The Evolving Landscape of ACH Payments: What's Next for Businesses?
This is the 4th blog post on our ACH payments series. Be sure to go back and check out our last three blogs on ACH Payments!
The payments industry is undergoing rapid transformation, with new payment technologies emerging to meet the evolving needs of customers and businesses. Understanding the key differences between payment options like ACH and real-time payments (RTP) is crucial for Maryland businesses to make informed decisions and stay competitive.
When you are ready to have a guide in this process to optimize your business and payments, be sure to contact VCS and let us do the work for you!
Real-Time Payments (RTP) vs. ACH: Understanding the Differences
While both ACH and RTP are electronic payment methods, they differ significantly in terms of speed and use cases.
- ACH payments are processed through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network and typically take hours or days to settle. They are commonly used for recurring payments, such as payroll and bill payments.
- Real-time payments (RTP), offered through networks like The Clearing House’s RTP and the upcoming FedNow, enable instant transfers of funds. RTP is ideal for time-sensitive transactions, such as peer-to-peer payments and urgent business payments.
According to the Federal Reserve, ACH payments accounted for 90% of the increase in noncash payments in 2021, highlighting its dominance in the market. However, RTP is rapidly gaining traction, with transaction volumes increasing significantly in recent years.1
The Rise of Real-Time Payments
The increasing demand for faster and more convenient payment options has fueled the growth of real-time payments. As consumers and businesses become more accustomed to instant gratification, RTP is expected to become the preferred payment method for many transactions.1
While ACH remains the backbone of many payment processes, the availability of real-time options will likely reshape the payments landscape. Businesses that can adapt to these changes and offer both ACH and RTP options can gain a competitive advantage.
Enhanced Security Measures
As technology evolves, so do the threats. The ACH network continues to invest in advanced security measures to protect against fraud and data breaches. Some of the emerging security enhancements to ACH payment processing include:
- Biometric authentication: Using fingerprint or facial recognition for added security to transactions.
- Blockchain technology: Integrating blockchain for increased transparency and security during business transactions.
- Artificial intelligence (AI): Utilizing AI-powered fraud detection systems to protect customers and businesses, alike.
To further strengthen ACH security, industry players are continuing to develop new fraud prevention strategies. For example, Nacha, the governing body for ACH payments, has implemented initiatives to combat fraud and protect consumers in 2024.2
Expanded ACH Use Cases
ACH payments are becoming increasingly versatile for businesses and organizations of all types. Beyond traditional use cases like payroll and bill payments, businesses can expect to see expanded ACH applications, such as:
- Peer-to-peer (P2P) payments: Facilitating seamless transactions between individuals and businesses.
- Cross-border payments: Enabling faster and more efficient international transfers.
- Supply chain financing: Optimizing cash flow through ACH-based financing options.
As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative use cases emerge, further expanding the reach and impact of ACH payments. Be sure to contact us and receive the latest in industry insights, or simply check out our Daily Dive feed!
The Impact on Maryland Businesses
Businesses can benefit from these advancements in ACH payment processing in several ways:
- Improved customer satisfaction: Faster payment processing and enhanced security can lead to increased customer loyalty because of the seamless transaction process they experience with your business or organization.
- Enhanced operational efficiency: Real-time ACH and automation can streamline financial processes and free your team to do more of what they love.
- Competitive advantage: Early adoption of new ACH capabilities can position businesses ahead of the competition. There are still businesses that only accept checks or cash payments for work performed. Needless to say, they’re not doing so well. Stay ahead of the curve with the help of Vault Consulting Solutions!
Preparing for the Future of ACH Payments
To stay ahead of the curve, Maryland businesses should:
- Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest ACH developments and industry trends.
- Partner with a trusted provider: Choose an ACH processing partner that offers advanced features and support.
- Embrace innovation: Be open to new ACH use cases and technologies.
The Role of Point-of-Sale Systems in ACH Payments
For many businesses, especially those in the retail and hospitality sectors, point-of-sale (POS) systems are the primary interface for customer transactions. Platforms like Toast and Clover have integrated ACH payment processing capabilities, allowing businesses to accept ACH payments directly at the point of sale.
By leveraging POS systems tailored to the industry, with advanced ACH functionalities, businesses can streamline operations, improve customer experience, and benefit from the advantages of ACH payments.
What is an ACH Payment
The future of ACH payments is bright, offering numerous opportunities for businesses to improve their financials and business operations, as well as improve customer satisfaction with a seamless transaction experience. By understanding the evolving landscape and adopting innovative solutions with the help of Vault Consulting Solutions, businesses in Maryland and throughout the United States can gain a competitive edge and drive growth. While Vault Consulting Solutions is located in Maryland, we are prepared to support your business, no matter the location!
Vault Consulting Solutions is committed to helping businesses navigate the present and future of ACH payments. Contact us today to learn how we can support your business’s payment processing success and save money!
References
- Plaid Technologies Inc. “Real-Time Payments vs. ACH: What Are the Differences?” Plaid, plaid.com
- Nacha – The Electronic Payments Association.
