Beginner
How to save client credit cards on FreshBooks
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.
Prerequisites
- Active FreshBooks account
- FreshBooks Payments enabled
- Client profile created in your system
- Admin or owner permissions
1
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.
Tip
Use the search bar to quickly find specific clients if you have a large client database.
2
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.
3
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.
Tip
The Payment Methods section may be located under the 'More Options' dropdown depending on your account setup.
4
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.
Tip
All credit card information is encrypted and stored securely according to PCI compliance standards.
5
Enter Card Details
Fill in all required fields:
- Card number (16 digits)
- Expiration month and year
- CVV security code
- Cardholder name
- Billing address
Tip
Double-check the card number and expiration date to avoid payment failures.
6
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.
Tip
Setting a default payment method streamlines the invoice payment process for both you and your client.
7
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.
Tip
A small authorization hold (usually $1) may be placed and immediately released during verification.
8
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.
Tip
You can add multiple payment methods for each client and easily switch between them when processing payments.
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.
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