US20210182958A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20210182958A1
Application number: US17/185,720
Authority: US
Inventors: Mark Mendez; Adam R. Koeppel
Original assignee: Capital One Services LLC
Current assignee: Capital One Financial Corp; Capital One Services LLC
Priority date: 2014-07-07
Filing date: 2021-02-25
Publication date: 2021-06-17
Also published as: US20180089755A1; US10956971B2; US20160005113A1

Abstract

The disclosed embodiments include methods and systems for switching electronic accounts using self-service device. The account switch system may receive, from the self-service device, a request to switch an existing electronic account associated with a first provider to a new electronic account associated with a second provider. The account switch system may also receive, from the self-service device, information associated with the existing electronic account. The account switch system may generate the new electronic account associated with the second financial service provider and transfer data, such as funds, associated with the existing electronic account to the new electronic account. The account switch system may send information associated with the new electronic account to the self-service device, and the self-service device may provide a new account card associated with the individual and the new electronic account to the individual that is ready for use.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/753,534, filed Jun. 29, 2015, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/021,311, filed Jul. 7, 2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference in the present application.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosed embodiments generally relate to electronic account processing and, in particular, to methods and systems for handling customer switch of electronic accounts using a self-service device.

BACKGROUND

Currently, electronic account providers, such as banks, credit card companies, merchants, lenders, and the like, offer in-person services or online services for customers to switch their account activity from an existing provider. The current switching services typically require a customer to first open a new account with the new provider, fill out forms to transfer funds or balance from the existing financial account to the new financial account, and then close the existing financial account with the existing provider. Usually a new account card, such as a payment card, or a credit card, will be mailed to the customer after the new financial account is opened.

There are several disadvantages with the current account switching mechanism. First, it involves significant inconvenience for customers to switch financial accounts. Second, there is a delay in issuing a new account card to the customer switching financial accounts. Customers do not receive the activated account card at the moment the new account is opened. There also exists a delay in funding the new financial account when the funds are transferred from the existing financial account to the new account. Finally, customers typically must manually switch recurring transactions, such as automatic bill payment and deposit, from the prior financial account to the new financial account. Certain aspects of the disclosed embodiments provide methods and systems that enable customers to switch financial accounts in a quick and simple manner. Other aspects are also provided as disclosed below.

SUMMARY

Additional objects and advantages of the disclosed embodiments will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the embodiments. The objects and advantages of the disclosed embodiments may be realized and attained by the elements and combinations set forth in the claims.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosed embodiments, as claimed. For example, the methods relating to the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in system environments outside of the exemplary system environments disclosed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate disclosed embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary system, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary server, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary ATM device, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary bank account switching process at an ATM, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an exemplary bank account switching process at a financial service provider system, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an exemplary credit card account switching process at an ATM, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary credit card account switching process at a financial service provider system, consistent with disclosed embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the disclosed embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of anexemplary system100 for performing one or more operations consistent with the disclosed embodiments. The components and arrangement shown inFIG. 1 are not intended to be limiting to the disclosed embodiment as the components used to implement the processes and features disclosed here may vary.

In accordance with certain disclosed embodiments,system100 may include anaccount switch system102, financialservice provider system110, one ormore ATMs120, one or more third-party systems130, andnetwork140. The components and arrangement of the components included insystem100 may vary. Thus,system100 may include other components that perform or assist in the performance of one or more processes consistent with the disclosed embodiments.

Financialservice provider system110 may be a system associated with a financial service provider, which may be any entity providing financial services. For example, financialservice provider system110 may be associated with a service provider such as, for example, a bank, credit card issuer, or any other type of financial service entity that generates, provides, manages, and/or maintains financial service accounts for one or more users. Financial accounts may include, for example, credit card accounts, bank accounts (e.g. checking accounts, saving accounts), loans, investment accounts, and any other type of accounts relating to financial products. In one aspect, financialservice provider system110 may provide services for switching the customers' existing financial accounts (held with a financial service provider other than the provider associated with financial service provider system110) to new financial accounts provided byfinancial service provider110.

In certain embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may include anaccount switch system102.Account switch system102 may be a computer-based system including computer system components, such as one or more servers, desktop computers, workstations, tablets, hand held computing devices, memory devices, and/or internal network(s) connecting the components. In one embodiment,account switch system102 may be a server that includes one or more processor(s), memory devices, and interface components.Account switch system102 may include infrastructure and components configured to generate and/or provide financial service accounts such as credit card accounts, checking accounts, debit card accounts, loyalty or reward programs, lines of credit, and the like.Account switch system102 may also include infrastructure and components that are configured to generate and/or provide customer switch of financial service accounts associated with another provider, such as debit accounts, credit cards, etc.

