In the Process Batch Payments, the difference between:
MODE = manual payment = non EFT payments
MODE = payment agreement = for when EFT or credit cards are set up. It is recommended that all Payment Agreements be created using the same Start Date. Using a consistent start date makes it easier to identify and process all payers who have authorized payments to be withdrawn on the same schedule (for example, the 1st or 15th of each month).
A payer with a Payment Agreement is a parent or guardian who has authorized the organization to automatically withdraw funds from their bank account or charge their credit card, depending on the payment method configured in their Finance tab.