Service fees primarily cover the cost of processing payments securely through brightwheel. They’re common across online payment platforms and help keep payments reliable and tax ready.
These small fees help ensure payments are processed securely and reliably through brightwheel's PCI Level 1–compliant payment processor, Stripe. You can see their security site for detailed information about their security measures.
Service fee myths vs facts
Myth: Service fees were just added recently.
Fact: Service fees have always been part of secure, compliant payment processing.
Myth: Service fees are a markup.
Fact: Fees reflect the true cost of processing payments securely through trusted financial networks. Brightwheel keeps them consistent and visible, and we do not bury the costs in other places.
Myth: Card fees are higher for no reason.
Fact: Credit and debit card payments run through more layers of financial networks, while bank transfers (E.g. ACH) is direct. We recommend connecting a bank account directly as a lower fee option.
FAQs
Who should I talk to if I have questions?
Who should I talk to if I have questions?
For specific fee policies, please contact your provider. Brightwheel offers a wide variety of features and options, and ultimately it is up to each provider to determine their own policies and procedures.
How can I pay a lower fee?
How can I pay a lower fee?
We recommend paying by direct bank transfer for at most a $2.00 fee, instead of using a card. Also, if you pay for multiple children, bundle payments to have one transaction fee for all students.
Are service fees included on a failed payment?
Are service fees included on a failed payment?
Service fees only apply to successful transactions. If a payment fails, no service fee is charged.
Where can I see my service fees paid?
Where can I see my service fees paid?
Before you make a payment, any required service fees will be clearly labeled. Fees will also appear on the invoice after payment.
