TipsFebruary 1, 2024• 5 min read
How to Send Payment Requests via Text Message
Text messages have a 98% open rate. Here's how to use them for faster payment collection.
Why Text for Payments?
Text messages outperform every other communication channel:
- 98% open rate (vs 20% for email)
- Read within 3 minutes on average
- Easy to tap and pay on mobile
- Personal and direct communication
If you're not using text messages to collect payments, you're leaving money on the table.
Best Practices for Text Payment Requests
Keep It Short
Text messages should be concise. Here's a simple template:
“Hi [Name], here's your payment link for [Service]: [link]. Let me know if you have questions!”
Be Professional
- Use complete sentences
- Include context about what the payment is for
- Sign off with your name
- Avoid ALL CAPS or excessive punctuation!!!
Time It Right
- Send during business hours (9am-6pm)
- Avoid early morning or late night
- Wait 7 days before following up
- Don't spam—one follow-up is usually enough
Sample Payment Request Messages
Initial Request
“Hi Sarah! Here's your payment link for the logo design project (£450): [paylink]. Payment methods include PayPal and bank transfer. Thanks! - Mohammed”
Friendly Follow-up (After 7 Days)
“Hi Sarah, just a friendly reminder about the invoice from last week. Here's the payment link again: [paylink]. Let me know if you need anything!”
Project Milestone
“Hey Tom! Phase 1 is complete 🎉 Here's the payment link for the first milestone (£250): [paylink]. Looking forward to starting Phase 2!”
Creating Shareable Payment Links
For text-based payments to work, you need a payment link that:
- Works perfectly on mobile devices
- Shows all your payment options
- Doesn't require login or account creation
- Looks professional and trustworthy
- Is short enough to include in a text
💡 Pro Tips
- Save message templates in your phone for quick reuse
- Use WhatsApp for international clients (free)
- Always include the payment amount in the message
- Send a thank-you text after receiving payment
- Keep a record of all payment text conversations
WhatsApp vs SMS
| Feature | SMS | |
|---|---|---|
| International | Expensive | Free |
| Read receipts | No | Yes |
| Link previews | No | Yes |
| Universality | Everyone | Most people |
Recommendation: Use WhatsApp for international clients and existing WhatsApp contacts. Use SMS for local clients who might not use WhatsApp.
Get Started
Text-based payment requests are one of the fastest ways to get paid. Combine a great payment link with a polite text message, and watch your collection rate improve dramatically.
Create Text-Friendly Payment Links
Professional payment pages that work perfectly via text message.
Create Your Free Payment Page →