Account switch system

102 may also include infrastructures and components that are configured to manage transactions associated with a customer financial service account. In certain aspects,account switch system102 may include one or more computing devices configured to communicate withATM device120 and/or third-party system130 to perform processes associated with financial account switch. For example,account switch system102 may include one or more computing devices configured to generate a new financial account, verifying user identify for account switching, and transfer funds and/or balances associated with a financial account provided by another financial service provider to the new financial account provided by the financial service provider associated with financialservice provider system110. In certain aspects, a financial service provider associated withaccount switch system102 may be (or include a service corresponding to) a bank, a credit card company, or the like. The financial service provider may maintain financial service accounts for customers, such as checking and saving accounts, in a manner known in the art.Account switch system102 may be configured to perform operations associated with the management of financial service accounts and may allow one or more users (e.g., customers) to participate in operations related to switching financial accounts remotely, such as vianetwork140.

ATM device

120 may include one or more computing devices configured to perform one or more operations consistent with disclosed embodiments. Although the present disclosure is described in connection with ATM, other electronic self-service devices that provide financial services to customers may also be used in place of ATMs.ATM device120 may enable customers to carry out banking transactions. Examples of banking transactions include the dispensing of cash, the making of deposits, the transfer of funds between accounts, the payment of bills, the cashing of checks, the purchase of money orders, and account balance inquiries. In accordance with certain disclosed embodiments,ATM device120 may enable customers to switch financial accounts from one provider to a new provider and dispense a new account card, such as a payment card or credit card, at the end of the automated account switch process.

ATM device

120 may communicate with financialservice provider system110 vianetwork140. In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may be configured to execute instructions that perform account switching processes. For example,ATM device120 may be configured to receive a request from a user to perform financial account switching from one provider to another provider.ATM device120 may be configured to receive a payment card or credit card from a user and read the existing financial account information.ATM device120 may also be configured to receive fromaccount switch system102 information of the new financial account for the user, and to produce and provide a new payment card or credit card associated with the new financial account and associated with user112.

Third-party system130 may be one or more computer systems associated with a third-party. Third-party system130 may include one or more computing systems that are configured to perform computer-implemented processes, such as a server, desktop, laptop, mobile device, etc. Third-party system130 may be associated with an entity that may arrange to transact with a customer. For example, third-party system130 may be associated with an entity that receives a payment from a customer (e.g., bill payment to a merchant), delivers a payment to a customer (e.g., direct deposit from a financial service provider, such as an employer's bank), and/or processes a payment to or from a customer (e.g., ACH processing).Third party system130 may also offer connectivity to a user's previous online bank account (e.g., accessed through input of username and password) in order to obtain transactions for use withaccount switch system102.

In one example, a third-party system130 may be associated with a merchant, such as one or more providers of goods and/or services, such as a retailer, etc. Third-party system130 may be configured to perform financial transaction processes, such as receiving, processing, and handling payment transactions associated with the sale of goods and/or services provided by the associated merchant. Third-party system130 may be configured to receive payments from a financial account held by a customer of financialservice provider system110. In one example, the payments may be recurring payments to the merchant associated with third-party system130 for goods and/or services received by the customer (e.g., payments associated with a household bill, such as an electric bill). Third-party system130 may communicate with financialservice provider system110 to allow transfer of funds from the customer account to the merchant for making one or more payments.

In another example, a third-party system130 may be associated with a financial service provider, which may be different from the provider associated with financialservice provider system110. In one aspect, the financial service provider associated with third-party system130 may maintain a financial account for the customer (e.g., user112). For example, the financial account may be a credit card account. The third-party system130 may be configured to communicate with financialservice provider system110 to allow transfer of funds from the customer account associated with financialservice provider system110 to the other customer account (held with the financial service provider associated with third-party system130), such as for the payment of a credit card bill. In another aspect, third-party system130 may be associated with a financial service provider configured to make payments to the customer, such as direct deposits into the customer's financial account. For example, third-party system130 may be associated with a bank through which a customer's employer makes payments to their employees.

In yet another example, a third-party system130 may be associated with a financial transaction processing service, such as an automated clearing house. In this instance, third-party system130 may be configured to process transactions to send money to or from a customer's financial account. For example, third-party system130 may be configured to receive funds from a customer account and send the funds to a merchant to make a payment owed by the customer. Similarly, third-party system130 may be configured to receive funds from a financial service provider and send the funds to the customer's account to make a payment to the customer.

Network

140 may be any type of network that provides communications, exchanges information, and/or facilitates the exchange of information betweenaccount switch system102, other components of financialservice provider system110,ATM device120, and/or third-party system130. In one embodiment,network140 may be the Internet, a Local Area Network, or other suitable connection(s) that enablessystem100 to send and receive information between the components ofsystem100. In other embodiments, one or more components ofsystem100 may communicate directly through a dedicated communication link(s) (not shown), such as links betweenATM device120, financialservice provider system110, and third-party system130.

In one embodiment, user112 may operateATM device120 to perform one or more processes associated withaccount switch system102. User112 may operateATM device120 to communicate withaccount switch system102 to manage an account switch. An account switch may include any instance in which a customer chooses to stop use and/or close one financial account in favor of another financial account. The account switch may include switch of a single transaction normally made using one financial account to another financial account (e.g., paying a bill with a different account), switch of all transactions associated with one financial account to another financial account (e.g., switching to a new account and closing an old account), or something in-between. Transactions may include, for example, deposits into a financial account, such as a direct deposit, and/or payments made from a financial account, such as bills paid by one or more of a payment processer (e.g., ACH), a debit card, or a bill pay system. In an exemplary embodiment, a customer (e.g., user112) may open a new financial account (e.g., a checking account) with financialservice provider system110 and switch some or all transactions from a financial account held with another financial service provider to the new account, usingaccount switch system102.

