ACH Processing vs. ACH File Export: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters for Your Business
When it comes to managing payments electronically, ACH (Automated Clearing House) is the backbone of secure, cost-effective transactions. But not all ACH methods are the same—and understanding the difference between ACH processing and ACH file export can have a major impact on how you control, secure, and streamline payments for your business.
Whether you’re a finance manager, bookkeeper, or business owner using QuickBooks Online, knowing which ACH workflow fits your needs is essential. Let’s break it down.
What Is ACH Processing?
ACH processing refers to a fully managed electronic payment workflow, where your payment platform automatically sends transactions to the ACH network on your behalf.
ACH processing looks like this:
- You input your vendor or employee payment info.
- The platform handles the transmission of the ACH payment directly to your bank.
- Funds are transferred electronically—typically in 1-3 business days.
Pros:
- Completely automated
- Saves time on manual bank uploads
- Ideal for users who prefer full outsourcing
Cons:
- Requires you to grant bank account access to the platform
- Less visibility or control over what gets sent and when
- May not meet compliance/security requirements for some companies
- Prefunding your account
What Is ACH File Export?
ACH file export is a self-managed ACH workflow where the payment platform (like Checkrun) generates a NACHA file (a standardized ACH file format), but you upload it to your bank manually.
With ACH file export here’s what you’ll do:
- You use a tool like Checkrun to manage your approvals and payment workflows.
- Instead of sending the payment automatically, Checkrun exports a bank-ready ACH file.
- You upload the file directly to your online banking portal.
- No prefunding required. That means you get to hold onto your cash longer!
Pros:
- More control over bank transmissions
- No need to share banking credentials with a third-party
- Easier to meet compliance, audit, and IT security standards
Cons:
- Requires an extra step of uploading the file
Why This Choice Matters for Your Business
Your choice between ACH processing and ACH file export depends on your business needs, compliance requirements, and internal controls.
For example:
- A business prioritizing convenience may lean toward ACH processing.
- A growing business with data security policies or a finance department that prefers bank control will benefit from ACH file export.
With Checkrun’s new ACH File Export feature, you now have both options—so you can choose what works best for your team, your risk tolerance, and your workflow.
ACH File Export + Checkrun: More Control, Same Seamless Workflow
Checkrun’s ACH File Export feature allows you to:
- Automate your payment approvals and scheduling directly from the platform
- Export a ready-to-upload NACHA file in just a few clicks
- Keep full control of what goes to your bank—and when
It’s the perfect solution for businesses that want the flexibility of automation with the security of manual bank submission.
Final Thoughts
The difference between ACH processing and ACH file export might seem small—but it can make a big difference in your business’s security, compliance, and payment control.
With Checkrun, you don’t have to choose between convenience and control. You get both. Want to see ACH File Export in action? Book a free demo and learn how Checkrun helps QuickBooks Online users pay smarter.
