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Choosing Your Perfect Redemption Method

Discover the options for redeeming tickets at your event based on specific needs and how your event is setup

Ticket Redemption Setup

During event setup, you’ll choose how tickets are redeemed:

  • Scan (Recommended)
    Each ticket is issued with a unique QR code that can be scanned for entry or redemption.

  • Self Check-In
    Tickets include a virtual check-in button. Fans press and hold the button for 3 seconds to automatically redeem their ticket.
    Note: These tickets are digital-only and cannot be printed. They must be accessed through the fan app or the magic link in the confirmation email.


Ticket Distribution Options

When setting up ticket levels and pricing, you’ll select how tickets are delivered to purchasers:

  • Digital & PDF Tickets (Recommended)
    Fans receive a printable PDF ticket via email and can also access a digital version in the app.

  • Digital Tickets Only
    Tickets are available exclusively through the fan app or magic link—no printable option.

  • No Tickets, Receipt Only
    Fans receive a confirmation email only, with no ticket issued. This option is commonly used for events like athletic tryouts or when check-in will be handled manually.


Redemption Methods:

Choose the method that works best for your event operations:

  • Online Scanning
    Use the free Hometown Gate app on a phone or tablet (iOS or Android) to scan tickets or manually check in.
    Requires Wi-Fi or cellular data.

  • Self Check-In
    No staff device required—fans can check themselves in using the in-app button.

    Best Practice: Keep the Gate App available for manual check-ins in case a fan cannot access their ticket (e.g., phone left at home or battery is dead).

  • Offline Scanning
    Best for areas with limited or no connectivity.

    • Download the guest list in advance while connected to the internet

    • Scan tickets offline during the event

    • Reconnect later to sync and upload check-in data

  • Manual Check-In

    The Gate App or Box Office is used to manually check-in attendees. Can be used for either self checkin-in or events set to scan. This option works especially well for receipt-only events where no tickets were issued but attendance still needs to be tracked, OR when a fan cannot access their ticket at the gate.


    Check in attendees directly from the Box Office:

    • Navigate to your event

    • Select Guest List under Box Office Tools

    • Use search bar to find a fan by name, email, phone or last 4 of credit card, or scroll through the list of fans

    • Select Check-In under the Actions column on the right to manually redeem the fan's ticket.

  • Check in attendees directly from the Gate App:

    • Log into the Gate App

    • Select the appropriate event

    • Select Find Ticket at the top of the screen

    • Use search bar to find a fan by name, email, phone or last 4 of credit card, or scroll through the list of fans

    • Select Check-In


The Hometown Gate App offers plenty of flexibility when it comes to redeeming tickets. The below graphic describes how to determine which option is best for your event and community.

Need More Help?

For step-by-step instructions on building an event, check out our full list of resources on events.

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