How Pay-by-Link Works
Pay by Link works by allowing businesses to send a secure payment request through a link, which the customer can use to complete a transaction online.
The process removes the need to collect payment details manually and allows businesses to take payments across multiple channels, including email, SMS, and messaging platforms.
This makes it a practical solution for businesses that operate in multichannel environments.
The Pay by Link Process Step by Step
A Pay by Link transaction follows a simple, structured flow:
1. Payment request is created
A business generates a payment request using their payment system, typically including:
- transaction amount
- description or reference
- customer details
2. Secure payment link is generated
The system creates a unique, secure URL linked to that specific transaction.
This link is tied to:
- the payment amount
- the transaction reference
- the payment session
3. Link is sent to the customer
The payment link can be delivered through multiple channels, including:
This is where Pay by Link supports multichannel payments, allowing businesses to request payment wherever customer interaction takes place.
4. Customer opens the payment page
When the customer clicks the link, they are directed to a secure payment page.
Here they can:
- review the payment details
- choose their preferred payment method
- complete the transaction
5. Payment is authorised and processed
The customer completes payment using their chosen method, such as:
- card payment
- Open Banking
- digital wallet
Authentication steps may apply depending on the method used.
6. Confirmation is provided in real time
Once the payment is completed:
- the customer receives confirmation
- the business is notified instantly
- the transaction is recorded within the system
This removes uncertainty and allows immediate visibility of payment status.
How Pay by Link Supports Multichannel Payments
Pay by Link is often used as a core component within a multichannel payment strategy.
Instead of building separate payment processes for each channel, businesses can:
- generate a single payment link
- distribute it across different channels
- maintain a consistent payment experience
For example, a business can:
- discuss a sale over the phone
- send a payment link via SMS
- allow the customer to complete payment immediately
This creates a seamless connection between customer interaction and payment completion.
What Happens After Payment Is Made
After a payment is completed, several processes happen automatically:
- payment confirmation is logged
- funds are routed through the payment processor
- settlement is initiated based on the payment method
- transaction records are updated for reconciliation
This reduces the need for manual tracking and improves operational efficiency.
Settlement and Payment Speed
Settlement speed depends on the payment method used within the link.
- card payments typically settle within standard processing timeframes
- Open Banking payments can settle instantly or on the same day
This flexibility allows businesses to optimise for both speed and customer preference.
Integration with Business Systems
Pay by Link can be integrated into existing business systems to streamline operations.
Common integrations include:
- CRM systems for sending payment requests
- accounting software for reconciliation
- customer service platforms for assisted payments
This ensures payment processes fit into existing workflows rather than creating additional steps.
Why Businesses Use Pay by Link for Payment Requests
The process is designed to remove friction at the point where payments are often delayed.
Businesses benefit from:
- faster payment completion
- reduced reliance on manual methods
- improved tracking and visibility
- the ability to operate across multiple channels without complexity
This makes it particularly useful for businesses that rely on remote or assisted sales.
