Skip to main content

Now supporting payments via Bitcoin Lightning

Learn | Embedded Finance

What is a real-time payments (RTP) API?

An RTP API allows businesses and developers to automate the process of sending and receiving payments using the RTP network. The RTP network is used for immediate financial transactions in the United States with supported banks.

What are Real-Time Payments (RTP)?

Real-Time Payment (RTP) is a type of electronic payment that allows for the immediate transfer of funds between banks and financial institutions. Unlike traditional payment methods, which may take several days to process, RTP transactions are completed within seconds. This instant processing makes RTP ideal for urgent or time-sensitive transactions, including bill payments, business transactions, and peer-to-peer transfers.

Who operates the RTP Network?

The RTP network in the United States is operated by The Clearing House. This private-sector company provides the infrastructure necessary for financial institutions to execute real-time payments efficiently. The Clearing House's role is crucial in maintaining the speed, reliability, and security of the RTP system. Additionally, it works alongside regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with financial laws and standards.
The_Clearing_House_Logo

 

How do real time payments work?

When a payment is initiated, the payer's bank sends a secure message to the recipient's bank through the RTP network. This network, operating 24/7, swiftly processes the message, ensuring that funds are transferred and credited to the recipient's account within seconds. This process contrasts sharply with traditional methods, where transfers could take days.

The efficiency of RTP lies in its ability to instantly verify and process transactions at any time, including weekends and holidays. While the actual settlement between banks occurs later, it doesn't affect the immediate availability of funds, which is a significant benefit for time-sensitive payments. This system enhances the speed, convenience, and reliability of financial transactions, making it an increasingly popular choice for businesses and individuals alike.

RTP vs. Other Payment Methods

  • Speed: RTP transactions are completed within seconds, much faster than ACH payments or wire transfers.
  • Availability: The RTP network operates 24/7, allowing for transactions to be processed at any time, including weekends and holidays.
  • Security: RTP provides enhanced security features, reducing the risk of fraud in transactions.

How do RTP APIs work? 

Real-Time Payment APIs allow businesses and financial institutions to integrate RTP functionality into their systems. This integration enables the automation of payments, such as instant transfers for services rendered or immediate payroll processing. Cybrid's RTP API simplifies this process, offering a streamlined and efficient way to handle real-time transactions.
 
This automation eliminates the need to manually log into banking portals to verify each transaction, as the API manages these processes efficiently and accurately. Cybrid as simply created an RTP API to streamline payments!

Which banks have real time payments?

Many banks and financial institutions across the globe have adopted real-time payment systems to provide their customers with instant, 24/7 transaction capabilities. This includes a range of major banks, regional institutions, and innovative fintech companies. Each of these entities has integrated RTP capabilities into their services to varying extents, offering their customers the convenience of instant transfers and payments.

Cybrid is integrated into the RTP network, being able to process instant transactions.

How do I get started with the RTP API?

Cybrid can help your business enable real-time payments via API. Getting started is straightforward and developer-friendly. Our sandbox environment offers a risk-free platform for developers to test and understand the API's capabilities. This allows for seamless integration with existing systems and a clear understanding of how RTP can enhance your financial operations.

Once you're ready, our sales team will guide you through the pricing structure and contracting process, ensuring a solution tailored to your specific needs. Our team is committed to providing support every step of the way, from initial exploration to full implementation.

 

Learn more about Payment Operations.