Stop Preauthorized Debit — Block Future ACH Pulls Before the Merchant Hits Again
What Is It?
Regulation E lets you stop certain preauthorized electronic fund transfers from your account by notifying your bank in time.
What Most People Don’t Know
- An oral stop-payment order can be enough initially if made at least three business days before the debit.
- The bank can require written confirmation within 14 days after an oral stop order.
- The bank must continue honoring the stop order for the targeted debit stream, not just the next single attempt, if the rule’s conditions are met.
Frequently Asked Questions
How late can I stop a recurring ACH debit?
A: Regulation E says you may stop a preauthorized EFT by notifying the institution at least three business days before the scheduled transfer.
Can the bank require written confirmation?
A: Yes. The institution may require written confirmation within 14 days after an oral stop-payment order.