# Setup Mode

Setup Mode is a safe testing environment where partners can explore platform features without processing real transactions. Partners start in Setup Mode by default after onboarding and can configure settings, create test invoices, and review customer flows with no financial impact. This article explains how it works and what to expect before going live.

***

## How Setup Mode works

**1. Onboarding complete**

Once onboarding is finished, Setup Mode is activated by default.

<figure><img src="https://1567070316-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FKPl2XyqKMY0CU5Sb4EWy%2Fuploads%2FsT90Am0KN8TJdULfRq5G%2FMonosnap%20Invoices%202025-06-26%2009-02-57.png?alt=media&#x26;token=98a282ba-c003-496b-9ba8-e57ce18b1485" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**2. Safe testing environment**

Partners can try out key features without affecting real data.\
Available features in Setup Mode include:

* [Creating and Managing Invoices](https://help.alternativepayments.io/payments-and-invoicing/managing-invoices)
* [Configuring Autopay](https://help.alternativepayments.io/automations/setting-up-auto-pay)
* [Configuring Email Notifications & Reminders](https://help.alternativepayments.io/automations/email-notifications-and-reminders)

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Some features are only available in Live Mode and will not appear in your dashboard while in Setup Mode. These include Collections, payment processing, and payout reports.
{% endhint %}

**3. Account review**

While you're in Setup Mode, your account will go through a standard review before going live. Once it's completed, you'll see the option to switch to Live Mode from your Partner Dashboard

<figure><img src="https://1567070316-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FKPl2XyqKMY0CU5Sb4EWy%2Fuploads%2FlhLcyxDZS3mySbpb3qIx%2FMonosnap%20Invoices%202025-06-26%2009-51-56.png?alt=media&#x26;token=a5c3a822-59ed-4f89-b0b6-9a8e82dc6f88" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**4. Ready to go live**

Once your account is verified, the **Go Live** toggle will appear in your dashboard. Switching to Live Mode is a one-time action - once confirmed, Setup Mode is permanently disabled.

Before going live, make sure the following prerequisites are in place:

* **Integration connected** - Connect your PSA or accounting software
* **Branding configured** - Upload your logo and set your brand color
* **Autopay rules set** - Configure any Autopay rules you want active from day one
* **Email notifications reviewed** - Confirm your notification schedules
* **Team permissions verified** - Make sure your team members have the correct roles

A confirmation message will appear to review everything before the switch takes effect.

<figure><img src="https://1567070316-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FKPl2XyqKMY0CU5Sb4EWy%2Fuploads%2FCYAqCgQ1sXOz5aKGKTCy%2FMonosnap%20Invoices%202025-06-26%2009-53-02.png?alt=media&#x26;token=6dc5b3da-5211-4a43-96e2-a30aac5c21ce" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**5. Live Mode activated**

Once you confirm the switch, your account goes live right away. All invoices, payments, and notifications will be live.

{% hint style="danger" %}
**Warning**: Setup Mode can’t be re-enabled, so be sure everything’s set up the way you want before going live.
{% endhint %}

**Love our platform?** Rate us on [Channel Program](https://channelprogram.com/v/alternativepayments) and check out our [Referral Program page](https://www.alternativepayments.io/referral-partners/)!