How to Set Up Manual Payment Methods in Shopify | A Detailed Guide

If your customers prefer not to use credit cards, you can offer manual payments on your Shopify store. This method has a couple of advantages: you avoid transaction fees and you can confirm orders after receiving payment.

There are two main ways to set up manual payments: using a suggested method or creating a custom one. In this guide, I’ll walk you through setting up custom manual payment methods step-by-step.

Let’s get into it!

Understanding Manual Payment Methods in Shopify

In Shopify, manual payment methods are payment options that don’t involve direct online processing through a payment gateway. This means that the customer’s payment is not automatically captured at the time of checkout; instead, you, as the merchant, will need to collect payment from them separately.

Shopify allows merchants to set up manual payment in 2 ways, which are

1. Shopify’s suggested manual payment methods

• Cash on Delivery (COD): Customers pay in cash when their order is delivered.
• Bank Transfers: Customers transfer the payment directly to your bank account.
• Money Orders: Customers send a money order to your business address.

2. Creating custom manual payment methods for unique needs.

In addition, Shopify allows you to create custom manual payment methods, giving you the flexibility to define payment instructions and processes for more unique scenarios. This could include accepting payments through:

• Checks: Customers mail you a physical check.
• Phone Orders: Customers place orders over the phone, and you process their payment manually.
• In-Person Payments: For brick-and-mortar stores or pop-up shops, you can accept cash or other payment methods in person.
• Other Alternative Payment Methods: You can create custom options for accepting payments through methods like cryptocurrency, installments, or even bartering, if relevant to your business.

So, when are manual payment methods useful?

• Specific Customer Preferences: Some customers might prefer offline payment options, especially in regions where online payments are less common or trusted.
• Bespoke or High-Value Items: For custom-made or high-value products, you might want to offer manual payment methods that allow for personalized payment arrangements or installments.
• Limited Online Payment Access: In some cases, internet connectivity or other technical limitations might make online payments challenging for certain customers.

How To Create a Custom Manual Payment Method on Shopify

Beyond the suggested options, you can create your own custom manual payment methods to cater to specific business needs and offer your customers alternative ways to pay that align with your operations. 

Here’s how to set it up:

• Step 1: From your Shopify admin, go to Settings > Payments.
• Step 2: Scroll down to the Manual payment methods section and click Create custom payment method.

• Step 3: Input information

Enter a name for your new payment method in the Custom payment method name field. Be aware that Shopify reserves certain names, which cannot be used:

Bank Deposit, Cash, Cash on Delivery (COD), Custom, External Credit, External Debit, Gift Card, Money Order, Store Credit

In the Additional details section, input any information you want to display alongside this payment method at checkout. This could be a brief description or a note about the payment process.

Next, fill in the Payment instructions field with clear directions for your customers on how to complete their payment. These instructions will be visible on the order confirmation page after the customer finalizes their order.

• Step 4: Once all the details are in place, click Activate to make your custom payment method available to customers during checkout.

Bottom Line

By following these practical steps to set up manual payment methods for your Shopify store, you can ensure smooth payment processing, giving your customers reliable options and keeping your store operations running efficiently.

FAQs

What are Shopify's suggested manual payment methods?

Shopify suggests three common manual payment methods that you can readily enable in your store: cash on delivery (COD), money orders, and bank transfers.

How will I know when a customer has paid using a manual payment method?

You’ll need to manually verify the payment, such as by checking your bank account or receiving a confirmation from the customer. Once you confirm the payment, you’ll need to manually mark the order as Paid in your Shopify admin.

What if a customer doesn't follow the payment instructions or there's a discrepancy in the amount paid?

In such cases, it’s essential to communicate clearly and promptly with the customer.

• Reach out politely: Explain the situation and clarify the payment instructions or inquire about the discrepancy.
• Offer solutions: If there’s a discrepancy, suggest ways to resolve it, such as a partial refund or an additional payment.
• Maintain professionalism: Keep the communication professional and focused on finding a solution that satisfies both parties.

Remember, building trust and maintaining positive customer relationships are crucial for any business.

Related Posts:

• Activate an Alternative Payment Method on Shopify
• Use a Suggested Manual Payment Method on Shopify
• Deactivate a Manual Payment Method on Shopify
• Change Shopify Payment Method