How do payment links work for accepting payments?

Date: 27/05/26

 

What is a payment link?

 

A payment link, also known as pay by link, is a secure payment method that allows a business to send a custom URL or QR code to a customer to request payment.

Before the pandemic, the foundations of payment links were laid by providers like PayPal and other fintech businesses, which introduced peer-to-peer (P2P) payment links. These were predominantly used by freelancers and individuals splitting bills.

During the pandemic, as physical stores closed, more businesses turned to remote payments to accept payments safely from customers. During this time, payment links became more common, offering businesses a cost-effective way to receive payments without the need to build a website.

Today, many major payment providers offer payment link services. 

How to create a payment link

 

Payment links are a widely available feature, but not all payment providers offer them. To create a payment link, begin by choosing a payment provider that offers this service.

Once you have registered with your chosen payment provider, you will be able to generate a custom URL or QR code by setting the payment amount and sharing the link with your customer.

This link is often generated within a merchant app, allowing businesses to create payment links on the go from a mobile device or tablet.

Business owners checking online orders

How can I send a payment link to someone?

 

Payment links can be sent in a variety of ways. Once your custom URL has been generated for the amount you are requesting, you can share it via social media, SMS, email, or your website.

Although payment links were popularised for remote payments, they can also be used in person. By generating a payment link, you can share it with a customer through a QR code, which they can scan on their device to complete the payment.

Is a payment link safe?

 

For businesses: Payment links are highly secure, provided you are using a legitimate pay by link provider.

For customers: The safety of a payment link depends on how the link is delivered and who is requesting it. Never pay through a link from an unknown sender, and always inspect the web address before entering any personal details.

Card payment for online purchases

Get started with payment links

 

To get started with payment links, your payment provider should be able to give you more information.

For new and existing Handepay customers, you can find more information about setting up payment links here.


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Financial disclaimer:

Handepay Ltd is authorised and regulated by the FCA for consumer credit under FRN 673564. Handepay is a credit broker not a lender. Handepay receives commission from the credit provider for each successful introduction it conducts.

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Handepay is not an acquirer. Your acquiring service provider will depend on the service package you choose to receive through Handepay. Handepay acts as an introducer of card acquiring services on behalf of the card acquiring service providers which include Lloyds Bank plc trading as Cardnet and EVO Payments UK.

Lloyds Bank are authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority under registration number 119278. Cardnet is a registered trademark of Lloyds Bank plc.

EVO Payments UK is the trading name of EVO Payments UK Ltd, a payment institution that is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN number 959332).

Editorial disclaimer:

The information we provide does not constitute financial advice and might not apply to your business. Always carry out research into your business’ needs when choosing a new merchant services provider.

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