SFE | Rules Publications

AAP Preparation Publications Packages

Various Formats

The Accredited ACH Professional (AAP) designation distinguishes its bearers as members of an elite corps of payments system professionals. To assist you in preparing for the AAP examination, administered once in the fall each year, the following publications are recommended:

AAP Preparation Publications Package includes:

ACH Rules Book – Online Resource Code, or eBook via App
ACH Compliance Manual – eBook via App
Revised Uniform Commercial Code Article 4A and the ACH System – eBook via App
AAP Flashcards – Electronic Version
ACHPro™ (Online) – Electronic Version
ACH Quick Reference Cards for Financial Institutions - Electronic Version

* The AAP Flashcards, ACHPro™ (Online), and ACH Quick Reference Cards for Financial Institutions are available electronically only.

Online Resource(web-based): This interactive website provides access to both the full Nacha Operating Rules & Nacha Operating Guidelines, as well as any potential supplement details. The Online Resource website has been divided into sections for easy browsing and searching of the content. This resource has been set up to allow for an easy and responsive viewing experience from a desktop computer, laptop, or mobile device with enhanced product features:

Customized Bookmarking
Keyword/Phrase Search
Copy options
Printing options

via App(E-book): This Adobe-based product requires a third-party app called Flux Player to allow the content to be redeemed, downloaded to, and accessed only within the app. The content is read-only, E-book display is identical to the hard copy book. Once a Flux Player account app has been created and the content is redeemed within the Flux Player app, the content can be accessed on up to two devices using the same app account. Works on PC/Windows, Mac (OSX), Android phones and tablets, Apple IOS, and Kindle.

Note: If your organization requires special permission to download and/or install programs, please contact your IT department for assistance before purchase.

APRP Preparation Publications Package

Various Formats

The Accredited Risk Payments Professional (APRP) designation distinguishes its bearers as members of an elite corps of payments system professionals. To assist you in preparing for the APRP examination, administered once in the fall each year, the following recommended texts are offered:

APRP Preparation Publications Package includes:

ACH Rules Book – Hardcopy, Online Resource Code, or eBook via App
ACH Compliance Manual – Hardcopy or eBook via App
Revised Uniform Commercial Code Article 4A and the ACH System – Hardcopy or eBook via App
ACH Risk Management Handbook - 8th Edition – Hardcopy or eBook via App
APRP Flashcards – Electronic Version
RiskPro™ (Online) – Electronic Version

* The ACH Rules Book (Annual access to this publication runs from December 31, 2024 – December 31, 2025.), ACH Compliance Manual, ACH Risk Management Handbook, and the Revised Uniform Commercial Code Article 4A and the ACH System are available in various formats. Such as Hardcopy, Online Resource Code, or eBook via App.

* The APRP Flashcards and RiskPro™ (Online) are available electronically only.

Hardcopy: Access to the Rules & Guidelines helps to identify new opportunities to leverage the ACH Network to meet customer’s needs while maintaining a clear understanding of network requirements.

The Rules include the legal framework for the ACH Network and the basic obligations of each ACH Network participant. Additionally, the included appendices contain details on Rules enforcement, annual audit requirements, a complete table of return reason codes, and formatting specifications.

The Guidelines expand on the Rules, providing complete discussions of each ACH Network participant type and its role and responsibilities, detailed overviews of the Standard Entry Class Codes, and use-case examples in special topic areas, such as Third-Party Service Providers.

Online Resource(web-based): This interactive website provides access to both the full Nacha Operating Rules & Nacha Operating Guidelines, as well as any potential supplement details. The Online Resource website has been divided into sections for easy browsing and searching of the content. This resource has been set up to allow for an easy and responsive viewing experience from a desktop computer, laptop, or mobile device with enhanced product features:

Customized Bookmarking
Keyword/Phrase Search
Copy options
Printing options

via App(E-book): This Adobe-based product requires a third-party app called Flux Player to allow the content to be redeemed, downloaded to, and accessed only within the app. The content is read-only, E-book display is identical to the hard copy book. Once a Flux Player account app has been created and the content is redeemed within the Flux Player app, the content can be accessed on up to two devices using the same app account. Works on PC/Windows, Mac (OSX), Android phones and tablets, Apple IOS, and Kindle.

