📨 What Is Request Network?
Request Network is a decentralized protocol built on blockchain technology (initially Ethereum, now multi-chain) that enables anyone to create, send, and manage payment requests — commonly known as invoices — in a transparent, secure, and automated manner. It is often described as the "blockchain-based invoicing and payment layer" for the Web3 economy.
Unlike traditional invoicing platforms that rely on centralized servers and manual payment tracking, Request Network stores invoice data on-chain, making it immutable and publicly verifiable. The protocol automatically detects when a payment is made to the specified address and updates the invoice status to "paid," enabling real-time reconciliation without manual intervention.
Request Network aims to create a global, open, and programmable payment layer that reduces friction in B2B and B2C transactions by eliminating intermediaries, automating reconciliation, and providing a transparent audit trail.
⚙️ How Request Network Invoicing Works
Request Network operates on a simple but powerful model: invoices are created as requests on the blockchain, and payments are detected by monitoring the blockchain for transactions that match the request details.
-
1
Create a Request (Invoice)
Using the Request Network interface or API, you create an invoice that specifies the payer, payee, amount, currency (crypto or fiat), due date, and any additional metadata. The request is recorded on-chain.
-
2
Share with Payer
You share the invoice link or QR code with the payer. The payer sees a clear summary of the payment details, including the wallet address, amount, and network.
-
3
Payer Sends Payment
The payer sends the exact amount in the specified cryptocurrency to the wallet address provided in the request. The transaction is broadcast to the blockchain.
-
4
Automated Payment Detection
The Request Network protocol monitors the blockchain for transactions matching the request. Once the required confirmations are reached, the request is automatically marked as "paid."
-
5
Reconciliation & Reporting
You can view all paid and pending requests in your dashboard. The protocol also supports export for accounting and tax reporting, with detailed transaction hashes and timestamps.
Request Network supports both on-chain payments (crypto) and off-chain payments (fiat via payment gateways). This hybrid model makes it suitable for businesses that want to accept both crypto and traditional payments.
⭐ Key Features of Request Network
All invoices are recorded on the blockchain, making them tamper-proof and publicly verifiable. No central authority can alter or delete your records.
The protocol automatically detects payments and updates invoice statuses, eliminating manual matching and reducing accounting errors.
Create invoices in fiat (USD, EUR, etc.) or crypto (ETH, USDT, USDC, DAI). Payments can be made in multiple cryptocurrencies.
Supports Ethereum, Polygon, BSC, and other EVM-compatible networks. This allows you to choose the most cost-effective network for your transactions.
Export invoice data in CSV or JSON format. Connect with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero via APIs for seamless bookkeeping.
Every transaction has a permanent on-chain record, providing a clear audit trail for tax authorities and regulatory compliance.
🌐 Supported Networks & Tokens
Request Network is designed to be chain-agnostic. It currently supports multiple blockchain networks, allowing you to choose the best option based on transaction costs, speed, and token availability.
| Network | Supported Tokens | Gas Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ethereum | ETH, USDT, USDC, DAI, REQ | High | Large enterprises, high-value invoices |
| Polygon (Matic) | ETH, USDT, USDC, DAI, REQ | Low | Daily transactions, cost-sensitive users |
| BNB Chain (BSC) | BNB, USDT, USDC, BUSD, REQ | Low | Users already in the BSC ecosystem |
| Arbitrum | ETH, USDT, USDC, DAI, REQ | Medium | Ethereum users seeking lower fees |
| Optimism | ETH, USDT, USDC, DAI, REQ | Medium | Ethereum users seeking lower fees |
For most businesses, Polygon offers the best balance of low fees and wide token support. However, if your customers predominantly use Ethereum, you may want to offer both options. Request Network's multi-chain support lets you create invoices on any supported network.
🚀 Getting Started with Request Network
Follow these steps to start using Request Network for your invoicing needs:
-
1
Set Up a Wallet
Connect a Web3-compatible wallet (e.g., MetaMask, Trust Wallet, or TronLink) to the Request Network platform. This wallet will be used to create requests and receive payments.
-
2
Fund Your Wallet
Ensure you have enough native tokens (ETH, MATIC, BNB) in your wallet to pay gas fees for creating invoices. Gas fees are typically very low on Polygon and BSC.
-
3
Create Your First Invoice
Use the Request Network app or API to create a new request. Enter the payer's wallet address, the amount, currency, due date, and any optional notes.
-
4
Share the Invoice
Copy the invoice link or QR code and send it to your client. The client can view the invoice and make the payment directly through the provided interface.
-
5
Monitor & Reconcile
Use the Request Network dashboard to track payment status. Once the client pays, the invoice will automatically update to "paid" and you can export the transaction record for your accounting system.
Request Network offers a comprehensive developer API that allows you to integrate invoicing functionality directly into your own website, app, or ERP system. This is ideal for businesses that need custom invoicing workflows.
⚖️ Request Network vs. Traditional Invoicing
| Aspect | Request Network | Traditional Invoicing |
|---|---|---|
| Data Storage | Decentralized, immutable | Centralized, mutable |
| Payment Tracking | Automated, real-time | Manual, error-prone |
| Reconciliation | Automatic | Manual effort required |
| Fraud Prevention | On-chain verification | Limited |
| Audit Trail | Immutable, public | Internal records only |
| Cross-Border Payments | Fast, low-cost | Slow, expensive |
| Platform Fee | None (only gas fees) | Often 2-5% |
Request Network is ideal for businesses that accept crypto payments, operate internationally, or need a transparent and automated invoicing process. It's particularly beneficial for Web3 companies, freelancers, and enterprises looking to reduce payment friction.
💼 Use Cases for Request Network
DAOs and crypto-native businesses can invoice clients and automatically reconcile payments in their preferred tokens.
Freelancers working with international clients can invoice in stablecoins and receive instant, low-cost payments.
Suppliers can invoice corporate clients and leverage automated reconciliation to reduce administrative overhead.
Payment gateways can integrate Request Network to offer invoicing features to their merchant clients.