Digitisation has created a need for hassle-free and simple payments for businesses of different natures and sizes. The best way to do this without needing a developer or heavy upfront investment in payment infrastructure is with a payment link.
What is a Payment Link?
A payment link is an online mode of payment where the merchant creates a payment link online and then shares it with their customers to make hassle-free payments. Unlike a normal link, a payment link is a payment request through a web link that is securely generated, and customers can make payments instantly by using this link. This payment link could be shared via various communication channels such as SMS, email, social media, etc.
How Does a Payment Link Work?
Generate the payment link, share it with the customer and collect the payment, it’s as easy as that. However, the whole process can be summarised into the steps mentioned below:
1. The seller generates the payment link
2. The seller then shares this link with his customers
3. The customer then clicks on this link
4. The link redirects the customer to a secured payment page
5. The customer then makes the online payment with the available methods such as net banking, debit/credit card, wallet, UPI, etc.
6. Once the payment is completed, the seller receives a notification that the payment is successful.
Advantages of Payment Link for Merchants
Easy and convenient – With minimal IT work, the merchant can create a payment link that could be an easy substitute for point-of-sale and cash-on-delivery payment methods, reducing the workload of handling cash or operating a POS system. This could save businesses several man-hours.
Customised messages – Payment links could be shared on social media and messaging platforms. Merchants could add a customised message while creating the payment link to attract customers and promote other products/services, etc.
Secure Payments – Creating and sharing the payment link is done via a secured payment gateway. Most payment link solutions assist merchants and customers alike with hassle-free transactions.
Cost-Effective – Accepting payments via payment links eliminates the requirement for any physical devices such as POS or third-party applications. This not just saves time but also saves the installation cost, costs for maintenance, and training.
Collect Payments Faster – Adding the ‘Pay Now’ button to invoices encourages customers to pay for their purchases immediately.
Advantages of Payment Link for Customers
No Additional App – A customer doesn’t require the merchant’s application for making the payment. He doesn’t need to install any additional application, as the payment links are shareable through commonly used messaging platforms such as SMS, WhatsApp, email, etc.
Various Payment Options – The payment links service providers generally provide a variety of modes of payment. A customer can choose any of those modes, including net banking, debit/credit cards, mobile wallets, UPI, etc.
Security –All the payment link providers ensure that their payment solution adheres to the government norms concerning customer data security.
Payments From Anywhere and Anytime – Thanks to payment links, customers can now make payments from anywhere with just a few clicks. With payment links, customers can pay from the comfort of their homes, offices, or from anywhere they want.
How to Create a Payment Link?
All payment links provided have a similar procedure, which is as follows:
- Install the application of the service provider.
- Get on board with the payment link service provider after submitting the required documents.
- On their dashboard, open the payment link form and fill in the required details.
- Provide the page’s link that your customers should be redirected to after their transaction is completed.
- Accept payments from customers.