Note: If your organization requires special permission to download and/or install programs, please contact your IT department for assistance before purchase.

ACH Origination Agreement (SFE)

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: This sample agreement, in a Word document format, includes critical terms and conditions that should be addressed in a legal agreement between a financial institution and its originators. There are numerous blanks and fields that should be completed and appropriately formatted before using this Agreement. Please remember that all contracts and agreements should be reviewed and modified where necessary by your legal counsel to be consistent with the specific needs or operations of your institution.

This publication is formatted as a Word document.

Format: Word

ACH Quick Reference Cards for Financial Institutions

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: This eight-card reference set includes codes and timeframes for ACH Returns, Dishonored and Contested Dishonored Returns, Notifications of Change (NOC), Special Exceptions (including Operator Rejects and Government Payments), Electronic Check Applications, IAT, WEB and TEL. These colorful and durable desktop reference cards provide fingertip access to critical information for the proper handling of these ACH items. The cards also include helpful tips and commonly asked questions and answers regarding exception handling. Members overwhelmingly agree that this eight-card reference set is one of the most useful ACH resources available to them.

This publication is formatted as a PDF document. Users must have access to Adobe Reader.

Format: PDF

ACH Origination Third-Party Sender Agreement (SFE)

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: This sample agreement, in a Word document format, includes critical terms and conditions that should be addressed in a legal agreement between a financial institution and a Third-Party Sender. There are numerous blanks and fields that should be completed and appropriately formatted before using this Agreement. Please remember that all contracts and agreements should be reviewed and modified where necessary by your legal counsel to be consistent with the specific needs or operations of your institution.

This publication is formatted as a Word document.

Format: Word

ACH Quick Reference Cards for Corporate Users

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: This tool, modeled after the popular ACH Quick Reference Cards for Financial Institutions, is specifically designed for corporate ACH users. This four-card reference set gives Originators fingertip access to critical information for the correct handling of ACH Returns, Dishonored Returns, Standard Entry Class (SEC) codes, Transaction codes, and Notifications of Change (NOCs). This is an ideal tool to assist with Originator education and ACH Rules compliance, which is a responsibility of the ODFI. These colorful and durable desktop reference cards cover ACH basics such as prenotifications, Return Reason codes, NOC codes, SEC codes, transaction codes, and solutions for handling ACH exception entries. These quick reference cards are a great way to provide Originators tools now that the ACH Rules - Corporate Edition has been retired. These cards have been updated to include information about recent updates to Reversals.

This publication is formatted as a PDF document. Users must have access to Adobe Reader.

Format: PDF

ACH Quick Reference Guide

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: An everyday operational resource for ACH information, this easy-to-use guide is updated with the very latest information, including ACH Rules compliance and the special handling of IAT entries. The guide provides RDFI responsibilities and obligations outlined in an easy-to-reference format. Return Reason Codes, Notification of Change Codes, and an ACH Terms Glossary are included. Financial institutions have found it to be a valuable education tool when training new operations employees.

This publication is formatted as a PDF document. Users must have access to Adobe Reader.

Format: PDF

2025 Nacha Operating Rules & Guidelines - Hardcopy

Hardcopy: Access to the Rules & Guidelines helps to identify new opportunities to leverage the ACH Network to meet customer’s needs while maintaining a clear understanding of network requirements.

The Rules include the legal framework for the ACH Network and the basic obligations of each ACH Network participant. Additionally, the included appendices contain details on Rules enforcement, annual audit requirements, a complete table of return reason codes, and formatting specifications.

The Guidelines expand on the Rules, providing complete discussions of each ACH Network participant type and its role and responsibilities, detailed overviews of the Standard Entry Class Codes, and use-case examples in special topic areas, such as Third-Party Service Providers.

