Payment collection options
Full pay, deposit + balance, card on file, and free services explained.
Bontro gives you four ways to handle payment for each service. Choose based on what makes sense for your work.
Option 1: No online payment (free service or pay in person) Clients book without paying anything upfront. You collect payment at the appointment. When to use: quick or inexpensive services, clients who always pay in cash, or when you want to keep the booking flow simple.
Option 2: Full payment at booking Client pays the complete service price via Stripe during the booking flow. When to use: short appointments (blowouts, lash fills, quick cuts), gift card style sessions, or when you want everything settled before the client arrives.
Option 3: Deposit at booking Client pays a set amount upfront. The remaining balance is collected later via payment request link or in person. When to use: longer appointments (color, full tattoo sessions, bridal makeup), custom or complex work, high no-show risk. The deposit amount is up to you: $25, $50, or a percentage. The remaining balance shows as the pre-filled amount in the payment request tool.
Option 4: Card on file (require card, charge later) Client enters their card details at booking but is not charged. You charge after the appointment via a payment request. When to use: when pricing varies by the session (custom tattoos, consultations), or when you want a card on file as commitment without charging upfront.
Comparing your options: - Most commitment from client: Full payment - Most flexible for variable pricing: Card on file - Best for high-ticket services: Deposit - Simplest flow: No payment
All paid options require Stripe to be connected.