An eCheck, or electronic check, is a digital version of a traditional paper check used to transfer money electronically from one bank account to another. It contains the same information as a paper check, such as the payer's checking account number, bank routing number, and payment amount, but the transaction is processed electronically rather than manually

. eChecks operate through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network, which is an electronic payment system used by U.S. financial institutions to process payments securely and efficiently. When an eCheck is authorized, the payer's bank account is debited electronically, and the funds are transferred via the ACH network to the payee's bank account

. Key features of eChecks include:

• They are a type of electronic funds transfer (EFT) that mimics the process of paper checks but with faster processing and enhanced security

• The payee initiates the transaction by "pulling" funds from the payer's account, unlike direct deposits where the payer "pushes" funds

• eChecks can be used for various payments such as rent, mortgage, utilities, credit card payments, and business transactions

• They typically take 1-3 business days to process, depending on the banks and ACH network schedules

• eChecks often have more security features than paper checks, including encryption and digital signatures

In summary, an eCheck is a secure, convenient, and cost-effective digital payment method that electronically transfers funds from a payer's checking account to a payee's account using the ACH network, serving as the electronic counterpart to traditional paper checks