U.S. patent application number 14/057691 was filed with the patent office on 2014-02-13 for system and method for sending money via e-mail over the internet.
This patent application is currently assigned to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.. The applicant listed for this patent is JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.. Invention is credited to Dean K. Lehman, Joseph R. McCullough, Nancy A. Orth.
Application Number | 20140046851 14/057691 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23781487 |
Filed Date | 2014-02-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140046851 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lehman; Dean K. ; et
al. |
February 13, 2014 |
System and Method for Sending Money Via E-Mail Over the
Internet
Abstract
A method and system for transferring money from a sender to a
receiver utilizing a computer network such as the Internet. The
sender visits a web site and identifies, to the server over the
Internet, the receiver, an e-mail address of the receiver, an
amount of money to be transferred, and a withdraw account from
which money is to be transferred. Money is transferred from the
withdraw account and deposited into a holding account. The server
automatically sends an e-mail to the receiver to inform the
receiver that the sender has transferred money and to request the
receiver to visit the web site to receive money. The receiver
visits the web site of the server in response to the e-mail and
identifies a deposit account to which money is to transferred.
Money is withdrawn from the holding account and deposited in the
deposit account.
Inventors: |
Lehman; Dean K.; (Columbus,
OH) ; McCullough; Joseph R.; (Delaware, OH) ;
Orth; Nancy A.; (Westerville, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. |
New York |
NY |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
New York
NY
|
Family ID: |
23781487 |
Appl. No.: |
14/057691 |
Filed: |
October 18, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
09448738 |
Nov 24, 1999 |
8571975 |
|
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14057691 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/44 ;
705/39 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 20/04 20130101;
G06Q 20/10 20130101; G06Q 20/108 20130101; G06Q 40/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/44 ;
705/39 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 20/10 20060101
G06Q020/10 |
Claims
1-55. (canceled)
56. A method of transferring money from a sender to a receiver
utilizing a computer network including a server, the method
comprising the steps of: a sender device identifying, to the server
over the network, an amount of money to be transferred to the
receiver and a withdraw account from which money is to be
transferred, the server interfacing with the sender device to
exchange security information; transferring money from the withdraw
account; the server sending an electronic message to a receiver
device over the network to inform the receiver that the sender
device is transferring money to the receiver and to request the
receiver to contact the server to receive the money; the receiver
using the receiver device contacting the server over the network in
response to the electronic message and identifying a deposit
account to which money is to be transferred, the server interfacing
with the receiver device to exchange security information; and the
server transferring money to the deposit account.
57. The method of claim 56, the security information being in the
form of a challenge question.
58. The method of claim 56, wherein the server interfacing with the
sender device to exchange security information is constituted by
the server inputting the security information from the sender
device.
59. The method of claim 58, the security information being in the
form of a challenge question.
60. The method of claim 58, wherein the server interfacing with the
receiver device to exchange security information is constituted by
the server inputting the security information from the receiver
device.
61. The method according to claim 60 the server interfacing with
the receiver device to exchange security information is constituted
by: the server outputting the challenge question to the receiver
device; the server inputting a response to the challenge question
from the receiver device; and the server assessing the validity of
the challenge question, so as to provide a level of security that
the receiver is the intended receiver.
62. The method of claim 56, wherein the server interfacing with the
receiver device to exchange security information is constituted by
the server inputting the security information from the receiver
device.
63. The method of claim 62, the security information and being in
the form of a challenge question.
64. The method according to claim 56, the server sending an
electronic message to the sender device being performed over the
network.
65. The method according to claim 56, the receiver account
constituted by a deposit account; and the sender account
constituted by a withdraw account.
66. The method according to claim 56, the server receiving the
sender identifier and the receiver account identifier from the
receiver.
67. The method according to claim 56, the transferring money from
the sender account being performed before the transferring money to
the receiver account.
68. The method according to claim 56, the sender account is
constituted by a checking account.
69. The method according to claim 56, the sender account is
constituted by a credit card account.
70. The method according to claim 56, further comprising the step
of the server transmitting information regarding the credit card
account to a credit card authorization network for approval.
71. The method according to claim 56, further comprising the step
of the server receiving from the receiver device a network address
of the receiver device for receiving electronic messages.
72. The method according to claim 56, further comprising the step
of sending an electronic message to the receiver device confirming
that the amount of money has been transferred to the receiver
account after the step of transferring money to the receiver
account.
73. The method according to claim 56, further comprising the step
of the server receiving from the receiver device a network address
of the sender device for receiving electronic messages.
74. The method according to claim 56, further comprising the step
of sending an electronic message over the network to the sender
device confirming that money has been transferred from the sender
account after the step of transferring money from the sender
account; and wherein the step of transferring money from the sender
account includes depositing money into a holding account.
75. The method according to claim 56, wherein the step of
transferring money to the deposit account includes withdrawing
money from the holding account.
76. The method according to claim 56, the sender account is
constituted by a credit card account; and the method further
comprising the step of the server transmitting information
regarding the credit card account to a credit card authorization
network for approval.
77. The method according to claim 56, including performing further
processing to transfer the money back to the sender from the
receiver.
78. The method according to claim 56, the sender device is a
computer.
79. The method according to claim 56, the receiver device is a
computer.
80. A method of transferring money from a sender to a receiver
utilizing a computer network including a server, the method
comprising the steps of: the sender device identifying, to the
server over the network, an amount of money to be transferred to
the receiver and a withdraw account from which money is to be
transferred, the server interfacing with the sender device to
exchange security information constituted by inputting the security
information from the sender device; transferring money from the
withdraw account of the sender; the server sending an electronic
message to a receiver device of the receiver over the network to
inform the receiver that the sender device is transferring money to
the receiver and to request the receiver to contact the server to
receive the money; the receiver via the receiver device contacting
the server over the network in response to the electronic message
and identifying a deposit account to which money is to be
transferred, the server interfacing with the receiver device to
exchange security information constituted by the server prompting
the receiver device for the security information and inputting the
security information from the receiver device; and the server
transferring money to the deposit account; and the security
information is constituted by a challenge question.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to a system and
method for sending money via electronic mail and, more
particularly, to a system and method for sending money via
electronic mail over a computer network wherein a sender identifies
a withdraw account such as a checking account and/or a credit card
account and a receiver identifies a deposit account such as a
checking account or credit card account.
