When a client's card fails

See whether Gloa is trying again or whether you need to collect payment at the salon.

2 min read · Updated August 28, 2026

In short

  • A failed card means the appointment money has not arrived.
  • Wait while a payment or retry is still in progress.
  • At merchant check-in, a declined saved card may be followed by a payment link when Gloa offers one.

A failed card means the appointment money has not arrived. Do not count it as paid, and do not try to collect beside a payment that Gloa says is still in progress.

Read the payment state first

  • Payment in progress: wait. Starting another payment can make the client pay twice.
  • Retry scheduled: Gloa will try the saved card again at the time shown.
  • Card declined at merchant check-in: the saved card was not charged. Gloa may offer a payment link for the balance.
  • Cancelled unpaid: the card never paid and the booking is no longer active.

When check-in offers a payment link

If the saved card is declined during merchant check-in and a balance fallback is available, the warning explains that the card was declined and the screen shows Open payment link. The link opens a hosted payment page for the remaining balance. It is shown only when Gloa has one to offer; opening it does not mean the balance is paid. Check the payment state after the client completes the page.

Payment still in progressWait so the client is not charged twice.
Retry scheduledCheck the time shown and let Gloa try the saved card again.
The payment link is not offeredThe link is offered only when Gloa has created a balance fallback after the declined check-in charge. Follow the live payment state and use an accepted payment method at the salon if appropriate.

Related articles

  • Take payment at the salon — See what the client already paid, then collect any remaining balance directly at your salon.
  • Issue a refund — Answer a client's refund request or cancel an appointment when its policy calls for money back.
  • Offer a tip at check-in — Turn on optional card tips, let the client make the choice at check-in, and read what happened without holding up the appointment.
  • Set up payouts — Connect your business and bank account so money collected through Gloa can reach you.