Melio
VerifiedFree business payment platform — pay vendors by bank transfer or card, get paid by check or bank transfer.
Free
Always free
N/A — it's free
SMBs (50–500)
Apr 2026
What is Melio?
Melio is a free B2B payments platform that lets small businesses pay vendors by ACH bank transfer or credit card, even if the vendor only accepts checks. Getting paid is also free via bank transfer, with card payment options available. This flexibility lets businesses maximise cash flow by paying with a card (and earning rewards) while vendors receive check or bank transfer payments. Melio integrates with QuickBooks and Xero and is particularly popular with restaurants, contractors, and retail businesses managing cash flow.
Key Features
Pricing
free
Free
Free for ACH bank transfers. Card payments have a 2.9% fee.
Pricing may have changed. Always verify on the vendor's website.
Who is Melio best for?
Best for
Melio is designed for small to medium-sized businesses.
Popular in these industries:
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free to use for bank transfers
- Pay with credit card earn rewards
- Vendors receive checks even if you pay by card
- QuickBooks and Xero integration
- No monthly fees
Cons
- 2.9% fee on card payments
- US-focused
- Limited to B2B payments — not full AP automation
- Less powerful than BILL for complex workflows
Melio Alternatives
FreshBooks
Direct alternativeSimple accounting and invoicing for freelancers and small business owners.
QuickBooks Online
Direct alternativeThe world's most widely used small business accounting software for bookkeeping, payroll, and tax.
Lightspeed Commerce
Direct alternativeCloud POS and e-commerce platform for retail stores, restaurants, and golf businesses.
BILL
Direct alternativeAccounts payable and receivable automation platform for small and mid-size businesses.
Xero
Direct alternativeCloud accounting software for small businesses — the leading QuickBooks alternative used in 180+ countries.
1-800Accountant
Direct alternativeOnline accounting and bookkeeping service pairing small businesses with dedicated CPAs and accountants.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Melio free?
- Yes, Melio is completely free to use.
- What is Melio used for?
- Free business payment platform — pay vendors by bank transfer or card, get paid by check or bank transfer.
- Who is Melio best for?
- Melio is primarily designed for small and medium-sized businesses.
Related Tools
Shopify
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QuickBooks Online
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Xero
Cloud accounting software for small businesses — the leading QuickBooks alternative used in 180+ countries.
Gusto
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FreshBooks
Simple accounting and invoicing for freelancers and small business owners.
Patriot Software
Affordable US payroll and accounting software designed for small businesses.