Electronic Payment Services RFP

The City of Lawrence, Massachusetts is requesting proposals for electronic payment services under RFP due June 15, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., delivered to the Office of the City Clerk at 200 Common Street, Room 107, Lawrence.

The scope covers web-based online bill payment and credit/debit card processing services for municipal and school financial transactions across tax bills, utility bills, licenses, permits, and fees. The City currently processes payments through checks, cash, credit cards, and ACH transfers and seeks to expand cashless payment options across all city and school departments.

Pricing is transaction-based. The City estimates 70,000 credit/debit card transactions and 30,000 ACH transactions annually with potential 20 percent annual increases. Vendors must provide per-transaction fees for both credit/debit card and ACH payments across all three contract years; per-transaction fees remain firm throughout each contract year. Vendors must offer lowest available pricing including all local government discounts on an item-by-item basis. Convenience fees may be paid by customers or the City at the City's discretion and must be processed as separate transactions. The City shall not be obligated to pay for services as alternative payment methods remain optional for citizens.

The contract term is three years with the option for the City to extend by mutual agreement. Implementation is scheduled for July 1, 2026. Award will be made to the responsive and responsible proposer offering the most advantageous proposal considering both price and services. Contract execution is subject to City Council appropriation.

Proposals must include technical components (one original and three copies) and a separate cost proposal (one original), along with Certificate of Non-Collusion, Certificate of Tax Compliance, Clerk Certificate, and W9 Form. The City anticipates proposal evaluation from June 15–22, 2026, with contract award expected in June 2026. The City reserves the right to cancel the RFP or reject any proposals if deemed in its best interest.