In today's digital economy, running a high-risk business comes with unique challenges—especially when it comes to payment processing. Whether you're selling CBD, adult products, digital goods, or subscription-based services, traditional banks and payment gateways often label such ventures as 'high-risk,' making it difficult to secure reliable and cost-effective payment solutions.

That's where high risk merchant account providers step in. These specialized payment processors are equipped to handle higher chargeback ratios, complex compliance requirements, and the regulatory nuances of high-risk industries. In this article, we break down the top 7 high-risk merchant account providers in 2025 that offer quick payment approvals, secure gateways, and dedicated support for businesses that operate outside the 'safe' zone.

Why High-Risk Businesses Need Specialized Merchant Accounts

Before diving into the list, it's important to understand what makes a business 'high-risk.' This designation is usually based on:

• Higher chances of chargebacks
• Legal or regulatory complexity (e.g., merchant account for CBD)
• Poor or no credit history
• Operating in controversial industries

Mainstream processors like Stripe or PayPal often freeze or shut down high-risk accounts without warning. That's why choosing the best high-risk payment processor 2025 is crucial for business continuity, customer satisfaction, and financial security.

1. PayKings – Industry Leader for High-Risk Vertical Support

PayKings has solidified its place as one of the most trusted names among high risk merchant account providers in 2025. With deep experience across industries like CBD, adult content, vape, firearms, and nutraceuticals, they offer tailored solutions that few others can match.

Key Features:

• Fast approvals (as little as 24–48 hours)
• Support for over 30 high-risk industries
• Dedicated account manager
• PCI-compliant secure payment gateways

Best for: Businesses needing a reliable merchant account for CBD or adult content.

2. Soar Payments – Fast Approvals and Transparent Pricing

Soar Payments is another well-known provider in the high-risk space, offering comprehensive payment processing solutions with transparency and speed. Known for its customer-centric approach, Soar works with both startups and established businesses.

Key Features:

• No application or setup fees
• Integration with major shopping carts
• Gateway options like NMI and Authorize.net
• High approval rate for riskier verticals

Best for: Subscription services, online tech support, and coaching businesses.

3. Easy Pay Direct – EPD Gateway for Chargeback Control

Easy Pay Direct (EPD) is famous for its load balancing and multi-MID strategy, making it one of the best high-risk payment processors in 2025. Their proprietary EPD Gateway allows merchants to minimize chargebacks and split transactions across multiple merchant accounts.

Key Features:

• Multi-MID setup for risk management
• Custom fraud prevention tools
• Real-time analytics dashboard
• CBD and hemp industry friendly

Best for: Businesses scaling fast and needing secure gateways to manage large volumes.

4. Instabill – Global Reach for International Merchants

If you operate globally, Instabill offers international high-risk merchant accounts with offshore banking options. With partnerships across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, it's ideal for businesses that deal in international currencies and require multi-jurisdiction compliance.

Key Features:

• Offshore and domestic account options
• Cryptocurrency support
• Merchant accounts for adult, online dating, and gaming
• Support for high-risk eCommerce

Best for: Global businesses looking for multi-currency and offshore payment support.

5. Durango Merchant Services – Known for Stability and Compliance

Durango is one of the most established players in the high-risk space, particularly respected for compliance and transparency. They specialize in industries like travel, CBD, and telemedicine, making them a go-to for complex regulatory businesses.

Key Features:

• High approval rate for merchant accounts for CBD
• Integrated chargeback alerts
• Payment gateway and POS support
• Personalized underwriting process

Best for: Businesses prioritizing compliance and regulatory adherence.

6. SMB Global – Former Stripe & PayPal Users' Favorite

SMB Global is an excellent option for businesses that have been previously rejected by Stripe, PayPal, or Square. With a strong emphasis on customer service and technology integration, they provide tailored solutions to previously underserved niches.

Key Features:

• Fraud tools and chargeback alerts
• Dedicated high-risk support team
• Integrates with CRM and billing systems
• Supports nutraceuticals, eBooks, tech support, etc.

Best for: High-risk startups needing simple onboarding and dedicated support.

7. eMerchant Broker (EMB) – Fast Onboarding and Flexible Terms

Ranked consistently among the top high risk merchant account providers, EMB offers lightning-fast onboarding and flexible contract terms. With AI-powered fraud detection tools and one of the fastest approval times, EMB is a top pick in 2025.

Key Features:

• AI-based fraud detection system
• Same-day approval in some cases
• Free chargeback mitigation support
• High-risk ACH and eCheck processing

Best for: Businesses looking for instant setup and advanced fraud protection.

Final Thoughts

Running a high-risk business doesn't mean you have to settle for unstable payment processing or high fees. The best high-risk payment processor 2025 is one that balances fast payment approvals, secure gateways, and deep experience in your specific vertical.

Whether you're in need of a merchant account for CBD, operate internationally, or handle recurring billing models, the providers listed above offer reliable solutions tailored for your business type.

Before making a final decision, always:

• Compare rates and contract terms
• Evaluate customer support responsiveness
• Ensure PCI compliance and fraud protection tools are included

With the right provider, your business will not only stay compliant but also thrive in the competitive digital economy of 2025.