Getting started
Getting started: install BankBridge
Install BankBridge on WordPress, activate your license and make your first Plaid Sandbox connection. What you need before you start, in five steps.
Last updated by the PluginLoom team
BankBridge installs like any WordPress plugin: upload the zip, activate it, add your license key, then add your Plaid keys. Most people make their first Sandbox bank connection in one sitting, because Plaid's Sandbox is free and needs no approval.
What do I need before I start?#
You need a WordPress site you can install plugins on, your BankBridge license key and zip file, and a Plaid account.
| Item | Where to get it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| BankBridge zip file | Your PluginLoom account, under Downloads | Always download the latest version |
| License key | Your purchase email and your PluginLoom account | One key covers the sites on your plan |
| Plaid account | dashboard.plaid.com (opens in a new tab) | Free to create; Sandbox is free |
| HTTPS on your site | Your host | Plaid requires HTTPS redirect URIs in Production |
| Admin access to WordPress | Your site | You need the install_plugins capability |
Recommended server versions: WordPress 6.9 or newer, PHP 8.3 or newer, and MySQL 8.0+ or MariaDB 10.11+. These follow the WordPress.org requirements (opens in a new tab) and WooCommerce server requirements (opens in a new tab). Older versions may work, but WordPress.org notes that PHP 7.4 has reached end of life.
How do I install the plugin?#
Upload the zip from the WordPress admin.
- In WordPress, go to Plugins > Add New Plugin.
- Click Upload Plugin and choose the BankBridge zip file.
- Click Install Now, then Activate.
- Open the BankBridge settings screen from the admin menu.
If your host blocks uploads, unzip the file and copy the folder into wp-content/plugins/ by SFTP, then activate it on the Plugins screen.
What should I do right after activating?#
Follow these steps in order. Each one has its own doc.
- Activate your license so the site can receive updates.
- Connect your Plaid keys, starting with Sandbox.
- Set up Plaid Link, including your OAuth redirect URI.
- Add your webhook URL so Plaid can send status updates.
- Turn on the integrations you use: WooCommerce, MemberPress or Elementor.
How do I test my first connection?#
Open a page where you placed a BankBridge connect button and use Plaid's Sandbox test login.
- Click the button to open Plaid Link.
- Pick any test institution.
- Log in with username
user_goodand passwordpass_good. Plaid's Sandbox docs (opens in a new tab) say every Sandbox institution accepts these. - Choose an account and finish the flow.
If Link does not open or shows an error, see Troubleshooting Plaid errors.
When am I ready for real customers?#
You are ready when your Plaid account is approved for Production and you have worked through the going live checklist. Until then, keep the plugin in Sandbox mode.
Sources#
Checked October 23, 2026.
- WordPress.org, Requirements (opens in a new tab)
- WooCommerce, Server requirements (opens in a new tab)
- Plaid, Sandbox (opens in a new tab)
Plaid is a trademark of Plaid Inc. BankBridge is an independent plugin and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Plaid.
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