Partial payments are an excellent option for businesses that want to provide clients with more flexibility when making larger purchases. Whether a client is purchasing a membership, a package, or any service, allowing them to pay a portion upfront and settle the rest later can help secure sales and maintain client relationships.
For instance, if a client is interested in a year-long membership but can’t pay the full amount immediately, partial payments let them start their membership while arranging to pay the balance at a later date.
Steps to Accept a Partial Payment:
- Add the product (like a pass or plan) to the client’s shopping cart by navigating through their profile and selecting New Purchase, or by going to the Store tab and selecting the client.
- After adding the item to the cart, click Secure Checkout.
- On the Check Out & Confirm page:
- Click Choose a payment method, and select the desired payment option (e.g., credit card, cash, check).
- If using a check, enter the transaction ID or check number when prompted.
- To make a partial payment, enter an amount that is less than the total due.
- Specify any relevant details, such as the recipient of a sales commission, the location of sale, and whether to send the client a receipt. Then, click Make Partial Payment.
- The invoice will remain open until the balance is fully paid. Clients will see a notification in their account that the bill is still open. They can complete the payment online with a credit card, or staff can assist when they visit in person.
The remaining balance will stay visible in the system, and staff can track these open invoices, ensuring the payment is eventually completed.
Warning – Partial Payments for Courses:
To enroll in a course, clients must pay the full enrollment fee upfront. If a partial payment is made, the client will not be enrolled in the course until the remaining balance is settled. Once the full payment is received, they will be added to the course roster.
For businesses looking to offer more structured payment options, payment plans can be a great solution. To learn how to set up a recurring payment plan for clients, please refer to our help article on Setting Up Payment Plans.
This added flexibility in handling payments not only helps clients manage their finances but also ensures your business continues to receive payments in a way that works for everyone.