Electronic Transfer of Funds

10.4 - Electronic Transfer of Funds (Rev. 4, 10-01-01) CMS, in conjunction with the Department of Treasury, may utilize electronic funds transfers. Interim and other types of payments are electronically sent to HMO/CMPs through the Automated Clearing House (ACH). This process improves the efficiency of Federal financial management and also benefits the HMO/CMPs. The ACH provides on-line access to the Federal Reserve Communications System (FRCS), allowing payments to be made to financial institutions with access to the FRCS. For financial institutions that do not have access to the FRCS, HMO/CMP payments can be paid through correspondent financial institutions or Federal Reserve Banks. The ACH payment method eliminates mail and processing time associated with payment by check. The HMO/CMP receives a payment through the HMO/CMP's financial institution on the payment due date. This is a more secure and reliable method of making and receiving payment. HMO/CMPs electing the electronic transfer of funds must indicate this on the system setup sheet that is included in the contract application. To initiate this process, the HMO/CMP should contact the designated CMS Plan Manager.