Payment minimum: check the fee floor before you set one
A low-ticket card invoice can lose more to fees than the work earns. Compare the processor fee, margin, and invoice size before requiring a minimum payment.
Back to all briefsA payment minimum is a pricing rule, not just a processor preference. Before you set one, compare fee drag, job margin, and the smallest invoice you expect to send so the rule still works for small orders, deposits, and repeat customers.
Measure the fee against the smallest job
Run the fee calculator on your smallest realistic invoice, not only on an average one. Fixed fees and percentage fees can take a much larger share of a tiny invoice, which can turn a normal-looking job into a weak-margin sale.
Pick the cleaner fallback
If a minimum would frustrate customers, consider a higher base price, an ACH or cash preference, bundled service, or a minimum service charge instead. Keep the choice consistent across quotes so similar jobs are priced the same way.
Write the rule before payment is due
State the minimum amount, accepted payment methods, and any exceptions on the quote or invoice. Confirm current processor, card-network, contract, consumer, tax, and local rules before treating a payment minimum as enforceable.