Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System

The purpose of this letter is to inform financial institutions, their authorized representatives, and other key stakeholders that the Federal Reserve will release FedEZFile and FedEZFile Fluent on October 17, 2022, replacing the Electronic Applications System (E-Apps), which previously facilitated the Federal Reserve's application filing process. FedEZFile is designed to provide an intuitive and transparent filing experience, while minimizing paper applications and communications. FedEZFile Fluent is the companion learning resource to FedEZFile, which provides written and video guidance on how to register, access, and use FedEZFile. The Federal Reserve is also issuing answers to frequently asked questions related to FedEZFile and the transition from E-Apps, included as an attachment to this letter.

FedEZFile is a cloud-based platform utilizing Login.gov, a secure sign-in service run by the federal government, which allows individuals to use a single username and password to access participating government agency websites. FedEZFile will be accessible via PC, tablet, or smartphone and will offer a variety of features enhancing the user experience, including real-time status tracking, personalized dashboards, two-way messaging, and digitally signed documents. With an authorized account, users can upload and access relevant documents, view and download Federal Reserve-generated documents, and identify Federal Reserve staff assigned to the filing. FedEZFile is supported by a dedicated technology team with extended business hours. Contact information for technology support staff will be readily available in FedEZFile, in FedEZFile Fluent, and on the Federal Reserve Board's public website.

FedEZFile Fluent will be accessible through the Board's website. It contains video tutorials and quick reference guides, which provide step-by-step instructions on how to register for FedEZFile, submit an application, and access filing information on the dashboard. FedEZFile Fluent does not require registration to access.

Beginning October 17, 2022, users will be able to register for FedEZFile and access FedEZFile Fluent. Upon FedEZFile going live, users will no longer be able to access E-Apps. All pending applications filed prior to October 17, 2022, will be transferred to FedEZFile for continued processing.

Prospective filers are encouraged to contact the Applications Department of the appropriate Reserve Bank to discuss their proposal prior to submission.¹ During this transition, Reserve Bank staff are available to answer questions regarding FedEZFile access, registration, and the filing process.

Reserve Banks are asked to distribute this letter to the supervised organizations in their districts and to appropriate supervisory staff.

Questions regarding this SR letter/CA letter may be submitted via the Board's public website.² In addition, prospective filers may send questions to [email protected] or contact the technology support staff at 1-833-656-4644.

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