[0002] The Internet is a public network of computers which is, in
simplified fashion, a web of autonomous computers and computer
servers ("ACCS") linked to data switches or routers and connected
together. The ACCS are typically owned and operated by Internet
Service Providers ("ISP") such as PSI, UUNET, MCI, SPRINT, etc. The
ACCS are link by telecommunication lines to form the Internet.
Large data sources such as universities, governments, and
corporations, collect and market information through their own
Internet servers connected to the Internet. Users typically access
the Internet using an Internet access device such as a personal
computer or WEB TV which are connected to an ISP via a
telecommunications line. The ISP typically provides numerous
services for its users such as, for example, electronic messaging
or mail ("e-mail") and access to the World Wide Web ("WWW").
[0003] Each resource (e.g., computer or computer server) is
identified by a unique Uniform Resource Locator ("URL"). Computer
servers (typically called "Web servers" or "Web sites"), store
information on graphical pages called Web pages. To view specific
information, a user specifies the URL for the Web page in a request
(e.g., a HyperText Transfer Protocol ("HTTP") request). The request
is forwarded to the Web server that supports the Web page and the
Web server sends the Web page of information to the user's
computer. The user's computer displays the Web page, typically
using a browser which is a special-purpose application program
which requests and displays Web pages.
[0004] Web pages are typically defined using HyperText Markup
Language ("HTML"). HTML provides a standard set of tags that define
how a Web page displays various text, graphics, controls, and other
features. When the user requests the browser to display a Web page,
the browser sends a request to the Web server to transfer to the
user's computer an HTML document that defines the Web page. When
the requested HTML document is received, by the user's computer,
the browser displays the Web page as defined by the HTML document.
The HTML document may contain URL's of other Web pages available on
that Web server or other Web servers.
[0005] The Internet is considered to have enormous potential as
means of communication, source of information, and marketplace for
products. It is now possible to communicate with virtually everyone
with a computer, to obtain information about virtually everything,
and to purchase virtually anything via the Internet. Although the
Internet has enormous potential, use of the Internet may not be
developing at a rate it can and should develop. One reason for this
depressed development is the difficulty to send money over the
Internet. A user cannot send cash or a check over the Internet and
sending a credit card number via the Internet is only an option if
the sender has a credit card and the recipient has a credit card
merchant account as required by credit card companies.
Additionally, the alternative of sending cash or a check via a
physical delivery service is slow and burdensome and is relatively
expensive to obtain a shorter delivery time. Accordingly, there is
a need for an improved system and method of sending money via the
Internet.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention provides a system and method of
sending money via electronic message or mail over a computer
network which overcomes at least some of the above-identified
problems of the prior art. According to the present invention, a
money-mailing method includes the step of a sender identifying, to
a server over the network, an amount of money to be transferred to
a receiver and a withdraw account from which the amount of money is
to be transferred. The server sends an electronic message to the
receiver over the network to inform the receiver that the sender is
transferring money to the receiver and to request the receiver to
contact the server to receive the money. The receiver contacts the
server in response to the electronic message and identifies a
deposit account to which money is to be transferred. Money is
transferred from the withdraw account and money is transferred to
the deposit account.
[0007] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
money-mailing method includes a receiver identifying, to a server
over a network, a sender from whom money is to be transferred to
the receiver, and a deposit account to which money is to be
transferred. The server sends an electronic message to the sender
over the network to inform the sender that the sender should
transfer money to the receiver and to request the sender to contact
the server to transfer money. The sender contacts the server in
response to the electronic message and identifies a withdraw
account from which money is to be transferred. Money is transferred
from the withdraw account and money is transferred to the deposit
account.
[0008] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a
money-mailing system includes a server and programming code on the
server. The programming code is adapted for receiving a request
from a sender over the network to transfer money to a receiver and
for receiving identification from the sender over the network of a
withdraw account from which money is to be transferred. The
programming code is further adapted for sending, in response to the
request, an electronic message to the receiver over the network to
inform the receiver that the sender is transferring money and to
request the receiver to contact the server to receive the money.
The programming code is even further adapted for receiving, in
response to the electronic message, identification from the
receiver over the network of a deposit account to which money is to
be transferred.
[0009] According to even yet another aspect of the present
invention, a money-mailing system includes a server and programming
code on the server. The programming code is adapted for receiving a
request from a receiver over the network to receive money from a
sender and for receiving identification from the receiver over the
network of a withdraw account to which money is to be transferred.
The programming code is further adapted for sending, in response to
the request, an electronic message to the sender over the network
to inform the sender that the sender should transfer money to the
receiver and to request the sender to contact the server to
transfer money. The programming code is even further adapted for
receiving, in response to the electronic message, identification
from the sender over the network of a deposit account from which
money is to be transferred.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0010] These and further features of the present invention will be
apparent with reference to the following description and drawing,
wherein:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a system for sending money
via electronic mail over a computer network according to the
present invention;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a flow chart diagrammatically illustrating a
method for sending money via electronic mail over a computer
network using the money-mailing system of FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a flow chart diagrammatically illustrating a
registration process for new senders and logging-in and
authenticating process for previous senders of the money-mailing
method of FIG. 2;
[0014] FIGS. 4A and 4B are flow charts diagrammatically
illustrating a new customer authentication process of the
money-mailing method of FIG. 2;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a flow chart diagrammatically illustrating a send
money process of the money-mailing method of FIG. 2;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a flow chart diagrammatically illustrating a check
authorization process of the money-mailing method of FIG. 2;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a flow chart diagrammatically illustrating a
credit card authorization process of the money-mailing method of
FIG. 2;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a flow chart diagrammatically illustrating a
settlement process of the money-mailing method of FIG. 2;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a flow chart diagrammatically illustrating
registration and/or login process for the receiver, a challenge
question process, and a receive money process of the money-mailing
method of FIG. 2;
[0020] FIG. 10 is a flow chart diagrammatically illustrating
recipient an ACH account process, a credit card account process,
and a paper check process of the money-mailing method of FIG.
2;
[0021] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing typical
sender-identification information used with the money-mailing
system and method of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0022] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing typical bank-customer
information used with the money-mailing system and method of FIGS.
