An eCheck, or electronic check, is a digital version of a paper check that is transmitted electronically, making transactions quicker, safer, and easier. It contains the same information as a paper check, such as the checking account number, bank routing number, and payment amount, but the entirety of the transaction is managed digitally. eChecks use the Automated Clearing House (ACH) to direct debit from a customer’s checking account into a merchant’s business bank account with the help of a payment processor. The payee (the seller) is the one initiating the transaction, thereby “pulling” the funds from the payer’s (the customer’s) account.

To accept eCheck payments, a business must first obtain the customer’s information, including their bank routing and checking account numbers, which can be obtained online, by phone, or in person via a paper form. Once the funds are verified, the direct debit happens via ACH. eCheck payments help businesses keep payments coming in because checking account numbers rarely change as often as credit card numbers, so there’s less likelihood for payment breakage.

eChecks are transmitted electronically, making transactions quicker, safer, and easier. They are a secure payment method that transfers funds from a customer’s checking account into a merchant’s bank account using a payment processor. eCheck transactions are a type of ACH payment and transfer funds between bank accounts using the Automated Clearing House network.

eChecks are a good fit for companies that have recurring payment models, sell high-priced items or services, or simply want to support customers’ desire to pay electronically[[2]](h...