The landscape of payments is evolving rapidly, with real-time transactions becoming the standard members expect. For credit unions looking to embrace this future, integrating with modern payment networks is key.
FLEX Credit Union Technology is committed to helping credit unions navigate this change, and our integrations with key real-time payment providers, including those connected to The Clearing House's RTP® network, position you for success.
Launched in 2017, The Clearing House's Real-Time Payments (RTP®) network represents a significant advancement in the U.S. payments infrastructure.
It is an instant payments system designed for financial institutions of all sizes, offering immediate, 24/7/365 payment capabilities.
Unlike traditional systems like ACH that clear payments in batches, the RTP network clears and settles payments individually in real-time with immediate finality.
Always On: Transactions can be sent and received anytime, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Instant Funds Availability: Funds settle in seconds and are immediately available to recipients.
Irrevocable Payments: Once authorized and sent, payments can’t be reversed—adding certainty and reducing fraud risk (though a “request for return” feature exists).
Credit Push Only: The payer initiates the transaction, preventing unauthorized pulls.
Rich Data Messaging: Includes support for requests for payment and detailed remittance data.
High Transaction Limits: As of February 2025, payments up to $10 million are allowed.
Broad Access: Open to all insured U.S. depository institutions, with wide account coverage.
The RTP network was built to meet the criteria established by the Federal Reserve-sponsored Faster Payments Task Force. It is regulated under the FFIEC's Significant Service Provider (SSP) program, and The Clearing House's management is overseen by its boards, including an RTP Business Committee with diverse financial institution representation.
Adopting real-time payments via the RTP network offers numerous benefits for credit unions and their members:
Provides members with faster access to funds and more efficient payment options, enhancing satisfaction. Members don't have to wait for payroll, reimbursements, or transfers.
Streamlines processes like payroll, loan disbursements, and account-to-account transfers, reducing costs and complexities. It allows for automation of reconciliation and reduces dependency on batch-based systems.
Helps credit unions remain competitive by offering modern payment solutions sought by members.
Supports a wide range of payment scenarios across all customer segments, including P2P, A2A, B2B, and G2C. Common uses include earned wage access, merchant disbursements, and account-to-account transfers.
The RTP network has seen significant growth, demonstrating increasing adoption and member demand. According to The Clearing House:
These statistics underscore the growing importance and adoption of the RTP network in the U.S. payments landscape.
FLEX has built integrations with key providers that power real-time payments behind Corporate Credit Unions. If your Corporate CU uses any of the following providers—and you’re on FLEX—you’re already well-positioned to adopt real-time payments:
Alacriti – used by Corporate One
Aptys Solutions (PayLOGICS) – used by Alloya, Catalyst, Vizo Financial, and Volcorp
Pidgin – used by Corporate America
These integrations mean you can leverage your existing FLEX platform to access real-time payment capabilities quickly and efficiently.
FLEX Credit Union Technology is here to support your journey into real-time payments, including integration with The Clearing House's RTP network. We provide efficient solutions for digital transformation and sustainable growth, serving over 280 credit unions in 46 states.
Click the button below to download FLEX's FedNow and RTP Integration eGuide.