1 and 2;
[0023] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing typical bank-noncustomer
information used with the money-mailing system and method of FIGS.
1 and 2;
[0024] FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing typical send-transaction
information used with the money-mailing system and method of FIGS.
1 and 2;
[0025] FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing typical credit-card
information used with the money-mailing system and method of FIGS.
1 and 2; and
[0026] FIG. 16 is a flow chart diagrammatically illustrating a
second embodiment of the money-mailing method of FIG. 2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system 10 for
sending money via electronic messaging or mail ("e-mail") over a
computer network such as the Internet 12 according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention. It is noted that while the
money-mailing system 10 of the present invention is particularly
useful with the Internet 12 and is shown and described using the
Internet 12, the money-mailing system 10 can be used in conjunction
with other communications systems or networks, with or without a
central management system, within the scope of the present
invention such as, for example, centrally managed networks (e.g.,
America Online, Prodigy, etc.) local Area networks, wide area
networks, point-to-point dial-up connections, and the like.
[0028] The illustrated money-mailing system 10 includes a main
station 14 which is accessed by senders and receivers 16, 18 via
the Internet 12 to send money e-mail, a bank 20 for performing
financial transactions of the money mailing system 10, an applicant
validation network 22 for authenticating new customers, a check
authorization network 24 for authorizing ACH transactions, a credit
card authorization network 26 for authorizing credit card
transactions, a greeting card web site 28 for including an
electronic greeting card with e-mail when desired by the customer,
and a merchant or gift certificate web site 30 for providing
electronic gift certificates and/or goods for electronic gift
certificates.
[0029] The main station 14 of the money-mailing system 10
preferably has at least one web server 32 for providing a web site
34, at least one database server 36 for providing a database 38 to
process and store information, at least one local director 40 for
connecting separate VLANs, and a backup system 42 for providing
backup storage of data. The illustrated main station 14 includes
two web servers 32 but any number of web servers 32 can be utilized
to meet the required simultaneous use of the money-mailing system
10. Suitable web servers 32 are believed to be available from the
Compaq Computer Company of Houston, Tex. The illustrated main
station 14 includes one database server 36 but any number of
database servers 36 can be utilized to meet the required
simultaneous use of the money-mailing system 10. Suitable database
servers 36 are believed to be available from Sun Microsystems, Inc.
of Palo Alto, Calif. It is noted that the database server 36 is
preferably separate from the web servers 32 for added security but
all of the servers 32, 36 can be combined if desired. The
illustrated servers 32, 36 are connected via a resource VLAN 44, a
backup VLAN 46, and a private VLAN 48. The resource VLAN 44 is
connected to an exit VLAN 50 through at least one local director
40. The illustrated main station 14 includes two local directors 40
but any number of local directors 40 can be utilized to meet the
simultaneous use demands of the money-mailing system 10. Suitable
local directors are available from Cisco Systems, Inc. of San Jose,
Calif. Customers, such as the illustrated sender and receiver 16,
18, access the exit VLAN 50 via the Internet 12 in a conventional
manner. Suitable firewalls are created and maintained by a suitable
provider such as, for example, GTE Internetworking between the
customers 16, 18 and the components of the main station 14. While a
single sender 16 and a single receiver 18 are shown in FIG. 1, it
is understood that many senders and receivers 16, 18 can access the
money-mailing system 10 via the Internet 12 at the same time. The
backup system 42 is in communication with the servers 32, 36 via
the backup VLAN 46. A suitable backup system 42 is available from
Legato Systems, Inc. of Palo Alto, Calif. The servers 32, 36 are in
communication with the bank 20 through the private VLAN 48 as
described in more detail hereinbelow.
[0030] The bank 20 includes a customer database 52 for storing data
regarding customer accounts, a check printing service 54, such as
what can be provided by the EDS Corporation, for processing and
mailing paper checks, an ACH group 56 for processing ACH
transactions, and a computer workstation 58 for communicating with
various business partners. The bank components 52, 54, 56, 58 are
in communication via a VLAN 60 and separated by a firewall created
and maintained by a suitable provider such as, for example, GTE
Internetworking. The bank VLAN 60 is in communication with the
private VLAN 48 of the main station 14 via a primary
telecommunications line 62 and preferably at least one backup
telecommunications line. The primary telecommunications line 62 is
preferably a "wide band" line such as a T1 line or the like. The
illustrated bank 20 also includes a customer service department 64
which is in communication with customers 66 and business partners
22, 24, 26 via voice telecommunications lines 68. The customer
service department can alternatively be an external provider which
can be in communications with customers and business partners via
voice and data telecommunications lines and/or the Internet. It is
noted that the term bank 20 as used in this specification and
claims includes traditional banks as well as savings and loans,
credit unions, and other such financial institutions which provide
necessary banking functions such as ACH transactions.
[0031] The illustrated applicant validation network 22 is a
business partner providing the service of authenticating new
customers by providing fraud checks as known in the industry. The
applicant validation network 22 is preferably a debit scoring
system such as ChexSystems of the Deluxe Corporation of Shoreview,
Minn. The illustrated applicant verification network 22 is in
direct communication with the bank workstation 58 via a
telecommunications line 70 but alternatively can be in direct
communication with the servers 32, 36 via a secure Internet
connection.
[0032] The illustrated check authorization network 24 is a business
partner providing the service of authorizing ACH transactions. The
check authentication network 24 is preferably a clearinghouse for
ACH transactions such as eFunds of the Deluxe Corporation of
Shoreview, Minn. The illustrated check authorization network 24 is
in direct communication with the bank workstation 58 via a
telecommunications line 72 but alternatively can be in direct
communication with the servers 32, 36 via a secure Internet
connection.
[0033] The illustrated credit card authorization network 26 is a
business partner providing the service of authorizing credit card
transactions. The credit card authorization network 26 is
preferably an Internet based clearing house for credit card
authorization such as CyberSource Corporation of San Jose, Calif.,
but can alternatively can be the credit card companies such as, for
example, VISA and MASTERCARD. The illustrated credit card
authorization network 26 is in direct communication with the
database server 36 via a secure Internet connection.
