Use Test Mode and Live Mode
Learn how to use Test Mode and Live Mode in Topo, including stripe test versus live mode.
When to use this
Use this article when you need to use Test Mode and Live Mode in Topo. The main staff surface is Staff > Account > Billing, POS, checkout surfaces. It is written for Owners, Managers, Accountants.
What this covers
Stripe test versus live mode
Shared sandbox/demo limitations
Which setup tasks must be repeated in live mode
How to avoid accidental live charges or emails during testing
Before you start
Open Staff > Account > Billing, POS, checkout surfaces.
Use your gym-specific staff URL and staff credentials, not a member magic link.
If a menu, button, or report is missing, check your staff role and assigned locations first.
Steps
Use test mode or the demo environment for staff practice, setup review, and fake payment flows.
Use live mode only when you are ready to create real charges, emails, subscriptions, access records, and reports.
Repeat payment and email setup in live mode when required; test-mode readiness does not automatically mean live-mode readiness.
Before a staff training sale, confirm whether the gym expects a real charge or a test/demo checkout.
When reconciling reports, separate test/demo activity from live production activity.
What happens after saving or completing this
The change is reflected in the relevant staff screen and activity history.
If the workflow affects members, payments, access, inventory, or email, review that downstream area before moving on.
Common issues and fixes
Test-mode payments, demo sales, and live deposits should never be reconciled together.
Email and payment setup may need to be completed separately for live mode.
If a real customer is present, confirm mode before charging.
You are on the wrong gym URL: switch to the staff URL for the gym you are working in, then sign in again.
The page is blank or a menu is missing: ask an owner or admin to review your role permissions and assigned locations.
A member sign-in link does not work for staff access: staff sign in with staff email/password and may use PIN unlock on shared devices.
Related articles
Navigate the Staff App
Choose a Location and Understand Data Scope
Use Dashboard Search, Activity Feed, and Action Items