Stripe Connect for WordPress Marketplaces: Implementation Guide

Stripe Connect enables marketplaces to split payments between platform and vendors. Here's how we implement it with HivePress and custom marketplaces.

Connect Types

Standard: Vendors have full Stripe accounts. You redirect to Stripe for onboarding. Express: Stripe-hosted onboarding. Custom: You build the UI. For most marketplaces, Express balances simplicity and control.

Onboarding Flow

Vendor clicks "Get paid". Redirect to Stripe Connect onboarding. On return, save account ID. Store in user meta. Use this for destination charges.

Destination Charges

Charge goes to your platform. Stripe splits to connected account. You control application_fee. Use for commission. Ensure idempotency for webhook retries.

Separate Charges

Charge goes directly to vendor. You charge a separate fee. More complex but gives vendors full control. Use when vendors need their own Stripe dashboard.

Payout Timing

Default: 2-day rolling. Instant: 1% fee. Configure per connected account. Most vendors prefer 2-day for lower fees.

Compliance

Know your vendor (KYC). Stripe handles this in Express. Collect tax info (W-9, W-8BEN). Stripe Tax can help. Have a clear ToS for vendors.

Start with Express and destination charges. Add instant payouts as an optional upgrade. Handle webhooks for payment_intent.succeeded and transfer.created.