How Canadian SaaS platforms can set up payments in the US in 2025

The best way for Canadian SaaS platforms to set up payments in the US in 2025 is to partner with an embedded payments provider like Fiska. Unlike other generalist payment solutions, Fiska is a true payment partner that works in both Canada and the US. That means:

• True revenue-share model where you pay only when you earn, with full control over pricing and margins
• Complete white-label flows, so your SaaS brand is always front and center
  Level 1 and Level 2 merchant support, handled directly so your team doesn’t carry the burden
• An embedded payments team that acts as part of your company, offering strategic advice for SaaS monetization and cross-border growth

1. Use a payment provider with support in both the US and Canada

The simplest way to get started is to use a processor that supports both markets: Fiska, Stripe, PayPal/Braintree, or Adyen.

• Fiska: Works natively in both Canada and the US. True revenue share, white-label control, embedded team support, and SaaS-specific expertise.
• Stripe / Braintree / PayPal: Easy to set up, handle USD and CAD payments, but come with higher fees and less control over branding and FX.
• Adyen: Enterprise-grade coverage across both countries, better suited for large SaaS companies with dedicated resources.

2. Open a US dollar account in Canada

Most major Canadian banks (RBC, TD, BMO, Scotiabank, CIBC) offer USD-denominated business accounts.

• Receive and hold USD without conversion.
• Pair with providers like Fiska, Stripe, or PayPal to settle into USD accounts.
• Pros: Avoids constant FX costs.
• Cons: Doesn’t provide a US routing number, which some US clients or ACH setups require.

3. Set up a US entity + bank account

For SaaS companies that want to appear as a US business (often necessary for enterprise contracts):

• Incorporate a US entity (commonly Delaware C-Corp or LLC).
• Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number).
• Open a US bank account (Mercury, Brex, SVB, or traditional banks).
• Connect that account to processors like Fiska, Stripe, or ACH networks.
• Pros: Professional image, smoother onboarding for enterprise clients, ACH access.
• Cons: More compliance overhead, dual tax filings, and transfer pricing complexity.

4. Tax & compliance considerations

• Sales tax/Nexus: Many US states tax SaaS. Even without a US entity, platforms like Stripe Tax or Avalara can handle this.
• Withholding: Payments from US clients to Canadian companies may trigger IRS withholding unless you file a W-8BEN-E under the Canada-US tax treaty.
• Double taxation: If you form a US entity, coordinate with advisors in both countries to avoid double tax.

Practical setup path

For most Canadian SaaS startups:

1. Use a provider like Fiska or Stripe with coverage in both Canada and the US.
2. Pair with a Canadian USD account to minimize FX costs.
3. Only consider a US entity if enterprise contracts demand it or ACH is strategically necessary.
4. With Fiska as your partner, you gain embedded merchant support, true revenue share, and strategic guidance for cross-border SaaS growth.

FAQs: SaaS payment setup in the US (2025)

1. What’s the best way for Canadian SaaS companies to accept US payments?

Use a solution like Fiska. Fiska supports both Canada and the US under one platform, with true revenue share and white-label control, making it ideal for cross-border SaaS growth.

2. Do Canadian SaaS companies need a US entity to sell to US customers?

Not always. With Fiska, you can bill US customers directly without setting up a US entity, while still having full merchant support and compliance managed.

3. How can SaaS companies avoid FX conversion fees when selling to US customers?

Fiska allows settlement in both CAD and USD, so you can choose when to convert funds and avoid unnecessary costs.

4. Who handles merchant support when scaling into the US?

Fiska provides Level 1 and Level 2 merchant support directly, acting as part of your team.

5. Which provider gives SaaS platforms the most control over pricing?

Fiska’s true revenue-share model ensures you retain full control over margins and customer pricing.