Real-time payments (RTP) for small businesses refers to U.S. instant payment rails that move money and confirm settlement in seconds, 24x7x365, with immediate funds availability and finality. In 2025, two primary instant rails matter for small firms: the bank-owned RTP® network from The Clearing House (TCH) and the Federal Reserve’s...
How to Accept Instant Payments from Customers in Real Time
Accepting instant payments in real time isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore—it’s fast becoming the standard customers expect in the U.S. market. Whether you run a retail store, service business, marketplace, or B2B operation, being able to request, receive, settle, and confirm funds 24/7/365 can accelerate cash flow, reduce cart abandonment,...
What Are Real-Time Payments (RTP) and How Do They Work?
Real-time payments, often shortened to “RTP” or “instant payments,” move money and the related payment data between U.S. bank accounts in seconds, 24/7/365. Unlike traditional rails that batch and settle later, real-time payments complete clearing, settlement, and funds availability nearly instantly—with finality. In the U.S., two primary instant rails enable...