> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.salescaptain.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Payments

> The Payments app in SalesCaptain allows you to send payment requests, charge customers directly, and manage all your transactions in one place. By integrating your preferred payment gateway, you can securely accept payments via credit card, bank transfer, or other supported methods—right from your Inbox.

To get started, **install the Payments app from the SalesCaptain Marketplace** and connect your preferred payment processor.

### **Setting Up Payments**

1. **Install the Payments App**
   * Go to the **Marketplace** in SalesCaptain and install the **Payments** app.
2. **Choose a Payment Gateway**
   * SalesCaptain supports **Helcim**, **Stripe**, and [**Authorize.net**](http://Authorize.net).
   * Connect your preferred platform by selecting the **Platforms** tab and following the setup prompts.

<Info>
  To link your [Authorize.net](http://Authorize.net) account, send an email to [**ravi@salescaptain.com**](mailto:ravi@salescaptain.com) for assistance.
</Info>

### **Sending Payment Requests**

Once your payment gateway is connected:

1. Navigate to the **Inbox**.
2. Open a conversation with the customer.
3. Click the **Payment icon** in the message composer.
4. Choose whether to send a **Payment Request** or **Charge a Card Directly**.

#### **Payment Requests**

* Choose to send the request via **Text (SMS)** or **Email**.
* You can accept payments through **credit card**, **bank transfer**, or **customer’s preferred method**.
* If you’ve enabled **surcharges**, credit card processing fees will automatically be passed on to the customer.

#### **Direct Charges**

* Use the **Charge Amount** option to directly bill a customer’s card.
* Enter the customer’s details and the exact amount to be charged.

### **Managing Transactions**

All transactions can be tracked in the **Transactions tab** of the Payments app.\
From here, you can:

* **View transaction history** across all payment gateways.
* **Cancel**, **view**, or **resend** payment links.
* **Download invoices** once transactions are successful.

### **Subscriptions and Payouts**

* The **Subscriptions tab** is available exclusively for **Stripe** integrations, allowing you to create and manage recurring payments.
* The **Payouts tab** helps you track transfers and settlement details from your connected payment processors.

### **Best Practices & Tips**

* Before sending your first payment request, double-check that your gateway (Helcim, Stripe, or Authorize.net) is correctly connected and verified.
* When sending a request, include a short description (e.g., “Deposit for Project A” or “October Service Fee”) to make it easy for customers to recognize the payment purpose.
* If you decide to pass on card processing fees, make sure your customers are informed upfront to avoid confusion.
* Use the **Transactions tab** to quickly identify failed or pending payments and follow up with customers right from the Inbox.
