Can You Make a Payment Through Checking and Routing? How It Works Online
Written by
Marc Guberti
Edited by
Joe Evans, CFHC™
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Yes, you can make a payment through checking and routing numbers online in many situations. Instead of using a debit card, you enter:
- Your bank’s routing number
- Your checking account number
This type of payment typically runs through the ACH (Automated Clearing House) network.
According to the National Automated Clearing House Association (Nacha), ACH transfers process billions of payments annually for utilities, payroll, subscriptions and online purchases.
But not every online store allows it. Here’s when it works — and when it doesn’t.
At a Glance: Payment Through Checking and Routing
- Uses ACH (Automated Clearing House) network
- Requires routing and account number
- Often free or low-cost
- Common for bills and subscriptions
- Not accepted at every online retailer
What Is a Payment Through Checking and Routing?
A payment through checking and routing is an ACH debit. When you enter your routing and account number:
- You authorize the merchant to pull funds from your account.
- The payment moves through the ACH network.
- Funds transfer directly from your bank to the merchant’s bank.
The ACH network is governed by rules set by Nacha, which standardize how these payments are processed. This method is commonly used for:
- Rent payments
- Utility bills
- Loan payments
- Tax payments
- Government benefits
Where Can You Use Payment Through Checking and Routing?
1. Utility and Bill Pay Websites
Most utility companies allow ACH payments directly from your checking account. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau notes ACH payments are commonly used for recurring bills because they’re low-cost and reliable.
2. Government Payments
You can use checking and routing numbers to pay:
- Federal taxes through Internal Revenue Service Direct Pay
- State taxes
- Court fines
- DMV fees
3. Loan and Mortgage Payments
Many lenders allow ACH withdrawals directly from your checking account.
4. Some Online Retailers
A small number of e-commerce sites allow ACH checkout, but most major online retailers prefer debit or credit cards.
Why It Can Help You
- No debit card required
- Often no processing fee
- Avoids credit card interest
- Useful for recurring payments
ACH transfers typically cost merchants less than credit card processing fees, which is why many billers encourage this method.
What To Watch Out For
- Processing can take 1 to 3 business days
- Insufficient funds can trigger overdraft fees
- Entering incorrect routing numbers can delay payment
- Sharing bank details increases fraud risk
The Federal Trade Commission advises only entering bank account details on secure, verified websites.
Is Payment Through Checking and Routing Safe?
It can be, if you’re careful. ACH payments use encrypted banking networks, and federal law provides error resolution protections under Regulation E. However, unlike credit cards, ACH payments don’t offer the same chargeback protections.
Security tips:
- Confirm HTTPS in website address
- Avoid public Wi-Fi
- Never share routing numbers over email or text
- Monitor account statements regularly
How To Find Your Routing and Account Number
You can find them:
- On the bottom of a paper check
- Inside your bank’s mobile app
- Through online banking
Routing numbers are nine digits and identify your bank. Account numbers are unique to you.
Payment Through Checking and Routing vs Debit Card
Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Checking & Routing (ACH) | Debit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 1 to 3 business days | Usually instant |
| Fees | Often free | Usually free |
| Fraud Protection | Limited compared to credit cards | Card network protections apply |
| Convenience | Requires manual entry | Saved card checkout easier |
Can You Use Routing and Account Numbers at Checkout?
Sometimes, but not always. Most online retailers prioritize card payments because they’re faster and easier to verify. ACH is more common for:
- Subscription services
- Government payments
- Recurring billing
If the checkout page says “Pay with bank account” or “ACH transfer,” that’s where you’ll enter routing and account numbers.
Quick Decision Guide: Choosing the Right Payment Method
| Your Situation | Best Payment Option | Why It Makes Sense |
|---|---|---|
| Paying a bill or setting up recurring payments | Payment through checking and routing (ACH) | Often free, commonly accepted for utilities, rent, loans and taxes |
| Shopping at a typical online retailer | Debit or credit card | Most retailers don’t accept ACH at checkout |
| Want the strongest fraud protection | Credit card | Credit cards usually offer stronger dispute and chargeback protections than ACH transfers |
Final Thoughts to GO
A payment through checking and routing numbers is legitimate, widely used and often free. It works especially well for bills, government payments and recurring charges. But it’s not universal at online checkout — and it doesn’t offer the same fraud protections as credit cards.
Before entering your bank details, make sure the website is secure and trustworthy. When used correctly, ACH payments can be a simple, cost-effective way to pay directly from your checking account.
FAQ
If you’re considering making a payment through checking and routing numbers, here are answers to common questions.- Is it safe to pay with routing and account numbers online?
- It can be safe when using secure websites. ACH payments are protected under federal regulations, but they don’t offer the same protections as credit cards.
- Can I shop online using my checking account directly?
- Some merchants allow ACH payments, but many require debit or credit cards.
- How long does an ACH payment take?
- Most ACH payments take one to three business days to process.
- What happens if I enter the wrong routing number?
- The payment may fail or be delayed. Contact the merchant and your bank immediately if you notice an error.
- Is ACH cheaper than paying with a card?
- ACH payments are often free for consumers and cost merchants less than credit card processing fees.
Caitlyn Moorhead and Cynthia Measom contributed to the reporting of this article.
Rates are subject to change; unless otherwise noted, rates are updated periodically. All other information on accounts is accurate as of Feb. 20, 2026.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.
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- Bureau of the Fiscal Service "Automated Clearing House"
- Bureau of the Fiscal Service "Electronic Check Processing"
- Federal Trade Commission "Are Public Wi-Fi Networks Safe?"
- Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency "Multi-Factor Authentication"
- Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency "Use Strong Passwords"
