Why PayNow screenshots are a problem
Many centres share a single PayNow number or UEN and ask parents to send a screenshot after paying. That leads to payments without references, amounts that do not match, screenshots lost in chat threads, and hours each month cross-checking bank statements.
Step 1: Put a QR code on every invoice
A PayNow QR can carry your UEN, the exact amount and a reference. Parents scan it in their banking app and do not need to type anything, so amounts and references are correct.
Step 2: Use one reference per invoice
Use the invoice number as the payment reference. It is the single most important step for matching payments automatically.
Step 3: Match payments to invoices
With references in place, payments can be matched to invoices from your bank feed or statement. SchoolMatters marks matched invoices as paid and flags anything that needs a human.
Step 4: Automate reminders and receipts
Send a reminder a few days before the due date and a follow-up when fees are overdue, and issue a receipt automatically when payment is received. Polite, automatic reminders work better than awkward messages from tutors.
Should tuition centres use GIRO too?
For regular monthly or term fees, GIRO reduces late payments because fees are deducted automatically. Many centres offer PayNow for one-off and first payments, and GIRO for families who prefer to set and forget.