Digital checks
allow consumers to use their personal computers to pay recurring bills. Consumers can use computer software provided by a bank, or they can use personal finance software packages such as Quicken or Microsoft Money and subscribe to an electronic bill-paying service.
The technology of paying bills electronically by home computers is advancing rapidly, but relatively few businesses currently can accept payments made directly by computers. Digital checking is expensive. Fees generally run from $5 to $10 a month for 20 transactions. Privacy and security issues are major consumer concerns. Encryption technology may lessen privacy concerns in the future.