> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.natural.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

> ## Agent Instructions
> When building application code, use `@naturalpay/sdk` for TypeScript or `naturalpay` for Python.
> When operating Natural directly for a user, use the payments MCP at `https://mcp.natural.com`.
> When searching Natural documentation, use the docs MCP at `https://docs.natural.com/mcp`.
> Use the Natural CLI for terminal and CI automation.
> Use REST only for unsupported languages or when the user explicitly requests raw HTTP.
> Start integration development and testing in the sandbox. Do not use production unless the user explicitly requests it.
> For sandbox requests that require `customerPartyId`, list customers first. Reuse only the intended fixture; otherwise create a customer.
> REST and SDK amounts use integer minor units. Payments MCP amounts use decimal strings with a required currency code.

# Overview

> Make ACH payments to external party accounts

<Note>Direct is in early access. To request Direct access, contact [hi@natural.com](mailto:hi@natural.com).</Note>

An ACH payment (`ach_*`) moves money between a [Wallet](/guides/concepts/wallets) and an [External party account](/guides/concepts/external-party-accounts) directly over ACH.

Create one with a direction, an integer amount in the minor units of the currency, the destination account, and a company entry description that appears on the recipient's bank statement:

```json theme={null}
{
  "data": {
    "attributes": {
      "direction": "credit",
      "amount": 25000,
      "currency": "USD",
      "externalPartyAccountId": "epa_550e8400e29b41d4a716446655440000",
      "companyEntryDescription": "PAYOUT"
    }
  }
}
```

A payment starts `CREATED` and moves to `PROCESSING` once submitted to the network. It ends `SETTLED`, `FAILED`, `RETURNED`, or `CANCELED` — you can [cancel it](/api-reference/ach/cancel-ach-payment) before submission. The `ach.*` [webhook events](/guides/concepts/events) fire as the payment progresses.