Run an Online Dating Business? Struggling To Find a Reliable Payment Processor? Here Are the Reasons Why – and What You Can Do About It

February 3, 2025

Chris Algie

Head of Sales

As a business operator, navigating the world of online dating is no small feat.

With revenue expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2025-2029) of 2.14%, the global online dating market volume is projected to reach $3.45bn by 2029. In many ways, it’s a golden era. Despite reports of falling usage rates among users, at a corporate level, the big players in the dating industry remain in rude good health. But running a dating business comes with its own set of challenges. 

Chief among these challenges is finding a reliable payment processor. For many dating platforms, payment rejections, lack of tailored solutions, or security lapses are recurring issues. High chargeback rates, fraud concerns, and reputational risks often leave dating businesses labeled as “high-risk” by traditional payment providers.

The result? Many dating sites face endless rejections, or settle for subpar payment solutions that hinder growth. 

Yet, there is a path forward. The key lies in understanding the unique demands of the industry and partnering with payment providers that truly understand its nuances. In this guide, we’ll unpack the challenges and highlight the solutions designed to help dating businesses thrive in today’s digital economy. Let’s get started.

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What constitutes an online dating business?

An online dating business facilitates meaningful connections between individuals through digital platforms. This can include traditional matchmaking websites, mobile apps, or niche platforms catering to specific demographics or interests. 

Major players like Tinder, Bumble, and Match.com dominate the industry, but an increasing number of challenger brands – 1,500 or more – are entering the space, targeting underserved communities or offering unique features.

With that said, some industry experts see the ‘online dating era’ as coming to an end, as humans search for non-digital connections following the global pandemic, and increasingly seek to break away from algorithms, in favour of a more intentful, thoughtful approach to love.

In any case; the industry is booming:

  • 2024 saw Tinder reach 50 million users
  • Hinge achieved record global downloads, making it the second most downloaded dating app in its market
  • 130 billion chats were sent between users on Grindr
  • Paid Bumble users increased 10%, passing the 3 million mark

*source: Wired

However, the diversity of these platforms necessitates varying business models, such as subscription fees, in-app purchases, or premium memberships. 
This complexity makes it crucial for dating businesses to establish secure, efficient payment processing solutions that cater to their specific audience, all while mitigating risks.

What a dating business is NOT…

A legitimate online dating business operates transparently, upholds ethical standards, and prioritises user safety. 

In the words of Whitney Wolfe Herd, Tinder co-founder:

“We will always put our values before our bottom line.”

– Whitney Wolfe Herd


Dating apps – legitimate ones, at least – are not platforms for scams, phishing, or predatory practices. Businesses engaging in unethical behaviours, such as fake profiles, misleading subscription terms, or lack of security, not only tarnish the industry’s reputation, but also risk being blacklisted by payment processors.

A brief history of the online dating industry

  • 1995: Match.com launches, pioneering the online dating industry.
  • 2007: The rise of mobile apps revolutionises the landscape. Tinder’s launch in 2012 marks a cultural shift.
  • 2020: The pandemic accelerates growth as virtual connections become essential.
  • 2023: AI and video-based dating features redefine user experiences.

Is it really fair to deem dating as a “high-risk” industry?

While it’s true that dating merchants face higher chargeback rates and some fraud risks, these challenges don’t tell the whole story. 

The “high-risk” label often stems from outdated perceptions, such as concerns over adult content or subscription disputes. However, many modern dating platforms have implemented robust risk management and security measures, transparent billing practices, and squeaky-clean ethical guidelines.

However, despite these advancements, traditional payment processors remain cautious, often citing industry-specific risks as justification: a company’s employee using the same device for accessing dating apps and work documents, for instance – which over half of users do. 

Yet, as technology evolves and more platforms demonstrate compliance and legitimacy, attitudes are gradually shifting. This trend suggests a brighter future for dating businesses seeking fairer treatment in the financial ecosystem.

What reasons might payment processors give for not wanting to work with you?

High chargeback rates

Dating companies often face disputes over subscription renewals, unapproved transactions, or users claiming dissatisfaction with services. These high chargeback rates strain processor relationships.

Fraud concerns

The risk of fake profiles, fraudulent activity, or stolen card use raises alarms, as processors prioritise mitigating exposure to financial losses.

Reputational risk

Payment providers are wary of negative press or associations with unethical practices, which can tarnish their own reputations by proxy.

Complex business models

Dating platforms frequently use subscription-based models, in-app purchases, or tiered pricing, all of which require specialised, adaptable payment solutions that not all providers offer.

Operating globally means adhering to a patchwork of local regulations, from data protection laws to anti-fraud measures, which adds complexity and risk for payment processors.

The payment solutions you need to thrive…

…and where to find them

Fibonatix offers a comprehensive suite of payment solutions built for the world of online dating. 

Our expertise ensures seamless, secure, and efficient payment processing, backed by industry-leading technology and personalised support. 

With Fibonatix, you gain a partner that understands the unique challenges that come with running a business in the dating industry, and delivers results that are swift, secure, and seamless. Contact us now to learn more.

Fibonatix: the payments partner you’ve been waiting for

“At Fibonatix, we empower dating businesses to thrive with bespoke payment solutions built for success.”


With our commitment to innovation, security, and customer-centricity, Fibonatix is the trusted choice for businesses navigating the dating industry. Speak to our payment experts today and discover how we can help your business reach new heights.