---
title: pause sale
description: "**Pause Sale** in [register by ability business](https://abilityregister.com/encyclopedia/register-by-ability-business/) allows a cashier to temporarily set aside an in-progress transaction and retrieve it later without losing any of the items already entered. This feature is designed to keep [checkout](https://abilityregister.com/encyclopedia/checkout/) lines moving while providing…"
url: "https://abilityregister.com/wiki-register/pause-sale/"
updated: "2026-08-04"
category: sell.
tags:
  - features
  - sell
---

# pause sale

**Pause Sale** in [register by ability business](https://abilityregister.com/encyclopedia/register-by-ability-business/) allows a cashier to temporarily set aside an in-progress transaction and retrieve it later without losing any of the items already entered. This feature is designed to keep [checkout](https://abilityregister.com/encyclopedia/checkout/) lines moving while providing a better customer experience.

## Benefits

- Reduces [checkout](https://abilityregister.com/encyclopedia/checkout/) delays when a customer needs to grab another item or locate a payment method.
- Keeps [checkout](https://abilityregister.com/encyclopedia/checkout/) lines moving by allowing the next customer to be served immediately.
- Prevents re-entering items, saving time and reducing errors.
- Improves customer service during busy periods.
- Provides flexibility during busy retail operations.

## Example

A customer is checking out but realizes they forgot an item in another aisle. Instead of holding up the line, the cashier pauses the sale, assists the next customer, and then resumes the original transaction when the customer returns.

## How It Works

1. Begin ringing up the customer's purchase.
2. Select **Actions > Pause Transaction**.
3. The transaction is saved and removed from the active [checkout](https://abilityregister.com/encyclopedia/checkout/) screen.
4. Start a new transaction for another customer.
5. When ready, navigate to **Menu > Paused Sales**.
6. Select the desired transaction.
7. Select Resume Transaction.
8. Continue where you left off.
9. Complete the sale as normal.

## Viewing Paused Sales Transactions

To access the list of paused sales:

**Menu > Paused Sales**

The Paused Transactions screen allows you to:

- Search by receipt number.
- Search for transactions by customer.
- Toggle the option to include locked sales.
- View all paused transactions.

The transaction list displays:

- Receipt Number
- Date
- Customer Name
- Transaction Total

(Insert screenshot of Paused Transactions screen here.)

## User Permissions & Settings

Navigate to: **Admin Dashboard > User Settings > Manage User Profiles**

Enable the following permissions for each desired user role. If these permissions are not enabled, the associated user actions will require Manager Approval.

### **Under Pausing**

#### **Pause Transaction**

Allows users to temporarily save an active sale and remove it from the [checkout](https://abilityregister.com/encyclopedia/checkout/) screen. Paused transactions can be resumed later without losing transaction details.

#### **Resume Transaction**

Allows users to retrieve and continue working on a previously paused transaction. All items and transaction information are restored so the sale can be completed normally.

### **Under Other**

#### **Cancel Transaction**

Allows users to cancel the current transaction before it is finalized. This permission is typically used when a sale is entered in error or a customer decides not to complete the purchase.

#### **Steal Locked Object**

Allows users to take control of a transaction or object that is currently locked by another workstation or user. This permission is useful when a transaction becomes inaccessible due to an unexpected shutdown, lost connection, or when another user leaves it open.

**Note:** The Steal Locked Object permission should be granted carefully, as it allows users to override locks placed by other users or workstations. It is recommended for managers or supervisors only.

- [receive/update inventory](https://abilityregister.com/wiki-register/receive-items-update-inventory-quantities/)
- [quick pick feature](https://abilityregister.com/wiki-register/understanding-the-quick-pick-feature/)
- [subscription info](https://abilityregister.com/wiki-register/subscription-and-pricing/)
- [customer selection field](https://abilityregister.com/wiki-register/customer-selection-field/)