> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.lightpost.app/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.lightpost.app/add-on-features/online-giving/payment-methods.md).

# Payment Methods

How members add cards and bank accounts for online giving, including bank account verification.

Members manage their saved payment methods from the **Giving** page of the web app or from the mobile app. Card and bank account numbers are stored securely by Stripe, not by Lightpost.

### Cards

Members choose **Add Payment Method** and enter a credit or debit card. Cards can be used right away.

### Bank Accounts (ACH)

1. Choose **Add Payment Method**, then **Add Bank Account**.
2. Enter the account holder's name and select **Connect Bank Account** (in the mobile app, **Open Secure Bank Setup**).
3. Stripe opens a secure window to connect the bank. Lightpost never receives the full account or routing number.
4. Review the authorization and select **Authorize Bank Account**.

#### Verification

* **Instant** — if the member signs in to their bank in the Stripe window, the account is **Verified** right away.
* **Micro-deposits** — if the member enters the account details manually, the account shows **Pending Verification**. Stripe sends a small deposit, which usually arrives in 1–2 business days. The member then enters the **descriptor code** from their bank statement (it usually starts with "SM") or, if asked, the two deposit amounts, and selects **Verify**.

A bank account must be verified before it can be used to give. Only a limited number of verification attempts are allowed; if they run out, the member should remove the bank account and add it again.

{% hint style="info" %}
Bank account gifts take 1–2 business days to complete. Members receive a "Contribution transaction started" email when the gift is submitted, then a receipt once it succeeds, or a notice if it fails.
{% endhint %}

### Failed Bank Payments

If a bank payment fails or is later returned by the bank, its transaction is recorded with a $0 amount. Failed payments are left out of member giving totals and year-end [contribution statements](/add-on-features/financial-management/contribution-statements.md), and returns appear as separate lines on the [Payout Report](/add-on-features/online-giving/giving-reports.md).

### Removing a Payment Method

Members can delete a saved payment method at any time, unless a recurring giving schedule uses it. In that case, they must delete the recurring schedule first.

### Admin View

Admins can see a member's saved payment methods and their verification status on the member's profile under the **Giving** tab.