What is an eCheck?

May 3, 2023 | Payments

An eCheck or electronic check is an electronic version of a paper check. Instead of paying with a traditional check, the payment processes online through Automated Clearing Houses, also called ACH.

To complete the electronic check transaction, customers who select an eCheck as their payment option enter their bank routing and checking account numbers.

Ready to accept payments anytime, anywhere?

Name *

First

Last

Email *

Phone *

Company Name *

Where is Your Business Registered?

Have you accepted payments previously?

How does your business primarily accept payments?

How To Process with eChecks

Processing with an eCheck is simple and costs much less than credit cards. Here’s how to do it:

The merchant uses their standard payment gateway
The gateway encrypts the banking information
The payment info travels between merchant and customer banks
Funds exit the customer’s account through the ACH network
Money deposits into the merchant account

This alternative to traditional, recurring payment or electronic payment options is a convenient way to process credit card payments online.

eChecks and Payment Processing

eChecks are short for electronic checks. Much like debit cards, they transfer money from one account to another. Echecks are multifunctional; they can pay online bills and digital invoices.

Moreover, electronic checks are considered a reliable and safe means for small and large businesses to transact through e-commerce channels. Much like a paper check, the same information is entered electronically and shared through bank accounts.

eChecks Verification

One of the benefits of paying with eChecks is their ability to verify the information. You can send them anywhere, anytime, and make sure they process when you want.

Comparing to Standard Checks

With standard checks, a merchant may hold on to funds and cash the check at an inopportune moment. With eChecks you can also keep track of your account details and find when and where money has left your account to make a payment.

Are eCheck Payments Safe?

Electronic payments are standard in this day and age. From online shopping to electronically paying bills, there is a great need for secure and reliable payment processing through electronic means. eChecks offer an efficient way to transfer funds from payer to payee. But are they safe?

Electronic checks are steadily growing in use. While many people are not hesitant to enter their credit or debit card information online, some pause to consider whether or not eChecks are safe. It may be surprising to learn that eChecks are one of the safest types of online payments. In fact, they may be safer than traditional checks.

How To Pay With eCheck

Paying with a paper check increases your risk of fraud. More people come into contact with a paper check through the payment process. Therefore, making it a high risk of fraud or criminal activity. With eChecks, fewer people come into contact with sensitive financial information. Routing numbers and account numbers send directly to the payee’s financial institution. This protects both the small business and the consumer.

eCheck Processing

Part of what makes eChecks so secure is the payment process. eChecks move through four stages: authorization, processing, finalization, and deposit.

The authorization stage protects the payer by ensuring the transaction is valid.
Processing involves a funds transfer between one bank account and another.
Finalization verifies that all account information is accurate.
The deposit stage completes a successful transaction. Both parties receive alerts that the payment has been completed.
A receipt provides the final documentation for the eCheck transaction.

Accept eCheck Payment

Many businesses may find it easier to accept eChecks than paper checks. If merchants receive a paper check with missing information, such as a date or signature, processing the payment and clearing the deposit can be a headache. With electronic checks, incomplete or invalid information halts the transaction. Consumers have the chance to rectify any issues before the transaction starts.

How To Receive An Electronic Check

Looking for a way to receive eChecks? First, you’ll want a payment processing provider versed in online transactions. Find a processor who specializes in dealing with eChecks. They can walk you through the details and set up your account with this game-changing tool. Contact us to open a merchant account and apply for an electronic check payment for your e-commerce site.

eCheck transactions benefit all parties involved. This is mainly because of the transaction’s faster speed and increased security. With encrypted and secure information traveling between parties, they are safer and more reliable. So businesses that use payment processing software and echeck payment gateways benefit from accepting eChecks. This software can automatically detect fraud and flag suspicious transactions.

Customers enjoy peace of mind knowing their payments are processed securely and information passes directly to the financial institution. They do not have to fear their check and sensitive information falling into the wrong hands.

Finally, eChecks allow merchants to offer a broader range of payment options. With more options, businesses can increase their chances of making a sale and provide added convenience to their customers.

Get started today excepting eChecks https://signaturepayments.com/contact/