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Overview

The Request Network API uses a reference-based payment detection system that automatically monitors blockchain transactions to detect when payments are made to your requests. This works across supported blockchains and handles payment matching automatically.

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How It Works

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1. Payment Reference Generation

When you create a request, the API automatically generates a unique payment reference (16-character identifier). This reference is what links on-chain payment transactions to your request. Example: 0x1234567890abcdef

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2. Blockchain Monitoring

The API continuously monitors supported blockchains using subgraphs that scan for transactions containing payment references. This happens automatically in the background. Monitoring includes:
  • transaction scanning
  • payment reference matching
  • amount and currency validation

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3. Automatic Detection

When someone makes a payment and includes the payment reference in their transaction, the system:
  • Detects the transaction
  • Validates payment details (amount, currency, recipient)
  • Updates request status (for example partially paid or fully paid)
  • Triggers your configured webhooks

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4. Real-time Status Updates

Once a payment is detected, your request status is updated and you can retrieve the latest information via:
  • API Queries: GET /v2/request/{requestId}
  • Webhooks: receive updates on your configured endpoints
For the latest chain and currency support, see Supported Chains and Currencies.

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Crosschain Payment Detection

All crosschain payments using Request Network API use the ERC-20 Fee Proxy contract as the last payment leg, so payment detection works out of the box. How it works:
  1. Payer initiates payment on source chain (e.g., Polygon)
  2. Crosschain bridge transfers funds to destination chain (e.g., Base)
  3. Final payment uses ERC-20 Fee Proxy with payment reference
  4. Payment detection system identifies the transaction
  5. Request status updated automatically

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Webhook Notifications

Configure webhooks to receive real-time notifications for payment events:

Payment Confirmed

Full payment received and confirmed on blockchain

Payment Partial

Partial payment received (less than expected amount)

Payment Failed

Payment transaction failed or reverted

Payment Refunded

Payment was refunded to the payer
This allows your application to react immediately to payment events without constantly polling the API.

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Integration Benefits

Zero Configuration

Payment detection happens automatically

Multi-blockchain

Works across supported chains

Real-time Updates

Fast detection and status updates

Reliable Infrastructure

Built on blockchain indexing infrastructure

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What’s Next?

Webhooks

Configure webhook notifications for payment events

Query Payments

Manually check payment status via API

Supported Chains

View all supported networks and currencies