time approval with no hard credit check. (zip.co) | Plans: Pay in 2 (50% now, 50% in 2 weeks), Pay in 4 over 6 weeks, both interest-free, or Pay Monthly 3, 48 months (subject to approval). (sezzle.com) In-app rescheduling up to two weeks (some orders up to three times; one free with Premium/Anywhere). (shopper-help.sezzle.com) Sezzle Anywhere: pay virtually wherever Visa is accepted with a virtual card. (shopper-help.sezzle.com) |
| Merchant Network Size | 850, 000+ merchants globally (as of Nov 18, 2025). (investors.klarna.com) | Approx. 377, 000 active merchants (as of June 30, 2025). (sec.gov) | Global: 348, 000+ merchant partners (as of Nov 2024). (newsroom.afterpay.com) U.S.: coverage spans “hundreds of thousands” of merchants; includes 180, 000+ SMBs. (investors.block.xyz) | 85, 500 merchants globally (as of June 30, 2025, per Zip’s official site). (zip.co) | ~23, 000 active merchants (directly integrated; ≥1 order in past 12 months), as of September 30, 2024. (sec.gov) |
KlarnaCompany Information
Description
Klarna offers secure shopping and flexible payment options for consumers, allowing them to pay in installments or later for their purchases.
What They Do
Klarna provides payment solutions for consumers and businesses, enabling users to shop now and pay later with various flexible payment options.
Who They Serve
Consumers looking for flexible payment options and businesses seeking to integrate payment solutions.
Key Value Propositions
Target Customers
Industries Served
Navigation Links
Summary
Klarna provides retailers with BNPL options including Pay in 4, Pay in 30 days, and longer-term financing, integrated across 500, 000+ merchants like H&M and Nike. It boosts sales for US retailers through flexible, interest-free payments and extensive ecommerce partnerships including Shopify.
Key Features
- Pay in 4: Split purchase into 4 interest-free payments, paid every 2 weeks
- Pay over time: Spread cost over 6-24 months with monthly payments (interest may apply)
- Pay in full today: Immediate, secure payment with stored cards and buyer protection
- Pay in 30 days: Shop now, pay up to 30 days later with no late fees or interest when paid on time
- Klarna Card: Pay flexibly anywhere Visa is accepted
- Apple Pay and Google Pay integration for flexible payments
- Klarna app: Shop now, pay later at any store, and earn cashback
Key Benefits
- Multiple payment options to suit different budgets
- Interest-free options when paid on time
- Ability to pay over time with transparent terms
- Buyer protection and secure transactions
- Convenient management of payments via the Klarna app
- Available at thousands of popular brands
Who Is It For
- Shoppers seeking flexible payment options
- Residents of the United States or its territories
- Individuals at least 18 years old or of legal age in their state
- People with a valid card or bank account
Resources
Supporting Resources
Detailed Comparison
Integration Ease
Payment Flexibility
Merchant Network Size
Affirm Buy Now, Pay Later Payment Platform
AffirmCompany Information
Affirm is a financial technology company that provides consumers with a way to pay for purchases over time with no late fees or compounding interest. The company offers a range of payment options, including a debit card and a mobile app, and partners with various merchants to offer financing options to customers.
Keywords
Description
Affirm provides flexible payment options for consumers, allowing them to buy now and pay later without any hidden fees. The Affirm Card™ lets users shop online and in stores with the choice to pay in full or over time.
What They Do
Affirm offers buy now, pay later services, allowing consumers to make purchases and pay for them over time with transparent payment plans.
Who They Serve
Affirm serves consumers looking for flexible payment options and businesses seeking to offer financing solutions to their customers.
Key Value Propositions
Target Customers
Industries Served
Navigation Links
Summary
Affirm offers retailers transparent BNPL with short-term Pay in 4 and longer financing up to $30, 000 for large purchases, partnering with 300, 000+ US merchants like Peloton and Wayfair. It supports ecommerce platforms like Shopify with no hidden fees.
