Online card payments

Accepting online card payments is one of the most efficient ways to confirm reservations and reduce no-shows. With Reservation.Tools, you can instantly send payment links to clients, giving them a fast, secure, and convenient way to pay their deposit or full amount—directly from any device.

This feature automates the entire process: as soon as the customer completes the card transaction, the reservation is automatically marked as paid within your system. No manual work is required from your staff.

How It Works

When you confirm a reservation or create a payment request, the system generates a dedicated payment link. You can send this link to the customer via SMS or email, depending on the preferred communication channel. Once opened, the client will see: 

• The reservation details
   
• The total amount due (e.g. deposit or cancellation fee)
   
• A secure card payment form
   

After successful payment, the status of the reservation changes to paid, and the customer receives confirmation immediately. Paid reservations appear in orange, making them easy to identify and manage. 

This level of automation improves your internal processes, reduces staff workload, and provides a more professional experience for your guests.

Benefits for Your Business

• No Manual Tracking
  Card payments are recorded in real-time, so your team doesn’t need to manually verify or mark payments.
   
• Fewer No-Shows
  Requiring a card deposit creates stronger booking intent and improves attendance rates.
   
• Faster Confirmation
  Payments can be made and confirmed within seconds, which is especially useful for high-demand reservations or short-notice bookings.
   
• Customizable Settings
  You can control when and how payment links are sent, and configure different amounts depending on the reservation type, group size, or event.
  
   

Use Cases: Deposit, Prepayment, and Cancellation Fees

Online card payments can be used for various payment types:

• Deposit: A fixed or per-person amount collected to secure the table.
   
• Full Prepayment: Used for special events, menus, or private dining where full payment is required upfront.
   
• Cancellation Fee Authorization: Block a set amount on the card and only charge it if the customer cancels late or fails to arrive.
   

These options provide flexibility while helping you protect revenue, especially during peak periods or for premium services.

Cancellation Fee Handling (Optional)

Online payments can also be used to manage cancellation policies. You can set a fixed cancellation fee or a per person amount. When the customer confirms the reservation, they agree to the cancellation terms, and a pre-authorized amount is blocked on their card. If they cancel late or fail to show up, the venue can capture the fee. Otherwise, the block is released if the reservation is honored or cancelled on time.

This setup helps protect your venue against last-minute no-shows while creating a more professional and predictable booking experience.

 

Customer Experience 

From the guest’s point of view, the process is intuitive and seamless. There is no need to log in, download an app, or contact the venue. They simply click the link, review their reservation, and complete the payment using any major credit or debit card.

Your branding can be reflected on the payment page, providing a consistent and trustworthy customer journey.

Add Payment Links to Notifications

The payment link can be added to:
 

• Reservation confirmations

• Payment-specific notifications

• Staff alerts

• Manual messages
   

You can generate the link directly from the reservation or from the New Payment section under Settings > General. 

 

Why Online Card Payments Matter

With card payments being the preferred method for most clients globally, offering this option is a competitive advantage. It helps reduce friction, eliminate cash handling, and support faster decision-making by your staff.

By using Reservation.Tools' integrated online card payment feature, you ensure:

• Secure transactions through certified payment processors
   
• Real-time updates across all systems
   
• More reliable reservations and fewer cancellations
   
• Improved operational efficiency for your front-of-house team
   

Offer your guests a modern, secure, and convenient way to confirm their bookings. Enable online card payments today and streamline your reservation workflow from start to finish.