Card vs ACH for Contractors: Which to Use When

Cards and ACH both work for contractor payments, but they solve different closeout problems.

Use a card when speed matters

Card payment fits service calls and smaller jobs where the customer is present. The technician can collect immediately and send the receipt before leaving.

Use ACH for larger invoices

ACH usually costs less to accept, which matters on a large project balance. Send a secure pay link so the customer can choose bank transfer. For a worked example, see ACH and pay links for big HVAC tickets.

A simple rule

• Customer present and ready: offer Tap to Pay.
• Larger invoice: offer ACH through a pay link.
• Customer absent: send a job-linked pay link with both options.

The payment method can change without losing the job record. Keep the customer, amount, receipt, and paid status connected either way. See how it works for your trade.

Learn how to collect payment on the job site or review the complete contractor payment workflow.

FAQ

Is ACH better than a credit card for contractors?

ACH is often better for a large invoice because acceptance costs are lower. Cards are usually faster for in-person service-call payment.

For a trade where deposits and larger balances are common, see how to track roofing payments through final collection.