It should be understood that switching of transactions may refer to any process by which a current or future transaction is made through one financial account instead of another financial account. For example, switching of a transaction may refer to changing an arrangement with a third-party such that future transactions occur through one financial account different from another financial account previously used to transact with the third-party.

In executing the one or more processes associated with an account switch,account switch system102 may communicate with other components ofsystem100, such as one or more third-party system130. These communications may arrange to complete switches of transactions (e.g., bill payments, direct deposits, etc.) associated with the customer from one financial account to another financial account. For example,account switch system102 may communicate with a third-party system130 associated with a merchant to switch automatic recurring payments made by the customer to the merchant from one financial account (e.g., an old financial account) to another financial account (e.g., a new financial account).

In another aspect,account switch system102 may communicate with a third-party system130 associated with the financial service provider that maintains the financial account from which the customer is switching. For example,account switch system102 may communicate with a financial service provider associated with the customer's previous financial account, to instruct the financial service provider to complete transactions with the previous account (e.g., pay a bill, transfer funds to the new account, stop payments, etc.). In this way, the customer may switch accounts used for transactions with third-parties through use ofaccount switch system102.

FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of anexemplary server200 for implementing embodiments consistent with the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment,server200 may correspond to accountswitch system102. It should be understood, however, that variations ofserver200 may be used by other components ofsystem100, including other components of financialservice provider system110, third-party system130, and/orATM Device120.

In one embodiment,server200 may include one or more processor(s)204, memory devices, such asmemory208, andinterface components206.Server200 may take the form of a mobile computing device, general purpose computer, a mainframe computer, or any combination of these components. According to some embodiments,server200 may comprise web server(s) or similar computing devices that generate, maintain, and provide web site(s) consistent with disclosed embodiments.Server200 may be standalone, or it may be part of a subsystem, which may be part of a larger system. For example,server200 may represent distributed servers that are remotely located and communicate over a network (e.g., network140) or a dedicated network, such as a LAN.Server200 may correspond to any ofATM device120, third-party system130, and financialservice provider system110.

Processor(s)204 may be one or more known processing devices, such as a single core or multiple core processor system that provides the ability to perform parallel processes simultaneously. For example,processor204 may be a single core processor that is configured with virtual processing technologies known to those skilled in the art. In certain embodiments,processor204 may use logical processors to simultaneously execute and control multiple processes.Processor204 may implement virtual machine technologies, or other similar known technologies to provide the ability to execute, control, run, manipulate, store, etc. multiple software processes, applications, programs, etc. In another embodiment, processor(s)204 may include a multiple-core processor arrangement (e.g., dual or quad core) that is configured to provide parallel processing functionalities to allowcard switch system102 to execute multiple processes simultaneously. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that other types of processor arrangements could be implemented that provide for the capabilities disclosed herein.

Memory

208 may include one or more storage devices configured to store instructions used byprocessor204 to perform functions related to disclosed embodiments. For example,memory208 may be configured with one or more software instructions, such as program(s)210 that may perform one or more operations when executed byprocessor204. The disclosed embodiments are not limited to separate programs or computers configured to perform dedicated tasks. For example,memory208 may store asingle program210 that performs the functions of theserver200, orprogram210 could comprise multiple programs. Additionally,processor204 may execute one or more programs located remotely fromserver200. For example,ATM device120, third-party system130, and/or financialservice provider system110, may, viaserver200, access one or more remote programs that, when executed, perform functions related to certain disclosed embodiments.Memory208 may also storedata240 that may reflect any type of information in any format that the system may use to perform operations consistent with the disclosed embodiments.

I/O devices206 may be one or more devices configured to allow data to be received and/or transmitted byserver200. I/O devices206 may include one or more digital and/or analog communication devices that allowserver200 to communicate with other machines and devices, such as other components ofsystem100.

Server

200 may also be communicatively connected to one or more database(s)226.Server200 may be communicatively connected to database(s)226 throughnetwork140.Database226 may include one or more memory devices that store information and are accessed and/or managed throughserver200. By way of example, database(s)226 may include Oracle™ databases, Sybase TM databases, or other relational databases or non-relational databases, such as Hadoop sequence files, HBase, or Cassandra. The databases or other files may include, for example, data and information related to the source and destination of a network request, the data contained in the request, etc. Systems and methods of disclosed embodiments, however, are not limited to separate databases. In one aspect,server200 may includedatabase226. Alternatively,database226 may be located remotely from theserver200.Database226 may include computing components (e.g., database management system, database server, etc.) configured to receive and process requests for data stored in memory devices of database(s)226 and to provide data fromdatabase226.

