QR payments are now an everyday part of selling in the Philippines. They're fast for customers and safer than handling cash, but only if every QR payment is matched to an order. Here's how to keep them tidy.
What QR Ph changed
QR Ph is the national QR code standard set by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP Circular No. 1055, 2019). A merchant QR Ph code from a participating bank or e-wallet can be scanned by customers using other participating apps. In practice, one standee can replace a counter full of different QR codes.
When choosing a provider, compare:
- Merchant discount rate (MDR): the fee per transaction, commonly around 1%–1.5%. Check your provider's actual rate.
- Settlement time: some providers settle instantly, others the next business day (T+1).
- Static vs. dynamic QR: a dynamic QR generated by your POS for each order already contains the exact amount, which removes typing mistakes.
At the counter
- Show the QR with the amount, or ask the customer to enter the exact total.
- Wait for confirmation on your side: the POS, terminal or merchant app. A customer's screenshot is not proof of payment.
- Record the payment against the order in the POS, with the reference number if your system doesn't capture it automatically.
The 5-minute daily check
At closing, compare three numbers:
| Source | Example |
|---|---|
| QR sales recorded in the POS | ₱18,450 (62 orders) |
| Payments in the merchant report | ₱18,690 (63 payments) |
| Difference | ₱240, one payment with no matching order |
The extra ₱240 is usually an order that was paid but recorded as cash, or never closed. Find it today, while the cashier still remembers the customer.
When the money lands
Your bank deposit won't equal your gross QR sales. Expect the MDR to be deducted and, with T+1 settlement, Friday's sales may arrive on Monday. Keep a simple sheet of gross sales, fees and net settlement by date, so your bookkeeper isn't left guessing.
Gross QR sales ₱18,690 × 1.2% MDR = ₱224.28 in fees. Expected settlement: ₱18,465.72.
Common problems and fixes
- Fake screenshots: always confirm on your device.
- Wrong amount entered: use dynamic QR codes generated per order.
- Payments to a personal account: use a business merchant account only, so sales are recorded properly.
Key takeaway: confirm on your side, record against the order, and reconcile QR sales every night, separately from cash.
Sources and further reading
- Philippine Fintech Alliance — BSP rolls out the person-to-merchant QR Ph system
- Wise — How to get QR Ph: a guide for Filipino businesses
- Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (official site)
This article is general information for business owners in the Philippines, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and rates change, so confirm the details that apply to your business with the relevant agency or a qualified professional. Figures in worked examples are illustrative. Last reviewed October 2026.
