Disputes

Record a settlement (lower amount)

A settlement is when you and the customer agree they will pay less than the face value. Record the agreed amount and the write-off so recovered figures stay honest — never count written-off money as collected.

3 of 4 in Disputes

Plan: Pro and above for recording a new settlement (action gated). Existing settlement records should remain readable if you later downgrade. Feature still evolving.
Invoice detail with Record Settlement fields for agreed amount and write-off
Showcase book · Harbour Print & Signage (sample data) · light theme

Settlement is not “mark paid for free.” It is two numbers that must reconcile with the original face value:

  • Agreed — what will actually be paid / recovered.
  • Written off — what you deliberately give up.

Attribution must stay honest: recovered totals count payments toward the agreed amount, never the written-off portion.

How to record (invoice)

  1. Open the invoice → Record settlement.
  2. Enter Agreed amount, optional Written off, Who agreed, and a Reason.
  3. Save. The invoice should read as settled (not quietly “paid in full”).

Effects

  • Chasing stops — the original face amount is no longer what you are pursuing.
  • An open dispute can be closed with a settled outcome as part of the same real-world agreement.
  • Later payments apply against the settled position.

Caveats while the feature evolves

  • UI copy and Activity settlement panels may still change.
  • Do not invent auto-write-offs. Any “after X days” behaviour should only propose, never silently erase balance.
  • Confirm the Pro+ gate on your account if the button is unavailable — upgrade rather than working around with a fake full payment.

PayBlah is accounts-receivable automation software. You remain the creditor. Confirm local rules with your own advisor for your territory (US, UK, Ireland, or Australia).