[0034] The greeting card web site 28 is a business partner
providing the service of including an electronic greeting card with
e-mail when desired by the customer. The illustrated greeting card
web site 28 is in direct communication with the web server 32 via a
secure internet connection 76 but alternatively can be in direct
communication with the web database 36.
[0035] The merchant or gift certificate web site 30 is a business
partner providing a service such as providing goods or services to
be purchased with the money or providing electronic gift
certificates with the money for later purchase of goods or
services. The illustrated merchant or gift certificate web site 30
is in direct communication with the web server 32 via a secure
internet connection 78 but alternatively can be in direct
communication with the web database 36.
[0036] FIGS. 2-10 illustrate a preferred method according to the
present invention for sending money via e-mail over a computer
network such as the Internet 12 using the money-mailing system 10
of FIG. 1. It is noted that while the servers 32, 36 and any other
processors of the money-mailing system 10 are preferably provided
with programming code adapted to perform the method described
hereinbelow, there are many variations of the money-mailing method
within the scope of the present invention. A first stage 100 of the
money-mailing method is a web-site visiting process. The sender 16
visits the web site 34 of the money-mailing system 10 via the
Internet 12. The web server 32 displays a web site or home page
which provides information about the money-mailing system 10. When
the sender 16 clicks on a "send money" button via a mouse, the
sender 16 is requested to identify whether they are a first time
sender using the money-mailing system 10. For first time senders,
the money-mailing system 10 proceeds to a third stage 104 as
described in detail hereinbelow. For previous senders, the
money-mailing system 10 proceeds to a second stage 102.
[0037] The second stage 102 of the money-mailing system 10 is a
logging-in and authenticating process for senders 16 who have
previously sent money using the money-mailing system 10. As best
shown in FIG. 3, if the sender 16 is not a first time sender, they
are asked to enter their login name and their password which they
previously provided as described in detail hereinbelow. The
money-mailing system 10 authenticates the login name and the
password input by the sender 16 to verify that the sender 16 is a
customer in "good standing". If the login name and password cannot
be authenticated, the sender 16 is preferably given at least one
additional try to input the information. If the login name and
password are not authenticated within a predetermined number of
retries, the web site 34 displays an "exit page" which preferably
provides a phone number for the customer service department 64. If
the sender 16 is authenticated to be a customer "not in good
standing", the web site 34 displays an "exit page" which preferably
provides a phone number of the customer service department 64. If
the sender 16 is authenticated to be a customer in "good standing",
the sender 16 is given the option of viewing a list of previous
transactions they made through the money-mailing system 10,
canceling a previous transaction if not beyond a predetermined
point, or beginning a new transaction. The list of previous
transactions preferably includes the status of each transaction,
who the e-mail was sent to, how much money was sent, when a check
was posted, when a check was cashed etc. The money-mailing system
10 then proceeds to a fifth stage 156 as described in detail
hereinafter.
[0038] The third stage 104 of the money-mailing system 10 is a
registration process for senders 16 who have not previously sent
money using the money-mailing system 10. When the sender 16 is a
first time sender, the web site 34 displays a "new sender page" and
requests the sender 16 to register as a sender 16 by providing
sender-identification information 106. FIG. 11 illustrates typical
sender-identification information 106 such as, for example, first
name 108, middle name 110, last name 112, suffix 114, network or
e-mail address 116, login name 118, password 120, and password hint
122. Once the requested sender-identification information 106 is
input, the sender clicks on a "done" button via a mouse to
continue. The web site 34 displays a "disclosure page" showing a
disclosure regarding the money-mailing system 10 and requests the
sender 16 to read the disclosure and indicate whether they accept
the terms of the disclosure. If the sender 16 does not accept the
terms of the disclosure, the web site 34 displays the "exit page".
If the sender 16 accepts the terms of the disclosure, the
money-mailing system 10 proceeds to a fourth stage 124.
[0039] The fourth stage 124 of the money-mailing system 10 is a
customer authentication process. Customer authentication is
performed to identify customers which will most likely have check
or credit card transactions denied prior to requesting a check or
credit card authorization. The sender-identification information
106 which was provided by the sender 16 is authenticated to approve
or deny the sender 16 as a customer in "good standing". Preferably
the sender's e-mail address 116 is validated prior to beginning the
customer authentication process 124. The e-mail address 116 can be
validated by simply sending an e-mail to the address, without
making the sender 16 leave the web site 34, while the customer
authentication process 124 proceeds in parallel. If the e-mail
"bounces", i.e. a message is returned that the address cannot be
located, the sender 16 is still at the web site 3 to enable
corrective action.
[0040] As best shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the customer
authentication process 124 preferably begins by inquiring whether
the sender 16 is a current customer of the money-mailing-system
bank 20. If the sender 16 is a customer of the money-mailing-system
bank 20, the web site 34 displays a "bank-customer information
page" and requests the sender 16 to input bank-customer information
126. FIG. 12 illustrates bank-customer information 126 such as, for
example, an ATM card number 128, PIN 130, and social security
number 132. Once the bank-customer information 126 is input, the
sender 16 clicks a "done" button via a mouse to continue and the
money-mailing system 10 begins to authenticate the bank-customer
information 126 provided by the sender 16. If the bank-customer
information 126 cannot be authenticated, the sender 16 is
preferably given at least one additional try to input the
bank-customer information 126. If the bank-customer information 126
fails to be authenticated in a predetermined number of retries, the
web site 34 displays the "exit page" which preferably provides a
phone number for the customer service department 64. If the
bank-customer information 126 is authenticated, the sender 16 is
stored in the data base 38 as a customer in "good standing".
[0041] If the sender 16 is not a current customer of the
money--mailing-system bank 20, the web site displays a
"bank-noncustomer information page" and requests the sender to
input bank-noncustomer information 134. FIG. 13 illustrates typical
bank-noncustomer information 134 such as, for example, social
security number 142, city 144, state 146, zip code 148, driver's
license/state I.D. number 150, issuing state 152, and date of birth
154. The money-mailing system 10 sends at least some of the
bank-non-customer information 134 to the applicant validation
network 22 for approval of the sender 16 as a customer. If
transmission of the bank-noncustomer information 134 is not
successful, the web site 34 preferably displays a "technical
difficulties page" and informs the sender 16 that the money-mailing
10 will e-mail the result of the customer approval inquiry when
available. If the applicant validation network 22 denies the
sender, the web site 34 displays a "denial page" which preferably
provides a phone number for the application validation network 22.
