ACH Resources

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Agreements & Forms
Quick Reference
Compliance,
Audits & Risk
Corporate Users
& Origination
Understanding ACH

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 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 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 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

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

ACH Audit Workbook

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: Regulators and the ACH Rules require all financial institutions to conduct an ACH Compliance Audit annually. This user-friendly workbook will eliminate guesswork and guide you through conducting a risk-based ACH Compliance Audit by examing ACH Rules, ODFI and RDFI sound business practices, OFAC processes and other payments-related regulatory requirements. The 2025 edition includes minor enhancements to improve process flow and content quality. Instructions for use are included. Upon completion of the workbook pages, a summary report is generated to help you quickly identify and prioritize changes to reduce risk.

Note: This product is intended for One-Time Use. This publication is copyrighted and the purchase is good for one use. All digital purchases are final.

ACH Risk Assessment Workbook

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: Designed to assist Financial Institutions, both RDFIs and ODFIs, in addressing ACH risk, this workbook covers risk obligations as defined in OCC Bulletin 2006- 39, ACH Risk Management Guidance, the FFIEC Retail Payment Systems IT Examination Handbook and current ACH Rules. Chapters include System and Controls, Credit Risk, High-Risk Activities, Compliance Risk, Third-Party Service Providers, Fraud Risk, Operational and Transaction Risk, and Information Technology Risk. Recent updates address data security, personnel practices, physical security, operational controls, credit risk related to Originator due diligence and Business Continuity planning and testing. By completing user-friendly worksheets, this workbook will identify strengths and weaknesses in your existing ACH risk management program and assist with the development of a comprehensive risk management program. Compliance officers, audit personnel and operations staff will find this to be a valuable tool.

Note: This product is intended for One-Time Use. This publication is copyrighted and the purchase is good for one use. All digital purchases are final.

Third-Party Sender ACH Risk Assessment Workbook

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: The Third-Party Sender ACH Risk Assessment Workbook is designed to assist Third-Party Senders of all types in addressing their ACH risk. Content of the Workbook includes risk obligations as defined in the OCC Bulletin 2006-39, ACH Risk Management Guidance, the FFIEC Retail Payments Systems' IT Examination Handbook, FFIEC Guidance to Internet Banking and the current Nacha Rules. By answering yes, no, or not applicable, this Workbook will identify strengths and weaknesses in your existing ACH risk management program. Individual chapters address System and Controls, Credit Risk, Compliance Risk, High-Risk Activities, Third-Party Service Provider Risk, Operational & Transaction Risk and Information Technology Risk. EPCOR’s Third-Party Sender ACH Risk Assessment Workbook guides you in evaluating the Third-Party Sender’s risks by asking thought-provoking questions about its current ACH policies, procedures and processes. The 2025 Third-Party Sender ACH Risk Assessment Workbook has been updated for the 2025 Nacha Rules User-friendly worksheet questions are easily answered and include room for comments, to assist in developing a comprehensive ACH risk management program for your company. Compliance officers, audit personnel and operations staff within your organization will find the Workbook a valuable tool.

Note: This product is intended for One-Time Use Only by Third-Party Senders. This publication is copyrighted and the purchase is good for one use. All digital purchases are final.

ACH Compliance Manual - 11th Edition - Various Formats

Various Formats

Hardcopy: An essential tool to ensure compliance with the Nacha Operating Rules & Guidelines, the 11^th edition offers crisp insights into authorizations, processing, and more from Nacha’s subject matter experts. Stay current with recent Rule changes on Micro-Entries and Third-Party Sender shifts and authorization updates. Whether you’re new to the payments industry or a seasoned professional, this offering simplifies complexities, provides insightful compliance tips, and includes a glossary and references to other valuable resources.

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.

ACH Risk Management Handbook, 8th Edition

Various Formats

Hardcopy: The 8th edition provides the latest information on Nacha’s strategies to identify and mitigate risks and provides recommendations for developing an effective risk management program for any organization involved in the creation or processing of ACH transactions. The threats to ACH payments are not unique to the ACH Network and the lessons learned can be applied to create a holistic payments risk management program. In addition, case studies are included in each chapter to offer realistic examples to assist you in evaluating and implementing your risk management program.

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.

ACH Origination Agreement (SFE)

Electronic Format

This publication is formatted as a Word document.

Format: Word

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

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

Format: PDF

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

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

Origination Handbook - TEL, WEB & CIE SEC Codes

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: This convenient quick-reference tool helps ACH Originators quickly and easily understand their obligations under the ACH Rules. Filled with all the knowledge necessary for compliant ACH operations in a condensed format more easily referenced and digested by the Originator, each handbook in this series includes an overview of the ACH Network and its participants, as well as file formatting and processing requirements. The TEL, WEB & CIE edition also includes verification, authorization, and data security audit requirements.

Format: PDF

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

Third-Party Senders & the ACH Network - 4th Edition - Various Formats

Various Formats

Hardcopy: This 4th Edition update provides a review of the variations in legal requirements and processing obligations relating to the origination of ACH entries when a Third-Party Sender is involved in the origination of transactions through the ACH Network. This edition reflects the latest Nacha Operating Rules changes, offers real-world examples of Third-Party Sender relationships, and includes sound business practices, risk management topics, and a checklist of issues to be addressed by ODFIs, Originators, and Third-Party Senders in processing agreements. Third-Party Senders and ODFIs partnering with and managing these organizations will benefit from the information discussed.

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.

ACH Policies & Procedures Guide

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: Don't go into your next examination with incomplete policies and procedures! The 2024 ACH Policies & Procedures Guide is a comprehensive template built for financial institutions. There has yet to be as complete a set of policies, procedures, and supplements available to DFIs for ACH. The expert authors believe strongly that sample policies are not effective therefore this Guide allows for personalization in each area that a financial institution should make a business decision. Customization is easy in this electronic format. (Electronic Version Only)

Format: Electronic

ACHPro (Online)

Electronic Format

Electronic Publication: ACHPro™ is a self-paced, computer-based training program developed to increase your knowledge of the ACH. ACHPro™ has been developed to promote knowledge of the ACH network. This tool can be used to evaluate your level of expertise of the ACH and related payment systems and to identify those areas that may require additional development. ACHPro™ was designed to make learning fun.

ACHPro™ Challenges your knowledge in two ways: Game Mode & Test Mode

ACHPro™ Game Mode is a fun, interactive program, which tests your skills in six competency areas:
• Payment Systems
• Marketing ACH
• Risk and the ACH
• ACH Rules and Regulations
• ACH Processing
• ACH Technical Requirements

Organized around the game board, you can play the practice game-winning game money and get coached along the way with feedback on your answers.

In the ACHPro™ Test Mode timed test, you will complete all the questions and receive a score rating your performance in each category. The test is all multiple-choice, and you will complete a "blacken the dot" form as you answer questions, just like in a real standardized test situation.

So, whether you are looking to brush up on your payment systems skills or start a foundation that you can build upon, ACHPro™ is an essential tool for your professional development.

User Access opens in early May and closes on December 31, 2025.

Registration closes on November 1, 2025.

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