How to Send a Payment Link to a Customer
Payment links are the fastest way to get paid. Learn the best channels to share payment links, when to use each method, and how to maximize your conversion rates.
Why Payment Links Work
Payment links let you request money from anyone, anywhere. Instead of sharing bank details or setting up complex checkout systems, you send a simple link that customers click to pay. Average payment time drops from 23 days (invoices) to under 3 days with payment links.
7 Ways to Send Payment Links
Choose the right channel based on your customer relationship, urgency, and amount.
1. Email
35-45%1-3 daysProfessional B2B payments, invoices, recurring billing
The most professional way to request payment. Embed the link in a branded email with invoice details, due date, and payment options.
Tips
- Use a clear subject line: "Invoice #123 - Payment Due"
- Include the amount prominently in the email body
- Add a prominent "Pay Now" button, not just a text link
- Send during business hours (Tues-Thurs morning is best)
- Follow up if not paid within 3-5 days
Template
Hi {name},
Please find your invoice for {amount} attached.
[Pay Now Button]
Payment is due by {date}. Click the button above to pay securely via card, iDEAL, or bank transfer.
Questions? Just reply to this email.2. SMS / Text Message
45-55%Minutes to hoursUrgent payments, reminders, service-based businesses
SMS has a 98% open rate and most are read within 3 minutes. Perfect for payment reminders or when you need fast payment.
Tips
- Keep the message under 160 characters if possible
- Include your business name so they know who's asking
- State the amount clearly
- Send during business hours (avoid early morning/late night)
- Use for reminders, not initial requests (unless agreed)
Template
Hi {name}, your payment of {amount} for {service} is due. Pay securely here: {link} - {BusinessName}3. WhatsApp
50-60%HoursInternational clients, personal relationships, service providers
With 2 billion users, WhatsApp is often the primary communication channel for many businesses. Messages feel personal and get quick responses.
Tips
- Only use WhatsApp if you already communicate there
- Send a brief message explaining the payment
- Include the link on its own line for easy tapping
- Don't spam—one message, one follow-up if needed
- Great for international clients (no SMS fees)
Template
Hi {name}! 👋
Here's the payment link for {service}:
{link}
{amount} - pay via card, iDEAL, or bank transfer.
Let me know if you have questions!4. QR Code
40-50%ImmediateIn-person payments, physical locations, printed materials
QR codes turn any physical touchpoint into a payment opportunity. Customers scan with their phone camera and go directly to checkout.
Tips
- Include the amount next to the QR code
- Add a brief "Scan to Pay" instruction
- Test the code before printing/displaying
- Ensure good lighting if displayed on screen
- Add your logo in the center for branding
Use Cases
5. Social Media DM
40-50%Hours to 1 dayCreators, coaches, freelancers with social media presence
If you found the client on Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn, you can follow up with payment links in DMs. Keep it brief and professional.
Tips
- Only send payment links to warm leads or existing clients
- Reference your previous conversation
- Instagram and Twitter can make links unclickable—tell them to copy/paste
- LinkedIn DMs work well for B2B
- Don't send unsolicited payment requests
Template
Hey {name}! Great chatting earlier about {project}.
Here's the payment link to get started:
{link}
Just {amount} to secure your spot. Let me know once done! 🙌6. Invoice with Link
30-40%1-7 daysFormal business relationships, accounting purposes, VAT/tax records
Traditional invoices with an embedded payment link combine professionalism with convenience. The customer gets proper documentation while you get faster payment.
Tips
- Add a "Pay Now" button at the top of the invoice
- Include QR code as backup for mobile users
- Clearly state payment terms and due date
- List accepted payment methods
- Send PDF invoice with link in the email body too
Benefits
- Looks professional for corporate clients
- Provides documentation for accounting
- Can be used for tax/VAT purposes
- Customers can forward to their accounts payable
7. Website or Bio Link
15-25%VariesOngoing services, donations, tips, products
Add a permanent payment link to your website, Instagram bio, or link-in-bio page. Great for ongoing payment opportunities.
Tips
- Use a clear call-to-action ("Pay Invoice" or "Tip Jar")
- Consider using a custom short URL
- Track clicks to see how well it converts
- Update the amount if it's for specific products/services
- Combine with other links in a Linktree-style page
Where to Add
Best Practices for Sending Payment Links
Follow these guidelines to maximize your payment success rate.
Include the Amount
Always mention the payment amount. Customers are more likely to pay when they know exactly what they're paying for.
Explain What It's For
Reference the service, product, or invoice number. Context reduces confusion and builds trust.
Set a Due Date
Urgency drives action. "Due by Friday" gets faster payment than "whenever you can."
Make Links Clickable
Use hyperlinks or buttons, not just raw URLs. On mobile, a tap-to-pay button converts better than a long link.
Test Before Sending
Click your own payment link before sending. Make sure it works, shows the right amount, and looks professional.
Follow Up Promptly
If not paid within expected time, send a polite reminder. Most non-payments are forgetfulness, not refusal.
Which Channel Should You Use?
Quick guide to choosing the right payment link delivery method.
| Channel | Best For | Speed | Formality |
|---|---|---|---|
| B2B, large amounts | 1-3 days | High | |
| SMS | Reminders, urgency | Minutes | Medium |
| Personal, international | Hours | Low-Medium | |
| QR Code | In-person, print | Immediate | Medium |
| Social DM | Creators, freelancers | Hours | Low |
| Invoice | Corporate, accounting | 1-7 days | Very High |
| Website | Ongoing, passive | Varies | Medium |
How to Create a Payment Link
Before you can send a payment link, you need to create one. Here's how with PayRequest.
Sign up for PayRequest
Create your free account in 30 seconds. No credit card required.
Connect a payment provider
Link Stripe, Mollie, or PayPal to accept payments. Takes 2 minutes.
Create a payment link
Enter the amount, add a description, and choose your payment methods.
Copy and share
Get your link, QR code, or "Pay Now" button. Share via any channel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to send payment links by SMS?
Yes, when using a reputable payment provider like PayRequest with Stripe or Mollie. The link opens a secure HTTPS page. However, train your customers to expect payment links from you so they don't confuse legitimate requests with phishing attempts.
Can I send the same payment link to multiple customers?
It depends. Reusable links (one link, unlimited payments) work great for fixed-price services or products. For invoices with specific amounts per customer, create individual links. PayRequest supports both options.
What if a customer doesn't have the payment method I offer?
The best payment links offer multiple payment options (cards, bank transfer, iDEAL, PayPal, etc.). With PayRequest, customers can choose their preferred method from 20+ options. More options = higher conversion.
How do I know when someone pays?
You'll receive an instant notification by email when a payment completes. PayRequest also sends automatic receipts to your customer and updates your dashboard in real-time.
Can I send payment links internationally?
Absolutely. Payment links work worldwide. Just ensure you've enabled international payment methods (cards are accepted globally, local methods like iDEAL are region-specific).
What happens if the customer doesn't pay?
Send a friendly reminder after 3-5 days. PayRequest can automate payment reminders for you. Most non-payments are simply forgotten—a gentle nudge usually resolves it.
Related Guides
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