Does Monzo Offer a Card Reader in the UK?
Last Updated 1st of June 2026
4 minute readIf you use Monzo for your business, you may ask how to take card payments. Many small firms need a simple way to accept cards in person. We will show you what Monzo offers and how you can still take payments with ease.
Monzo does not offer a card reader in the UK. It is a digital bank that focuses on accounts and apps. Businesses can accept card payments by using third-party card readers like Square, SumUp, or Zettle, which connect to a Monzo business account.
There is more to know before you choose how to take payments. We will explain your options, the best tools, and how to pick the right setup for your business.
Looking for a simple way to accept payments? Click the link below to find out if the Monzo Card Reader is the right choice for your UK business today.
Does Monzo Offer a Card Reader in the UK?
Monzo is a popular digital bank in the UK. It is known for its easy app, fast setup, and simple money tools. Many small businesses use Monzo for daily banking.
But here is the key point: Monzo does not offer its own card reader or card machine.
This means you cannot get a chip and PIN device directly from Monzo. You cannot take in-person card payments using Monzo alone.
Instead, Monzo focuses on:
- Business bank accounts
- Spending insights
- Instant notifications
- Easy money transfers
To accept card payments, you must use a third-party payment provider.
What Monzo Does and Does Not Do
Monzo is not a payment processor. It does not handle card transactions like a merchant service provider. It also does not supply hardware such as card machines.
Instead, Monzo acts as your business bank account. It stores your money and lets you send and receive funds.
To take card payments, you need:
- A card reader provider (like Square or SumUp)
- A payment processing account
- A link to your Monzo account
Once set up, payments go into your Monzo account after processing.
How You Can Accept Card Payments with Monzo
Even without its own card reader, Monzo still works well with other tools. Here are the main ways to accept payments:
Use a Card Reader Provider
You can connect a card machine from a trusted provider. These devices let customers tap or insert their cards.
Popular options include:
- Square
- SumUp
- Zettle by PayPal
These providers send your money to your Monzo account.
Use Payment Links
You can send a payment link to customers. They pay online using their card. This is great for remote sales.
Bank Transfers
Customers can send money straight to your Monzo account. This is simple but not ideal for retail shops.
Best Card Readers to Use with Monzo in the UK
Here is a simple table to help you compare:
| Provider | Best For | Key Feature | Cost Type |
| Square | Small shops | Easy POS system | Pay per transaction |
| SumUp | Start-ups | Low upfront cost | Low fees |
| Zettle | Retail | Strong inventory tools | Pay per use |
Each of these works well with Monzo.
Why Monzo Does Not Offer a Card Reader
Monzo is a fintech bank, not a hardware company. Its goal is to keep banking simple and digital.
By not offering card machines, Monzo can:
- Keep costs low
- Focus on app features
- Let users choose their own payment tools
This gives businesses more choice but adds one extra step.
Pros and Cons of Using Monzo for Payments
Pros
- Easy to use app
- Fast payments and alerts
- Works with many providers
- No need for long contracts
Cons
- No built-in card reader
- Must use third-party tools
- Extra fees from providers
Is Monzo Good for Businesses Taking Card Payments?
Monzo is great for:
- Freelancers
- Small service businesses
- Online sellers
It may not be the best for:
- Busy retail shops
- Large restaurants
- High-volume card payments
These businesses may want a full payment system.
Alternatives to Monzo That Offer Card Readers
Some providers offer both banking and card machines.
Tide
- Business account
- Card reader options
- Simple pricing
Revolut Business
- Multi-currency support
- Payment tools
- POS features
High Street Banks
- Full merchant services
- Card machines included
- Long-term contracts
How to Choose the Right Card Reader
When picking a card machine, look at:
Cost
- Upfront device price
- Transaction fees
Connectivity
- WiFi or 4G
- Mobile use
Ease of Use
- Simple setup
- Clear app
Business Type
- Retail needs POS
- Mobile sellers need portability
What Should You Do Next?
If you use Monzo, the best step is to choose a card reader that fits your business. Think about how you sell, where you sell, and how often you take payments.
Start small if you are new. Many providers let you pay as you go. This keeps costs low while you grow.
Also, check how fast payments reach your Monzo account. Some providers offer next-day payouts, while others may take longer.
Finally, always compare fees. Even small differences can add up over time.
Ready to start taking card payments with Monzo?
Compare the best card readers for your business and choose the right solution today. Click the link below to get started.
FAQ
Does Monzo provide a card machine?
No, Monzo does not provide a card machine. You must use a third-party provider.
Can I use SumUp with Monzo?
Yes, SumUp works with Monzo. Payments can be sent to your Monzo account.
How do I take card payments with Monzo?
You use a card reader provider like Square or Zettle and link it to your Monzo account.
What is the best card reader for Monzo users?
Square, SumUp, and Zettle are the most popular choices in the UK.
Does Monzo support contactless payments?
Yes, but only through third-party card readers or payment links.
Are there fees when using Monzo with card readers?
Monzo does not charge for card readers, but the provider you choose will charge fees.
Is Monzo good for retail businesses?
It can work, but shops may prefer a full POS system with built-in payment tools.
This guide gives you a clear and simple answer. Monzo does not offer a card reader, but you still have many easy ways to take payments and grow your business.