R33

What Is ACH Return Code R33?

ACH return codes are used to identify the reason an ACH payment has been returned by the recipient's bank. They make it easier for originating and receiving financial institutions to spot and communicate payment failures.

ACH Return Code R33, also known as "Return of XCK Entry," is a standard code used in Automated Clearing House (ACH) transactions. This code indicates the return of an entry that was originally an XCK (Converted Check) entry, most likely because the original check was destroyed, damaged, or lost making it’s image unprocessable.

How To Address ACH Return Code R33

Nacha prescribes separate rules for handling each return code since each one represents a unique scenario. ODFIs (Originating Depository Financial Institutions) and RDFIs (Receiving Depository Financial Institutions) are responsible for handling ACH return codes according to these rules.

An XCK entry refers to a check that was converted from a paper check to an ACH entry for electronic processing. If an issue arises with the converted entry, such as insufficient funds or account closure, the RDFI can return the entry using ACH Return Code R32. The RDFI must return the transaction with code R33 within 60 calendar days.

If you encounter R33, unfortunately there is not much that you can do, outside of reaching out to your customer for an alternate payment method. As far as processing or re-processing the check, the customer will need to work that out with their bank directly.

What Is An ACH Return Code?

ACH return codes identify the reason an ACH payment was returned by the recipient's bank. They make it easier for originating and receiving financial institutions to spot and communicate payment failures. Each code begins with 'R' followed by a two digit number. ACH return codes are standardized and maintained by NACHA, the governing body for the ACH network.