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When a Paper Check and Electronic Entry Collide
The ACH network gives businesses a faster way to recover bounced checks through RCK (Re-Presented Check Entries). Instead of physically trying to redeposit a bad check, you can submit it electronically and speed up the collection process.
But what happens if the original paper check is deposited at the same time as the RCK electronic entry?
That’s when you’ll see ACH Return Code R53.
Let’s walk through what R53 – Item and RCK Entry Presented for Payment means, why it happens, and how to fix the situation when it comes up.
What Does ACH Return Code R53 Mean?
ACH Return Code R53 stands for:
“Item and RCK Entry Presented for Payment.”
Here’s the NACHA definition:
R53 – Item and RCK Entry Presented for Payment: Both the original paper check and the RCK (Re-Presented Check) electronic entry were presented for payment at the same time, creating a duplication that the bank must reject.
In simple terms: the customer’s bank received two versions of the same check—one through the traditional paper system and one through ACH—and it can’t process both.
Why Would an R53 Return Happen?
There are a few common reasons for this type of return:
The original paper check was deposited physically by the customer, merchant, or bank after an RCK entry was already created
A delay in processing caused the paper check and the electronic entry to hit the account at the same time
Miscommunication between departments or systems at the bank handling the check
The customer accidentally redeposited the original check through a mobile app or ATM after it had already been electronically re-presented
Regardless of the cause, banks are required to reject one of the entries to prevent a double payment from the customer’s account.
How to Handle ACH Return Code R53
Here’s what to do if your payment is returned with an R53 code:
How to Handle ACH Return Code R52
Here’s what to do if you receive an R52 return:
1. Identify the Duplicate
Recognize that the stop payment applies to the original check and all re-presented entries tied to it. You cannot attempt to collect that particular check again through RCK.
2. Contact the Customer (If Appropriate)
If the customer accidentally redeposited the paper check (especially through mobile banking), it may be helpful to reach out and explain what happened. Reassure them that no extra payment will be pulled and discuss next steps if payment is still needed.
3. Determine Whether the Check Was Paid
Sometimes the paper check clears and the RCK is rejected—or vice versa. Find out which version actually resulted in cleared funds.
4. Resubmit If Necessary
If neither version of the check cleared and you still need to collect payment, you’ll need to make new payment arrangements. Do not simply resubmit the same RCK—create a fresh transaction or request another form of payment.
How to Avoid R53 ACH Returns in the Future
While you can’t control every situation, here are a few ways to minimize the risk of R53 returns:
Secure the original check immediately after initiating an RCK entry
Mark checks clearly as “Processed Electronically” once they’re scanned
Educate staff and customers not to reattempt deposit of a check that’s being handled electronically
Use ACH providers that offer tools to help manage RCK processes carefully
Follow up promptly after check returns to complete the re-presentment process before confusion can occur
Clear communication and careful check handling are your best defenses.
Get ACH Payment Processing with Durango merchant Services
ACH Return Code R53—“Item and RCK Entry Presented for Payment”—means the same check was submitted twice: once as a paper check and once as an electronic RCK entry. It’s not a serious compliance violation, but it does mean you’ll need to work quickly to sort out the duplicate and make sure payment collection stays on track.
At Durango Merchant Services, we help businesses build smarter ACH processes—from basic billing to advanced check handling and re-presentments. Whether you process a few checks a month or hundreds, we’ll help you minimize returns and keep your cash flow steady.
