R21 ACH return code: Invalid Company Identification
What R21 means
On a customer-initiated bill payment (a CIE entry), the company identification number is not valid.
R21 key facts
| Official title | Invalid Company Identification |
|---|---|
| Returned by | Receiving bank (RDFI) |
| Time frame | 2 banking days The receiving bank must send the return so that it reaches the sending bank by the opening of business on the second banking day after the payment settled. |
| Applies to | Business accounts |
| Can you send it again? | Only after you fix the reason for the return. Under the general Nacha rule, a returned payment may be sent again within 180 days if you have corrected the problem. |
| Type of return | Standard return |
Why R21 happens
- The biller ID in the bill payment does not match the receiving company.
What to do next
If you sent the payment
- Check the company identification number with the biller and correct it.
Got a return file from your bank? Open it in the ACH file viewer to see the code next to each payment.
Sources
- FedGlobal ACH Payments Origination Manual, Federal Reserve Financial Services
- 2024 ACH Quick Reference Guide, EPCOR
- ACH Return, NOC and Transaction Codes, Commerce Bank
- ACH Return Reason Codes and Time Frames, CBS Bank
General information, not legal or financial advice. Rules change and banks set their own requirements. Check with your bank before you act. ACH Forms is not affiliated with Nacha.