Invoice with credit card payment offers a fast, convenient way for clients to pay while helping businesses get paid quicker. When you add a credit card option to your invoices, you streamline the payment process, reduce delays, and improve cash flow—making it easier for both you and your customers.
Benefits of Offering Credit Card Payments on Invoices
The most important benefits of offering credit card payments on invoices:
- Faster Payments: Clients can pay instantly with a card, reducing the time it takes to get paid compared to checks or bank transfers.
- Improved Cash Flow: With quicker payments, your business maintains a healthier cash flow, making it easier to manage expenses and reinvest.
- Better Customer Experience: Offering multiple payment options, including credit cards, makes the process more convenient and professional for clients.
- Fewer Missed or Late Payments: Credit card payments can be completed right from the invoice, lowering the risk of delays or forgetfulness.
- Easier Payment Tracking: Card payments are automatically recorded by most invoicing systems, simplifying bookkeeping and reconciliation.
How Credit Card Payment Options Improve Customer Retention
One simple but powerful way to boost retention is to offer credit card payment options. Here’s how this payment method can keep your clients coming back:
- Convenience Encourages Repeat Business: Customers value ease and speed. When they can pay invoices with just a few clicks using a credit card, the entire process feels smoother. This convenience makes them more likely to return for future purchases or services.
- Creates a Professional and Trustworthy Image: Accepting credit card payments shows that your business is modern and customer-focused. It signals reliability and professionalism—two qualities that build trust and long-term client relationships.
- Reduces Friction with Flexible Payment Options: Different customers have different preferences. Some prefer to use credit cards for rewards or cash flow management. Offering this option shows that you care about their needs and makes them feel understood and valued.
- Enables Automatic and Recurring Payments: If your business operates on a subscription or retainer model, credit card payments make auto-billing possible. This reduces interruptions in service, minimizes churn, and creates a more stable customer base.
- Resolves Issues Faster, Improving Satisfaction: Credit card payments streamline the payment process, making it easier to resolve any billing concerns quickly. A smooth, stress-free experience strengthens your reputation and encourages customer loyalty.
Incorporating credit card payments isn’t just about getting paid faster—it’s about providing a better customer experience that builds long-term relationships.
How to Create an Invoice with Credit Card Payment
Offering credit card payments on your invoices can boost your chances of getting paid faster and improve client satisfaction. Here’s how to create one:
- Choose an Invoicing Tool That Accepts Credit Cards: Use invoicing software like DepositFix, QuickBooks, FreshBooks, Wave, or Stripe Invoicing. These platforms integrate payment gateways and let clients pay by credit card directly from the invoice.
- Set Up Your Payment Gateway: Connect your invoicing system to a payment gateway like Stripe, Square, or PayPal. This enables secure credit card transactions and ensures funds go straight to your business account.
- Create a New Invoice: Enter the customer’s name, email, invoice number, and due date. Add a clear breakdown of products or services provided, along with the total amount due.
- Enable Credit Card Payment Option: Within the payment settings of your invoice, toggle on the payment method that allows customers to pay via credit card. Some platforms may also let you enable ACH or digital wallets like Apple Pay.
- Add a Payment Link or Button: The invoice should include a “Pay Now” button or direct link. When customers click it, they’ll be able to enter their credit card details and submit the payment securely.
- Send the Invoice Digitally: Email the invoice directly to the customer, or send it through a client portal. Include a friendly message and payment terms to encourage quick action.
- Track Payment Status: Use your invoicing tool’s dashboard to monitor whether the invoice was viewed, paid, or needs a reminder. Most tools send automated follow-ups for overdue invoices.
Costs of Accepting Credit Card Payments on Invoices
The main fees involved are:
- Processing Fees: These are the most common costs. Payment processors typically charge 1.5% to 3.5% per transaction, depending on the card type and provider. For example, online or keyed-in payments tend to cost more than swiped ones.
- Monthly Fees: Some payment processors or invoicing platforms charge a monthly service fee, usually between $10 and $30, depending on your plan and added features.
- Setup or Integration Fees: While many modern invoicing tools don’t charge setup fees, some systems may include one-time integration costs if you use custom software or need developer support.
- Chargeback Fees: If a customer disputes a payment and it results in a chargeback, you may be charged $15 to $25 per incident. Good communication and detailed invoices help reduce this risk.
- Miscellaneous Fees: Some providers charge batch fees, cross-border fees, or PCI compliance fees. Always read the fine print when selecting a processor.