Overview

The ABA File feature allows firms to generate a bank upload file for EFT payments that have already been recorded in the system.

This removes the need for manual entry into online banking and reduces the risk of human error.

ABA files can be created for:

• Office account payments
• Client / Trust account payments

This guide focuses on the Office Cash Account, however the same process applies when preparing payments from the Client / Trust Cash Account.

ABA files can only be generated from within the relevant Cash Account screen. Payments must already be recorded using the EFT payment method before they can be included.

How ABA Files Work

Once EFT payments are posted:

• They appear in the Cash Account as payable transactions
• Users select the relevant transactions to include in a batch
• The system generates an ABA file
• The file is uploaded into the firm’s online banking platform for processing

This ensures:

• Faster payment processing
• Reduced manual input
• Improved accuracy and consistency

Preparing an ABA File

Step 1 – Access the Cash Account

• Navigate to Banking from the main navigation menu
• Select Office
• Click on the relevant Office Cash Account

The same steps apply for Client/Trust by selecting the relevant trust account.

Step 2 – Open Prepare Payment

• On the account details screen, click Prepare Payment

Step 3 – Confirm Payment Method and Date

• Ensure the Payment Method is set to EFT
• Update the Process Date if required

Only EFT transactions will be available for ABA file generation.

Step 4 – Enter Batch Description

• Enter a Batch Description for the payment run

This helps identify the batch when uploading to online banking.

Step 5 – Select Transactions

• Tick the checkbox next to each transaction to include
• To select all transactions, tick the checkbox in the header

Step 6 – Prepare Payment Batch

• Click Prepare Payment from the pop-up box

Step 7 – Download ABA File

• The ABA File Export screen will appear
• Click Download (bottom right)
• Save the file to a secure location

Outcome

• An ABA file is generated containing the selected EFT payments
• The file is ready to upload into your online banking platform

Client / Trust Account Payments

The same process applies when preparing ABA files for Client / Trust accounts:

• Navigate to the relevant Client / Trust Cash Account
• Follow the same steps outlined above

No additional steps are required - the workflow is identical.

Best Practices

• Confirm Payment Method
  Ensure all transactions are recorded as EFT before preparing the file
• Review Transactions Carefully
  Double-check amounts and payees before generating the ABA file
• Use Clear Batch Descriptions
  Helps identify payment runs in banking systems
• Secure File Handling
  Save ABA files in a secure location before uploading
• Avoid Duplicate Processing
  Ensure the same transactions are not included in multiple batches
• Validate Before Upload
  Always review the file in your banking platform prior to processing