Which field in the Batch Header Record can be changed to initiate a file reversal?

To initiate a file reversal in an ACH batch, the correct field to modify is the Company Entry Description. This field provides a brief description of the entries within the batch and is significant for identifying the nature of the transactions. When a file is reversed, a specific code or description must be included that indicates the purpose of the reversal and differentiates it from standard entries.

Changing the Company Entry Description helps mark the batch as an official request for reversal of the specified transactions, as it allows the applicable institutions to understand the intent behind the reversal. This description is critical for proper processing and ensuring that all parties involved recognize that these entries are corrections to previously processed transactions.

In contrast, modifying fields like the Effective Entry Date, Service Class Code, or Transaction Code does not facilitate the initiation of a file reversal. Each of these fields serves different purposes within the ACH transaction. The Effective Entry Date specifies when the transaction is scheduled to be processed, the Service Class Code defines the type of ACH transaction batch, and the Transaction Code specifies the type of transaction (e.g., debit or credit). Changing any of these would not communicate an intent to reverse the transactions and could lead to confusion in processing.