FIG. 3 shows anexemplary ATM device120 consistent with disclosed embodiments. In one embodiment,ATM device120 may include one ormore processors302, one ormore network interfaces306, one ormore memories308,card reader314,card printer316,card dispenser318, and one or more input/output (I/O)devices320. In some embodiments,ATM device120 may comprise a camera that can be configured to capture an image of a user who is initiating a transaction withATM device120.ATM device120 may be configured to send the image of the user to financialservice provider system110 for user identity verification. In some embodiments,ATM device120 may comprise a camera that can be configured to capture an image of a payment card issued by a financial service provider, such as a bank account card or a credit card.ATM device120 may also comprise software programs that may be configured to scan, read, and/or decode the captured image of a payment card consistent with disclosed embodiments.

Processor

302 may include one or more known single core or multiple core processor systems that provide the ability to perform parallel processes simultaneously. For example,processor302 may be a single core processor that is configured with virtual processing technologies known to those skilled in the art. In certain embodiments,processor302 may use logical processors to simultaneously execute and control multiple processes.Processor302 may implement virtual machine technologies, or other similar known technologies to provide the ability to execute, control, run, manipulate, store, etc. multiple software processes, applications, programs, etc. In another embodiment, processor(s)302 may include a multiple-core processor arrangement (e.g., dual or quad core) that is configured to provide parallel processing functionalities to allowATM device120 to execute multiple processes simultaneously. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand that other types of processor arrangements could be implemented that provide for the capabilities disclosed herein.

Network interface

306 may be one or more devices configured to allow data to be received and/or transmitted byATM device120.Network interface306 may include one or more digital and/or analog communication devices that allowATM device120 to communicate with other machines and devices, such as other components ofsystem100.Network interface306 may also be configured to enable a dedicated communication link(s) betweenATM device120 and financialservice provider system110.

Memory

308 may include one or more storage devices configured to store instructions used byprocessor302 to perform functions related to disclosed embodiments. For example,memory308 may be configured with one or more software instructions, such as program(s)310 that may perform one or more operations when executed byprocessor302.Memory308 may also storedata312 that is used by one ormore programs310.

In certain embodiments,memory310 may store software processes that may be executed by processor(s)302 to perform one or more financial accounts switching processes consistent with disclosed embodiments. For example,memory310 may store software processes that initiate a request with financialservice provider system110 to switch financial accounts. In certain aspects,memory310 may store software processes that identify the existing financial account based on an account card received from a user. For instance, these software instructions may, when executed by processor(s)302, process information related to an existing financial account and send the information to financialservice provider system110. In certain aspects,memory310 may store software processes that receive information of a new financial account from financialservice provider system110 and produce an account card accordingly.

Card reader

314 may be configured to read magnetically encoded information on transaction instruments such as bank cards. In some embodiments,ATM device120 may include a smart card reader, a wireless transceiver or any other suitable interface for exchanging transaction information with a transaction instrument. The transaction instrument may be a chip, an RFID tag, a smart card, a PDA, a telephone or any other suitable device.

Card printer

316 may be configured to encode the account information of the new financial account on the magnetic stripe of a payment card, such as a bank card or a credit card, and print the embossed information on a blank card. For example,card printer316 may include a card writer that may encode part of all payment data and personal account data required to conduct transactions, such as account holder name, card account number, expiration date, security codes, encoded magnetized strip, integrated circuit cards (IC cards or “chip cards”), and/or corresponding security pin. In certain embodiments,card printer316 may be configured to print the embossed information on a customized card selected by a user.Card dispenser318 may provide the user ofATM device120 with the newly printed account card associated withfinancial service provider110. Although for ease of discussion the present disclosure discussescard printer316 in the context of printing financial payment cards employing magnetic stripes, it should be understood that, additionally or alternatively,card printer316 may be configured to configure other payment devices. For example,card printer316 may be configured to encode the account information of the new financial account on other types of financial service payment products, such as contactless payment solutions and the like.

I/O interface320 may be one or more devices configured to allow data to be received and/or transmitted betweenATM device120 and user112. I/O interface320 may include one or more digital and/or analog devices that allowATM device120 to communicate with user112. For example, I/O interface320 may include a screen for exchanging information with user112. I/O interface320 may also include a keypad for the user to enter numerical and textual data. I/O interface320 may also include one or more digital and/or analog devices that allow user112 to interact withATM device120 such as a touch-sensitive area, speaker, optical scanners, or microphones. I/O interface320 may also include other components known in the art for interacting with user112.ATM device120 may be configured to perform certain actions based on received input from the user, such as through detected input through I/O interface320.

The components ofATM device120 may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both hardware and software, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

FIG. 4 shows a flowchart of an exemplary bankaccount switching process400 at an ATM device, consistent with disclosed embodiments. In step410,ATM device120 may receive a request from user112 to switch bank account via I/O interface320. For example,ATM device120 may be configured to receive a user input from a touch-screen display indicating that the user desires to switch an existing bank account associated with a service provider to a new bank account associated with another service provider.ATM device120 may also be configured to receive the user input from a keyboard or keypad input, or from a voice input via a microphone, or a combination of these. In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may cause a display to be presented to the customer presenting the customer with transaction options available (such as, switch bank accounts, withdraw funds, make a balance inquiry, make a funds transfer, transfer funds to another account holder, etc.).

