Accounts Payable & Receivable › Payment Runs
What is a payment file and how is it sent to the bank securely?
BeginnerAnswer
A payment file (e.g., NACHA, ISO 20022 pain.001, BACS) contains the batch of payment instructions. It's transmitted to the bank through secure channels—host-to-host, SFTP, or an online banking portal—often with encryption and dual authorization. Secure handling prevents tampering that could redirect funds.
Real-world example The approved run generates an ISO 20022 file uploaded via the bank portal and released by a second authorizer.