SmartRec offers 3 different ways to reduce price, but you might be unsure of which method to use. We'll look at which reduction type best suits what you're trying to achieve. You can also check out this webinar where we discuss this topic (and more)!
Here's a high-level look at the main characteristics of discounts, rebates and credits.
Must be configured beforehand in the Discounts subtab | Configured in the Custom items subtab. Applied after the sale is made | Configured in the Custom items subtab. Applied to a client's account |
Can be visible in the store | Isn't available in the store | Isn't visible in the store |
Automatically applies to eligible items in the store | Manually applied by an admin to an invoice item | Manually applied by an admin, but it's not linked to an invoice item |
Is embedded in the original invoice | Creates a credit memo linked to one specific invoice item | Creates a credit memo that isn't linked to any invoice item |
Works with Replacement | Won't work with Replacement | Won't work with Replacement |
Reduces service fees | Won't reduce service fees | Won't reduce service fees |
When to use Discounts |
Ex: I want to give a 20% discount to clients who buy camp classes in advance. |
A discount is automatically applied when clients select eligible items in your store and appears as a negative invoice item(s) at checkout. This reduces the amount the client must pay for the item. Any client is eligible to receive the automated discount if the items they purchase are eligible and certain criteria are met (if applicable).
Automated discount options are set up in the Discounts and fees > Discounts subtab before any purchase is made. Click here to learn more about automated discounts.
When to Give a Rebate |
To correct the amount on an invoice item, after it's been charged. For example:
|
To give a rebate on an invoice item, you must have at least one custom rebate set up in the Discounts and fees > Custom items subtab.
🎗️ Click here for more information on custom rebate items, which be applied at checkout, during replacements, and on existing invoice items.
In Client Billing, expand an invoice to give a rebate to reduce the amount charged on an item.
On the Rebate details form, you'll be informed of up to how much can be rebated. The rebate assumes the same ledger account as the invoice item it's tied to. Complete the form to apply the rebate.
When you give a rebate, it creates a separate credit memo with details of the invoice item it's linked to.
When to create a Credit |
Ex: A client referred a friend & we'd like to give them a credit for their next class. A parent helped at an event & we'd like to give a credit for their next purchase. A client worked the concession stand and deserves a credit to pay their balance. |
You may create a credit from the Operations menu in Client Bililng to reduce the current balance on a client's account.
With permission, you can choose a ledger account for the credit, but it's not linked to any invoice item (like when you give a rebate). This negative invoice item creates a credit memo that can be applied to an existing balance or towards a future purchase.
To create a credit, you must first set up a rebate-type custom item in the Discounts and fees > Custom items subtab. You can create a credit in a client's account at any time. Click here to learn more about credits.
* Last updated in September 2026
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