Transfer Guest Checks in MICROS Simphony
Description: Learn how to transfer ownership of an open guest check to another server in MICROS Simphony, and how transfers appear in reports.
Overview
A check transfer in MICROS Simphony changes the owner of an open guest check. The receiving server signs in and takes ownership of the outgoing server's check. Exact button labels and permissions depend on the property configuration.
When to Transfer a Check
Transfer a guest check in the following situations:
- Shift hand-off - A relief server takes over open tables before the outgoing server clocks out.
- Bar to dining room - A table server takes over a guest's open bar check.
- Meal break coverage - A teammate takes over active checks while a server is away.
- Between revenue centers - A check moves between areas, such as the patio and main dining room, when configured to allow it.
Server Instructions
Important: Start from a blank transaction screen before using Add/Transfer functions. The receiving server performs the transfer. Coordinate with the outgoing server to make sure the check is no longer open on another workstation.
Method 1: Transfer from an Open-Check List (Recommended)
- The receiving server signs in to the point-of-sale (POS) workstation.
- Select Add/Transfer Check SLU or Add/Transfer Check From List, as labeled on your workstation.
- Select the outgoing server, or view all open checks. Select the check or table to take over.
- Select OK. Verify that the check opens under your employee name.
- Select Send or Service Total to save the check and exit.
Method 2: Transfer by Check or Table Number
- Sign in and begin on a blank transaction screen.
- Select Add/Transfer Check by Number or Add/Transfer Check by Table.
- Enter the check or table number, then select OK twice to confirm.
- Verify that the check loads under your name, then select Send.
Method 3: Block Transfer All Open Checks
Use a block transfer for a full-station shift hand-off, when one server assumes another server's open checks.
- The receiving server selects Auto Block Check Transfer.
- Select the outgoing employee, or enter their employee ID.
- Select OK twice. All open checks assigned to that server transfer to the receiving server.
Important: Check the outgoing employee carefully. A block transfer affects all of that employee's open checks.
What Transfers Mean for Reports
A guest check transfer changes ownership of the open check. It does not split past sales. The following table shows how a transfer appears for each server.
| Report Item | Outgoing Server | Receiving Server |
|---|---|---|
| Net sales and taxes | Removed from active sales totals. | Included in sales totals when the check is paid and closed. |
| Transfer counts | Transfer Out Check Total and Count. | Transfer In Check Total and Count. |
| Tips and payment | No tip recorded for the transferred check. | Payment and tip recorded when tendered. |
For more information on how employee revenue affects transfers, read MCE Employee Revenue Troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting
The following table covers common issues when transferring guest checks in Simphony.
| What You See | What to Check or Do |
|---|---|
| Not authorized to perform check transfer | Managers: review the receiving server's role permissions in Enterprise Management Console (EMC) > Personnel > Roles > Guest Checks. Role Option 45 covers transfers within the same revenue center, and Role Option 46 covers transfers between revenue centers. |
| Check currently open or locked on terminal | Ask the outgoing server to select Send or exit the check on the other workstation, then retry. |
| Checks merged rather than transferred | Start from a blank transaction screen before selecting Add/Transfer. |
| Cannot transfer between revenue centers | Managers: check the destination revenue center's Add/Transfer Revenue Center list and matching automatic service charge settings. |
Manager Shift Hand-Off Checklist
Managers should complete the following at a shift hand-off:
- Confirm all outgoing server checks are closed or transferred.
- Run the Employee Open Check Report and confirm no open checks remain for the outgoing server.
- Review the Employee Financial Report and confirm Transfer Out counts match the hand-off.
Need a Hand?
For a quick question or help with something that is not working as expected, the MICROS Center for Excellence (MCE) team can provide guidance and troubleshooting support. Get in touch with the team:
- Email: mcesupport@shift4.com
- Phone: 888.276.2108
- Live Chat: Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, at shift4.com/support
Helpful Information to Have Ready
Have the following available when you contact MCE about a guest check transfer:
- Business location and affected revenue center
- Business date, shift, and report name
- Check numbers or employee IDs associated with the discrepancy
- Reported Outstanding and Carried Over amounts
- Any error messages or unusual workstation behavior
- What you have already checked
Note: You do not need every item on this list. The MCE team can help you work through the issue with whatever information you have.
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