> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.payrexx.com/merchant/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.payrexx.com/merchant/english/payment/functionalities/subcription/subscriptions-via-tokenization-api.md).

# Subscriptions Via Tokenization (API)

{% hint style="info" %}
The acronym "API" stands for Application Programming Interface. It refers to a set of commands, functions, and protocols that allow a software application to interact with another system.
{% endhint %}

## What is Tokenization?

Tokenization involves storing a payment method for future payments. You can learn about the benefits of tokenization and how to set it up in Payrexx in the following article:

{% content-ref url="/pages/-MdS2n8HP0jU5eXcYrrM" %}
[Tokenization](/merchant/english/payment/functionalities/tokenization.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

Payrexx offers two ways to set up subscriptions:

1. [Payrexx-managed subscriptions](/merchant/english/payment/functionalities/subcription/subscriptions-managed-by-payrexx.md): Payrexx automatically handles charges, payment reminders, and customer notifications.
2. Subscriptions via tokenization: Processing is managed via the API, which is explained in this article.

## Who is the API method suitable for?

With the API option, you manage charges and notifications entirely yourself. This method is particularly suitable if:

* Your recurring payments do not follow a fixed schedule (varying intervals or timing)
* Your customers should not be bound by long-term commitments
* The amount to be billed is variable (e.g., pay-per-use)

{% hint style="info" %}
If your subscriptions are consistent in terms of timeframe, product, price, and payment method, the [Payrexx-managed option](/merchant/english/payment/functionalities/subcription/subscriptions-managed-by-payrexx.md) is generally recommended, as it can be set up without technical expertise.
{% endhint %}

## How Does It Work?

The process consists of three steps:

1. **Token Creation:** During the customer's initial interaction, a token is created via the Payrexx Gateway using the `preAuthorization` parameter instead of processing a one-time payment. Optionally, an initial charge can be triggered immediately afterward using the `chargeOnAuthorization` parameter.
2. **Retrieve Transaction ID:** Following authorization, you receive the corresponding transaction ID either via the Transaction Webhook or by querying the gateway via the API (status: `authorized`).
3. **Trigger Charge:** Using the transaction ID, you can charge custom amounts as often as needed via the endpoint for capturing pre-authorized transactions.

#### Key features of this method:

* A custom amount can be specified for each charge.
* There is no guarantee of success for an individual charge.
* Once created, a token does not expire.

## Technical Information

Technical information and instructions for enabling subscription payments through tokenization can be found in the relevant article in our developer documentation:

{% embed url="<https://docs.payrexx.com/developer/guides/gateway/payment-types/tokenization>" %}

## Frequently Asked Questions

<details>

<summary><strong>In which cases are the webhooks "Transaction" and "Subscription" triggered for subscriptions?</strong></summary>

* **Cancellation:** The "Subscription" webhook (status: cancelled) is triggered.
* **Updating a payment method:** The "Subscription" webhook with the new token data is triggered.
* **Charge:** The "Transaction" webhook is always triggered. If the charge is successful, the "Subscription" webhook is additionally triggered with the updated billing date (next\_pay\_date).

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Is it possible to cancel a subscription at the next expiration date via the API?</strong></summary>

No, the API only supports the immediate deletion of a subscription (DELETE). Cancellation effective at the end of the billing period can only be configured in the Payrexx merchant administration, not via the API.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Is it possible to update a customer’s address data via the API?</strong></summary>

No, address data is tied to the payment process and cannot be updated independently via the API.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>When does Payrexx send confirmation emails?</strong></summary>

If the sending of confirmation emails is enabled under **Settings > Notifications**, Payrexx will send the emails. If the setting is disabled, Payrexx will not send any emails.

</details>


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