Nacha Seeks Comments on Nacha Rules Proposals

May 17, 2026 / Source: Nacha

Nacha is always looking to enhance the ACH Network, which is why we’re asking for input on some new Nacha Operating Rules proposals.

First is a Request for Comment (RFC) on a Rules change that would let the U.S. Treasury’s Bureau of the Fiscal Service (BFS) participate in the ACH Contact Registry. The Registry has existed since 2020 and already contains a wealth of financial institution contacts for ACH operations and fraud/risk management, as required under the Nacha Rules. It also has numerous contacts in optional categories including wires and checks. Nacha believes allowing BFS participation would make it easier for financial institutions to more easily connect with the right people at BFS on a host of matters. 

Second is a Request for Information (RFI) on the definition of the term “Banking Day.” ACH participants, payments industry stakeholders and other interested parties are being asked to weigh in on questions including whether the current Nacha Rules definition of Banking Day is understandable and does it create any inconsistencies in your organization’s ACH processing and operations. 

Next, Nacha is seeking the industry’s input on whether the time frames for Dishonored Returns and Contested or Corrected Dishonored Returns can be shortened to improve the efficiency of the ACH return process. 

Finally, there’s an RFC on a proposal to shorten the timeframe for returns that are typically returned without human decisioning or handling by a Receiving Depository Financial Institutions (RDFI). While same day windows can currently be used for returns without incurring the same day fee, financial institutions aren’t widely using them. If adopted, this proposal would increase the number of returns being sent sooner.

Nacha sees several benefits. RDFIs would have improved liquidity, since they wouldn’t be carrying unwanted debits over a second night. There would also be less risk of getting additional, similar entries that can’t post. For Originating Depository Financial Institutions (ODFIs) as well as Originators and Third Parties, benefits include getting faster information regarding unpostable entries, potentially reducing loss. They can also move faster to prevent additional transactions and begin recovery/communication with the customer.

The comment period for the ACH Contact Registry RFC closes June 12; the deadline for all other comments is June 26. Complete details can be found on Nacha’s website.