Digital security deposit: how to replace cash or cheques
Send your security deposit request online with Verihost
Create your deposit in moments, then send a secure link to your renter. They save their bank card directly from their phone.
You then track each deposit easily from your Verihost account.
Discover VerihostWhat is a digital security deposit?
“Digital security deposit” is a common term. It is not an electronic cheque: no cheque is written, signed or paid in, and no cash changes hands.
It refers to an online solution that lets you request a security deposit remotely and track its status. Your renter receives a secure link and enters their bank card details, with nothing to hand over in person.
To compare the different deposit methods (card registration, pre-authorisation…), read our guide to online deposits.
Why replace cash or cheque deposits?
- No cash or cheque to hand over in person: everything happens remotely.
- No cash or paper to keep until the end of the rental.
- The deposit is ready before your renter arrives.
- All your deposits tracked in one place.
- One solution for many types of rental.
How does a digital security deposit work with Verihost?
- 1
Create the deposit
Enter the rented property or item, the dates and the deposit amount.
- 2
Send the secure link
Verihost sends it by email, or you can copy it into a text message or a WhatsApp message.
- 3
Your renter saves their card
They complete the process from their phone before the handover.
- 4
Manage the deposit
At the end of the rental, release the deposit or request a charge if there is a problem.
Which rentals can use a digital security deposit?
Verihost works for many kinds of rental:
- Short-term rentals
- Cars and commercial vans
- Campervans and motorhomes
- Campsites
- Boats
- Items and equipment
Renting out vehicles? See our page on security deposits for car rental.
Cash or cheque vs digital deposit: what are the differences?
In practice, here are the main differences:
| Cash or cheque | Digital deposit with Verihost |
|---|---|
| Usually handed over in person | Link sent remotely |
| Physical storage | No cash or cheque to keep |
| Manual tracking | Tracked from your dashboard |
| Less practical for remote rentals | Deposit ready before the handover |
Frequently asked questions
Is a digital security deposit a real cheque?
No. The term generally refers to an online solution for requesting and managing a security deposit remotely.
Does the renter need to come in person?
No. They receive a secure link and complete the process from their phone or computer.
Do I need a card terminal?
No. The deposit can be requested remotely from Verihost.
What types of rental can use Verihost?
Verihost is suitable for short-term rentals, cars, commercial vans, campervans, motorhomes, campsites, boats, items and equipment, among others.
When should I send the deposit link?
The link can be sent before the rental starts, so that the deposit is saved before the keys or the item are handed over.
Switch from cash and cheques to a digital deposit
Create your deposit, send the link to your renter and track its status easily from Verihost.
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