ACH Payments: How ACH payments can help to get you paid

ACH collections are revolutionizing the way businesses manage their receivables. It's not just about collecting payments on time; it's about collecting smarter, faster, and more securely.

In this article, we'll delve into exploring the mechanisms and benefits of ACH payments and collections. You'll learn how this innovative service can expedite your payment process, increase your cash flow, and enhance customer relationships. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to leverage ACH collections to your advantage and elevate your payment collection strategy to brand-new heights.

‍

What are ACH Payments?

Now, everyone is talking about how incredible ACH payments are, floating around terms like: “efficiency,” “security,” and “reliability”... But what exactly are they?

ACH payments, or Automated Clearing House payments, are electronic payments made through the ACH network. This network, managed by Nacha, connects over 10,000 financial institutions across the U.S., facilitating billions of transactions and trillions of dollars.

ACH payments are the digital answer to traditional payment methods like checks or wire transfers. They allow for the direct transfer of funds from one bank account to another. Whether it's used for paying your employees, settling invoices with suppliers, or even automating your monthly Netflix subscription, ACH payments have you covered.

The beauty of ACH payments lies in their automation. Once set up, these transactions occur without manual intervention. This means no more writing checks, no more postage fees, and no more waiting for payments to clear. It's a seamless, efficient process that keeps the wheels of commerce turning smoothly.

Now, let’s dive into what’s transforming the landscape of Accounts Receivable management: ACH collections.

What are ACH Collections?

ACH collections are a specialized service that leverages the ACH network to collect funds from accounts across any financial institution in the country. It's like having a digital key to a treasure chest of receivables, unlocking a more efficient way to manage your company's cash flow.

ACH collections work by scheduling one-time or recurring collections from a single payor or a group of payors. Think of ACH as a digital collector, tirelessly working to ensure your business gets paid on time, every time. It's a tool that's particularly useful for companies that need to receive regular payments such as membership fees, rent, donations, and other types of bills.

However, the benefits of ACH collections go beyond convenience. They're also a secure and reliable way to manage your receivables. In a world where financial security is paramount, ACH collections offer a level of protection that's hard to match. The transactions are processed electronically, reducing the risk of fraud and ensuring the integrity of your financial data.

So far, so good, right? A more efficient, safer, and simpler way to collect payments. But how does this translate into the real world? Let's look at some statistics.

‍

ACH Payments & Collections statistics

Here are some key statistics that highlight the growth and significance of ACH payments:

• In 2021, the ACH Network processed 29.1 billion payments, a 7.7% increase from 2020. The total value of these payments was $72.8 trillion, a 17.8% increase from the previous year. 

• The ACH Network processed 30 billion payments valued at $76.7 trillion in 2022, marking 3% and 5.6% increases, respectively, over 2021. This marked the tenth consecutive year in which the total value of ACH payments increased by at least $1 trillion. (source)

• The rate at which consumers turn to ACH payment solutions for their bill payments is on the rise, with a year-over-year growth rate of 9.16%.

• Business-to-Business (B2B) payments saw an 11.8% year-to-year increase in 2022, indicating a continued move away from checks. (source)

• ACH transfers can range from $0.20 to $1.50 per transaction, while wire transfers range from $10 to $35.

‍

Benefits of ACH Payments & Collections for AR Management

As we venture further into the digital age, the benefits of ACH payments for payment collection become increasingly apparent. They offer a trifecta of advantages: cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and security, all of which contribute to a more streamlined and effective collection process.

• Cost-Effectiveness: ACH collections are essential for your bottom line. They eliminate the need for paper checks and the associated costs of printing, mailing, and processing. Moreover, ACH transactions typically have lower fees than credit card transactions, making them a more economical choice for regular collections.

• Efficiency and Speed: Time is money, and ACH collections save you plenty of both. They automate the collection process, reducing the time spent on manual tasks like invoicing and follow-ups. Plus, ACH transactions are processed in batches, which means faster settlement times and improved cash flow.

• Security: ACH collections offer a high level of protection. They're regulated by Nacha and the Federal Reserve, ensuring compliance with stringent security standards. Electronic processing also reduces the risk of human error and fraud, providing both businesses and customers peace of mind.

• Consumer Trust: Beyond these tangible benefits, another crucial advantage is often overlooked: consumer trust. As consumers become more comfortable with digital payments, offering ACH collections can enhance your business's reputation for convenience and security. It signals your customers that you're keeping pace with technological advancements and prioritizing their needs and preferences.

‍

Wrapping up

It's clear that this service is more than just a convenient way to manage receivables. It's a powerful tool that can transform your AR collections process, making it more efficient, secure, and cost-effective.

And let's not forget about the trust factor. In an era where digital payments are becoming the norm, offering ACH collections can boost your reputation and foster customer trust.

So, are you ready to leverage the power of ACH collections? With Arrears, you can start harnessing the benefits of ACH payments and collections today. It's time to step into the future of Account Receivables Management.