Could Square confirm the current Sandbox support for Checkout API CreatePaymentLink with checkout_options.redirect_url (API version 2026-09-16)? Our hosted preview disables card fields/Pay. The Test Payment simulator returns a completed payment with source_type: EXTERNAL.
The September 18 answer above recommends that simulator. The March 2023 staff answer said card entry and redirect testing were unavailable, while current Checkout guidelines describe card-only Sandbox testing.
Is there now a supported hosted Sandbox route for browser test-card entry, captured CARD payment, automatic customer return and matching order/payment readback? If yes, please provide exact supported steps. If any part remains unsupported, please identify the limits and recommended pre-launch acceptance procedure. We need hosted-checkout guidance; separate SDK/API test payments do not verify that journey. Instructions only; no transactions or account changes requested.