Interest-free installments: when they increase conversion and what they really cost
Natália Vieira · 2026-10-07
Early payout and fees
When we talk about interest-free installments, it’s important to understand that most card processors and payment gateways don’t offer this service for free. Generally, early payouts on sales can come with a fee ranging from 1.5% to 3% of the sale amount. That means that even though the customer doesn’t pay interest, the seller needs to factor this fee into the final price. If you choose not to get paid early, you’ll receive the total sales amount in installments, which can affect your cash flow.
Minimum ticket per installment
Set a minimum ticket per installment that makes sense for your business. Most processors require a minimum amount per installment, which is usually between R$ 50 and R$ 100. If your average order value is very low, offering installments may not be worthwhile, since it could create unnecessary costs without driving significant conversions.
Countries where it’s not available
In some regions, interest-free installments aren’t common. For example, in European countries like Germany and France, paying in installments is less common. Understanding consumer behavior across different markets is crucial to your e-commerce strategy. If your target audience is in one of these countries, it may be better to focus on other payment methods.
How to display it on the page
The way you display the installment option on the checkout page can have a significant impact on conversion. Use banners or pop-ups that clearly state the installments are interest-free, highlighting the installment amount and the total to be paid. Making this information visible can increase customer trust and encourage them to complete their purchase.
Impact on chargebacks
Installments can affect your chargeback rate. When a customer buys a product in installments, they may feel less committed to the purchase, especially if delivery takes a long time or they’re dissatisfied. This can lead to an increase in refund requests. To mitigate this risk, it’s essential to have a clear return policy and efficient customer support.
Final thoughts
Offering interest-free installments can be a powerful tool for increasing conversion, as long as it’s well structured and aligned with your business’s pricing strategy. Always consider the fees involved and your target audience’s behavior.
By what percentage do you estimate interest-free installments increased your sales last month?