With the wealth of options on this commodity, nonprofits should choose based on fees, security, company stability and flexibility.
Fees
Network for Good fees are out of control. 7%. That's way to high. I don't know what happened. I used to promote them too but can't do it anymore in conscience.
Consider Google Checkout or Paypal. Their fees are in the low 2's and their is no monthly fee. One misconception is that you need a nonprofit-centric payment pocessor. It's simply not true. Many payment processors that target nonprofits mark up their transaction fees.
Company Stability & Security
Even worse, the nonprofit-centric payment processors are small, private companies. Who knows about their stability? You can't see their financials and you may not want to. Google and Paypal are not going anywhere. A big part of security is knowing that you will get you money. The last thing you want is to lose donations because you payment processor folded.
Flexibility
Another great thing about Google and Paypal is that they are flexible enough to meet many payment needs. Donations, e-commerce, pledge events, event registration, auctions, etc... sky's the limit. There ae also scores of developers who ae experts with the API's so finding developers is easier too.
Other Options
If yo'e simply not a fan of Google or Paypal, try Authorize.net , Cybersource (Bank of America), or First Data. These are big, stable, secure companies so you're money is safer with them than the upstarts.
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