ACH Return Code R17

The ACH Return Code R17 code means a transaction is "questionable" because of suspicious activity. NACHA sets these rules to help banks spot problems with ACH transactions.

Understanding these codes helps you deal with electronic payments in the U.S. It makes sure your financial dealings are clear and smooth.

What Is an ACH Return Code

An ACH return code is a standard way to tell why a payment was rejected or returned. It comes from the bank that received the payment, called the Receiving Depository Financial Institution (RDFI). These codes help banks explain why payments failed in the ACH network.

In ACH payments, each code points to a specific problem. This lets both the bank that sent the payment and the RDFI handle returns better. These codes make fixing errors easier, keeping electronic payments reliable.

What Is ACH Return Code R17

The ACH return code R17 means "File Record Edit Criteria." It tells you that the bank can't process a transaction because of formatting mistakes or other issues. This code is not common but was used more in 2019 to flag suspicious transactions.

When a bank returns an R17 code, they must say "QUESTIONABLE" in the note. This helps you tell apart these cases from simple mistakes, like wrong account numbers.

An R17 code needs your quick action, as fixing it usually takes two banking days. Quick action helps avoid problems and keeps good relations with banks.

How to Fix ACH Return Code R17

Fixing ACH Return Code R17 starts with finding the problem fields in the transaction. Look at the Addenda Information field in the return for clues. This field can tell you what needs fixing.

After finding the errors, fix the transaction details. This might mean correcting wrong entries or formatting issues. Once fixed, you can re-enter the transactions. Make sure all changes are correct to avoid more R17 errors.

Talking to the Receiving Depository Financial Institution (RDFI) can also help. They can guide you through troubleshooting and offer solutions. This can make your transactions smoother and more efficient. With careful work, you can keep your financial workflow healthy.