> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.natural.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

> ## Agent Instructions
> When building application code, use `@naturalpay/sdk` for TypeScript or `naturalpay` for Python.
> When operating Natural directly for a user, use the payments MCP at `https://mcp.natural.com`.
> When searching Natural documentation, use the docs MCP at `https://docs.natural.com/mcp`.
> Use the Natural CLI for terminal and CI automation.
> Use REST only for unsupported languages or when the user explicitly requests raw HTTP.
> Start integration development and testing in the sandbox. Do not use production unless the user explicitly requests it.
> For sandbox requests that require `customerPartyId`, list customers first. Reuse only the intended fixture; otherwise create a customer.
> REST and SDK amounts use integer minor units. Payments MCP amounts use decimal strings with a required currency code.

# Overview

> Collect a card payment by checkout link or voice

<Note>
  Accept is in early access and subject to change. To request Accept access, contact [hi@natural.com](mailto:hi@natural.com).
</Note>

A payment intent represents what you or your customer is selling. It contains the amount and optional line items and tax details. Collect the payment through a hosted checkout link or over the phone.

## Lifecycle

An intent starts as `open`, becomes `processing` during a payment attempt, and becomes `completed` when payment succeeds. Funds become available after settlement.

A declined attempt can be retried while the intent remains open. After five issuer declines, the intent becomes `declined`. Cancel it and it becomes `canceled`. Set `expiresAt` and it becomes `expired` once that time passes with no successful payment.

To change the amount, line items, or other details, [update the intent](/api-reference/payment-intents/update-payment-intent) while it is `open`. A payer who already has the checkout open must review the new terms before paying.

## Card payments

Each payment attempt creates a [card payment](/guides/concepts/card-payments). One intent can have several attempts, but only one successful payment. Its `cardPayment` relationship identifies that successful payment.

## The checkout link

Share the link in `payUrl` with the payer. Natural's hosted checkout takes the card and processes the payment. Treat the link as private.

Read more: [Create a payment intent and get paid by link](/guides/accept/pay-by-link).

## Line items and tax

Specify the amount in US cents. You can include item descriptions, quantities, prices, and tax. Line totals must add up to the payment intent amount.

See [Create payment intent](/api-reference/payment-intents/create-payment-intent) for the available fields.

## Collecting for a customer

Invite your customer through [Connect](/guides/products/connect) and have them complete Accept enrollment. Once approved and authorized, pass their party ID as `customerPartyId` on calls made on their behalf.

Read more: [Accept payments](/guides/flows/accept-payments).


This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.