> 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/1-set-up-shortcut-for-your-business.md).

# 1) Set up Shortcut for your business

**Outcome:** Your account is ready to send proposals and collect payments.

## What you'll do

* Review the Configuration sections and save key settings
* Choose how you want to get paid (Stripe recommended)
* (Optional) Invite your team

## Steps

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Open Settings

Click the **settings cog** at the bottom-left of the sidebar.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Choose payment method

Open **Billing & Payments → Customer Payments** and choose your payment method:

* **Stripe** (recommended), or
* **Offline / Check Payment** (you collect check/cash/ACH outside Shortcut and mark invoices paid yourself).
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Connect Stripe

If using Stripe, click **Connect Stripe** and complete setup in Stripe.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Confirm services

Open **More → Catalog → Services** and confirm you have at least one service created. [Open Services →](https://shortcutco.com/catalog/services)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### (Optional) Invite your team

Open **More → Workforce** to invite users and set up your crew(s). [Open Workforce →](https://shortcutco.com/workforce)
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}

### About billing

Shortcut is one plan — $180 per crew per month (save 20% with annual billing), unlimited users, and no per-transaction fee. Every new account gets a **14-day free trial** with no credit card required. See [Plan & Billing](/readme/configuration/billing-subscription.md) for details.
{% endhint %}

## Expected result

* Stripe shows as connected (if you chose Stripe)
* At least one service exists

## Common issues

<details>

<summary><strong>I can't find a service when quoting or scheduling</strong></summary>

Create services first (settings cog → More → Catalog → [Services](https://shortcutco.com/catalog/services)).

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Customers keep getting payment reminders after paying by check</strong></summary>

You must mark invoices as paid in [Finances](https://shortcutco.com/invoices) when using manual payments.

</details>

## Still stuck?

Email **<hello@shortcutco.com>** with a screenshot of your **Customer Payments** page.