Patents Examined by Tod H. Swann
  • Patent number: 6311170
    Abstract: When characterized as an improved method of making payments from a plurality of payor entities to a plurality of payee entities through a service provider, a number of method steps which will now be described. First, authorization is obtained from a plurality of payor entities which allows a service provider to make payments, on behalf of the plurality of payor entities, to a plurality of payee entities. Then at least one trusted intermediary financial institution is selected. The trusted intermediary financial institution periodically receives payment information and payment authorization from the plurality of payor entities. The trusted intermediary financial institution automatically transfers funds, in amounts only consistent with at least the payment information, to the service provider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Mark C. Embrey