Stripe - Change Payment Collection Method

Overview:

Ultimate Member Stripe Extension introduces a new feature that allows users to select their preferred payment collection method for subscriptions. This feature provides flexibility in how payments are processed for ongoing subscriptions, allowing users to choose between Automatic Charging and Manual Payments.

How to Enable the Payment Collection Method Option:

  1. Navigate to WP Admin:
    • Go to your WordPress Admin panel.
    • Navigate to Ultimate Member > Settings > Extensions > Stripe.
  2. Locate the Payment Collection Method Option:
    • In the Stripe settings, find the option titled "Enable an option to change the payment collection method".
  3. Enable the Option:
    • Check the box next to Enable an option to change the payment collection method.
  4. Save the Settings:
    • After checking the option, click the Save or Update button to apply the new configuration.
  5. View the Option in the Account Form:
    • After enabling the feature, go to the User > Account Settings> Billing tab in the user's account to see the available new payment collection method options.

Payment Collection Method Options for Active Subscriptions:

Once enabled, users can manage how they wish to handle payments for their active subscriptions by selecting between Automatic Charging and Manual Payments.

1. Automatic Charging:

  • Payments will be automatically charged to the saved payment method on file as soon as an invoice is generated.
  • This is a convenient option for users who prefer automated billing and do not want to manually intervene in payment processing.

2. Manual Payments:

  • Instead of automatic charging, users will receive an invoice for each billing cycle.
  • Users are responsible for manually completing the payment by the due date indicated on the invoice.
  • This method is ideal for users who prefer to control when their payments are made.

How the New Option Affects Active Subscriptions:

  • Applies to Subscription Pricing Only: The payment collection method applies exclusively to subscription prices, not one-time purchases.
  • Automatic Update for Active Subscriptions: Once the user selects and saves their preferred payment collection method, all of their active subscriptions will be automatically updated with the new method. Users won’t need to adjust each subscription manually.

Administrator Settings:

Administrators have the flexibility to enable or disable this feature by accessing the following:

  • WP Admin > Ultimate Member > Settings > Extensions > Stripe: Enable or disable the option to allow users to change their payment collection methods for subscriptions.

Important Notes:

  • Impact on Billing Cycles: Switching between payment collection methods may have an impact on how billing cycles are processed. Be sure to inform users about any potential impacts or delays when switching from automatic to manual payments (or vice versa).

Conclusion:

The Change Payment Collection Method feature adds flexibility for users, allowing them to control how their subscription payments are handled. Whether they prefer the ease of automatic charging or the control of manual payments, this feature helps accommodate both options.