Setting up a Square account in the UK is fast, simple, and perfect for small businesses, freelancers, and retailers who want to accept payments without complicated contracts or hidden fees. Square helps you get paid in person, online, or over the phone — all from one easy-to-use platform.
What Is Square and Why It’s Popular in the UK
Square is one of the UK’s leading payment processors, known for its easy setup, transparent pricing, and powerful business tools. It enables merchants to accept card payments, send invoices, and manage their business from anywhere.
Here’s why Square is trusted by thousands of UK businesses:
- 💳 Accept all major cards – Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and contactless.
- 🛒 Integrates with eCommerce platforms like Wix, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce.
- 💼 Free POS app for Android and iOS.
- 💰 No monthly fees – you only pay per transaction.
- 📊 Smart analytics to track sales and customers in real time.
Whether you run a coffee shop, salon, or online store, Square gives you the flexibility to manage all your payments in one place.
How to Create and Verify Your Account
Creating your Square account in the UK takes less than 10 minutes.
Here’s how to get started:
- Go to squareup.com/gb and click “Get Started.”
- Enter your email address and create a secure password.
- Select your business type (sole trader, company, charity, etc.).
- Add your business name, address, and category.
- Provide your full name and date of birth for verification.
- Link your UK bank account for deposits.
- Accept Square’s Terms of Service and submit your application.
Once approved, you’ll gain access to your Square Dashboard, where you can set up products, payment links, and invoices.
Required Documents for UK Businesses
To comply with UK financial regulations, Square must verify your identity and business details. You’ll need:
- A valid government-issued ID (passport or driving licence).
- A UK bank account in your name or business name.
- Proof of business registration (Companies House number, if applicable).
- For sole traders: proof of address such as a recent utility bill or bank statement.
Verification usually takes a few minutes, but may take up to one business day if additional checks are required.
How to Link Your UK Bank Account
To receive your payments, you must connect a valid UK bank account.
Here’s how:
- In your Square Dashboard, go to Settings → Bank Accounts.
- Click “Add Bank Account.”
- Enter your sort code and account number.
- Confirm the name on your bank account matches your Square profile.
- Square will send a test deposit (less than £1) to verify your account.
Once verified, payouts will automatically reach your bank account within one to two working days after each transaction.
Using Square for Online and In-Person Payments
Square allows you to accept payments anywhere in the UK — both online and face to face.
You can:
- 💳 Accept chip & PIN and contactless cards using the Square Reader.
- 🧾 Send digital invoices and track payments in your dashboard.
- 🌐 Build an online store with Square Online (free plan available).
- 📲 Take payments over the phone with Virtual Terminal.
- 🛍️ Integrate with eCommerce platforms and delivery apps.
All transactions appear instantly in your account, helping you manage sales and cash flow effortlessly.
Square vs SumUp vs Revolut – Which Is Better?
| Feature | Square | SumUp | Revolut |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup time | Minutes | Minutes | Minutes |
| Transaction fee | 1.75% (in-person) | 1.69% | Varies by plan |
| Online store | ✅ Free plan | ⚠️ Basic only | ✅ eCommerce tools |
| Card reader price | From £19 | From £29 | N/A |
| Payout speed | 1–2 days | 1–3 days | 1–2 days |
| Business loans | ✅ Yes (Square Loans) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (select users) |
Verdict: Square offers the best all-round balance for UK small businesses thanks to its fast payouts, free POS tools, and business funding options.
Troubleshooting Common Account Issues
| Issue | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Account not verified | Missing documents | Upload valid ID or business registration |
| Bank link failed | Name mismatch | Ensure the bank account matches your Square profile |
| Payout delayed | Bank processing or public holiday | Wait 1–2 working days |
| Device not connecting | Bluetooth or network issue | Restart app and re-pair your reader |
If you need help, Square Support UK is available via chat, phone, or email seven days a week.
👉 Next article: How to Apply for a Square Loan in the UK