A payment with the status Pending means the transaction was created but the money hasn't been confirmed yet. It's not an error: several payment methods are asynchronous by nature.

Why it matters

While a payment is pending, you shouldn't deliver the product or consider it collected. The status will change to Paid when the money is confirmed, or to Expired or Declined if it isn't completed.

How it works by method

  • Cash: the reference is generated immediately, but the payment is confirmed when the buyer pays at the store and the store reports it — usually the same day, sometimes up to 1–2 business days.
  • SPEI bank transfer: it stays pending until the buyer makes the bank transfer; confirmation usually takes minutes once it's sent.
  • Card: most are confirmed or declined instantly; a small share may go through a brief security review.

Example

A customer generates a cash reference on Monday night and pays at the store at noon on Tuesday. The transaction shows as Pending from Monday and changes to Paid on Tuesday when the store reports the payment.

What you should do

  • Wait the method's normal time before investigating.
  • If the buyer says they already paid, ask for their proof of payment (store receipt or bank transfer receipt).
  • If it's taking longer than expected, see How to search for a payment in the Conekta Panel and check that there isn't a second transaction.
Does a pending payment count toward my balance?

No. Only confirmed (Paid) payments are added to your balance and included in payouts.

Can I cancel a pending payment?

You can let it expire or cancel the transaction, depending on the payment method. If the buyer already paid and the confirmation is in transit, wait for it to show up before taking action.