> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.shortcutco.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.shortcutco.com/readme/start-here-get-set-up-send-a-proposal-and-get-paid.md).

# Start Here - Get set up, send a proposal, and get paid

If you complete the first five pages in this section, you’ll be able to send a proposal, schedule work, and collect money—without talking to support.

## The 5-step path

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Set up your business settings

Choose how customers pay you and check the settings you need first. [Go to step 1 →](/readme/start-here-get-set-up-send-a-proposal-and-get-paid/1-set-up-shortcut-for-your-business.md)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Create services

Add the services you sell so you can quote them. [Go to step 2 →](/readme/start-here-get-set-up-send-a-proposal-and-get-paid/2-create-services-so-you-can-quote.md)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Add a lead and send a proposal

Add the customer as a lead and send them a proposal by email or SMS. [Go to step 3 →](/readme/start-here-get-set-up-send-a-proposal-and-get-paid/3-add-a-lead-and-send-a-proposal.md)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Schedule and assign the job

Schedule the job and make sure it's under a crew so your team can see it. [Go to step 4 →](/readme/start-here-get-set-up-send-a-proposal-and-get-paid/4-schedule-+-assign-the-job.md)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Complete the job and get paid

Complete the job to create the invoice, then get paid. [Go to step 5 →](/readme/start-here-get-set-up-send-a-proposal-and-get-paid/5-get-paid-complete-job-greater-than-invoice-greater-than-payment.md)
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Our recommendations:

* Connect Stripe for online payments. It’s a better customer experience and saves you admin work.
* Start with 3–5 services. You can add more later.
* Send your first proposal to yourself once (email or SMS) so you know what customers see.
  {% endhint %}

## Later (optional)

Once the basics work, you can add these when you need them:

* [Automations](/readme/start-here-get-set-up-send-a-proposal-and-get-paid/later-optional-customize-automations.md): reminders and follow-ups that send themselves
* [Lead capture](/readme/start-here-get-set-up-send-a-proposal-and-get-paid/later-optional-intake-form-website-leads.md): website leads that land in Shortcut
* [Templates](/readme/start-here-get-set-up-send-a-proposal-and-get-paid/later-optional-templates.md): reusable service packages for faster quotes
* [Dispatch](/readme/start-here-get-set-up-send-a-proposal-and-get-paid/later-optional-set-up-dispatch.md): run the day's routes across your crews

<details>

<summary>Still stuck?</summary>

Email **<hello@shortcutco.com>** with your account email + the customer name + a screenshot of what you’re seeing.

</details>