Backing A Project with Pay Over Time
Frequently Asked Questions
👉 Are you a creator interested in using the Pay Over Time feature? Check out this help doc.
How It Works
Projects can choose to enable Pay Over Time, which allows backers to split pledges of $150 or more (before shipping and tax) into four interest-free, automated monthly installments, no additional charges. If available, these installments will begin as soon as the campaign ends. Note: If the payment date falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment will process the next business day.
Getting Started
👉 Need help enabling Pay Over Time as a Backer? Start here 😉 — make sure you’re familiar with the policies below before committing. If you don’t see the option, or aren’t sure how to enable it on your pledge: Check out this help doc.
Q: What is Pay Over Time?
A: Pay Over Time allows you to split pledges of $150 or more (before shipping and tax) into four interest-free, automated monthly installments with no additional charges.
Q: How do I enable Pay Over Time on my pledge?
A: Pay Over Time is available only for campaigns that have enabled the feature. If available and your pledge total is $150 or more before shipping and tax, you’ll see the option during checkout.
Q: When do the installment payments begin?
A: Your first payment is processed as soon as the campaign ends. If the payment date falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment will process the next business day.
Surveys & Rewards
Q: When will I receive my project survey?
A: You will receive the survey link by email within 72 hours after your final installment processes. You will not receive the survey until your pledge is paid in full.
Q: Will using Pay Over Time affect my eligibility to receive rewards?
A: No, it will not affect your eligibility. However, rewards will not ship until your pledge is fully paid.
Q: What about survey deadlines posted on the Project Updates page?
A: Those deadlines are directed towards fully paid backers and do not apply to you until you've completed all payments.
Managing Your Payments
Q: Can I change the amount or date of my installments?
A: No, we cannot modify the amount of your installments or the automated date that your payment is taken. Individual payments cannot be paused, delayed, or made early.
Q: Can I pay off my balance early?
A: Yes! You can pay off your full remaining balance early by clicking "Charge Remaining Balance" on your pledge page. In some cases, paying in full early may give you access to the pledge manager survey sooner.
Q: Can I cancel my Pay Over Time plan?
A: Yes, you can cancel anytime to stop future payments by clicking "Contact Us for Help" on your pledge page. However, partial payments are non-refundable. You can also cancel your pledge at any time while the campaign is live.
Failed Payments
Q: What happens if a payment fails?
A: No worries! No action is required and your pledge will not be forfeited. The system will automatically retry in 7 days.
Q: What if multiple payments fail?
A: If still unsuccessful after the retry, the missed amount will be added to your next scheduled charge. For example, if you miss two payments, both will be due together on the next scheduled retry.
Q: How do I fix a single failed payment or update my card?
A: If you update your payment method, the system will retry the charge immediately. If you take no action, the system will automatically retry your payment in 7 days.
💡 If you’d like it retried sooner, contact Support — we’ll take care of it for you.
⚠️ Important:
When updating your card, do not click the "Charge Remaining Balance" button to retry a single failed payment. Use it only if you’re ready to pay off your full pledge in one go.
That button immediately charges your entire remaining balance and cannot be undone. If you accidentally click it, your Pay Over Time plan is forfeited and you cannot be switched back to installments.
Refunds & Edits
Q: Can I make changes to my pledge during the installment period?
A: No, once Pay Over Time begins, items and installment amounts are fixed and no editing is allowed. Changes are only possible while the campaign is still live. If you’re not 100% sure about an add-on or prototype, it’s best to wait until surveys open, as refunds and modifications are not possible during installments.
Q: Can I add items, remove items, or change my pledge level after the campaign ends?
A: No, add-ons, removals, or pledge level changes are not possible until after your survey is sent (and only once your pledge is fully paid). This includes adding new items, switching items, removing items, or modifying pledge levels.
Q: When will I be able to make changes again?
A: You’ll have another opportunity to make changes once surveys are sent contingent upon the project teams policy. Removing items or lowering your pledge isn’t always possible, and refunds aren’t guaranteed.
Q: How do I receive a refund?
A: Partial payments are non-refundable while your installments are active. After surveys are sent and your pledge is paid in full, refunds are most often not possible, as funds are allocated toward production. Please review their FAQ or project page before pledging.
👉 Still need help?
Please contact Support if you need to retry a failed payment, cancel your plan, or have any other questions about Pay Over Time.