Redefining ‘Banking Day’ in the Nacha Rules: Your Input is Needed

September 22, 2026 / Source: Nacha

Regardless of how early or late your bank or credit union is open, and whether or not you’re open weekends, the term “Banking Day” is generally understood to mean Monday-Friday, excluding federal holidays. Now, Nacha is looking to formalize this in the Nacha Rules, which is why we’re issuing a Request for Comment (RFC) on a new proposal. 

It would change the definition of “Banking Day” in the Rules to “a calendar day other than a Saturday, Sunday, or Federal banking holiday in the United States.” It would also clarify the definition of “Settlement Date” by replacing references to “date” with “Banking Day.” Additionally, the term “Business Day” would be eliminated from this section.  

Here’s a little background. Earlier this year, Nacha issued a Request for Information on the meaning and significance of the term “Banking Day” as it currently appears in the Nacha Rules. Respondents overwhelmingly felt the current definition in the Rules is understandable and doesn’t create inconsistencies with their ACH processing and operations. And 92% of respondents believe it is important that ACH processing timeframes are uniform across all banks and credit unions. 

At the same time, large majorities also responded that there would be benefits from better alignment of definitions among Nacha, the Federal Reserve and The Clearing House, and that it’s essential to have uniformity and certainty of processing times and deadlines—including settlement, funds availability, and return deadlines—across all ACH participants. 

To learn more and respond to the new RFC, please go to the RFC page on Nacha’s website. The deadline to comment is Oct. 23.