If the application validation network 22 requires review and a risk
decision, the web site 34 displays an "unable to process page"
which informs the sender 16 that that the money-mailing system 10
will e-mail the result of the customer approval inquiry when
available. Off line, the customer service department 64 of the bank
20 contacts the applicant validation network 22 to make a risk
decision regarding the sender 16. If the sender 16 is subsequently
denied, an e-mail is sent to the sender 16 informing them of the
denial. If the sender 16 is subsequently approved, an e-mail is
sent to the sender 16 informing them of the approval and inviting
them to return to the money-mailing-system web site 34 to complete
the transaction. The sender 16 is also stored in the database 38 as
a customer in "good standing". If the applicant validation network
22 requires review because of invalid information 134 such as, for
example, an invalid social security number 142 or an invalid
driver's license number 150, the web site 34 displays a "review
data screen" which displays the bank-noncustomer information 134
and requests the sender 16 to check the bank-noncustomer
information 134. The sender 16 is preferably given at least one
additional try to input the information 134. If the sender 16 is
not approved after a predetermined number of retries, the web site
34 displays the "exit page" which preferably provides a phone
number for applicant validation network 22. If the sender 16 is
approved, the sender 16 is stored in the database as a customer in
"good standing" and the money-mailing system 10 proceeds to the
fifth stage 156.
[0042] The fifth stage 156 of the money-mailing system 10 is a send
money process, that is, a process of obtaining information about
the desired transaction. As best shown in FIG. 5, the web site 34
displays a "send money page" once the sender 16 is authenticated as
a customer in "good standing". The "send money page" requests the
sender 16 to provide send-transaction information 158. FIG. 14
illustrates typical send-transaction information 158 such as, for
example, the receiver's name 160, the receiver's network or e-mail
address 162, a challenge question 164, an expected response 166 to
the challenge question 164, the amount of money 170 to be sent to
the receiver 18, a subject or title 172 for the e-mail, and a
message 174 to be included in the e-mail. The sender 16 is
preferably given the opportunity to be linked to an network or
e-mail directory to locate the receiver's e-mail address 162 if
necessary. The receiver's e-mail address 162 is preferably stored
in an address book for the sender's future reference. Preferably,
the sender 16 provides the challenge question 164 for the receiver
18 and at least one expected response 166 by the receiver 18. The
challenge question 164 should be crafted such that only the sender
16 and the receiver 18 know the answer. Examples of suitable
challenge questions 164 (such as, for example, where did we go to
eat last Friday? or How much money did I e-mail to you last week?)
should be displayed to the sender 16. The challenge question 164
provides an added level of security to ensure that the responding
individual is the intended receiver 18 and not someone else who has
access to the receiver's e-mail address 162. The sender 16 is also
preferably given the opportunity to provide a message 174 to be
included in the e-mail.
[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, the sender 16 is given the
opportunity to attach an electronic greeting card to the e-mail. If
the sender 16 chooses to attach an electronic greeting card, the
greeting card web site 28 appears in the window and the sender 16
selects a desired greeting card. The sender 16 then clicks on a
"done" button to return to the web page of the web site 34. The
money-mailing system 10 preferably embeds a URL of the greeting
card web site 28 in the text of the e-mail. It is noted that web
sites of greeting card providers can also provide links to the
money-mailing system 10 so that customers of the greeting card
providers have an opportunity to send money with an electronic
greeting card.
[0044] It is noted that the money-mailing method can alternatively
be initiated from the greeting card site 28. While at the greeting
card site 28, the customer is asked if they would like to send
money with an electronic greeting card. If the customer chooses to
send money, the money-mailing process is initiated. The customer
can be visually or transparently transferred to the money-mailing
web site 34.
[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, the sender 16 is also given
the opportunity to send an electronic gift certificate to the
receiver 18. If the sender chooses to send an electronic gift
certificate, they can select a merchant or merchants where the
electronic gift certificate can be used to purchase goods or
services. Links can be provided to the merchant site 30 or a
clearinghouse site 30 for gift certificates It is noted that web
sites 30 of merchants can provide links to the money-mailing system
10 to provide customers of the merchants an opportunity to send
gift certificates to others.
[0046] It is noted that the money-mailing method can alternatively
be initiated from the merchant or gift certificate web site 30.
While at the merchant or gift certificate site 28, the customer is
asked if they would like to send a gift certificate to a receiver
18. If the customer chooses to send a gift certificate, the
money-mailing process is initiated. The customer can be visually or
transparently transferred to the money-mailing web site 34.
[0047] As part of the fifth stage 156, the sender 16 is asked to
identify what type of account the money is to be withdrawn from,
that is to identify a withdraw account. The sender is preferably
given the option of identifying a checking account or a credit card
account as the withdraw account. When the sender 16 chooses to send
money from a checking account, i.e. send a "virtual check", the
sender 16 is preferably given a choice of when the funds will be
available to the receiver 18 such as, for example, by an "ordinary"
check (available in about four days business days) or by an
"express" check which is secured by a credit card account
(available within about 24 hours.
[0048] If the sender 16 chooses an ordinary check, the web site 34
preferably displays an image of a check with fields for required
information at typical locations. Once the withdraw account
information has been provided such as, for example, bank number,
account number, and check number, the web site 34 displays a
"confirmation page" which shows information about the transaction
including the amount of money to be withdrawn from the checking
account. The amount of money to be withdrawn from the checking
account is preferably the amount of money requested to be sent to
the receiver 18 plus a transaction fee. Once the sender 16 confirms
the information, the sender 16 clicks on a "send now" button via a
mouse and the money-mailing system proceeds to a sixth stage
196.
[0049] The sixth stage 196 of the money-mailing system 10 is a
check authorization process. As best shown in FIG. 6, if an
ordinary check is being sent and it is not the first time the bank
account number is being used by the money-mailing system 10, the
data base 38 stores the ACH transaction in a daily batch file. If
storage of the ACH transaction is not successful, the web site 34
displays a "technical difficulties page" and informs the sender 16
to come back to the web site 34 at a later time to complete the
transaction. If storage of the ACH transaction is successful, the
web site 34 displays a "confirmation page" which provides a
transaction number and information of what will happen next and
informs the sender 16 that they can exit the web site 34 or begin
another transaction. The money-mailing system 10 proceeds to the
eighth stage as described in detail hereinbelow. The database 38
collects the daily batch entries and sends them to the bank ACH 56
which executes a debit to the sender's account and a credit to a
bank holding or settlement account.
