How to Use Auto-Generated Check Numbers

This article describes the Auto-Generated Check Number feature within the FORTH system. It is written for Debt Relief Service Providers (DRSPs) and standard users with access to settlement and accounting features within FORTH Pay.

This article is organized into the following sections:

• Overview
• Prerequisites
• How to Access
• How it Works
• Troubleshooting / FAQ
• Assistance

Overview

The FORTH platform automatically generates unique check numbers for Check-by-Phone and Remotely Created Checks (RCC) payments. This system reduces processing errors and prevents duplicate check numbers during settlement exception management. By ensuring every check transaction has a unique identifier, you avoid processing rejections and ensure correct payment posting. This automated process streamlines your settlement workflows and maintains banking compliance.

Prerequisites

Standard user access to the FORTH CRM with FORTH Pay enabled.

How to Access

1. Log in to the FORTH CRM
2. Click the Contacts tab and select a Client
3. Click Accounting in the navigation bar.

How it Works

1. Move a settlement offer to Completed and Accepted status.
2. Set the transaction type to Check by Phone.
3. The system automatically generates a unique 10-digit Check Number for each transaction. The last two digits increase incrementally from 00 to 99 for each payment within the term.

Example: For a settlement with check number 45149437 and three payments, the system will generate 4514943700, 4514943701, and 4514943702.

4. View the generated check numbers and bank details on the Completed Settlement Offer page.
   
5. Review the information within the Add/Edit Payment modal from either the Accounting tab or the Enrollments tab. 
   
   The system displays the following fields:

• Forth Pay Bank Name
• Forth Pay Bank Address
• Forth Pay Bank Routing
• Account Numbers
• Forth Check Number

IMPORTANT: Please stress the importance of using individual check numbers to your creditors. This is critical to ensuring that payments are applied correctly!

Troubleshooting/FAQ

• Can I exclude specific payments from this automated system?
  Yes. You can exclude payments scheduled for Chase, as Chase already uses unique check numbers.
• What should I do if a creditor cannot accept the full 10-digit check number due to character limits?
  Use the final numbers in the sequence that meet the specific length requirements of the creditor.
• Does this feature apply to all payment methods?
  No. This modification applies strictly to Check-by-Phone and RCC transactions within FORTH Pay.
• How do I ensure the creditor applies the payment correctly?
  Stress the importance of using individual check numbers to your creditors. This ensures proper application to the account.

Assistance

For further assistance, reach out to support@setforth.com.

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