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How Recurring Invoices and Auto-Payments Work

This guide explains how recurring invoices are generated, how auto-payments work, and what to expect when using them.

Written by Lora Petkova

Recurring invoices are generated automatically based on a set schedule and can be paid automatically if auto-payments are enabled.

Below, you’ll find how this process works.


How Recurring Invoices Work

Once created, a recurring invoice works as a schedule that automatically generates invoices at the interval you define. The recurring invoice itself is not sent to the client.

For example, if the schedule is set to Monthly, a new invoice will be created each month and added to the folder you selected during setup.

To learn how to create and manage recurring invoices, see How to Create Recurring Invoices and Where to Find Them.

Sending Generated Invoices

If the option Send invoices to email with link to payment page is enabled during setup, each generated invoice will be automatically sent to the client by email.

In addition to the email notification, you can also choose to send the invoice through a conversation.

To do this, click the Settings icon next to the Send invoices to email with link to payment page option and select the conversation where the invoice should be sent. The client must be part of the selected conversation to see the message.

From the same settings window, you can also edit the invoice email message and add an additional recipient if needed.

When creating recurring invoices, you can also decide how payments should be handled. You can either collect payments automatically or have each invoice sent to the client for manual payment.


How Auto-Payments Work

Recurring invoices can be charged automatically when Stripe is set as your primary gateway for card payments.

The first invoice must be paid manually so the client can enter their billing details.

If the option Automatically charge the client after the first successful payment is enabled, each new invoice generated by the recurring schedule will be automatically charged through Stripe.

Auto-payments for recurring invoices are currently supported only through Stripe.

You can configure your payment methods under Settings → Payments. After connecting Stripe, make sure it is selected as the Primary gateway for card payments, and choose the Credit Card option when setting up the recurring invoice.


Still have questions? Contact support.

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