What is ACH?
The ACH Network processes two types of transactions: Direct Deposits and Direct Payments. Whenever you provide your account number and routing number to authorize a Direct Deposit or Direct Payment, you are utilizing ACH.
You may use Direct Deposit for payroll, social security or other deposits into your account. Direct Payment is another form of ACH where you use funds to make a payment.
What’s changing?
Debit transactions are now processed multiple times per day. This change affects all U.S. financial institutions. Previously, ACH transactions could have taken 1-2 business days to process. Now, the same transactions may process the same day you authorize them.
How does this affect me?
Certain payments made by writing a paper check, by phone, and paid online could clear your account on the same day you write the check or authorize the payment, so funds may leave your account sooner than expected. It is unlikely that you will continue to experience the one business day delay that you have become accustomed to. It is important to make sure that you have the funds available in your account before you make an in-person, online or telephone payment to avoid an overdraft on your account.
What are the benefits of Same Day ACH debits?
It will be easier to make bill payments on time, and it will be easier to move money between accounts that you own at different financial institutions. Your available account balance will be more accurate throughout the business day, making budgeting and keeping track of your finances much easier.
