If you would like a hassle-free way to collect payment quicker, reduce costs associated with paper checks, receive faster return notification, and reduce transaction and returned check fees, consider electronic check conversion (ECC). ECC allows you to process a paper check just like a credit card by converting it to an electronic item. Check information can be transmitted via electronic equipment at the point-of-sale (POS), over a telephone, or via the Internet to a national verification database where it is evaluated against negative information.

At Automated Merchant Systems, Inc. (AMS), we offer several ECC programs to meet the needs of any merchant:

Traditional merchants can take advantage of our reliable, integrated image capture and retrieval system for converting paper-based checks to electronic transactions at the POS. Using this method, merchants receive a response within seconds of converting a check. A receipt very similar to a credit card transaction is generated and the customer signs it, authorizing the electronic collection of funds. The check information is then stored and the transaction deposits are routed to the merchant's account within 48 to 72 hours.

This program offers both Web- and file-based input methods, as well as a comprehensive array of processing and reporting options to meet the needs of large call center operations and small independent operators.

With telephone check conversion, merchants obtain the customer's check information and authorization over the phone. The transaction is then entered using a special Web interface or the merchant's own POS software and transmitted via FTP, dial-up, Internet, or e-mail to a verification database where it is evaluated against bank routing number, account, and negative information. If the information is entered via the Web interface, a response is sent back to the merchant within seconds. The check information is then stored and the transaction deposits are routed to the merchant's account within 48 to 72 hours.

AMS offers an easy-to-use, Web-based interface for entering checks, as well as a comprehensive array of processing and reporting options to meet the needs of both small and large service-based businesses. The merchant has complete control of the timing and frequency of payment by the customer.

With recurring debit, a paper check is not available at the POS for every debit the customer authorizes. Merchants must obtain the customer's check information and authorization at the time of sale. The transaction is then entered using a special Web interface and transmitted via the Internet to a verification database where it is evaluated against bank routing number, account, and negative information. Within seconds a response is sent back to the merchant. The check information is then stored and the transaction deposits are routed to the merchant's account within 48 to 72 hours. When the next payment anniversary date arrives, the transaction is automatically processed again.

Our RCK program allows you to aggressively resolve unknown, closed and NSF accounts—improving collection rates. You control the submission, resubmission and fee assessment timing of NSF checks.

RCK conversion converts a previously presented paper-based check to an electronic transaction. The transaction is transmitted via FTP, Internet, or e-mail to a special database where it is evaluated against bank routing number, account, and negative information. The check information is then stored, transactions are processed and the transaction deposits are routed to the merchant's account within 48 to 72 hours.

With a wide variety of input methods, as well as straightforward reporting options to meet the needs of large and small companies accepting checks by mail and by box, AMS can streamline your check handling process.

Lock Box starts with the paper check. High-speed readers are typically used to convert the check to electronic data, which is transmitted via FTP, Internet, or e-mail to a special database where it is evaluated against bank routing number, account, and negative information. The check information is then stored, transactions are processed and the transaction deposits are routed to the merchant's account within 48 to 72 hours.

If you would like to learn more about how your company can benefit from electronic check conversion...