How to accept Bitcoin Lightning payments as a merchant
You accept Lightning Network payments by creating a Bitcoin invoice that the customer scans. Confirm settlement and record each sale in dollars.
Vahe HakobyanEditor-in-chief
Updated Oct 6, 20263 min readFact-checked
On this page
- Lightning is a layer on Bitcoin, not a separate cryptocurrency.
- Use a hosted wallet or run your own node.
- Check settlement before you release goods.
Lightning is a payment layer on Bitcoin, not a separate cryptocurrency. It moves payments off the main Bitcoin blockchain so they usually settle in seconds.
What do you need to start?
You need a Lightning wallet or a node to create invoices and show a QR code. A hosted wallet keeps your keys for you; a node you run yourself gives you more control.
How do you accept a Lightning payment?
You create an invoice for the exact amount and let the customer pay. Lightning payments usually settle in seconds, and you confirm settlement in your wallet before releasing goods.
- 1Create the invoiceEnter the exact amount. The invoice is in bitcoin; if you price in dollars, your wallet calculates the bitcoin amount.
- 2Show the QR codeDisplay the QR code so the customer can scan it and pay from a Lightning wallet.
- 3Check that it settledLook for a settled status in your wallet. A screenshot is not proof.
- 4Release the goodsHand over the goods only after your wallet shows the payment settled.
What about taxes and security after?
After the payment settles, you choose whether to keep the bitcoin or convert it to dollars through your provider. Some providers can convert automatically, so the invoice amount arrives in dollars. Keep your accounts secure: back up your recovery phrase offline.
Bitcoin price todayLive price, charts and market data live in our Coins section.Frequently asked questions
No. A hosted Lightning wallet creates invoices and shows a QR code.
No. The customer needs a Lightning wallet, not a standard Bitcoin wallet.
Invoices expire, so a late payment fails.
It depends. A hosted wallet lets your provider see your payments.
