---
title: Partner-managed ACH processing
slug: concepts/cards/issuing-models/partner-managed/partner-managed-ACH-processing
description: Partner-managed card programs using the FBO pooled account model can send and receive ACH payments through Cross River using unique prefixes to route transactions accurately.
docTags: 
createdAt: 2026-03-25T07:18:57.828Z
---

## Originate and receive ACH payments

Partner-managed card programs under the [FBO pooled account model](docId\:Z5zkbYq_txaz_1bVhxbYG) can use Cross River to originate and receive ACH payments. Cross River maps partner-managed customer accounts to the program's FBO account using external account prefix , enabling ACH payments to flow through that account.

## How it works

Partner-managed customer accounts do not exist individually in COS in the FBO pooled account model. Instead, Cross River uses account number prefixes to route ACH payments to the correct FBO account.

**Key mechanism:** You reserve account number ranges using 4-to-7-digit prefixes assigned to your program. COS matches the prefix to your FBO account and routes ACH payments accordingly.

## Inbound ACH

Cross River receives ACH payment instructions from the Federal Reserve. These instructions include transactions for partner-managed account numbers that do not exist as individual accounts in COS.

**Process:**

1. FED sends instructions to Cross River containing ACH payment
2. Payment includes partner-managed account number
3. COS reads the prefix (e.g., 1234) and matches it to partner's FBO account
4. COS posts the inbound ACH to the FBO account
5. You receive ACH instructions from Cross River via API or files, depending on your integration.

You must reconcile inbound ACH with your external ledger and update customer balances accordingly. FBO balances are updated as payments post in COS.

You are required to include ACH activity in the transaction detail file you provide to Cross River for transaction monitoring. Like with all other transactions, ACH transaction records must include the user and card token associated to the customer in COS.

## External prefix configuration

You must work with your Cross River representative to:

1. Reserve account number prefixes for your program
2. Map prefixes to the correct FBO account in COS
3. Define prefix length (4-7 digits)
4. Document account numbering scheme

**Important:** Prefixes must be unique within Cross River's system to avoid routing errors.

## Related topics

- [Balance and ledger models](docId\:Z5zkbYq_txaz_1bVhxbYG): Understand how ACH integrates with your balance model
- [Reporting and compliance](docId\:i4b_iqAVcQFp9m1611twC): Daily transaction file requirements