What Are Payment Request Links?
Payment request links are the fastest way to get paid online. Learn how these simple URLs work and why millions of businesses use them to collect payments instantly.
What is a Payment Request Link?
A payment request link (also called a payment link or pay link) is a unique URL that takes customers directly to a secure payment page. Instead of building a website or setting up complex checkout systems, you simply share a link — via email, text, social media, or in person — and customers can pay instantly.
Why Use Payment Request Links?
Get Paid Instantly
Skip the invoice-and-wait cycle. Share a link, get paid in seconds. Average payment time drops from 23 days to under 3 days.
Works Everywhere
Share via email, SMS, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or print as a QR code. One link works across all channels.
Secure & Trusted
Bank-grade encryption through providers like Stripe, Mollie, and PayPal. Customers pay confidently on a secure page.
Accept Any Payment Method
Credit cards, debit cards, iDEAL, SEPA, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Klarna, and 20+ more payment methods.
How Payment Request Links Work
The process is simple — create a link, share it, and get paid.
Create Your Payment Link
Set the amount (or let customers enter their own), add a description, and optionally customize with your branding.
Share the Link
Send the link via email, text message, WhatsApp, social media DMs, or display as a QR code for in-person payments.
Customer Clicks & Pays
The customer clicks the link, sees a secure payment page, chooses their payment method, and completes the payment.
You Receive the Money
Funds are deposited directly to your connected bank account. Get notified instantly when payments arrive.
What Can You Do With Payment Links?
Fixed or Variable Amounts
Set exact prices or let customers enter their own amount for tips, donations, or custom services.
QR Code Generation
Every link gets an automatic QR code for print materials, storefronts, or contactless payments.
Mobile-Optimized
Payment pages work perfectly on any device. Over 60% of payments happen on mobile.
Branded Experience
Add your logo, colors, and custom URL to build trust and maintain brand consistency.
Payment Tracking
See who paid, when, and through which channel. Get real-time notifications for every payment.
Recurring Payments
Set up subscriptions and recurring billing with the same simple link technology.
Who Uses Payment Request Links?
Freelancers
Send payment links after completing projects. No more chasing invoice payments.
Small Businesses
Accept payments without expensive POS systems or complex online stores.
Service Providers
Collect deposits, final payments, and appointment fees easily.
Creators & Artists
Sell digital products, art commissions, or accept tips from fans.
Event Organizers
Collect ticket payments, event fees, and group contributions.
International Sellers
Accept payments from customers worldwide with multi-currency support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a payment link and an invoice?
Invoices are formal documents with detailed billing information, due dates, and itemized lists. Payment links are simple URLs for quick payments. Think of payment links as 'pay now' buttons you can share anywhere. Many businesses use both: invoices for formal billing and payment links for quick transactions.
Are payment links secure?
Yes. Payment links from reputable providers use bank-grade encryption and PCI-compliant processing. Customer payment data is handled by secure processors like Stripe or Mollie — never stored on your servers.
How much do payment links cost?
PayRequest plans start at €5/month with 0% transaction fees from PayRequest. You pay only the payment processor fees (e.g., 1.4% + €0.25 for cards via Stripe, or €0.29 for iDEAL via Mollie).
Can I use payment links without a website?
Absolutely! That's one of the main benefits. Share links directly via email, text, WhatsApp, social media, or printed QR codes. No website or coding required.
How quickly do I receive the money?
Payout timing depends on your payment provider. Stripe typically deposits funds within 2-7 business days. Mollie processes within 1-2 business days. Some providers offer instant payouts for an additional fee.
Can customers pay with their preferred method?
Yes. You can enable multiple payment methods including credit/debit cards, iDEAL, SEPA Direct Debit, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Bancontact, Klarna, PayPal, and more depending on your payment provider.
Related Guides
Create Your First Payment Link
Start accepting payments in minutes. No technical skills required. Share your link anywhere and get paid instantly.