How to generate checkout links on FreshBooks

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18

Quick Answer

Generate checkout links in FreshBooks by creating an invoice or estimate, then using the 'Accept Credit Cards' feature to create a secure payment link. The system automatically generates a unique URL that clients can use to pay online.

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Prerequisites

Active FreshBooks account
Payment gateway configured
Invoice or estimate created
Client contact information

Step-by-Step Instructions

Navigate to Invoice or Estimate

Log into your FreshBooks account and go to the Invoices or Estimates section from the main dashboard. Select an existing invoice/estimate or click New Invoice to create one.

Ensure your invoice has all necessary details before generating a checkout link

Configure Payment Settings

In the invoice editor, scroll to the Payment Options section. Ensure Accept Credit Cards is enabled and your payment gateway (Stripe, PayPal, etc.) is properly configured under Settings > Payments.

Enable Online Payments

Within the invoice, click on the Accept Credit Cards toggle to enable it. You'll see payment method icons appear on your invoice preview, indicating online payments are active.

You can customize which payment methods to display in your payment settings

Send or Share Invoice

Click Send to email the invoice to your client, or click the Share button to access sharing options. The system automatically includes the checkout functionality in the invoice link.

The checkout link is embedded within the invoice view, not a separate URL

Copy Direct Payment Link

To get a direct payment link, click Share then select Copy Link. This generates a unique URL like https://my.freshbooks.com/invoice/view/[invoice-id] that includes payment functionality.

This link allows clients to view and pay the invoice without needing a FreshBooks account

Customize Payment Options

Go to Settings > Payments to customize your checkout experience. You can set up automatic receipts, payment confirmations, and choose which credit cards to accept through your configured gateways.

Enable automatic payment reminders to improve collection rates

Test the Checkout Process

Use the generated link to test the payment process. Click through to the invoice view and verify that the Pay Now button appears and payment methods are displayed correctly for clients.

Use test mode in your payment gateway to verify the complete payment flow

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Checkout link doesn't show payment options

Verify that Accept Credit Cards is enabled in the invoice and your payment gateway is properly configured in Settings > Payments.

Payment gateway not connecting

Check your API keys in Settings > Payments and ensure they match your payment processor's live or test credentials.

Client can't access the payment link

Ensure the invoice status is set to Sent and verify the link hasn't expired. Resend the invoice or generate a new link if needed.

Payments not appearing in FreshBooks

Check your payment gateway webhook settings and ensure they're pointing to the correct FreshBooks endpoint. Contact FreshBooks support if payments aren't syncing.

Prices mentioned in this guide are pulled from current plan data and may change. Always verify on the official FreshBooks website before purchasing.

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