Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed which includes a processor and non-transient memory operatively connected to the processor. The memory includes instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive, from a server hosting a managed services gateway, an authorized funding amount which is based on user account data associated with the user account; transmit a funds transfer request to the server, where the funds transfer request includes a funding amount less than or equal to the authorized funding amount; transmit a funds-transfer confirmation message to the server which causes the managed services gateway to initiate an internal funds transfer on a bank server associated with the user account. The internal funds transfer comprises a real-time transfer of funds from a managed services account owned by a managed services provider to a consumer account associated with the user maintained with the same bank.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed which includes a processor and non-transient memory operatively connected to the processor. The memory includes instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive, from a server hosting a managed services gateway, an authorized funding amount which is based on user account data associated with the user account; transmit a funds transfer request to the server, where the funds transfer request includes a funding amount less than or equal to the authorized funding amount; transmit a funds-transfer confirmation message to the server which causes the managed services gateway to initiate an internal funds transfer on a bank server associated with the user account. The internal funds transfer comprises a real-time transfer of funds from a managed services account owned by a managed services provider to a consumer account associated with the user maintained with the same bank.

Abstract: Methods are described for accounting, administration and processing of transactions utilizing a stored value card utilizing an EFT service gateway and providing balances for the cards across a plurality of point of sale devices. One method includes receiving a message generated by the point of sale system of a merchant and parsing the message into data elements. The method also includes routing the message through a switch controller to an account holder database based on an institution ID and a branch ID, accessing an account within the database utilizing the account key, and determining if an account holder's monetary balance in the account is greater than or equal to the transaction amount. A message is formatted and one of an authorization approval or a denial based upon the determination is transmitted within the message.