Stripe Processing Markup Removed from Phone System Charges
What Changed
The CRM platform has eliminated the 5% Stripe processing markup previously applied to Phone System usage charges. Effective October 1, 2025, all Phone System fees now reflect the exact carrier passthrough cost, with the platform internally covering Stripe's processing fees.
Key Benefits
- Transparent Billing: No hidden markups or elevated fees.
- Lower Usage Costs: You pay only the carrier's direct rate.
- Improved Compliance: Passthrough telecom fees maintain non-taxable status.
- Consistency Across Features: SMS, MMS, A2P, Voice Intelligence, and text-to-speech services all follow the same passthrough billing model.
Messaging Charges Now at Passthrough Cost
The following messaging services now bill at true carrier pricing:
- SMS carrier fees
- MMS carrier fees
- A2P 10DLC brand registration
- A2P 10DLC campaign registration
- Group messaging user fees
Voice Charges Now at Passthrough Cost
The following voice-related services now bill at exact passthrough cost:
- Verified Caller ID
- Voice Intelligence
- Call transcription
- Amazon Polly (text-to-speech)
How Billing Statements Look Now
Billing statements no longer include the 5% uplift, "Processing fees" line items, or "×1.05" multipliers. You will see only the raw carrier rate for each service.
Tax Compliance Improvements
By removing the markup, all Phone System usage charges remain correctly categorized as passthrough telecommunications fees, which are typically non-taxable, avoiding inconsistencies across different tax jurisdictions.
How to Verify the Updated Billing in Your Account
Step 1: Go to Agency View
Navigate to Settings, then select Billing.
Step 2: Select Wallet & Transactions
Choose Detailed Transactions to view all recent Phone System usage charges.
Step 3: Use Advanced Filters to Confirm Passthrough Pricing
Filter for Phone System usage and verify that the Total Amount for each entry matches the carrier rate without any markup applied.
Step 4: Export Usage as CSV
For accuracy confirmation, export your usage data and compare it with your carrier's public pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to modify SaaS reselling prices?
No. Your custom SaaS markups remain unchanged.
Will my wallet last longer now?
Yes. With lower charges, your credits will deplete more slowly.
Did the CRM update past invoices?
No. Past invoices remain unchanged. The update applies only to usage on or after October 1, 2025.
Does this affect messaging discounts?
No. Discounts continue to apply, now calculated against the true passthrough cost.
Does Auto-Recharge behavior change?
No. Auto-Recharge continues to function as before.