In step420,ATM device120 may receive a payment card associated with the existing bank account from user112 via I/O interface320. For example,ATM device120 may be configured to receive a payment card via a card reader port. In one aspect,ATM device120 may be configured to prompt user112 to provide the payment card associated with the existing bank account after receiving the user request to switch bank account. For example,ATM device120 may prompt user112 to provide the payment card associated with the existing bank account by displaying a message on the screen. For another example,ATM device120 may prompt user112 to provide the payment card associated with the existing bank account by outputting a voice message via a speaker ofATM device120.

In step430,ATM device120 may generate information associated with the existing bank account based on the received payment card. For example, the card reader ofATM device120 may read magnetically encoded information on the payment card and generate the account information associated with the payment card, such as account number, account type, cardholder data, identity of the card account provider, etc. In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may be configured to collect additional information associated with the existing bank account via I/O interface320. For example,ATM device120 may be configured to prompt the user to enter additional information associated with the existing bank account through a touch-screen display, a keypad, a keyboard, a voice input, or the like. The additional information to be entered by user112 may include the cardholder's identity, the account history of the existing bank account, whether the user wishes to transfer all the remaining funds in the existing bank account to the new bank account, whether the user wishes to set up automatic bill payment with the new bank account, any passcode associated with the existing bank account, etc.

Instep440,ATM device120 may send a bank account switching request and the information associated with the existing bank account to a server of the financial service provider system that the new bank account is associated with. For example,ATM device120 may be configured to identify a network address associated with a server associated with the new financial service provider. The new financial service provider may be associated with financialservice provider system110. The new financial service provider may or may not be the same provider as that of theATM device120. For another example,ATM device120 may be configured to send the bank account switching request, the account number of the existing bank account, and the identity of the cardholder, to financialservice provider system110.ATM device120 may also be configured to receive request from financialservice provider system110 to collect additional information from user112. In response,ATM device120 may be configured to prompt user112 to enter the additional information required by financialservice provider system110.

In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may send data associated with user identity to financialservice provider system110 for verification of user identity. The user identity data includes, for example, an image captured by a camera ofATM device120, an identity card provided by user112 (such as a driver license or the like), biometric data entered by user112, etc.ATM device120 may be configured to receive, from financialservice provider system110, whether the identity of the user is verified. For example, financialservice provider system110 may compare the received user identity data with the data stored in a database (whether accessible internally or externally through a third-party), and determine whether the received user identity data matches the data stored in a database. IfATM device120 receives an indication from financialservice provider system110 that the user identity cannot be verified,ATM device120 may proceed to terminate the account switching process with user112 or prompt user112 to provide additional information for identity verification. On the other hand, ifATM device120 receives an indication from financialservice provider system110 that the user identity is verified,ATM device120 may proceed to continue the account switching process with user112.

In step460,ATM device120 may provide a payment card associated with the new bank account to the user.ATM device120 may encode the data associated with the new bank account on the magnetic stripe of the new payment card.ATM device120 may also be configured to emboss the new payment card with the account number of the new bank account, expiration date of the new payment card, cardholder's name, etc.ATM device120 may print the new payment card and provide it to the user throughcard dispenser318. In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may present user112 via a display screen one or more interfaces that enable user112 to select a customized design of the new payment card. The new payment card may be activated for subsequent purchases by financialservice provider system110 before or when the new payment card is provided to user112. The disclosed embodiments may enable user112 to use the new payment card for purchases or other transactions immediately after theATM device120 produces the new payment card. In some embodiments,ATM device120 may present user112 via a display screen one or more interfaces that enable user112 to request additional payment cards with the new bank account. For example,ATM device120 may allow user to add a co-owner for the new bank account. Accordingly,ATM device120 may produce and provide an additional payment card with a different cardholder name to user112. In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may present user112 via a display screen one or more interfaces that enable user112 to request to mail the new payment card to user. For example, if a desired design of payment card is not available atATM device120,ATM device120 may be configured to send a request to financialservice provider system110 for mailing a new payment card with a selected design to user112.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an account switching process performed at a server of financialservice provider system110 consistent with the disclosed embodiments. At step510, financialservice provider system110 may receive a request fromATM120 to switch bank account for user112. In one example, the request may indicate that a user desires to open a new bank account with financialservice provider system110 and to transfer the available funds and automatic bill payment and deposit associated with an existing bank account with another provider to the new bank account. In other embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive a request from a mobile device associated with user112, indicating that user112 desires to switch from an existing bank account to a new account with financialservice provider system110. For example, the mobile device may be configured to execute software instructions that send an electronic request to financialservice provider system110 for bank account switching.

At step520, financialservice provider system110 may receive information associated with the existing bank account fromATM device120. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive fromATM device120 the account number, the provider associated with the existing bank account, name of the cardholder, etc. Financialservice provider system110 may receive fromATM device120 user identity information, for example, an image of user112 captured by a camera ofATM device120, an identity card provided by user112 (such as a driver license or the like), or biometric data entered by user112. In other embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive from a mobile device a photo of a payment card associated with the existing bank account. For example, the mobile device may be configured to execute software instructions that take a photo of a payment card associated with the existing bank account via a camera and send the photo to financialservice provider system110 for bank account switching. For another example, the mobile device may be configured to execute software instructions that read data of the payment card associated with the existing bank account via a card reader, and then send the data associated with the existing bank account to financialservice provider system110 for bank account switching.

