> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.silopay.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.silopay.io/fees/fee-comparison.md).
# Fee Comparison
Silo's privacy fee of 20-30 bps covers privacy routing, compliance screening, and encrypted record storage in a single charge. This section compares Silo's fee to alternatives across privacy protocols, bridges, traditional payroll providers, and payment processors.
***
#### **Privacy Protocols**
Tornado Cash charges approximately 33 bps, paid to relayers on withdrawal. Railgun charges approximately 25 bps on both shielding and unshielding, totaling roughly 50 bps for a full deposit-to-withdrawal cycle. Neither includes payments UX, receipts, cross-chain delivery, or compliance controls. Silo delivers all of these at a lower or comparable fee.
***
#### **Bridges**
Cross-chain bridge protocols typically charge 3-10 bps per transfer (USDT0, deBridge, Stargate, Mayan), with additional non-gas fees depending on route and method. Silo uses CCTP for cross-chain USDC transfers at $0 Silo fee. Bridge costs that do apply are passed through at cost with no markup.
***
#### **Traditional Payroll Providers**
Traditional payroll providers (ADP, UKG, Workday, Rippling, Gusto) typically charge on a per-employee-per-month basis. When converted to effective bps of payroll, costs range from approximately 24 bps to 165 bps depending on salary band, provider, and whether international delivery with FX fees is involved. Silo's Business tier charges 20 bps with no FX fees, since stablecoin payments are borderless by default.
***
#### **Payment Processors (Credit Card)**
Credit card processors (Stripe, PayPal, Square, Adyen, Checkout.com) charge merchants between 150-440 bps per transaction, varying by domestic vs. cross-border, card type, and pricing plan. Silo's Business tier at 20 bps represents a significant cost reduction for merchants who can accept crypto payments.
***
Note: All comparisons are approximate and based on publicly available fee structures as of early 2026. Fees for third-party providers vary by contract, volume, and region.
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