It’s frustrating enough when it happens. Your wallet is stolen. Not only have you lost cash, you probably have a driver’s license and credit cards to cancel and replace. Worst of all, you have the headache of identity theft to deal with. The best insurance is to be prepared.

There’s little in life that’s more frustrating than a computer that won’t do its job. But sometimes, like your own private miracle, a message appears on your screen. It says: “Technical difficulties? Click here for assistance.”

ACH payments and direct deposits both involve the electronic transfer of funds, but there are differences between the two methods. Let’s take a look at ACH payments, direct deposits and their unique characteristics.