The ACH Network plays a critical role in how businesses move money efficiently and securely. To help maintain the integrity of the network, National Automated Clearing House Association (NACHA), periodically updates its operating rules. Several upcoming rule changes, which take effect March 20, 2026, are intended to strengthen fraud prevention, risk management, and accountability across all ACH participants.
While these updates primarily affect financial institutions, certain changes may impact businesses that originate or receive ACH payments. Below is an overview of what to expect and how businesses can prepare.
Why NACHA Updates Its Rules
NACHA rule changes are designed to:
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Enhance the security and reliability of ACH payments
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Reduce fraud and unauthorized transactions
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Promote consistent risk management practices across the ACH Network
These updates reflect evolving payment risks and the growing importance of electronic transactions for businesses of all sizes.
Key Areas That May Affect Business Customers
Increased Monitoring of ACH Activity
Banks are required to implement enhanced monitoring for ACH transactions, particularly ACH credits. As a result, businesses may experience:
- Additional reviews of ACH transactions
- Occasional requests for verification or supporting documentation
- Temporary delays if transactions require further review
These measures are intended to help protect businesses and the broader payment system.
Businesses are also encouraged to stay informed about common payment fraud risks and prevention best practices, which are outlined on our Fraud Awareness page.
Responsibilities for ACH Originators
Businesses that originate ACH transactions—such as payroll, vendor payments, or customer debits—are expected to:
- Maintain proper authorization for ACH activity
- Monitor return rates and unauthorized transaction levels
- Address errors or unusual activity promptly
Consistently high return rates or unauthorized transactions may result in additional review or changes to ACH origination privileges.
Focus on Internal Controls
NACHA rules continue to emphasize the importance of sound internal controls. Businesses may wish to review:
- Payment approval and authorization processes
- Segregation of duties related to ACH initiation and review
- Timely reconciliation and review of ACH reports
Strong internal controls help reduce operational risk and support uninterrupted payment processing.
What Businesses Can Expect
For most businesses, ACH payments will continue to operate normally. However, businesses may notice:
- More structured onboarding or review processes for ACH services
- Additional communication from the bank regarding ACH activity
- A greater emphasis on documentation and transaction monitoring
These changes are intended to support a safe and reliable payment environment—not to disrupt business operations.
Preparing for the Changes
To help ensure a smooth experience, businesses are encouraged to:
- Review ACH authorization and recordkeeping practices
- Monitor ACH return activity regularly
- Evaluate internal payment controls and approval workflows
- Communicate with their bank if ACH usage changes or expands
- Early preparation can help minimize potential delays or issues.
Our Commitment to Supporting Your Business
We are actively preparing for these NACHA rule updates and are committed to helping our business customers navigate the changes. Our team is available to answer questions, review ACH services, and provide guidance on best practices for secure payment processing.
For additional information or assistance, please contact our Treasury Management Solutions Team. You may reach us at [email protected] or by calling 855.445.5138.
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