Gathering Data
Enter transactions easily and automatically with ACH Universal. You can import files already in electronic format--or you can simply key them in.
The import (or 'source') data files typically would be created from within your accounting software. They may be as simple as Excel or CSV (comma delimited) reports, or they can be custom-written data dumps from third-party reporting packages, such as Crystal Reports.
The most popular choices for these files are:
•Comma-separate values (CSV) - recommended
•Excel spreadsheet
•Tab-delimited
Basic Importing
The advantage of the Basic ("On-The-Fly") method is that you can generate a one-time payment without being forced to set up a profile for a party you will not need in the future. If your system is capable of storing the bank account and ABA/routing numbers, this is the simplest method of importing.
This is an excellent method of populating data for non-recurring transactions, web server or other integration scenarios, where transactions are often made with new customers, employees and vendors.
You should be able to create an Excel or CSV file that contains all the required information:
•Name
•Account number
•ABA/Routing number
•Amount
•Checking or Savings indicator
These fields contain enough information to generate an electronic payment. If your data resembles this format, follow instructions for On-the-Fly or "Ad Hoc" File Imports.
Additional fields of information can be in your source document and then disregarded in the ACH software. Often these files contain the date and an ID number, for instance. You do not have to delete the additional data.
The order of the columns is not significant--ACH Universal has a mapping wizard.
If all of your transactions are to/from checking accounts, you do not need to map a column for Checking/Savings. The system will automatically default to checking.
If your transactions are mixed between checking and savings, include a Checking/Savings column for this with field entries "CHK" or "SAV".
Profile-Based Imports
Profile-based "lookups" are excellent for off-the-shelf accounting packages such as Peachtree and other systems that do not have the ability to store bank account and routing information.
In this scenario you would create profiles for each of your Customers, Employees and Vendors in the ACH software (yes, it is possible to import this information). Profiles are retained automatically by ACH Universal.
Profile-based imports make the transaction file very simple. The only fields required are an amount and a lookup field.
Should I Use Ad Hoc or Profile Based Importing?
The current layout of your data should determine whether you choose Ad Hoc imports or Profile lookups. The resulting ACH file will be exactly the same regardless of import method.
