How to save client credit cards on FreshBooks

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18

Quick Answer

You can save client credit cards on FreshBooks by navigating to the client's profile and adding payment methods through the Payments section. This allows for faster invoice payments and automated recurring billing.

Try FreshBooks Full FreshBooks Review

Prerequisites

Active FreshBooks account
FreshBooks Payments enabled
Client profile created in your system
Admin or owner permissions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Navigate to Client Management

Log into your FreshBooks account and click on Clients in the left sidebar menu. This will display your complete client list with all active and archived clients.

Use the search bar to quickly find specific clients if you have a large client database.

Select the Target Client

Locate the client for whom you want to save credit card information and click on their name or the View button next to their profile. This opens their detailed client profile page.

Access Payment Methods Section

In the client profile, scroll down to find the Payment Methods section or click on the Payments tab. If you don't see this option, ensure that FreshBooks Payments is enabled in your account settings.

The Payment Methods section may be located under the 'More Options' dropdown depending on your account setup.

Add New Credit Card

Click the Add Payment Method or + Add Credit Card button. A secure form will appear where you can enter the credit card details including card number, expiration date, CVV, and billing address information.

All credit card information is encrypted and stored securely according to PCI compliance standards.

Enter Card Details

Fill in all required fields:

Card number (16 digits)
Expiration month and year
CVV security code
Cardholder name
Billing address

Ensure all information matches exactly what appears on the credit card and billing statement.

Double-check the card number and expiration date to avoid payment failures.

Set Card Preferences

Choose whether to make this the default payment method for the client by checking the appropriate box. You can also set up automatic payment authorization if needed for recurring invoices.

Setting a default payment method streamlines the invoice payment process for both you and your client.

Verify and Save

Review all entered information for accuracy, then click Save Payment Method or Add Card. FreshBooks will perform a verification process to ensure the card is valid and active.

A small authorization hold (usually $1) may be placed and immediately released during verification.

Confirm Storage Success

After successful verification, the credit card will appear in the client's Payment Methods section showing the last 4 digits and card type. The card is now ready for use on invoices and can be selected during payment processing.

You can add multiple payment methods for each client and easily switch between them when processing payments.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Payment Methods section not visible

Ensure FreshBooks Payments is enabled in your account. Go to Settings > Payments and activate the payments feature.

Credit card verification fails

Verify that all card details are entered correctly, including the exact billing address associated with the card. Contact the client to confirm card information if needed.

Unable to set default payment method

Make sure you have admin or owner permissions on the account. Some payment settings require elevated user privileges to modify.

Card appears saved but payments still fail

The saved card may have expired or been cancelled. Ask the client to provide updated payment information and replace the stored card details.

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

Visit FreshBooks View FreshBooks Pricing