We get this question a lot — and we get why! You might be using an external payment processor (like PayPal, ThriveCart, or Gumroad) and still want to control access to content inside Heartbeat.

But here’s the key thing to know:

Offers in Heartbeat always require payment. They’re specifically designed for billing your members through Heartbeat Payments.

So if you're trying to give free access to something, or if you're charging externally, an Offer isn't the right tool.

🔁 What to Use Instead: Access Groups

Think of an Offer like this: 🧺 It’s an Access Group + Payment bundled together.

So if you don’t want Heartbeat to handle payment, just create the Access Group part.

Step-by-step:

1. Go to Settings → Access Groups

2. Create a group (e.g. "Book Club Members" or "VIP Coaching Access")

3. Attach your content: channels, courses, docs, and events

4. Done ✅

Anyone added to this group gets automatic access to the content tied to it.

🔐 How to Securely Add Paid Users (if you're charging externally)

If you’re using another payment tool but still want to keep things secure, here’s the best way:

🔗 Use a pre-approved signup page

This ensures only specific email addresses can join your community.

🔄 Automate it with Zapier

Set up a Zap that:

• Triggers when a successful payment is made in your payment tool

• Sends that user’s email to Heartbeat via our Zapier endpoint

• Automatically approves them on your pre-approved signup page

That way, only users who’ve paid (based on their email) can join your community.

🛡️ Even if someone tries to share the link — if they’re not on the pre-approved list, they can’t get in.

✅ Recap

Still need help?

We’re happy to walk you through your setup. Reach out to us anytime at support@heartbeat.chat