In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may also validate the user identity by comparing user identity to prohibited lists as determined by laws and regulations. If the user is found on the prohibited lists, financialservice provider system110 may send an indication to ATM device120 (and/or the mobile phone) indicating that the user identity cannot be validated and that the account switching process is terminated. If the user identity is validated, financialservice provider system110 may proceed to continue the account switching process for user112.

Atstep540, financialservice provider system110 may proceed to create a new bank account. The new bank account may be created in accordance with certain request received atATM120 by user input. For example, the new bank account may be a checking account, a saving account, a special checking account without monthly fees, a special checking account authorizing a number of free transactions per month, etc. Atstep550, financialservice provider system110 may transfer data, such as funds, from existing bank account to the new bank account. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may transfer all available funds in the existing bank account to the new bank account. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive a user selected amount of funds fromATM device120, and financialservice provider system110 may transfer the selected amount of funds from the existing bank account to the new bank account. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may determine whether the account terms associated with the new bank account, such as fee terms, interest rates, reward benefits, are more favorable compared to the account terms associated with the existing bank account. For example, if the account terms associated with the new bank account are equally or less favorable than the account terms associated with the existing bank account, financialservice provider system110 may adjust the account terms associated with the new bank account such that they are more favorable than the account terms associated with the existing bank account.

At step560, financialservice provider system110 may capture bill payment data associated with the existing bank account. In one example, financialservice provider system110 may communicate with third-party system130 to retrieve a transaction list of the existing bank account. Financialservice provider system110 may send a request along with information of the existing bank account to third-party system130 to retrieve past transaction activities associated with the existing bank account during a past time duration, for example, for the last six months. Subsequently, financialservice provider system110 may receive from third-party system130 a list of transactions associated with the existing bank account that occurred during the specified time period. Third-party system130 may be one or more computer systems associated with the existing bank account, entities that receive a payment from the existing bank account, entities that deliver a payment to the existing bank account, and/or entities that process a payment to or from the existing bank account. Financialservice provider system110 may execute software processes to identify automatic bill payment based on the transaction history of the existing bank account. In another example, financialservice provider system110 may receive automatic bill payment information associated with the existing bank account directly from third-party system130. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive automatic bill payment information associated with the existing bank account fromATM device120 which may receive the automatic bill payment information from user112 via I/O interface320.

At step570, financialservice provider system110 may configure automatic bill payment and/or deposit for the new bank account. In one example, financialservice provider system110 may communicate with third-party system130 to switch future payments or deposits associated with the existing bank account to the new bank account that has been opened. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may request for user confirmation via ATM device120 (and/or a mobile device operated by the user) for switching the future payments or deposits to the new bank account. Financialservice provider system110 may receive an indication from third-party system130 that the account switching is complete. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may configure the new bank account with all automatic bill payments and/or deposits associated with the existing bank account. In other embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may configure the new bank account with certain automatic bill payments and/or deposits associated with the existing bank account that may be selected by user112. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may send a notification toATM device120 indicating that certain or all automatic bill payments and/or deposits associated with the existing bank account are switched to the new bank account.

Atstep580, financialservice provider system110 may send information associated with the new bank account, such as account number, cardholder's name, account type (checking, saving, etc.), expiration date of the new payment card, toATM device120. Financialservice provider system110 may subsequently receive an acknowledgement message fromATM device120 indicating that the new payment card is produced and delivered to user112. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive a message fromATM device120 indicating thatATM device120 is unable to produce the new payment card associated with the new bank account. Consequently, financialservice provider system110 may execute processes that are configured to produce the new payment card and mail it to user112.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an exemplary credit card account switching process at an ATM, consistent with disclosed embodiments. Instep610,ATM device120 may receive a request from user112 to switch credit card account via I/O interface320. For example,ATM device120 may be configured to receive a user input from a touch-screen display indicating that the user desires to switch an existing credit card account associated with a service provider to a new credit card account associated with another service provider.ATM device120 may also be configured to receive the user input from a keyboard or keypad input, or from a voice input via a microphone, or a combination of these. In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may cause a display to be presented to the customer presenting the customer with transaction options available (such as, for example, switching credit card accounts, withdrawing funds, making a balance inquiry, making a funds transfer, transferring funds to another account holder, etc.).

In step620,ATM device120 may receive a credit card associated with the existing credit card account from user112 via I/O interface320. For example,ATM device120 may be configured to receive a credit card via a card reader port. In one aspect,ATM device120 may be configured to prompt user112 to provide the credit card associated with the existing credit card account after receiving the user request to switch credit card account. For example,ATM device120 may prompt user112 to provide the credit card associated with the existing credit card account by displaying a message on the screen. For another example,ATM device120 may prompt user112 to provide the credit card associated with the existing credit card account by outputting a voice message via a speaker ofATM device120.

