> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.withacclaim.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# File uploads

> Create payouts in bulk by uploading structured CSV or Excel files—without a full API integration.

File uploads let you create and process **payouts in bulk** by uploading structured files such as CSV or Excel. For many teams, this is the fastest way to send large volumes of payouts without building a full API-based integration.

## When to use file uploads

Use file uploads when:

* You need to send payouts in bulk.
* Your payout data comes from spreadsheets or internal exports.
* You want to go live quickly without a full API integration.
* Operations or finance owns payout execution.

Use the **API** when:

* Payouts are triggered programmatically in real time.
* You need dynamic or event-driven workflows.
* You want tight system-to-system integration.

## How it works

<Steps>
  <Step>
    You upload a file (CSV or Excel) in the Acclaim Console.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Acclaim validates the file structure and data against your **template**.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Each row is parsed into payout and payee data.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Valid rows are processed into payouts.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Invalid rows are rejected with row-level errors you can fix and re-upload.
  </Step>
</Steps>

This process is **asynchronous**. Large files may take time to finish.

<Warning>
  Do not assume payouts are final until you confirm **processing** and **payout status** in the Console or your usual monitoring workflow.
</Warning>

## Supported file types

* CSV (`.csv`)
* Excel (`.xlsx`)

Files must follow a defined structure and include the fields required for each payout method. Country and method requirements are listed on the [supported payout countries](/guides/disburse/countries/index) pages.

## Key concepts

### Templates

Templates define how your file is interpreted:

* Required columns and how they map to Acclaim fields.
* Payout method configuration.

Each upload is validated against a template. See [Template configuration](./template-configuration).

### Validation

Before processing, Acclaim checks that:

* Required fields are present.
* Formats are correct.
* Payout method and country rules are satisfied.

Errors are reported at the **row** level when possible. See [Validation rules](./validation).

### Processing

After validation, valid rows become payouts and move through execution. You can track status in the Console. See [Processing flow](./processing).