Go Live with PayFast: Integration Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure a smooth and successful transition to the live environment.

Complete Sandbox Testing

• Successfully tested payment flows in the sandbox

• Simulated both successful and failed transactions

• Verified all expected responses and redirects

Not done yet? See: Test Your Integration with the PayFast Sandbox

Complete Go-Live Checklist

To go live with PayFast, complete the following steps:

• Configure Live Credentials
• Update Environment URLs
• Verify Notifications (ITN / Webhooks)
• Perform a Live Test Transaction
• Review Payment Page & Branding
• Security & Compliance Checks
• Monitor Initial Transactions

Configure Your Live Credentials

• Replace sandbox credentials with live PayFast credentials

• Ensure your merchant ID and keys are correct

• Store sensitive credentials securely

Update Environment URLs

• Switch all endpoints from sandbox to live

• Confirm return, cancel, and notify URLs are correct

• Ensure HTTPS is enabled on all endpoints

Verify Notifications (ITN / Webhooks)

• Confirm your notify URL is accessible

• Validate that payment notifications are received and processed correctly

• Handle duplicate notifications safely

Perform a Live Test Transaction

• Complete at least one real transaction

• Verify payment status updates correctly

• Confirm order fulfillment or system response

Review Payment Page & Branding

• Ensure your payment flow reflects your brand

• Check product descriptions and amounts

• Validate customer-facing messaging

Security & Compliance Checks

• Ensure sensitive data is not exposed

• Validate server-side verification steps

• Follow PayFast security best practices

Monitor Your First Transactions

• Keep an eye on initial live transactions

• Check logs and error handling

• Be ready to respond to unexpected issues

You're Ready to Go Live

Once all checks are complete, your integration is ready to accept real payments.

Related Guides

• Integration Overview

• Test Your Integration with the PayFast Sandbox

• Quick Start Guide