Step 1
To create a batch file, start by opening an Excel file with the following column names.
| Column Name | Requirements | Column Description |
| first_name* | required | Transaction partner: first name |
| middle_name | optional | Transaction partner: middle name |
| last_name* | required | Transaction partner: last name |
| business_name | optional | Transaction partner: business name |
| institution_number* | required | Transaction partner: institution number |
| branch_number* | required | Transaction partner: branch number |
| account_number* | required | Transaction partner: account number |
| transaction_type* | required | Action required, either direct_debit or direct_credit |
| amount_in_cents* | required | Amounts of funds to be transferred in cents |
| transaction_reference | optional | Note for your internal reference |
| memo | optional | If populated, this information will show on the recipient’s bank statement as the description for the transaction |
Step 2
Once the information has been entered into the spreadsheet, save the file as a .CSV (also known as Comma delimited).
Common Batch File Questions
Optional Columns:
These columns can be left blank if needed because they are not required fields, however the column name does need to be present otherwise the file will not process. Do not delete any of the column headers; the format of the file must remain as is.
Leading Zeros:
If there are numbers with leading zeros, e.g. for any of the banking information, you may notice that the zeros disappear causing problems with the file. You can format the field, starting the leading zeros with an apostrophe (‘) which will allow the cell to retain the leading zeros. For example, 001 is entered as ‘001 to retain the leading zeros.
Multiple Transaction Types:
Each batch file can only contain 1 transaction_type. Please create separate batch files for direct_debit and direct_credit transactions.