ACH Returns and Disputes

Like credit card transactions, ACH transactions can be declined. When an ACH transaction is declined, it's called a return. ACH returns are typically initiated by the patient's bank and fall into two categories:

Administrative Returns: These typically result from errors in payment information or account issues. For example, incorrect routing or account numbers shouldn't be resubmitted. Some administrative returns can be resubmitted - such as insufficient funds - because the payment details were correct but funds weren't available at the time.

Disputes: ACH payments that the patient determines are invalid or unauthorized. These are similar to card chargebacks, but unlike chargebacks, ACH disputes cannot be challenged and are final. Never re-attempt disputed routing and account number combinations.

Most Common ACH Return Codes

Most Common ACH Dispute Codes