In step630,ATM device120 may generate information associated with the existing credit card account based on the received credit card. For example, the card reader ofATM device120 may read magnetically encoded information on the credit card and generate the account information associated with the credit card, such as account number, credit card type (such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, etc.), cardholder data, identity of the card account provider, etc. In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may be configured to collect additional information associated with the existing credit card account via I/O interface320. For example,ATM device120 may be configured to prompt the user to enter additional information associated with the existing credit card account through a touch-screen display, a keypad, a keyboard, a voice input, or the like. The additional information to be entered by user112 may include the cardholder's identity, the account history of the existing credit card account, whether the user wishes to transfer all the outstanding balances in the existing credit card account to the new credit card account, etc.

In step640,ATM device120 may send a credit card account switching request and the information associated with the existing credit card account to a server of the financial service provider system that the new credit card account is associated with. For example,ATM device120 may be configured to identify a network address associated with a server associated with the new financial service provider. The new financial service provider may be associated with financialservice provider system110. The new financial service provider may or may not be the same provider as that of theATM device120. For another example,ATM device120 may be configured to send the credit card account switching request, the account number of the existing credit card account, and the identity of the cardholder, to financialservice provider system110.ATM device120 may also be configured to receive request from financialservice provider system110 to collect additional information from user112. In response,ATM device120 may be configured to prompt user112 to enter the additional information required by financialservice provider system110.

In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may send data associated with user112's identity to financialservice provider system110 for verification of user identity. The user identity data includes, for example, an image captured by a camera ofATM device120, an identity card provided by user112 (such as a driver license or the like), or biometric data entered by user112.ATM device120 may be configured to receive, from financialservice provider system110, an indication of whether the identity of the user is verified. For example, financialservice provider system110 may compare the received user identity data with the data stored in a database (whether accessible internally or externally through a third-party), and determine whether the received user identity data matches the data stored in a database. IfATM device120 receives an indication from financialservice provider system110 that the user identity cannot be verified,ATM device120 may proceed to terminate the account switching process with user112 or prompt user112 to provide additional information for identity verification. On the other hand, ifATM device120 receives an indication from financialservice provider system110 that the user identity is verified,ATM device120 may proceed to continue the account switching process with user112.

Instep660,ATM device120 may provide a credit card associated with the new credit card account to the user.ATM device120 may encode the data associated with the new credit card account on the magnetic stripe of the new credit card. For example,ATM device120 may encode part of all payment data and personal account data required to conduct transactions, such as account holder name, card account number, expiration date, security codes, encoded magnetized strip, integrated circuit cards (IC cards or “chip cards”), and/or corresponding security pin.ATM device120 may also be configured to emboss the new credit card with the account number of the new credit card account, expiration date of the new credit card, cardholder's name, etc.ATM device120 may print the new credit card and provide it to the user through the card dispenser. In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may present user112 via a display screen one or more interfaces that enable user112 to select a customized design of the new credit card. The new credit card may be activated for subsequent purchases by financialservice provider system110 before or when the new credit card is provided to user112. The disclosed embodiments may enable user112 to use the new credit card for purchases or other transactions immediately after theATM device120 produces the new credit card. In some embodiments,ATM device120 may present user112 via a display screen one or more interfaces that enable user112 to request additional credit card with the new credit card account. For example,ATM device120 may allow user to add a joint account holder for the new credit card account. Accordingly,ATM device120 may produce and provide an additional credit card with a different cardholder name to user112. In certain embodiments,ATM device120 may present user112 via a display screen one or more interfaces that enable user112 to request to mail the new credit card to user. For example, if a desired design of credit card is not available atATM device120,ATM device120 may be configured to send a request to financialservice provider system110 for mailing a new credit card with a selected design to user112.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary credit card account switching process at a financialservice provider system110, consistent with disclosed embodiments. At step710, financialservice provider system110 may receive a request fromATM120 to switch credit card account for user112. In one example, the request may indicate that a user desires to open a new credit card account with financialservice provider system110 and to transfer the outstanding balances associated with an existing credit card account to the new credit card account. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive a request from a mobile device associated with user112, indicating that user112 desires to switch from an existing credit card account to a new account with financialservice provider system110. For example, the mobile device may be configured to execute software instructions that send an electronic request to financialservice provider system110 for credit card account switching.

Atstep720, financialservice provider system110 may receive information associated with the existing credit card account from ATM device120 (and/or the mobile phone). In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive fromATM device120 the account number, the provider associated with the existing credit card account, name of the cardholder, etc. Financialservice provider system110 may receive fromATM device120 user identity information, for example, an image of user112 captured by a camera ofATM device120, an identity card provided by user112 (such as a driver license or the like), or biometric data entered by user112. In other embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive from a mobile device a photo of a credit card associated with the existing credit card account. For example, the mobile device may be configured to execute software instructions that take a photo of a credit card associated with the existing credit card account via a camera and send the photo to financialservice provider system110 for credit card account switching. For another example, the mobile device may be configured to execute software instructions that read data of the credit card associated with the existing credit card account via a card reader, and then send the data associated with the existing credit card account to financialservice provider system110 for credit card account switching.

