In today’s increasingly cashless society, small businesses and charities often face challenges when it comes to accepting in-person payments. Traditional point-of-sale (POS) systems can be expensive and require ongoing maintenance, creating barriers for organisations operating on small budgets.
Xero Tap to Pay is an innovative new feature that allows UK-based small businesses and charities to accept contactless payments directly through their smartphones—with no additional hardware required. Tap to Pay makes accepting payments more accessible, affordable, and efficient.
What is Xero Tap to Pay?
Xero Tap to Pay is built directly into the Xero Accounting app, enabling users to accept contactless payments using their iPhone or compatible Android device. Through Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, customers can simply tap their contactless credit or debit card—or use Apple Pay or Google Pay—to make a payment.
This feature is powered by Stripe, a leading payment processing platform.
Why it’s a game-changer for small businesses and charities
1.No additional hardware is needed
Traditional card readers and POS systems often involve significant upfront costs and maintenance. With Tap to Pay, all you need is a compatible smartphone and the Xero Accounting app—reducing expenses and simplifying setup.
2.Enhances cash flow management
With immediate payment acceptance, funds are processed faster—key for organisations managing tight budgets. Payments are also automatically reconciled with the related invoice in Xero, streamlining your accounting process.
3.Offers flexibility and mobility
Whether you’re at a market stall, a fundraising event, or working on the go, Tap to Pay lets you take payments on the spot. This is ideal for mobile teams, charities in the field, and businesses without a fixed retail location.
4.Improves customer experience
Customers and donors expect fast, seamless payment options. By offering contactless payments, you can reduce friction at the point of sale and increase the likelihood of a completed transaction—whether it’s a purchase or a donation.
Getting started with Xero Tap to Pay
Getting started is simple and requires just a few easy steps:
1.Check device compatibility
Use an iPhone XS or later running the latest iOS version, or a compatible Android device with NFC capabilities.
2.Download the Xero Accounting app
Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
3.Set up a Stripe account
You can create and link a Stripe account directly within the Xero app.
4.Start accepting payments
Create an invoice in the app, select ‘Take Payment’, and have the customer tap their card or device to complete the transaction.
Get in touch
Xero Tap to Pay offers a flexible way for small businesses and charities to manage in-person transactions. By removing the need for additional hardware and fully integrating with your Xero accounting system, this feature can help you improve cash flow, enhance customer satisfaction, and simplify your operations.
At PM+M, our cloud accounting team is here to help you unlock the full potential of Xero’s features. Whether you’re already using Xero or looking to make the switch, we’ll support you every step of the way.
For more information and to get started, get in touch with the PM+M cloud accounting team by emailing enquiries@pmm.co.uk.
