How do I set up manual payment methods like bank transfer in Shopify?

Manual payment methods in Shopify let your customers pay for orders without using online gateways like credit cards or Shopify Payments. Bank transfer is a common manual payment method where your customer transfers money directly to your bank account. You then manually mark the order as paid. This is helpful for businesses that want flexible payment options or serve customers who prefer offline payments.

Benefits of manual payments like bank transfer

• Allows customers to pay offline if they don’t want to use cards
• No third-party transaction fees
• Flexible for large or B2B orders
• Orders appear as “Pending” until payment is received

Step 1: Go to Payments settings

Log in to your Shopify admin and navigate to: Settings → Payments

Step 2: Add a suggested manual payment method (bank transfer)

In the Manual payment methods section, click the + Add manual payment method button. Select Bank Deposit (or similar option) from the list.

Step 3: Enter instructions for customers

– In Additional details, you can describe your bank information. – In Payment instructions, provide step-by-step instructions for the customer to complete the transfer (e.g., account number, bank name, reference). – Click Activate payment method.

Step 4: Create a custom manual payment method (optional)

If you want a specific method not listed (like international wire transfer), click Create custom payment method. Enter a name, additional details, and payment instructions, then click Activate.

Step 5: Mark the payment as paid

Orders using bank transfer appear as Pending in the Orders page. Once you confirm the payment in your bank account, open the order details and click Mark as paid before fulfilling it.

Step 6: Deactivate a manual payment method

If you no longer want to accept bank transfers, go to Settings → Payments, find the manual payment method, click Manage, and then click Deactivate payment method.

Pro Tip

Always provide clear instructions for the transfer, including reference numbers if needed. You can also include these instructions in the order confirmation email to make it easy for customers.