At step770, financialservice provider system110 may transfer balance from the existing credit card account to the new credit card account. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may transfer all outstanding balances in the existing credit card account to the new credit card account. In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive a user selected amount of balances fromATM device120, and financialservice provider system110 may transfer the selected amount of balances from the existing credit card account to the new credit card account.

At step780, financialservice provider system110 may send information associated with the new credit card account, such as account number, cardholder's name, credit limit, expiration date of the new credit card, toATM device120. Financialservice provider system110 may subsequently receive an acknowledgement message fromATM device120 indicating that the new credit card is produced and delivered to user112 (step not shown in figure). In some embodiments, financialservice provider system110 may receive a message fromATM device120 indicating thatATM device120 is unable to produce the new credit card associated with the new credit card account. Consequently, financialservice provider system110 may execute processes that are configured to produce the new credit card and mail it to user112.

The disclosed embodiments may allow a user to switch from an existing financial account to a new financial account using self-service devices such as ATM devices. Further, a new account card, such as a payment card or credit card associated with the new financial account, may be assigned to user112, activated and issued at the ATM device during the switch transaction. In this way, customers may switch an existing financial account to a new financial account in a simple and quick manner.

The exemplary disclosed embodiments describe systems and methods for handling switching of financial accounts using ATM devices. The foregoing description has been presented for purposes of illustration. It is not exhaustive and is not limited to the precise forms or embodiments disclosed. Modifications and adaptations of the embodiments will be apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosed embodiments. For example, the described implementations include hardware and software, but systems and methods consistent with the present disclosure can be implemented as hardware alone.

It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments being indicated by the following claims. Furthermore, although aspects of the disclosed embodiments are described as being associated with data stored in memory and other tangible computer-readable storage mediums, one skilled in the art will appreciate that these aspects can also be stored on and executed from many types of tangible computer-readable media, such as secondary storage devices, like hard disks, floppy disks, or CD-ROM, or other forms of RAM or ROM. Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the above described examples, but instead is defined by the appended claims in light of their full scope of equivalents.

Moreover, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, the scope includes any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations or alterations based on the present disclosure. The elements in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. Further, the steps of the disclosed methods can be modified in any manner, including by reordering steps or inserting or deleting steps. It is intended, therefore, that the specification and examples be considered as example only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims and their full scope of equivalents.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A system for switching electronic accounts between providers without in-person interactions, comprising:

one or more processors; and

a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations comprising:

receiving identification information associated with an existing electronic account, wherein the identification information comprises at least an image of a user, a biometric scan of the user, or an account card received via a card reader, wherein the existing electronic account is associated with a first provider;

automatically prompting the user to switch the existing electronic account associated with the first provider to a new electronic account associated with a second provider;

sending, to a server associated with the second provider, a request to switch from the existing electronic account associated with the first provider to the new electronic account associated with the second provider;

receiving, from the server associated with the second provider, information associated with the new electronic account; and

transmitting an instruction to provide an account card associated with the user and the new electronic account to the user.

2. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the operations further comprise transferring a balance associated with the existing electronic account to the new electronic account.

3. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the operations further comprise:

assigning credit terms to the new electronic account, wherein the credit terms are determined based on at least one or more credit terms associated with the existing electronic account.

4. The system ofclaim 1, wherein receiving the identification information comprises receiving the identification information from a third party.

5. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the operations comprise:

identifying automatic payment information associated with the existing electronic account; and

configuring the new electronic account based on at least the automatic payment information.

6. The system ofclaim 5, wherein identifying the automatic payment information comprises obtaining historical transaction information associated with the existing electronic account.

7. The system ofclaim 5, wherein identifying the automatic payment information comprises identifying the automatic payment information based on transactions paid for with the existing electronic account in an immediately prior time period.

8. The system ofclaim 1, wherein receiving identification information associated with the user comprises receiving the identification information from a device of the user.

9. A computer-implemented method for switching electronic accounts between providers without in-person interactions, comprising:

10. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 9, wherein the method further comprises transferring a balance associated with the existing electronic account to the new electronic account.

11. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 9, wherein the method further comprises:

12. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 9, wherein receiving the identification information comprises receiving the identification information from a third party.

13. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 9, wherein the method further comprises:

14. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 13, wherein identifying the automatic payment information comprises obtaining historical transaction information associated with the existing electronic account.

15. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 13, wherein identifying the automatic payment information comprises identifying the automatic payment information based on transactions paid for with the existing electronic account in an immediately prior time period.

16. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 9, wherein receiving the identification information associated with the user comprises receiving the identification information from a device of the user.

17. A computing device for switching electronic accounts between providers without in-person interactions, comprising:

one or more processors; and

18. The computing device ofclaim 17, wherein the operations further comprise transferring a balance associated with the existing electronic account to the new electronic account.

19. The computing device ofclaim 17, wherein the operations further comprise:

20. The computing device ofclaim 17, wherein receiving the identification information comprises receiving the identification information from a third party.