# Setting up an installment plan (layaway) for a customer

> From an invoice with a balance: "Create plan" with a deposit, the number of installments and the first payment date; then record each installment in "Layaway plans".

Section: Customers & debts · verified against the product on 2026-10-31

Canonical: https://dashingerp.com/en/help/set-up-a-layaway-plan

Use a plan when a customer pays a big purchase in parts. You set the dates once and the app lists every installment, marks late ones, and lets you record each payment.

## Steps

1. Make the sale on credit with the customer attached ([payment methods at the till](/help/payment-methods-at-the-till)), then open the invoice from "Invoices".
2. In the box "Set up a layaway plan" press "Create plan".
3. Enter the "Deposit (optional)" if the customer pays something now, the number of "Installments", and the "First payment date". The preview shows "After deposit" and the amount and date of every installment.
4. Press "Create plan".
5. Open "Layaway" from the menu. The "Plans" tab lists the plans; "Overdue" shows only the late installments.
6. When the customer pays an installment, press "Record payment" on its row, enter the "Amount", choose "Cash" or "Bank" and press "Confirm".

## If it doesn't work

- No "Set up a layaway plan" box: the invoice has nothing left to pay, or it is cancelled.
- "Enter a valid amount.": type a number above zero.
- "Could not record the payment.": check the internet and try again.

## What the system does not do

It does not send reminders to the customer by itself and it does not charge interest. To stop a plan, open it and use "Cancel & refund deposit" or "Cancel & forfeit deposit".

## Common questions

**Can I make a plan on a fully paid invoice?**

No. The "Set up a layaway plan" box only appears on an invoice that still has a balance, and not on a cancelled or fully refunded one.

**What happens to the deposit if the customer stops paying?**

When you cancel an active plan you choose: "Cancel & refund deposit" or "Cancel & forfeit deposit".

## Other languages

- العربية: https://dashingerp.com/help/set-up-a-layaway-plan
- کوردی: https://dashingerp.com/ckb/help/set-up-a-layaway-plan

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Dashing · https://dashingerp.com/en