Electronic Processing Fees

Payment Options

Fargo Public Schools accepts cash, check, money order, credit card or debit card for payment. 

Electronic Processing Fees

Beginning July 1, 2026, Fargo Public Schools will apply processing fees to payments made by families and community members using electronic payment methods such as credit or debit cards for District services and purchases. This includes all payments and fees made via SchoolPay, including but not limited to school meals, activity fees, parking permits, instrument rentals, yearbook purchases, etc.

This change is part of the District’s ongoing efforts to responsibly manage operating costs and reduce budget pressures while preserving resources that directly support students, classrooms, and school programs. Shifting these fees to the individual transaction helps reduce costs within the District’s operating budgets and aligns with practices commonly used by schools, businesses, and public organizations.

Fees will apply only to transactions paid by credit and debit card. Families and patrons may continue to avoid processing fees by using alternative payment methods such as cash or checks.

The amount of the processing fee will vary based on the transaction amount. Fargo Public Schools does not retain or profit from these fees. The fee charged reflects the actual processing costs charged to the District by the payment processor and will be disclosed before payment is finalized.

We appreciate your understanding and continued support of Fargo Public Schools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do you charge a processing fee?
While credit and debit card payments offer convenience, the cost to accept payments continues to increase. This fee is assessed and collected by the card processor, not Fargo Public Schools.

Do other schools charge for credit card payments?
Most government entities, including public school districts, charge similar fees.

If I decide to use the credit card option to make a payment, how will I know how much the fees will cost?
When you process an online credit or debit card payment you will receive a notice of the fees charged prior to completion of the transaction.

Is the processing fee refundable?
No. The processing fee is a non-refundable charge.

Minimum Credit Card Purchase

A minimum purchase of $10 is required when adding funds to student meal accounts via credit card.