Menu
Business.com aims to help business owners make informed decisions to support and grow their companies. We research and recommend products and services suitable for various business types, investing thousands of hours each year in this process.
As a business, we need to generate revenue to sustain our content. We have financial relationships with some companies we cover, earning commissions when readers purchase from our partners or share information about their needs. These relationships do not dictate our advice and recommendations. Our editorial team independently evaluates and recommends products and services based on their research and expertise. Learn more about our process and partners here.
Streamline payments and improve customer satisfaction with this quick, secure payment method.
SMS stands for “Short Message Service”; it’s commonly known as text messaging. While SMS in business is typically considered a communication tool, this mobile functionality can extend to invoicing customers and accepting payments. For example, a business may text a customer an invoice with a link to a secure payment platform. The customer can then enter payment information and confirm the purchase.
We’ll explain everything you need to know to send invoices and accept payments via SMS texting. 
SMS payment is a contactless payment method that allows anyone with a text-enabled phone to pay a business via SMS. 
“Ideally, the platform will seamlessly integrate with a business’s existing point-of-sale (POS) system, invoicing software or customer relationship management (CRM) platform,” explained Austin Mac Nab, CEO and founder of VizyPay. “A preferred platform will also allow businesses to input payment amounts and customer details that are sent in customized receipts, invoices and payment reminders via text in a secure link.”
Here’s how to start accepting these convenient payments at your business:
SMS payment processes vary by provider. However, they typically involve the following steps:
As with all customer communications, there are ways to optimize SMS payments to create a great user experience. Here are some best practices to ensure seamless SMS payments: 
There are many SMS payment solution options, including credit card processors and dedicated SMS payment providers. Mac Nab emphasized the importance of finding the right fit for your organization. 
“It’s important to choose an SMS payment solution that is customizable to a business as it scales,” Mac Nab explained. “[It should] integrate with POS systems and inventory level management systems, export to QuickBooks, be user-friendly and allow owners to adjust prices seamlessly when needed.” 
Beyond that, look for an SMS payment solution with the following features and functionality:
Finding and contracting with the right SMS payment system provider means comparing features, evaluating options and identifying your needs and budget. To help you get started, here’s an overview of several popular and well-regarded SMS payment solutions, along with their pricing, advantages and limitations.
Company
Fees
Pros
Cons
Paysley
Monthly fee starting at $9.95, depending on the plan
Transaction fees:
Payment Savvy
Pricing not disclosed
Some of the top text message marketing platforms also offer integrated SMS payment tools, making them a convenient, all-in-one solution for businesses looking to boost communication and conversions. The best text message marketing services, like EZ Texting and SlickText, often include features like automated payment reminders, real-time messaging and easy mobile payment links.
Amanda Hoffman contributed to this article. 
Our mission is to help you take your team, your business and your career to the next level. Whether you're here for product recommendations, research or career advice, we're happy you're here!

source