Use this guide to manage Stripe account connections in Hostaway and troubleshoot common connection, setup, or payment processing issues.
Managing Stripe accounts within Hostaway requires careful attention to ensure smooth payment processing and compliance. This article outlines key guidance, best practices, and solutions for common issues when handling Stripe account connections.
Introduction
Stripe integration in Hostaway allows property managers to streamline payment processing for their listings. However, changes in Stripe accounts—such as disconnecting or replacing them—can have significant implications for guest payments, transactions, and data compliance. Below, we discuss how to manage these changes effectively and the potential impacts during transitions.
Key Considerations Before Disconnecting a Stripe Account
Disconnecting a Stripe account impacts payment processing across all listings linked to that account. Before proceeding:
- Finalize All Outstanding Balances: Payments for pending reservations may fail if the guest's credit card details are linked to the account being disconnected. To avoid this, manually process any due payments.
- Affect on Linked Listings: When one Stripe account services multiple listings, disconnecting will also disrupt payment processing for all associated properties. Consider re-linking or reconnecting Stripe promptly to mitigate guest experience disruptions.
Data Security and Compliance During Stripe Transitions
When transitioning between Stripe accounts:
- Understanding Data Handling: Customer and card details remain tied to the original Stripe account due to PCI compliance and security measures. Such data does not transfer to the new account automatically, which can cause failures when trying to use old payment methods in the new setup.
- Guest Payment Failures: Payments linked to the previous account will not process in the new account setup. Ensure all transactions in the old account are finalized before disconnecting it.
Resolving Errors When Connecting a New Stripe Account
Errors can occur when connecting a Stripe account already associated with a listing. To resolve this:
- Disconnect First: Remove the account from the existing listing to connect it at the account level.
- Update Listings in Bulk: Use the "Apply to other listings" functionality to link multiple listings to the desired Stripe account simultaneously.
Recommendations and Best Practices
- Plan Ahead: Identify and resolve any outstanding payments or balances before making changes.
- Recheck Payments: Promptly reconnect Stripe to resume payment processing and avoid delays.
- Bulk Updates: Streamline account linkage for multiple listings using the provided Hostaway tools to minimize issues.
By following these best practices, users can ensure seamless transitions and maintain a positive guest experience. If issues persist, consult Hostaway support for further assistance.
For additional guidance, see related articles on [Hostaway's payment processing setup] or contact support for tailored assistance.