How it works
Cashfree works much like other Indian gateways: your server creates an order, the customer pays through Cashfree's hosted checkout or SDK, and your server confirms the result by fetching the order status and checking signed webhooks. It supports UPI intent, collect, QR code and payment-link flows, cards, netbanking, wallets, EMI and Pay Later, plus payment links and forms that need no code.
Its Payouts product sends money out in bulk, to vendors, sellers, delivery partners or customers owed a refund, through an API or a spreadsheet upload, which suits marketplaces and gig platforms. Easy Split divides each payment between vendors automatically, and a verification suite checks bank accounts, UPI IDs, PAN and GSTIN before money moves. Standard settlement is two working days after the payment (T+2).
Cashfree Payments pros and cons
Pros
- Standard rate of 1.95% plus GST, with no setup or annual fee
- Strong payout and split-payment tools for marketplaces
- Built-in checks for bank accounts, UPI IDs, PAN and GSTIN
- Many UPI flows, including QR codes, intent and payment links
Cons
- International cards cost about 2.99% plus GST
- EMI, Pay Later and premium cards are priced above the standard rate
- Live payments wait on KYC approval, as with every Indian gateway
When to use Cashfree Payments
Pick it when
- Marketplaces and platforms that pay many vendors or partners
- Indian businesses that want UPI and cards at a slightly lower headline rate
- You need to verify bank accounts or PAN before paying people
Skip it when
- Most customers are abroad and expect PayPal or Stripe
Cashfree Payments pricing
Per transaction
About 1.95% plus 18% GST per payment for UPI, domestic cards, netbanking and wallets; about 2.99% plus GST for international Visa and Mastercard. No setup or annual fee.
Cashfree Payments pricing page (opens in a new tab)Approximate, checked September 2026.What the other tools cost
Cashfree Payments vs the alternatives
Related terms
More in Payments
Gateways