[0050] If an ordinary check is being sent and it is the first time
the bank account number 128, 138 has been used by the money-mailing
system 10, the check transaction is sent to the check authorization
network 24 for approval. If transmission of the check transaction
is not successful, the web site 34 preferably displays a "technical
difficulties page" and informs the sender 16 that the money-mailing
system 10 will e-mail the result of the check approval inquiry when
available. If the transmission is successful and the check
authorization network 24 denies the transaction, the web site 34
displays a "denial page" which preferably provides a phone number
for the check authorization network 24. If the transmission is
successful and the check authorization network 24 requires review
and discussion, the web site 34 displays an "unable to process
page" which informs the sender 16 that that the money-mailing
system 10 will e-mail the result of the check approval inquiry when
available. Off line, the customer service department 64 of the bank
20 contacts the check authorization network 24 to make a risk
decision regarding the check transaction. If it is subsequently
decided to deny the check transaction, an e-mail is sent to the
sender 16 informing them of the denial. If it is subsequently
decided to approve the check transaction, an e-mail is sent to the
sender 16 informing them of the approval and confirming completion
of the transaction. If the transmission is successful and the check
authorization network 24 requires review because of invalid
information such as, for example, an invalid routing number, the
web site 34 displays a "review data screen" which displays the
information and requests the sender to verify the information. The
sender 16 is preferably given at least one additional try to input
the information. If the check transaction is not approved after a
predetermined number of retries, the web site 34 displays a "denial
page" which preferably provides a phone number for the check
authorization network 24. If the check transaction is approved, the
money-mailing system 10 stores the check authorization network
validation and the web site 34 displays a "confirmation screen"
which provides a transaction number and information of what will
happen next and informs the sender 16 that they can now exit the
web site 34 or begin another transaction. The money-mailing system
10 proceeds to the eighth stage 200 as described in detail
hereinbelow. The check authorization network 24 debits the sender's
account and credits a bank holding or settlement account.
[0051] If the sender 16 chooses an express check and they have
credit-card-information 176 on file, the web site 34 preferably
displays an image of a check with fields for required information
at typical locations. Once the withdraw account information has
been provided such as, for example, bank number, account number,
and check number, the web site 34 displays a "confirmation page"
which shows information about the transaction including the amount
of money to be withdrawn from the checking account. The amount of
money to be withdrawn from the checking account is preferably the
amount of money requested to be sent to the receiver 18 plus a
transaction fee. Once the sender 16 confirms the information, the
sender 16 clicks on a "send now" button via a mouse and the
money-mailing system 10 proceeds to a seventh stage 198 as
described in detail hereinbelow.
[0052] If the sender 16 chooses an express check and they do not
have credit-card information 176 on file, preferably displays an
image of a check and a credit card with fields for required
information at typical locations. Once the checking and credit card
account information has been provided such as, for example, bank
number, checking account number, check number, credit card number,
and credit card expiration date, the web site 34 displays a
"confirmation page" which shows information about the transaction
including the amount of money to be withdrawn from the checking
account or debited to the credit card account. The amount of money
to be withdrawn from the checking account or debited to the credit
card account is preferably the amount of money requested to be sent
to the receiver 18 plus a transaction fee. Once the sender 16
confirms the information, the sender 16 clicks on a "send now"
button via a mouse and the money-mailing system 10 proceeds to the
seventh stage.
[0053] If the sender 16 chooses a credit card account and they have
credit-card-information 176 for that account on file, the web site
34 displays a "confirmation page" which shows information about the
transaction including the amount of money to be debited from the
credit card account. The amount of money to be debited from the
credit card account is preferably the amount of money requested to
be sent to the receiver 18 plus a transaction fee. Once the sender
16 confirms the information, the sender 16 clicks on a "send now"
button via a mouse and the money-mailing system 10 proceeds to a
seventh stage 198 as described in detail hereinbelow.
[0054] If the sender 16 chooses a credit card and they do not have
credit-card information 176 on file, the web site 34 displays a
"credit-card information page" which requests the sender to input
the credit-card information 176. FIG. 15 illustrates suitable
credit-card information 176 such as, for example, credit card
account number 178. expiration date 180, card verification value
(CVV) 182, first and last names 184, 186 (as appearing on the
card), street address 188, city 190, state 192, and zip code 194.
Preferably, the web site 34 displays an image of a credit card with
fields for the required information at typical locations. Once all
of the fields are completed, the sender 16 clicks on a "next"
button via a mouse and the web site 34 displays a "confirmation
page" which shows information about the transaction including the
amount of money to debited from the credit card account. The amount
of money to be debited from the credit card account is preferably
the amount of money requested to be sent to the receiver 18 plus a
transaction fee. Once the sender 16 confirms the information, the
sender 16 clicks on a "send now" button via a mouse and the
money-mailing system 10 proceeds to the seventh stage.
[0055] The seventh stage 198 of the money-mailing system 10 is a
credit card authorization process. As best shown in FIG. 7, if an
express check or credit card is requested, the web server 34
transmits the credit card transaction to the credit card
authorization network 26. If the transmission of the credit card
transaction is not successful, the web site 34 displays a
"technical difficulties page" and informs the sender 16 that the
credit card cannot be authorized at this time and that check funds
can be available in four business days with an ordinary check
transaction. If the sender 16 does not agree to the four day
waiting period, the web site displays an "exit page". If the sender
16 agrees to the four day waiting period, the money-mailing system
10 proceeds to the sixth stage 196 as described in detail
hereinabove 196 (the same as for an ordinary check). If the
transmission of the credit card transaction is successful and the
credit card transaction is denied, the web site 34 displays a
"credit card denial page" and informs the sender 16 that the check
funds can be available in four business days. If the sender 16 does
not agree to the four day waiting period, the web site 34 displays
an "exit page". If the sender 16 agrees to the four day waiting
period, the money-mailing system 10 proceeds to the sixth stage 196
as described in detail hereinabove (the same as for an ordinary
check). If the transmission of the credit card transaction is
successful and the credit card transaction is for an express check
and is approved, the money-mailing system 10 proceeds to the sixth
stage 196 as described in detail hereinabove (the same as for an
ordinary check).). If the transmission of the credit card
transaction is successful and the credit card transaction is for an
ordinary credit card transaction and is approved, the money-mailing
system 10 proceeds to the eighth stage 200.
