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Operational News from the Federal Reserve Banks

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FedLine® Access Solutions

Federal Reserve Banks to launch the Next Generation VPN Solution initiative

May 15, 2013

On May 13, 2013, the Federal Reserve Banks announced (PDF) the Next Generation Virtual Private Network (VPN) Solution initiative will soon launch. This multi-year effort requires all FedLine Advantage® and FedLine Command® customers to replace their current VPN device(s), a key security component of FedLine® access solutions, with a more contemporary solution. The VPN device is one of the key components to how organizations access critical payment and information services from the Federal Reserve Banks.

The Next Generation VPN Solution was designed to enhance customer experience, while maintaining security and reliability. Improved features of the new solution include shorter lead times for installations and modifications, electronic change modification requests and more robust self-service functionality. The new solution also uses Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity exclusively and supports updated security standards that help to keep pace with evolving cyber threats.

The VPN device and installation fees for the Next Generation VPN Solution are significantly reduced from the current model. Customers should budget approximately $600 for the VPN device and installation, compared to $1,350 for the current model. Information on pricing for the Next Generation VPN Solution is located on the FedLine access solutions 2013 Fee Schedule.

As you replace your current VPN device(s), it is a good time to review your business continuity plans to ensure the needs are met. A number of contingency options can be considered and can be reviewed by visiting our business continuity information page.

An End User Authorization Contact (EUAC) in your organization will be notified in advance of your replacement date and provided resources to guide him or her through the replacement. For more information on the Next Generation VPN Solution initiative, visit our online resource center. Please contact the Customer Contact Center (CCC) with any questions or comments about this replacement initiative.

Announcement

On May 13, 2013, the Federal Reserve Banks announced (PDF) the Next Generation Virtual Private Network (VPN) Solution initiative will soon launch. The VPN device is one of the key components to how organizations access critical payment and information services from the Federal Reserve Banks. An End User Authorization Contact (EUAC) at your organization will be notified in advance of your replacement date.

For more information on the Next Generation VPN Solution initiative, visit our online resource center. Please contact the Customer Contact Center (CCC) with any questions or comments about this replacement initiative. 

 

Check/Check 21 Services

Federal Reserve Banks to publish new FedReceipt® RTNs

May 15, 2013

New FedReceipt® RTNs for FedForward® and FedReturn® Services deposits will be published the week of June 3, 2013. These lists will reflect changes to the FedReceipt RTN lists that have occurred between May 1 and May 31, 2013. For more information, please visit the Check 21-Enabled Services Endpoint Tier Listings, where you can review the April 30, 2013 Summary of Changes to FedReceipt Routing Numbers (XLS).

 

Reminder - Changes to Check Adjustment requirements and edits and updated Computer Interface Protocol Specifications (CIPS)

May 15, 2013

As announced (PDF), the Federal Reserve Banks will be making changes to the requirements and edits associated with the Paid Item (PAID) investigation type (ITYP). These changes support our ongoing efforts to expedite the handling of adjustment requests and simplify the associated documentation requirements.

These changes will not become effective until sometime during the second half of 2013. The changes are being announced now to provide operations and technical staff time to prepare. More information will be provided in the coming months regarding the effective date of these changes.

An updated CIPS document reflecting these changes is posted in the Support Center of FedLine® Home for customers submitting adjustment requests using the file upload/download process. Requests to submit and receive test files can be made through Check Customer Support at (877) FRB-CHKS or (877) 372-2457.

Reminder

As announced (PDF), the Federal Reserve Banks will be making changes to the requirements and edits associated with the Paid Item (PAID) investigation type (ITYP). These changes will not become effective until sometime during the second half of 2013. An updated Computer Interface Protocol Specifications (CIPS) document reflecting these changes is posted in the Support Center of FedLine® Home. Requests to submit and receive test files can be made through Check Customer Support at (877) FRB-CHKS or (877) 372-2457.

 

FedACH® Services

FedACH Feature: Identify incoming health care payments with FedACH Risk® RDFI Alert

May 15, 2013

Did you know the FedACH Risk RDFI Alert Service can help your institution identify whether any of its health care clients are receiving electronic Automated Clearing House (ACH) payments? 

Simply set RDFI Alert batch criteria for the Company Entry Description field of “HCCLAIMPMT” for your institution’s Routing Transit Number (RTN), give the criteria set a meaningful name and assign email addresses of those at your institution who should receive the notifications about these transactions. These contacts will receive a notification every time your RTN receives a transaction with a Company Entry Description field containing “HCCLAIMPMT.”

Please reference the FedACH RDFI Alert Service page and review the Help with Health Care (PDF) guide for more information.

 

FedCash® Services

Redesigned $100 note to begin circulating October 8, 2013

May 15, 2013

$100 NoteOn April 24, 2013, the Federal Reserve Board announced that the redesigned $100 note will begin circulating on October 8, 2013. The official press release is available on federalreserve.gov (Off-site Link).

The Federal Reserve Board and its partners at the U.S. Secret Service and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing have developed training materials to help you and your staff prepare to accept the redesigned $100 note. If you, or others at your organization, would like to receive periodic updates with information to help you get ready for the redesigned $100 note, please complete the sign-up form.

 

 

Stay tuned for future updates regarding the redesigned $100 note:

Stay tuned for future updates

For more information please visit newmoney.gov (Off-site Link).

Announcement

On April 24, 2013, the Federal Reserve Board announced that the redesigned $100 note will begin circulating on October 8, 2013. The official press release is available on federalreserve.gov (Off-site Link).

 

Treasury Services

Processing location change for all Federal Government ACH reclamations

May 15, 2013

Effective June 3, 2013, the processing of all Federal Government Automated Clearing House (ACH) reclamations for Treasury-disbursed payments (non-DFAS) will be handled by the Department of the Treasury, Bureau of the Fiscal Service’s Philadelphia Financial Center. We ask that you take note of this change to ensure proper routing and timely processing of your response to the Notice of Reclamation (FMS-133). Please utilize the contact information below when processing ACH reclamations:

 Mailing Address Phone Number

Department of the Treasury   
Bureau of the Fiscal Service 
Philadelphia Financial Center
P.O. Box 603
Bensalem, PA 19020-0603

Toll Free: (855) 868-0151
Fax Number: (215) 516-8262

If you have any questions related to this transition, please contact Lisa Andre, Accredited Automated Clearing House Professional (AAP) at (855) 868-0151 or Lisa.Andre@fms.treas.gov.

Effective Date

June 3, 2013
The processing of all Federal Government Automated Clearing House (ACH) reclamations for Treasury-disbursed payments (non-DFAS) will be handled by the Department of the Treasury, Bureau of the Fiscal Service’s Philadelphia Financial Center. If you have any questions related to this transition, please contact Lisa Andre, Accredited Automated Clearing House Professional (AAP) at (855) 868-0151 or Lisa.Andre@fms.treas.gov.

 

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FedFlash is your source for the latest Federal Reserve Financial Services operational news. Each bulletin keeps you informed of issues critical to your day-to-day operations, providing you with National and District updates regarding our products and services, processes, technical protocols and contact information.