Key Features
- Pay in 4 interest-free installments
- 3, 6, 12-month (and longer) monthly payment plans
- Pay in full option with Affirm Card
- Personalized payment plans based on purchase size and merchant
- Eligibility check with no impact on credit score
- Affirm Card™ for everyday purchases (no card fees)
- Browser extension for desktop shopping
- Apple Pay integration for checkout
- Mobile app for account management and exclusive offers
Key Benefits
- Split purchases into manageable payments
- No hidden fees or late fees
- Interest-free options available (Pay in 4)
- Transparent monthly plans with upfront interest disclosure
- Manage payments and get exclusive deals in the Affirm app
- Accepted at millions of stores, including major brands and local boutiques
- Flexible payment with Affirm Card and Apple Pay integration
Who Is It For
- Consumers seeking flexible payment options for purchases
- Shoppers who want to split payments over time
- Individuals looking for interest-free or low-interest installment plans
- People who want to manage payments via a mobile app or card
Make your first purchase in minutes
Sign up and pay with Affirm with just a few pieces of info. Checking for personalized plans won’t affect your credit, either.
- Sign up and provide a few pieces of information
- Check for personalized payment plans (no credit impact)
- See your options: custom plans for your purchase, from longer monthly plans to interest-free options
- Pick your plan: choose a monthly payment that fits your budget
- Pay over time: get what you want on your timeline with no fees
Get more ways to pay with Affirm
You’ll see different plan options depending on your purchase size and where you’re shopping.
- Pay in 4 interest-free: The simplest option for purchases where you only need a little time to pay.
- 3, 6, 12-month plans (and longer): Get more time to pay with monthly options. Your payments stay consistent, and you’ll see any interest up front.
- Pay in full: With the Affirm Card, you can choose to swipe or tap for daily purchases.
Pay with Affirm at millions of stores
Affirm works at more places than you might think, from the biggest brands to your local boutique.
- Accepted at major brands and local boutiques
- Explore stores via the Affirm app
There’s even more in the Affirm app
Manage payments, get exclusive 0% APR offers, and see why everyone loves using the Affirm app.
- Manage your account and payments
- Get exclusive deals and 0% APR offers
The Affirm Card™
Get even more flexibility. Set up plans in advance then swipe, or pay in full for daily purchases.
- Flexible everyday card with no card fees
- Request to pay over time in the Affirm app, then swipe
- Pay in full for daily purchases
Check out with Affirm on Apple Pay
Choose from personalized payment plans anywhere Apple Pay is accepted.
- Available online and in apps, on iPhone and iPad
- Requires iOS 18 or iPadOS 18 or later
Resources
Supporting Resources
Detailed Comparison
Integration Ease
Payment Flexibility
Merchant Network Size
Afterpay Buy Now, Pay Later Platform
AfterpayCompany Information
Afterpay is a payment service that allows customers to buy now and pay later. It is fully integrated with various stores, enabling customers to shop as usual and choose Afterpay as their payment method at checkout.
Keywords
Description
Afterpay is a payment platform that allows consumers to buy now and pay later, offering flexible payment options for shopping online and in-store.
What They Do
Afterpay provides a buy now, pay later service that allows consumers to make purchases and pay for them in installments without interest.
Who They Serve
Afterpay serves consumers looking for flexible payment options and retailers wanting to offer buy now, pay later solutions.
Key Value Propositions
Target Customers
Industries Served
Contact Information
Navigation Links
Summary
Afterpay enables retailers to offer Pay in 4 interest-free installments over 6 weeks, with options for longer terms, integrated with 100, 000+ US merchants in fashion and lifestyle like Forever 21. It increases average order value and frequency for ecommerce and in-store sales.
Key Features
- Interest-free installment payments (Pay in 4)
- Digital Afterpay Card for in-store purchases (Apple Wallet/Google Wallet integration)
- Payment reminders and capped late fees
- Ability to reschedule payment dates
- Shopping lists and personalized recommendations
- Pulse Rewards loyalty program
- Secure app-based experience
Key Benefits
- Pay in 4 interest-free installments over six weeks
- No fees when payments are made on time
- Access to thousands of brands and millions of products
- Shop online and in-store with the Afterpay Card
- Earn rewards through Pulse Rewards for on-time payments
- Personalized recommendations and exclusive deals
- Easy budgeting and payment tracking in the app
Who Is It For
- Consumers aged 18 or older
- Residents of the United States (with support in Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Canada)
- Shoppers seeking to budget purchases and avoid interest
- Individuals looking for flexible payment options at thousands of brands
Financial wellness is a tap away.
