When a customer adds an ACH bank account in Homeworks, Stripe requires them to verify ownership of that account before it can be used for payments.
In most cases, the customer completes this verification themselves. However, if they're having trouble, you can use this guide to help walk them through Stripe's verification process.
How ACH Verification Works
Stripe uses one of two verification methods when a customer adds a bank account.
The method your customer receives is determined automatically by Stripe.
Option 1: Verify Using Micro Deposits
Stripe may send two small micro deposits to the customer's bank account.
How Your Customer Verifies
Wait for the two micro deposits to appear in the bank account.
Note the deposit amounts (for example, $0.02 and $0.11).
Return to the verification screen in the customer portal.
Enter both deposit amounts into the verification fields.
Once the amounts match Stripe's records, the bank account will be verified.
Note: The exact deposit amounts will vary for each verification.
Option 2: Verify Using a Stripe Verification Code
Instead of two deposits, Stripe may send:
A $0.01 micro deposit to the customer's bank account.
An email containing a secure verification link.
The bank transaction will include a six-character code beginning with SM in the transaction memo or descriptor.
How Your Customer Verifies
Open the email sent by Stripe.
Click the verification link.
Locate the six-character code in the memo or description of the $0.01 bank transaction.
Enter the code to complete verification.
Important: If your customer cannot find the email, have them check their spam or junk folder first.
If Your Customer Can't Find the Verification Email
If the Stripe verification email cannot be located, you can retrieve the verification link directly from your Stripe Dashboard.
Step 1: Open the Customer in Stripe
Open the customer's profile in your Stripe account.
Step 2: Confirm a Pending Payment Method Exists
Verify that the customer has a pending bank account payment method awaiting verification.
If no pending payment method exists, the customer may need to add their bank account again.
Step 3: Locate the Verification Event
Scroll to the Events section on the customer record.
Open the event that reads:
"SetupIntent XYZ requires you to take action in order to complete setup"
Step 4: Copy the Verification Link
Opening the event will display the Stripe Workbench.
Within the event details, locate the verification URL.
You can either:
Send the verification link directly to your customer.
Complete the verification on the customer's behalf if they provide you with the six-character verification code from their bank transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my customer receive a different verification method?
Why did my customer receive a different verification method?
Stripe automatically determines which verification flow is used. Some customers receive two micro deposits, while others receive a verification code and email.
How long does ACH verification take?
How long does ACH verification take?
Verification times depend on the method Stripe uses. Micro deposits typically appear within 1–2 business days, while verification code emails are usually sent shortly after the bank account is added.
What if the customer still can't verify their bank account?
What if the customer still can't verify their bank account?
If neither verification method works:
Confirm the correct bank account was added.
Have the customer try adding the account again.
Review the Stripe customer record for any pending verification events.
Contact Stripe Support if the verification request appears to be stuck.