ACH Transfer

ACH Transfer, or Automated Clearing House transfer, is a payment method introduced in Bisq v1.8.0. It is primarily used for domestic, low-value payments between participating financial institutions in the United States. Along with domestic wire transfers, ACH is one of the two primary bank transfer methods used in the US.

Quick Facts

• Supported Countries: United States only.
• Supported Currencies: USD only.
• Maximum Trade Duration: 5 days (though most complete within 1–2 business days).
• Trade Limits: 0.0624 BTC.
• Account Signing: Not required.

SECURITY WARNING: Never confirm micro-deposits for a Bisq trade.

Some banks verify external accounts using micro-deposits (small transfers of a few cents). If a trade partner initiates micro-deposits, they are likely attempting to "link" your account to theirs. In the ACH system, a linked account may allow the other party to debit (withdraw) funds from your account without further authorization.

• Sellers: If you receive micro-deposits, do not verify the amounts for the buyer.
• Buyers: Do not use "Direct Deposit" setup methods; use standard "Third-Party Transfer" or "Bill Pay" features.

Account Setup & Limits

Is my bank compatible?

Not all banks offer third-party ACH transfers. Many banks only allow ACH transfers to other accounts you own. Before trading, verify that your bank supports "Third-Party ACH Transfers" or "External Transfers" to individuals. If your bank insists on micro-deposit verification, it is likely not a true third-party transfer service.

Fees and Limits

• Fees: Usually low-cost or free, but some banks charge for "Same Day ACH" or expedited delivery. Always check your bank's fee schedule.
• Transfer Limits: Your bank likely has daily or monthly "External Transfer" limits. Ensure these limits accommodate your Bisq trade size before opening an offer.

Adding ACH Transfer to Bisq

To add your ACH account to Bisq:

1. Head to the top menu and select Account.
2. Choose National Currency Accounts.
3. Click on Add new account.
4. Select ACH.
5. Fill in the necessary details (Routing Number, Account Number, etc.).
6. Account Name: You can set a custom name (e.g., "ACH - Chase - Jane Doe") to help you stay organized. This name is only visible to you.
7. Click Save new account.

Note: Ensure all details are accurate. Sellers can only confirm payment if the name associated with the incoming ACH transfer matches the account name listed in Bisq.

How to Trade with ACH

Buying BTC

1. Make or take an offer on the USD market.
2. Once the trade is confirmed, Bisq will provide the seller's ACH details.
3. Send the payment through your bank's portal immediately.
4. Payment Reference: Leave this blank. If your bank requires one, only use your name. Never mention "Bisq," "Bitcoin," or "Crypto."
5. Click Payment Started in Bisq.

Selling BTC

1. Make or take an offer to sell BTC on the USD market.
2. After confirmation, Bisq will provide the buyer with your ACH details.
3. Wait for the buyer to send the payment and click "Payment Started."
4. Verify the funds: Once the funds arrive in your bank account, click Confirm Payment Received to release the BTC.
5. Security Note: If you receive small "micro-deposits" instead of the full trade amount, do not communicate those amounts to the buyer.

Dispute Resolution

If a dispute occurs, the mediator may ask the buyer to provide proof of payment (e.g., a PDF receipt) showing the correct amount and recipient details. The mediator may also ask the seller for a redacted statement to prove their account details or to show that a payment was not received.

For more information, see dispute resolution.