Pay in 4 interest-free installments. Budget your spending. Earn rewards when you shop. Discover thousands of brands and millions of products, online and in-store. Do it all in the app, easily and securely.
Here’s why you should Afterpay it.
- Get everything you need now. Shop thousands of brands and millions of products, online and in-store.
- Pay over six weeks. Make the first payment upfront and the rest over time. Always interest-free when you pay it in 4.
- No fees when you pay on time. We’ll send you reminders and cap late payments to help you get back on track.
- Stay in control. Track your payments and reschedule payment dates, so you can keep your budget in check.
- Get inspired. Explore trending products and personalized recommendations. Get exclusive deals and create shopping lists for later.
Afterpay it in person.
We've made it easy to pay in 4 in-store. Set up the digital Afterpay Card in the In-store tab in the app and follow the prompts to add it to your Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. Tap to pay and take everything home today.
Get started with the app.
Shop thousands of brands, online and in-store. Pay in 4 interest-free installments over six weeks.
Earn rewards.
Join Pulse Rewards for free to earn points for eligible on-time payments that unlock amazing benefits.
Got questions?
Check out our FAQs or get in touch with us to learn more.
Resources
Supporting Resources
Detailed Comparison
Integration Ease
Payment Flexibility
Merchant Network Size
ZipCompany Information
Zip Co is a leading digital financial services company providing fair and seamless solutions that simplify how people pay.
Keywords
Description
Zip allows customers to pay for purchases in installments, providing flexibility and control over payment dates. It offers a mobile app for both online and in-store payments, enabling users to manage their spending and earn cashback.
What They Do
Zip provides a buy now, pay later service that allows customers to make purchases and pay for them in installments.
Who They Serve
Zip serves consumers looking for flexible payment options and businesses wanting to offer installment payment solutions.
Key Value Propositions
Target Customers
Industries Served
Contact Information
Summary
Zip Pay allows US retailers to provide flexible BNPL with Pay in 4, revolving credit, and virtual Visa cards across 50, 000+ stores on platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce. It suits varied purchase sizes without hard credit checks.
Key Features
- Pay in 4 or 8 installments, every 2 weeks
- Create virtual cards for secure payments
- Change payment dates via the app
- Earn cashback rewards on purchases
- Eligibility to increase spending power based on repayment history
- Pay in-store using the app and digital wallet or physical card
Key Benefits
- Split purchases into 4 or 8 bi-weekly payments
- Available for both online and in-store shopping
- Change payment dates for greater flexibility (fees may apply)
- Earn cashback on eligible purchases
- Potential to increase spending power with consistent, on-time repayments
Who Is It For
- Consumers in the United States
- Shoppers looking for flexible payment options
- Individuals who want to manage cash flow for everyday purchases or bills
How Pay in 4 Works with Zip
With Zip, you can buy now, pay later at all your favorite brands, whether you shop online or in-store.
ABOUT ZIP
From your favorite brands to everyday bills, Zip lets you pay over time. Split your order into 4 or 8 installments, with payments due every 2 weeks.
HOW IT WORKS
More ways to pay: Online, In-store, On desktop. Search for your favorite brands or browse our picks. Create a virtual card. Review your payment plan. Complete checkout.
- Browse or search for favorite brands
- Create a virtual card
- Review your payment plan
- Complete checkout
FEATURES
Exclusively in the Zip app: Change your payment dates, Pay in-store, Earn more spending power, Earn cashback.
- Change your payment dates for flexibility
- Pay in-store using the app
- Earn more spending power with on-time repayments
- Earn cashback on purchases
Resources
Supporting Resources
Detailed Comparison
Integration Ease
Payment Flexibility
Merchant Network Size
SezzleCompany Information
Sezzle is a financial technology company that allows users to buy now and pay later in 4 interest-free installment payments over six weeks. The company provides a responsible way for customers to make purchases and build credit.
Keywords
Description
Sezzle is a payment platform that allows consumers to shop online or in-store and pay for their purchases in four easy installments over six weeks with no interest. It aims to provide financial freedom and empower users to take control of their finances.
What They Do
Sezzle provides a buy now pay later service that allows consumers to make purchases and pay in installments without interest.