[0056] The eighth stage 200 of the money-mailing system 10 is an
e-mail sending process. The money-mailing system 10 sends an e-mail
to the receiver 18 informing them of money sent from the sender 16
and providing instructions to go to the money-mailing-system web
site 34 to receive the money. Preferably, the e-mail is provided
with an embedded link (URL) to the money-mailing-system web site
34. The money-mailing system 10 also sends an e-mail to the sender
16 confirming that the e-mail with money has been sent to the
receiver 18.
[0057] A ninth stage 202 of the of the money-sending system 10 is a
settlement process. As best shown in FIG. 8, the check
authorization network 24 and the bank ACH 56 send daily transaction
reports to the bank 20. The database 36 reads the daily transaction
reports and searches for matches between stored transactions of the
money-mailing system 10 and funded or rejected transactions of the
daily transaction reports. If a funded match is found, the web
server 32 sends an e-mail to the sender 16 informing the sender 16
of the status of the transaction.
[0058] If a rejected match is found and it was an ordinary check,
that is a check not secured with a credit card, the web server 34
sends an e-mail to the sender 16 and the receiver 18 informing each
of them of the rejection. The money-mailing system 10 preferably
blocks the sender 16 from using the money-mailing system 10 again
by storing the sender 16 as a customer "not in good standing". If
the funds have not been released to the receiver 18, the credit
instruction to the receiver 18 is removed. If the funds have been
released to the receiver 18 and the funds were released via an ACH
transaction, the database 36 stores an ACH debit transaction in the
daily batch file which is sent to the bank ACH 56 to execute. If
the funds have been released to the receiver 18 and the funds were
released via a credit card transaction, the database 36 sends a
debit transaction against the receiver's credit card to the credit
card authorization network 26 for authorization. If the funds have
been released to the receiver 18 and the funds were released via a
paper check, the bank customer service department 64 issues a stop
payment order on the paper check.
[0059] If a rejected match is found and it was an express check
transaction, that is a check transaction secured with a credit
card, the web server 34 sends a debit transaction to the credit
card authorization network 26. If the credit card transaction is
denied, the web server 34 sends an e-mail to the sender 16 and the
receiver 18 informing each of them of the rejection. The
money-mailing system 10 preferably blocks the sender 16 from using
the money-mailing system 10 again by storing the sender 16 as a
customer "not in good standing". If the funds have not been
released to the receiver 18, the credit instruction to the receiver
18 is removed. If the funds have been released to the receiver 18
and the funds were released via an ACH transaction, the database 36
stores an ACH debit transaction in the daily batch file which is
sent to the bank ACH 56 to execute. If the funds have been released
to the receiver 18 and the funds were released via a credit card
transaction, the database 36 sends a debit transaction against the
receiver's credit card to the credit card authorization network 26
for authorization. If the funds have been released to the receiver
18 and the funds were released via a paper check, the bank customer
service department 64 issues a stop payment order on the paper
check. If the credit card transaction is approved, the funds are
deposited into a settlement account. The database 36 reads the
daily transaction reports and searches for a match between credit
card and funded or rejected transactions of the daily transaction
reports. When a funded match is found, the web server 32 sends an
e-mail to the sender 16 informing the sender 16 of the status of
the credit card transaction.
[0060] Tenth and eleventh stages 204, 206 of the money-mailing
system 10 are respectively an e-mail receiving process and a
web-site visiting process. As best shown in FIG. 9, the receiver 18
preferably clicks on an embedded link to the web site 34 when the
receiver 18 receives the e-mail informing them of the money sent
from the sender 16. The web site 34 preferably displays a "home
page" customized for receivers 18 and inquires whether the receiver
18 is a first time receiver from the money-mailing system 10.
[0061] A twelfth stage 208 of the money-mailing system 10 is a
registration and/or login process for the receiver. If the receiver
18 is not a first time receiver, they are requested to enter their
login name and password. The money-mailing system 10 then
authenticates that the login name and the password input by the
receiver 18 are for a customer in "good standing". If the input
information cannot be authenticated, the receiver 18 is preferably
given at least one additional try to input the information. If the
receiver 18 fails to be authenticated within a predetermined number
of retries, the web site 34 displays an "exit page" which
preferably provides a phone number for the customer service
department 64. If the receiver 18 is authenticated, the
money-mailing system 10 proceeds to a thirteenth stage 210 as
described in detail hereinbelow.
[0062] If the receiver 18 is a first time receiver 18, the web site
34 displays a "new receiver page" and requests the receiver 18 to
register as a receiver 18 by providing receiver-identification
information which can be similar to the sender-identification
information 106. Once the requested receiver-identification
information is input, the receiver 18 clicks on a "done" button via
a mouse to continue. The web site 34 then displays a "disclosure
page" showing a disclosure regarding the money mailing system 10
and requests the receiver 18 to read the disclosure and indicate
whether they accept the terms of the disclosure. If the receiver 18
does not accept the terms of the disclosure, the web site 34
displays the "exit page". If the receiver 18 accepts the terms of
the disclosure, the money mailing system 10 begins a process of
authenticating the receiver-identification information provided by
the receiver 18 to approve or deny the receiver 18 as a customer in
"good standing". If the receiver 18 is authenticated, the
money-mailing system 10 proceeds to the thirteenth stage 210. It is
noted that the challenge question portion of the money-mailing
method can be eliminated if desired such as, for example, when the
sender 16 is sending money to a charitable organization.
