Regardless of whether something is described as "efficient" or "standard operating procedure," NEVER acknowledge receipt of funds until you have received them and verified them (e.g. deposited a check and had it clear; counted cash; etc.). Otherwise, if you do not receive the correct amount of money, it will be difficult to prove that--after all, you will have signed an acknowledgement of receipt. Even if it arguably adds a few days or even weeks to processing, don't acknowledge receipt until you  have recept.