Who They Serve
Sezzle serves consumers looking for flexible payment options and merchants who want to offer installment payment solutions.
Key Value Propositions
Target Customers
Industries Served
Contact Information
Navigation Links
Summary
Sezzle helps retailers offer Pay in 4 interest-free payments over 6 weeks to 40, 000+ merchants, with credit-building tools and virtual cards for online/in-store use. It promotes responsible spending with budget features for US ecommerce.
Key Features
- Pay in 2: 50% at purchase, 50% two weeks later, no interest
- Pay in 4: Four payments over six weeks, no interest
- Pay Monthly: Split larger purchases over 3, 48 months (subject to approval)
- Sezzle Virtual Card for in-store purchases
- Sezzle Premium for access to 350+ top brands
- Sezzle Anywhere: Use Sezzle anywhere Visa is accepted with the Virtual Card
- Mobile app for managing payments and purchases
Key Benefits
- Split purchases into smaller, manageable payments
- Interest-free payment options available
- Flexible plans for both small and large purchases
- Available at top brands and a wide range of merchants
- Easy to use online and in-store
- Highly rated customer service
Who Is It For
- Shoppers seeking flexible payment options
- Consumers making purchases at participating online and in-store merchants
- Individuals looking to manage cash flow or make larger purchases more affordable
Resources
Supporting Resources
Detailed Comparison
Integration Ease
Payment Flexibility
Merchant Network Size
Our Ranking Methodology
How we rank these offerings
We ranked these Buy Now Pay Later Solutions for Retailers USA based on three key factors: Payment Flexibility (40% weight), Merchant Network Size (35% weight), and Integration Ease (25% weight). Klarna Payments scored highest due to having a robust variety of payment options, the largest network of merchants, and strong integration capabilities.
Ranking Criteria Weights:
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the typical costs and pricing models for BNPL solutions for retailers in the USA?
- BNPL providers like Klarna, Afterpay, and Affirm typically charge retailers a percentage of each transaction, often ranging from 2-8%, depending on the merchant's size and industry. Klarna offers interest-free payment options which are absorbed as costs by the merchants to boost customer uptake. Afterpay also implements a merchant fee, facilitating interest-free payments over a 6-week period to attract frequent purchases. These fees cover the interest cost and the handling of credit risks by the service provider.
- What are the key selection criteria for retailers choosing a BNPL provider?
- Retailers should assess compatibility with ecommerce platforms, user base size, cost structures, and customer service levels when choosing a BNPL partner. Affirm's no hidden fee policy is attractive for larger purchases and integrates seamlessly with platforms like Shopify, which can be crucial for an omni-channel retail approach. Klarna, by partnering with major brands and providing extensive integrations, helps retailers tap into a vast customer network, enhancing reach and potential sales.
- What are the industry standards and compliance considerations for BNPL services?
- All BNPL services must comply with financial regulations and consumer protection laws, including the Truth in Lending Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. Klarna and Afterpay ensure compliance by being transparent in their terms and conditions, fully disclosing fees and no-interest terms. Compliance often involves regularly updated consumer agreements and stringent privacy standards, ensuring customer data protection and building consumer trust.
- What implementation challenges might retailers face when integrating BNPL solutions?
- Retailers may encounter challenges such as technical integration with existing ecommerce platforms and adjusting inventory management systems to accommodate increased demand. Solutions like Zip's virtual Visa card offer flexibility but require infrastructure capable of handling digital transactions securely. Additionally, ensuring customer service teams are prepared to handle inquiries related to BNPL terms can also pose a challenge that retailers must anticipate.
- How do BNPL solutions impact ROI and value delivery for retailers?
- BNPL options can significantly enhance ROI by increasing average order value and purchase frequency, as evidenced by Afterpay's success with fashion and lifestyle retailers. Klarna's zero-interest installment options often encourage larger purchases and reduce cart abandonment. Furthermore, Affirm’s transparent terms contribute to reduced customer churn, fostering repeat business and loyalty, ultimately benefiting long-term revenue growth.
Our Promise: We promise to deliver the highest quality company and offering data, free from sponsored bias. We compile data from across the internet, to give the most accurate and true rankings, according to our transparent algorithms.