The best Android app for processing credit cards: Square Register

In a world where customers increasingly eschew cash, its plastic or perish. A number of apps have seized on the opportunity, but thanks to a big deal with Starbucks, Square Register has a head of steam. The brainchild of Twitter founder Jack Dorsey, Square Register has a lot going for it, but a certain future isnt one of them. Square has been locking horns with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation since January, when the agency delivered a cease and desist order for alleged violation of the Transmitters of Money Act. Our best guess is Square and the state will find a way to make amends. (iOS, Android Free)

Applauding

After swiping, customers can opt to have their receipt emailed, texted or printed.

Appalling

Custom ers always have to sign, which can be unwieldy on a smartphone.

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Square allows users to run analytics and sales reports.

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Appalling

You must own an iPad to sync wirelessly with printers and cash drawers, and gain access to important daily and custom transaction reports.

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Businesses can pay either a flat rate of $275 per month or 2.75 percent per transaction, no matter the card.

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The flat rate is only available for the first $250,000 in sales. After that, Square charges 2.75 percent per swipe.

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Signing up for either payment plan lands you a free Mobile Card Reader. The app is free for download.

Appalling

Small businesses need to purchase additional hardware. Squares Business in a Box bundle costs $300, and another bundle throws in a receipt printer for $600.

See more information about these apps from our partner ChicagoGrid.