R33

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High-Priority Return Code

This ACH return code is unique because it's entirely at the receiving bank's discretion. R33 applies specifically to XCK (Converted Check) entries, which occur when paper checks are scanned and converted into electronic ACH transactions. Unlike other return codes that indicate specific errors, R33 means the receiving bank simply chose to return the converted check entry for reasons they determine appropriate, potentially including check eligibility issues or internal policies.

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Error message: "The RDFI determines at its sole discretion to return an XCK entry."

What Causes ACH Return Code R33?

The R33 ACH return code means "Return of XCK Entry" and indicates that the receiving bank has exercised its discretion to return a converted check entry. XCK entries are created when businesses scan paper checks and convert them into electronic ACH transactions instead of physically depositing the checks, a process called check truncation.

R33 returns occur when the receiving bank determines that the converted check entry should be returned, regardless of the specific reason. This could be due to the original check being ineligible for electronic conversion, damaged or unclear scanning, missing endorsements, or simply the bank's internal policies regarding converted check processing.

Can You Retry R33 Payments?

You typically cannot retry R33 payments using the same XCK entry format, since the receiving bank has made a discretionary decision to reject converted check entries. You may need to process the original paper check through traditional deposit methods or contact your customer for an alternative payment method altogether.

Common Causes

Original check was ineligible for electronic conversion under NACHA rules

Check image was damaged, unclear, or improperly scanned during conversion

Missing or improper endorsements on the original check

Receiving bank's internal policies against accepting certain XCK entries

Check conversion violated specific formatting or technical requirements

Key Information

Return timeframe: Up to 60 days after settlement date

Entirely discretionary - receiving bank chooses to return the entry

Specific to XCK (converted check) entries only

Handled primarily at the banking level, not merchant level

May require alternative payment method from customer

How to Respond to an R33 Code

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An R33 return indicates the receiving bank chose to reject your converted check entry, requiring coordination with your bank and potentially seeking alternative payment methods from your customer.

When Your Customer's Payment Fails

Contact Your Bank First
Reach out to your financial institution to understand the specific reason the receiving bank returned the XCK entry and explore resolution options.
Review the Original Check
Examine whether the paper check met NACHA eligibility requirements for electronic conversion and was properly scanned and processed.
Do Not Retry the Same Entry
Avoid resubmitting the identical XCK entry, as the receiving bank has made a discretionary decision to reject it.
Explore Alternative Payment Methods
Contact your customer to arrange payment through a different method, such as traditional check deposit, ACH credit/debit, or other payment options.

Email Template

Subject: Check Processing Issue - Alternative Payment Method Needed

Hi [Customer Name],

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We encountered an issue processing your check payment electronically. The receiving bank has returned the converted check entry, which is handled at the banking level and not related to your account status.

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We're working with our bank to understand the specific reason for this return. In the meantime, we may need to arrange an alternative payment method to complete your transaction.

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We'll contact you shortly with options, which may include traditional check processing or electronic payment through a different format. This situation is not uncommon and should be resolved quickly.

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Thank you for your patience,

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[Your Company Name]

When Your Payment to Vendors Fails

An R33 return on vendor payments means you attempted to convert a vendor's check into an electronic ACH payment, but the receiving bank rejected the converted entry. This requires processing the original check through traditional banking methods.

Contact your bank to understand why the XCK entry was returned by the receiving institution
Process the original paper check through traditional deposit methods at your bank
Verify that future check conversions meet NACHA eligibility requirements
Consider alternative payment arrangements with the vendor if check conversion continues to be problematic