Posted by NationalACH on Jul 14, 2016
Considering using ACH as a payment method- Here are the benefits

If you’re looking for an alternative payment method to offer your customers, you might have considered using ACH payments. Electronic payments are becoming increasingly popular among consumers and merchants alike. Many Americans now prefer to pay electronically rather than using a paper check.  

This is confirmed in research from the Federal Reserve, which shows the use of paper checks is on the decline. That fact shouldn’t be surprising because, as detailed below, there are some major disadvantages to using paper checks.

  • It’s easy to mislay a check
  • They can get lost in the post
  • They take longer to clear
  • Some consumers are careful about writing them as they are worried over possible fraud
  • Others are concerned about the environment and want to go paperless where they can
  • Many businesses aren’t accepting checks as a payment method anymore

What is an ACH payment?

An ACH payment or E-check is an easy way for a consumer to pay their bills or for purchases electronically.  ACH can be used for one time or recurring transactions.  

With ACH, money is electronically debited from buyers' bank accounts.  Funds are automatically settled to your business bank account.  

Benefits of Accepting ACH Payments

Here are some of the main benefits of accepting ACH or electronic payments.

Recurring payments

There aren’t many business owners that wouldn’t appreciate having fewer things on their to-do list. When you sign up to accept an ACH payment, you’re offering your customers a simple way to pay on a recurring basis.  To help your business run even more smoothly, you can ask your merchant processing provider to automate any invoices so they’ll be sent out on your behalf – meaning less work for you.

More efficient than checks

Choosing to accept ACH payments is quicker than waiting for a check to clear. Although times can vary, typically, an ACH payment can take as little as 2 to 3 working days. However, it can take up to five business days on some occasions.  This will aid cash flow and enable faster settlements for outstanding bills.

Ability to offer alternative payment methods

Consumers love choice - so offer them as many payment options as possible. Many merchants concentrate on credit card and cheque payments, but with the declining popularity of checks - and with the reluctance of some consumers to provide their credit card details online - an electronic transfer in the form of an ACH payment will give them a greater choice.

Lower costs

Fees for ACH payments are less expensive than processing credit cards. If, like most merchants, you want a simple method to reduce your business overheads and increase profits, ACH payments could be an ideal choice.

Added security

ACH payments offer both you as a merchant and your customer an added layer of confidence and security.  There is no need to worry about the possibility of signature forgery.  And, the payments will go through a verification process before they go ahead, thus protecting both you and the consumer.

Fast notification of payment problems

You will also be notified quickly if there is problem with a payment. This means you can spend less time worrying if a credit card or check payment is going to go through, which will help to reduce some of the stress that can be associated with running a business.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many benefits to you as a merchant and to your customers when you opt to receive payments electronically.

Offering ACH payment as a payment method will provide your customers with greater choice and convenience. While increasing your cash flow, lowering your operating expenses, and automating your business operations.  

How are you accepting electronic payments from your customers?  

Contact info@NationalACH.com today