Settlement is the movement of funds between financial institutions. Clearing checks and exchanges the transaction information used before that movement. A provider’s payout to the business bank account is a separate step: Stripe distinguishes funds becoming available in its balance from the schedule used to pay them out. Source: Stripe: Clearing and settlement Source: Stripe: Payouts

Ask which date the report shows

Confirm whether a report’s date refers to the payment, settlement availability or the payout to the bank. Use those definitions consistently in the booking records and cash forecast. This helps avoid treating a completed checkout as proof that money has reached the bank.

Trace a sample transaction

Follow a test or agreed sample payment from its booking reference through the provider’s reports to the bank receipt. Note fees and any withheld amount. This gives the finance team a repeatable way to explain the difference between the sale amount and the money received.

Written and updated by Travelgenix. Sources checked on 19 October 2026. Practical advice and examples are Travelgenix editorial guidance.