ACH Guide for Originators – Advanced

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: Formerly known as the ACH Corporate User Guide, this comprehensive guide aims to empower ACH Originators by offering a nuanced exploration of the ACH Network, unraveling its history, key participants, and operational dynamics. It examines Originator responsibilities, and not only outlines preliminary requirements for establishing a robust ACH program but also provides in-depth insights into fundamental ACH operations. In addition, it addresses implementation concerns surrounding specific ACH payment applications, making it an indispensable resource for organizations navigating the intricacies of electronic payments.

This publication is formatted as a PDF document. Users must have access to Adobe Reader.

Format: PDF

ACH Guide for Originators – Basic

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: Formerly known as the Corporate User ACH Origination Basics Guide, the purpose of this guide is to offer corporate ACH Originators a high-level understanding of the Nacha Operating Rules and Guidelines, crafted with the corporate end-user in mind. The guide discusses topics such as ACH Network participants, products (including the PPD, CCD, and WEB Standard Entry Class Codes), authorization requirements (including sample authorization forms), returns, Notifications of Change, and more. Upon purchasing this guide, you will also receive a sample letter that can be utilized when providing this resource to your ACH Originators.

Format: PDF

ACH Origination Agreement Checklist for FI's

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: This checklist may be used as a resource when drafting your ACH Origination Agreement. The topics included in the checklist are general topics that may not be consistent with the way your Financial Institution operates. This checklist may not appropriately address all the laws or regulations specific to the state where your Financial Institution is located and is not intended to constitute legal advice.

Format: Electronic Access Code

ACH Originator Annual Letter (Sample)

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: Specifically crafted for Originating Depository Financial Institutions (ODFIs), this letter serves as an annual engagement tool with ACH Originators. It provides instructions on accessing the Nacha Operating Rules online and includes a comprehensive breakdown of the 2024 Federal Reserve Bank holidays. The letter is provided in a Word document format, offering ODFIs the flexibility to seamlessly integrate any additional pertinent information from their ACH origination education program into the letter.

This publication is formatted as a Word document.

Format: Word

2025 Nacha Operating Rules & Guidelines - Online Resource Code

Online Resource(web-based): This interactive website provides access to both the full Nacha Operating Rules & Nacha Operating Guidelines, as well as any potential supplement details. The Online Resource website has been divided into sections for easy browsing and searching of the content. This resource has been set up to allow for an easy and responsive viewing experience from a desktop computer, laptop, or mobile device with enhanced product features:

• Customized Bookmarking
• Keyword/Phrase Search
• Copy options
• Printing options

Note: All digital purchases are final.

Annual access to these publications runs from December 31, 2024 – December 31, 2025.

2025 Nacha Operating Rules & Guidelines - via App(E-book)

via App(E-book): This Adobe-based product requires a third-party app called Flux Player to allow the content to be redeemed, downloaded to, and accessed only within the app. The content is read-only, E-book display is identical to the hard copy book. Once a Flux Player account app has been created and the content is redeemed within the Flux Player app, the content can be accessed on up to two devices using the same app account. Works on PC/Windows, Mac (OSX), Android phones and tablets, Apple IOS, and Kindle.

Note: If your organization requires special permission to download and/or install programs, please contact your IT department for assistance before purchase.

Note: All digital purchases are final.

Annual access to these publications runs from December 31, 2024 – December 31, 2025.

Check Returns & Adjustments Quick Reference Guide

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: When processing check payments, there are multiple ways to resolve check exceptions: Returns (Customer and Administrative), Rule 8 & Rule 9 Claims, Adjustments, and Warranty Breach Claims. This guide will highlight the information needed to process these exceptions and how you can mitigate your risk of losses by performing tasks in a timely manner. Return codes and adjustments are provided in an easy-to-read chart that combines essential information from Accredited Standards Committee X9, ECCHO Operating Rules, and Federal Reserve. This updated guide will also include newly added adjustment types along with all forms required to be completed with certain adjustment types.

This publication is formatted as a PDF document. Users must have access to Adobe Reader.

