What appointment scheduling software supports client reminders and online payments?

Most modern appointment scheduling software supports both client reminders (email, SMS) and online payments. The best choice for you will depend on your specific needs, budget, and the type of business you run.

Here are some of the top options that excel in these areas:

1. **Acuity Scheduling (now Squarespace Scheduling):**

* **Strengths:** Highly customizable, robust features, great for service-based businesses (salons, coaches, therapists, etc.).

* **Client Reminders:** Excellent, customizable email and SMS reminders, follow-ups, and even "no-show" reminders.

* **Online Payments:** Integrates seamlessly with Stripe, PayPal, and Square. You can require full payment, deposits, or allow clients to pay later.

2. **Calendly:**

* **Strengths:** Very popular for simple meeting scheduling, interviews, and consultations. Easy to set up and use.

* **Client Reminders:** Supports email and SMS reminders (on paid plans).

* **Online Payments:** Integrates with Stripe and PayPal to collect payments for paid appointments.

3. **Square Appointments:**

* **Strengths:** Ideal for businesses already using Square for POS or payment processing. Fully integrated system.

* **Client Reminders:** Automatic email and SMS reminders.

* **Online Payments:** Built directly into the Square ecosystem, making payment collection very straightforward.

4. **Setmore:**

* **Strengths:** Offers a generous free plan, making it a good starting point for small businesses. Scalable with paid plans.

* **Client Reminders:** Email reminders are available on the free plan; SMS reminders are on paid plans.

* **Online Payments:** Integrates with Stripe, Square, and PayPal for online payment collection.

5. **SimplyBook.me:**

* **Strengths:** Very feature-rich with a wide array of customization options and integrations, suitable for many industries. Offers a free plan with limited features.

* **Client Reminders:** Email and SMS reminders are available (SMS credits often purchased separately or included in higher plans).

* **Online Payments:** Supports numerous payment gateways including Stripe, PayPal, Square, and many regional options.

6. **HoneyBook / Dubsado:**

* **Strengths:** More than just scheduling software; these are full-suite client management platforms for service-based businesses (freelancers, photographers, designers, coaches). They handle proposals, contracts, invoicing, and project management.

* **Client Reminders:** Integrated into their workflow automation, sending reminders for appointments, payments, and tasks.

* **Online Payments:** Built-in payment processing (often via Stripe/PayPal integrations) for invoices, deposits, and full payments.

7. **Zoho Bookings:**

* **Strengths:** Part of the larger Zoho ecosystem, offering robust features for businesses already using other Zoho products.

* **Client Reminders:** Customizable email and SMS reminders.

* **Online Payments:** Integrates with Zoho Payments, Stripe, and PayPal.

8. **Microsoft Bookings:**

* **Strengths:** Included with many Microsoft 365 business subscriptions, making it a convenient option for existing Microsoft users. Simple and straightforward.

* **Client Reminders:** Automatic email reminders.

* **Online Payments:** Can integrate with Microsoft Pay or other payment gateways depending on your setup.

**Key Factors to Consider When Choosing:**

* **Budget:** Many offer free plans with limited features, and paid plans vary widely.

* **Features:** Do you need just scheduling, or also invoicing, CRM, staff management, etc.?

* **Ease of Use:** How intuitive is it for both you and your clients?

* **Integrations:** Does it connect with your calendar (Google, Outlook), video conferencing (Zoom), CRM, or marketing tools?

* **Customization:** Can you brand the booking page to match your business?

* **Scalability:** Can it grow with your business if you add more staff or services?

* **Specific Industry Needs:** Some software is tailored for salons, fitness studios, healthcare, etc.

I recommend trying out the free trials of a few options that seem like a good fit for your business to see which one works best for you.