Abstract: A system for rules based electronic funds transaction processing includes a business layer configured to receive electronic funds transaction data from a source. The business layer processes the electronic funds transaction data according to at least one of multiple independent rules based processing rules including at least one rule configured to process clearinghouse network dishonored items. A file transfer agent is operatively connected to the business layer for initiating a request to build a data file from the processed electronic funds transaction data. In response to building the data file, the file transfer agent operates to transfer the data file to at least one of a financial institution, an agent of a financial institution, and an electronic funds transaction clearinghouse network for placement of the data file on the electronic funds transaction clearinghouse network.