How to Use Real-Time Invoicing and How It Works

How Real-Time Invoicing Works: Step-by-Step

1. Payee Sends Request for Payment (RfP)

The Payee initiates a digital invoice using TodayPayments.com or their accounting platform, and attaches a secure Request for Payment link.

The RfP can be:

• Sent via email or text
• Embedded in a digital invoice
• Triggered from mobile or QuickBooks®

“The Payee starts the Real-Time Invoicing process by issuing a structured RfP with invoice metadata and payment instructions.”

2. Payer Receives and Authorizes the Payment

The Payer clicks the link and is directed to a hosted payment page, where they authorize the payment via:

• Bank app
• Wallet
• Authorized A2A payment account

“Payers respond to RfPs in real time—no waiting, no batch delays, no login requirements.”

3. Real-Time Payment Settles Instantly

The transaction is processed over RTP® or FedNow® rails and settles within seconds—24/7/365. Once settled, the Payee receives irrevocable, good funds.

“Unlike ACH or checks, Real-Time Payments are confirmed instantly, with no reversals or delays.”

4. Reconciliation and Ledger Updates

All payment metadata—invoice ID, payer info, timestamps—is sent with the payment using ISO 20022 format. This allows for:

• Auto-reconciliation
• Real-time AR updates
• ERP syncing

“Real-Time Invoices use ISO 20022 to carry rich remittance data, enabling seamless reconciliation into AR systems or QuickBooks®.”

Itemized Features & Benefits of Real-Time Invoicing

✅ FedNow® and RTP® Rail Compatibility

Use the two U.S. real-time payment networks for fast, secure settlement.

✅ Request for Payment (RfP) via Email, SMS, or Text

Send branded, hosted payment links directly to customers.

✅ Mobile, Desktop, and POS Compatibility

Works across mobile apps, web browsers, or in-person payment environments.

✅ ISO 20022 Messaging Format

Enables structured remittance data—perfect for compliance, reporting, and automation.

✅ Batch File Support: Excel, .XML, JSON

Upload invoices and RfPs in bulk using business-friendly formats.

✅ One-Time and Recurring Invoicing

Supports individual billing and recurring subscriptions or VRP (Variable Recurring Payments).

✅ A2A, B2B, and C2B Transaction Flows

Ideal for both businesses and consumers with real-time account-to-account settlement.

Ask us How:

• "Real-Time Invoicing works by allowing the Payee to send a structured Request for Payment (RfP) that the Payer can settle instantly using RTP® or FedNow®."
• "Businesses can use ISO 20022 message formats to ensure every invoice carries payment metadata, allowing automated matching and reconciliation."
• "Each Real-Time Invoice can be sent in bulk using Excel, XML, or JSON, and received through mobile, email, or text channels with instant good funds settlement."
• "Real-Time Invoicing allows service providers, retailers, and contractors to replace traditional invoices with digital RfPs that settle in real time with zero delay."
• "Using hosted payment pages, Payers complete Real-Time Invoices securely without needing to log into portals or third-party platforms."

Using texting or digital real-time invoicing for real-time payments offers significant benefits for businesses and customers. Here's how it can be implemented and its advantages:

Implementation

1. Texting for Real-Time Payments:
   • Integration with Payment Platforms: Integrate with payment platforms like FedNow or RTP (Real-Time Payments) that support real-time payment processing.
   • Digital Invoicing System: Use a digital invoicing system that can generate and send invoices via text messages to customers.
   • Payment Links in Text Messages: Include secure payment links in the text messages, allowing customers to click and pay instantly.
   • Confirmation and Receipts: After payment, send a confirmation text and digital receipt to the customer.
2. Digital Real-Time Invoicing:
   • Automated Invoicing Software: Utilize software like QuickBooks Online (QBO) or QuickBooks Enterprise that supports digital invoicing and can integrate with FedNow or RTP.
   • Email or SMS Invoices: Send invoices via email or SMS with embedded payment links.
   • Real-Time Payment Options: Offer customers real-time payment options via FedNow or RTP directly from the invoice.
   • Instant Payment Confirmation: Ensure that the system provides instant payment confirmation and updates the accounting records in real-time.

Benefits

1. Speed and Convenience:
   • Instant Payments: Payments are processed instantly, reducing the time it takes to receive funds.
   • Convenient for Customers: Customers can pay directly from their mobile devices, enhancing the user experience.
2. Efficiency and Accuracy:
   • Automated Processes: Automation reduces manual data entry and the likelihood of errors.
   • Real-Time Updates: Payments are recorded in real-time, ensuring up-to-date financial records.
3. Cash Flow Improvement:
   • Faster Access to Funds: Businesses can access funds immediately, improving cash flow management.
   • Reduced Late Payments: Real-time invoicing and payments can reduce the incidence of late payments.
4. Cost Savings:
   • Lower Transaction Fees: Real-time payment systems like FedNow or RTP often have lower transaction fees compared to traditional methods.
   • Reduced Paperwork: Digital invoicing eliminates the need for paper invoices, reducing costs associated with printing and mailing.
5. Security:
   • Secure Payment Links: Payment links in text messages or digital invoices are secure, protecting customer data.
   • Fraud Reduction: Real-time payments reduce the risk of fraud associated with checks or delayed payments.
6. Enhanced Customer Relationships:
   • Transparent Communication: Real-time invoicing and payment confirmation improve transparency with customers.
   • Customer Satisfaction: Quick and easy payment options enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Example Use Case

A business using QuickBooks Online (QBO) can integrate with SecureQBPlugin.com to send digital invoices via text message or email. The invoice includes a secure payment link that directs customers to a FedNow or RTP payment portal. Once the customer completes the payment, the transaction is instantly recorded in QBO, and both the business and customer receive immediate confirmation.

Conclusion

Using texting or digital real-time invoicing for real-time payments streamlines the payment process, enhances efficiency, and improves customer satisfaction. By leveraging modern payment platforms like FedNow and RTP, businesses can ensure fast, secure, and cost-effective transactions.

Why Wait to Get Paid? Real-Time Invoicing Works in Seconds.

TodayPayments.com gives your business the tools to send smart digital invoices that settle instantly—no ACH delays, no waiting for checks. Whether you invoice once a month or every minute, our Real-Time Invoicing with RfP over FedNow® and RTP® gives you total control and instant payment certainty.

 Send invoices via email, text, or API
 Get paid with good funds—instantly
 Reconcile automatically with ISO 20022

👉 Start using Real-Time Invoicing now at https://www.TodayPayments.com — where modern billing meets modern money.