ACH Direct Debit is now available as a payment method on invoices in ZipLeads. It works with one-time invoices, Text2Pay links and recurring invoices, including auto-payments.
What is the ACH Debit payment method on invoices?
The ACH Debit payment method lets you accept payments straight from your customers' bank accounts using ACH (Automated Clearing House) transfers. It's a simple, low-cost alternative to credit card payments, and it's especially handy for larger transactions. It works through Stripe, so it's available on the invoices you create in ZipLeads. This gives you and your customers a smooth way to pay.
With ACH Direct Debit, customers can authorise one-time or recurring payments from their bank accounts. This helps keep your cash flow reliable and means you rely less on manual payment reminders.
Key benefits of the ACH Debit payment method on invoices
Cost-Effective Payment Solution: ACH transactions usually have lower processing fees than credit card payments. This helps you save on transaction costs.
Enhanced Convenience for Customers: Customers can pay directly from their bank accounts without using a credit or debit card. This makes paying easier for them.
Seamless Integration with Stripe: Payments are processed securely and in line with compliance requirements. You can manage transactions and payment methods from your Stripe dashboard.
Supports Large Transactions: ACH payments suit high-value transactions. They avoid credit card limits and give you a secure way to take larger payments.
Auto-Payment for Recurring Invoices: You can turn on auto-payments for recurring invoices, so payments arrive on time without you lifting a finger.
How to set up the ACH Debit payment method on invoices
Enable ACH Direct Debit in Stripe:
Log in to your Stripe account.
Go to Settings > Payment Methods and make sure ACH Direct Debit is turned on for your account.
Connect Stripe to ZipLeads:
In ZipLeads, go to Settings > Integrations.
Click the Connect Stripe button and follow the prompts to log in and link your Stripe account.
Configure Payment Options for Invoices:
When you create an invoice, select ACH Direct Debit as a payment method option.
If it applies, turn on the Auto-Payment feature for recurring invoices.
Send Invoices to Customers:
Once setup is complete, your customers will see the ACH Debit option when they view their invoices.
They can enter their bank account details to authorise payments securely.
Monitor Payments in Stripe:
Use your Stripe dashboard to track ACH payments, sort out any failed transactions and update customer payment details when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there any fees for accepting ACH Direct Debit payments through Stripe?
Yes. Stripe charges specific fees for processing ACH Direct Debit payments, and these are different from standard card fees. For the latest pricing, check Stripe's official pricing page.
Q: Can I use ACH Direct Debit for recurring invoices with auto-payments turned on?
Yes. When you set up a recurring invoice, you can turn on auto-payments by toggling the auto-pay option while sending the invoice. Future payments will then be charged automatically on the scheduled payment dates.
Q: How can I choose which payment methods my customers see on invoices?
You can manage this in your Stripe dashboard. Go to Settings > Connect > Payment Methods in Stripe, select the right configuration (for example, Invoice or InvoiceWithAutopayment), then turn specific payment methods on or off.
Q: What should I do if an ACH Direct Debit payment fails because of insufficient funds or another reason?
If an ACH Direct Debit payment fails, Stripe will let you know why, such as insufficient funds or an invalid account number. It's a good idea to contact the customer to sort it out. They may need to update their bank account details or choose a different payment method.
Q: How can I save a customer's ACH bank account for future payments?
When a customer pays an invoice with ACH Direct Debit and selects auto-pay (if available), Stripe securely stores the bank account as a payment method on file for future use.
If auto-pay isn't selected, you'll need to use Stripe's customer management features to save the bank account manually. You can also ask the customer to pay using a payment link that saves their bank account by default (for example, a recurring payment setup).