We launched Custom Payment Links on December 4th, 2024 to help MSPs collect payments through platforms we don’t yet integrate with. While we’re building direct integrations with major MSP platforms, Custom Payment Links give you a way to add payment collection to your quoting tools and other systems today. Just generate a payment link and add it to your quotes, proposals, or any other customer communication.
What are Custom Payment Links?
Custom Payment Links are exactly what they sound like – customizable URLs that you can create on the fly to collect specific payment amounts from your clients. This feature bridges the gap between our comprehensive platform integrations and the need for quick, adaptable payment solutions in day-to-day operations.
How to Use Custom Payment Links
Creating a custom payment link is straightforward:
- Navigate to the Invoices page under the Accounts Receivable menu
- Locate your payment portal URL at the top of the page
- Copy your base URL (e.g., alternativepayments.io)
- Add “/custom-invoice/” followed by the payment amount
Important Note About Payment Amounts: When specifying the payment amount, remember that the last two digits represent cents. For example:
- For $5,000, enter: 500000 (not 5000.00)
- For $149.99, enter: 14999
- For $75.50, enter: 7550
This format ensures accurate payment processing and avoids any browser-related issues that might occur with decimal points.
Real-World Use Cases
1. Streamlined Quote-to-Payment Process
When sending quotes to existing clients, include a custom payment link. Once they sign the quote, they can immediately proceed to payment through your portal, accelerating the entire process.
2. New Client Onboarding
Simplify the collection of onboarding fees from new clients. While they’ll need to create an account (which you’ll approve) to complete payment, this process ensures proper documentation and client setup from the start.
3. Emergency Purchases and Quick Transactions
Sometimes you need to make quick purchases for clients (like emergency hardware replacements) without time for formal invoicing. Custom Payment Links provide a professional way to collect payment quickly while maintaining proper financial tracking.
Coming Soon: Enhanced Functionality
We’re continuously working to improve the Custom Payment Links feature. One exciting enhancement on the horizon is guest checkout functionality, which will further reduce friction in the payment process, especially for new clients and one-time transactions.
Getting Started
Custom Payment Links are available now to all Alternative Payments users. The feature requires no additional setup – just access your payment portal URL and start creating custom links following the format described above.
Best Practices
- Double-check your amounts: Always verify the payment amount in the URL matches your intended charge
- Keep records: Even for quick transactions, maintain documentation of what each custom payment link was used for
- Clear communication: When sending links to clients, clearly state the purpose and amount of the payment
Learn More
We’re excited to see how our MSP partners will utilize Custom Payment Links to streamline their operations. As always, we’re here to support you in making the most of this new feature.
For more updates and feature announcements, subscribe to our YouTube channel and stay tuned to our blog.