Format: PDF

UCC Quick Reference Card

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication:

The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), Articles 3 and 4 first published in 1952, is a set of standardized state laws that govern business and financial contracts that establishes general duty standards for parties to act in good faith and exercise ordinary care in their transactions across the United States of America (U.S.) through UCC adoption by all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Territories of the United States. Together with case law, Articles 3 and 4 document legal boundaries for most aspects of check processing.

This Quick Reference Card outlines the key topics in the UCC Articles 3 and 4 with a brief description of each and the location of the UCC Reference. Together with case law, Articles 3 and 4 document legal boundaries for most aspects of check processing.

This publication is formatted as a PDF document. Users must have access to Adobe Reader.

Format: PDF

Guide to ACH Origination

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: This handy toolkit includes the Guide to Origination, ACH Originator Application, ACH Origination Checklists (CU and Bank), Origination Risk Calculator and Directions, ACH File Formatting Tool, ACH Exposure Limit Evaluation, Exceeding ACH Exposure Limit Overage Disposition Form, Co. Request for Increase of Exposure Limit, ACH Returns Transmittal Register, ACH Return Entry Log, Directions for Use Operations Risk Management Tools, TPS List of Originators and ACH File Transmittal Register.

This publication is formatted as a PDF document. Users must have access to Adobe Reader.

Format: PDF

Image & Remote Deposit Capture (RDC) Guide

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: This guide contains the following attachments:

51-page Image & RDC Guide for the Financial Institution
Sample Mobile Deposit Risk Management Policy
Sample Merchant Capture Risk Management Policy
Sample Corporate RDC Limit Review Form
Sample Merchant Capture Service Agreement
Sample Mobile Deposit Agreement
Glossary of Terms
Website Links for RDC Resources

Format: PDF/Word

Nacha Rules Book Tabs

Purchase your own set of Tabs for the Nacha Rules Book. Tabs provide quick reference when handling the most common ACH issues such as unauthorized returns, return deadlines, obligation of the RDFI to post ACH items, notifications of change, obligations of the ODFI, funds availability and more.

Tabs are sold separately.

ACH Rules Review Guide for Originators

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: This Rules Review Guide is designed to assist an originating company when reviewing its ACH functions and to provide an understanding of the requirements of the Nacha Operating Rules. The guide will help the originating company and its Financial Institution stay in compliance with the Nacha Operating Rules.

This guide contains the following attachments:

7-page ACH Rules Review Guide
ACH Originator Review Form
Sample Direct Deposit via ACH Authorization (Originator - Consumer Receiver)
Sample Direct Payment via ACH Authorization (Originator - Consumer Receiver)
Sample Authorization Language and Ineligible Items for ACH Check Conversion
Returns, Notifications of Change (NOCs), & Other Codes
Glossary of Terms
ACH Security Framework Guidance and Checklists

Format: PDF/Word

Stop Payment Fillable PDF Form

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: Our comprehensive and convenient Stop Payment Request Form provides concise explanations on stop payment requests for single or recurring entries to consumer accounts; stop payment requests on paper items; and stop payment requests for entries to non-consumer accounts.

ePay's fillable PDF Stop Pay form can be completed online or emailed to the accountholder for them to fill out and send back to you. Includes a detailed companion document to facilitate your compliant handling of stop payment requests.

This publication is formatted as a PDF document. Users must have access to Adobe Reader.

Format: PDF

Written Statement Fillable PDF Form

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: The most thorough and convenient WSUD there is! RDFIs are required to obtain a completed Written Statement of Unauthorized Debit (WSUD) from a Receiver before returning a debit entry because it was unauthorized; the authorization was revoked; the item was not initiated in accordance with the terms of the authorization; or the item was improperly initiated according to requirements of the Nacha Operating Rules.

ePay's fillable PDF WSUD form contains clear and concise descriptions about why the item is being returned and what return reason code to use in each situation. The form can be completed online or emailed to the Receiver for them to fill out and send back to you. Includes a detailed companion document to ensure you are compliant for all R05, R07, R10, R11, R37, R51, and R53 returns.

This publication is formatted as a PDF document. Users must have access to Adobe Reader.

Format: PDF