[0063] The thirteenth stage 210 of the money-mailing system 10 is a
challenge question process. Once the receiver 18 is authenticated
as a customer in good standing, the web site 34 displays the
challenge question 164 and requests the receiver 18 to respond. If
the receiver 18 fails to respond to the challenge question 164 with
the valid response 166, the receiver 18 is preferably given at
least one additional try to correctly respond. If the receiver 18
fails to correctly respond within a predetermined number of
retries, the web site 34 displays an "exit page" which preferably
provides a phone number for the customer service department 64. The
money-mailing system 10 also sends an e-mail to the sender 16
informing them of the receiver's failure to correctly respond to
the challenge question 164. If the receiver 18, correctly responds
to the challenge question 164, the money-mailing system 10 proceeds
to a fourteenth stage 212.
[0064] The fourteenth stage 212 of the money-mailing system 10 is a
receive money process. If the receiver 18 correctly responds to the
challenge question 164, the web site 34 displays a "deposit money
page" and requests the receiver 18 to identify a deposit account
for receiving the money, such as, for example, by electronic
deposit to a checking or savings account (a direct deposit), a
credit to a credit card account, or by paper check. Once the
receiver 18 chooses deposit account, the receiver clicks on a
"submit" button via a mouse and the money-mailing system 10
proceeds to a fifteenth stage 214 (if an electronic deposit), to a
sixteenth stage 216 as described in detail hereinbelow (if a credit
card credit), or to a seventeenth stage 218 as described in detail
hereinbelow (if a paper check).
[0065] The fifteenth stage 214 of the money-mailing process 10 is
an ACH account process. As best shown in FIG. 10, if an ACH
transaction is selected by the receiver 18, the data base 38 stores
the ACH transaction in the daily batch file. If storage of the ACH
transaction is not successful, the web site 34 displays a
"technical difficulties page" and informs the receiver 18 to come
back to the web site 34 at a later time to complete the
transaction. If storage of the ACH transaction is successful, the
web site 34 displays a "confirmation page" which provides
information of what will happen next and informs the receiver 18
that they can now exit the web site 34 or begin another
transaction. Preferably, the receiver 18 is given the opportunity
to send a "thank you" e-mail to the sender 16. The money-mailing
system 10 proceeds to an eighteenth stage 220 as described in
detail hereinbelow. The money-mailing-system database 38 collects
the daily batch entries and sends them to the bank ACH 56 which
executes a debit to the settlement account and a credit to the
receiver's account.
[0066] The sixteenth stage 216 of the money-mailing process 10 is a
credit card account process. If a credit to a credit card account
is selected, the credit card transaction is sent to the credit card
authentication network 26 to perform a "fraud check". If the
transmission of the credit card transaction is not successful, the
web site 34 displays a "technical difficulties page" and informs
the receiver 18 to come back to the web site 34 at a later time to
complete the transaction. If the transmission of the credit card
transaction is successful and the credit card transaction is
denied, the web site 34 displays a "credit card denied page" and
preferably provides a phone number for the credit card
authorization network 26. If the transmission of the credit card
transaction is successful, and the credit card transaction is
approved, the web site 34 displays a "confirmation page" which
provides information of what will happen next and informs the
receiver 18 that they can now exit the web site 34 or begin another
transaction. Preferably, the receiver 18 is given the opportunity
to send a "thank you" e-mail to the sender 16. The money-mailing
system 10 proceeds to the eighteenth stage 220 as described in
detail hereinbelow. The money-mailing-system database 38 collects
the daily batch entries and sends them to the bank 20 which
executes a debit to the settlement account and a credit to the
receiver's account at the credit card issuing bank.
[0067] The seventeenth stage 218 of the money-mailing process 10 is
a paper check process. If a paper check is chosen, the web site 34
displays a "confirmation page" which provides information of what
will happen next and informs the receiver 18 that they can now exit
the web site 34 or begin another transaction. Preferably, the
receiver 18 is given the opportunity to send a "thank you" e-mail
to the sender 16. The money-mailing system database 38 sends a "cut
check" request to the bank check printing service 254. The bank
check printing service 254 sends a paper check to the receiver 18
via a physical mail service and the bank holding or settlement
account is debited once the paper check is cashed. The paper check
is preferably for the amount sent by the sender 16 less a check
printing fee. The money-mailing system 10 proceeds to the
eighteenth stage 220.
[0068] An eighteenth stage 220 of the money-sending system 10 is an
e-mail sending process. The money-mailing system 10 sends an e-mail
to the sender 16 and the receiver 18 confirming the status of the
transaction. It is noted that the above-described money-mailing
system 10 operates in a seamless manner and the identified
divisions between the various stages is for descriptive purposes
only. It is also noted that each of the stages and/or steps within
each stage are not required for each transaction and each of the
stages and/or steps within each stage can occur in a different
order except as specifically noted.
[0069] FIG. 16 illustrates a second embodiment of the money-mailing
method wherein the sender 16 (such as a customer or a charitable
giver) sends e-mailed money to the receiver 18 (such as a merchant
or a charitable organization) in response to an e-mailed invoice or
request. The second embodiment of the money-mailing method can
operate generally the same as described above with regard to the
first embodiment except that the receiver 18 that the transaction
rather than the sender 16. Therefore, this variation of the
money-mailing system is particularly useful for merchants to send
invoice e-mails to customers or charitable organizations to send
solicitation e-mails to potential givers. An invoice e-mail to a
sender 16 would preferably specify the amount of money to be sent
to the receiver 18 while a solicitation e-mail from a charitable
organization would preferably not specify the amount of money to be
sent unless it is a notice or reminder of a previous pledge. In a
receiver initiated transaction, the money deposited into the
receiver's account is preferably the amount of money sent from the
sender less a fee for initiating the transaction. The receiver 18
can preferably visit the web site 34 separate from an embedded link
in the e-mail so that multiple transactions can be more easily
processed. The web site 34 preferably has an "in-box" which lists
all deposits for the receiver 18 to expedite batch processing of
multiple deposits all at once.
[0070] It is apparent from the above description that the
money-mailing system and method of the present invention enable one
computer network user (the sender) to easily and rapidly send money
to another computer network user (the receiver). Importantly, the
receiver is not required to have a credit card merchant account and
the sender is not required to have a credit card.
[0071] Although particular embodiments of the invention have been
described in detail, it is understood that the present invention is
not limited correspondingly in scope, but includes all changes and
modifications known to those skilled in the art and all changes and
modifications coming within the spirit and terms of the claims
appended hereto.
* * * * *