Rules & documentation

ACSS rule changes enhance payment system processes

These changes took effect on July 27, 2026.

Payments Canada has implemented a series of administrative and operational amendments to the Automated Clearing Settlement System (ACSS) rules. These updates provide expanded definitions and process efficiency.

Payments Canada’s rules, standards and procedure documents are updated regularly and versions posted online are in force. You can contact Payments Canada for confirmation by e-mail at info@payments.ca.

Item Title Updated System
Introduction
Introduction
Retail batch payment system
Quick links - ACSS
Automated clearing settlement system rules, standards and by-laws
Retail batch payment system
Association By-law No. 3
Payment Items & ACSS By-law
Retail batch payment system, System by-laws
Association By-law No. 6
Compliance
Retail batch payment system, High-value payment system - Lynx, System by-laws
Policy Statement
Prohibition of Tele-Cheques in the Clearing and Settlement System
Retail batch payment system
Rule A1
General Rules Pertaining to Items Acceptable for Clearing
Retail batch payment system
Rule A3
Endorsement and Identification of Paper Items
Retail batch payment system
Rule A4
Returned and Redirected Items
Retail batch payment system
Rule A5
Credits to Accounts of Deceased Customers
Retail batch payment system
Rule A6
Items in Dispute
Retail batch payment system
Rule A9
Arbitration
Retail batch payment system
Rule A10
Image Rule
Retail batch payment system