FDIC Extends Digital Signage Compliance Deadline

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has announced a significant re-extension to the compliance deadline for certain digital signage requirements under its official signs and advertising regulations. Originally set for May 1, 2025, the new deadline now gives insured depository institutions (IDIs) until March 1, 2026, to meet the requirements under 12 CFR 328.5. This extension also applies to regulations concerning ATMs and similar devices under 12 CFR 328.4. 

Addressing Implementation Concerns of FDIC Digital Signage

The FDIC’s decision to delay compliance stems from ongoing concerns about the practical implementation of these requirements. The agency has acknowledged that financial institutions continue to face uncertainties regarding the proper display of the FDIC’s official digital sign on digital banking channels. In addition, there are concerns that the current requirements could lead to consumer confusion rather than clarity. 

To address these potential disconnects, the FDIC plans to use the extended compliance period to propose regulatory modifications and seek public input. This move aims to ensure that the final implementation of the rules aligns with industry capabilities and consumer expectations. 

The FDIC’s Compliance Extension Timeline

The amendments in question were originally introduced as part of the FDIC’s broader effort to modernize its signage and advertising requirements. On December 20, 2023, the agency adopted a final rule titled FDIC Official Signs and Advertising Requirements, False Advertising, Misrepresentation of Insured Status, and Misuse of the FDIC’s Name or Logo. This rule revised the FDIC’s signage and advertising regulations under part 328, subpart A, to increase transparency and reducing the potential for misleading claims regarding deposit insurance coverage. 

The original FDIC compliance deadline for these new requirements was set for January 1, 2025. On October 17, 2024, however, the FDIC pushed this date back to May 1, 2025, in response to concerns from the banking industry. The new deadline now gives IDIs until March 1, 2026. 

Now, with additional questions still surfacing regarding digital signage, the agency has opted for another extension, providing financial institutions with nearly an additional year to adapt. 

What This Means for Financial Institutions

For banks and other FDIC-insured entities, this latest delay offers additional time to develop and implement compliant digital signage strategies. The extension specifically applies to: 

• The requirement to display the FDIC’s official digital sign on certain digital banking pages 
• Similar requirements for signage on ATMs and other automated banking devices 

The FDIC, however has clarified that this delay does not apply to other amendments made under the final rule. Compliance with the remaining provisions of part 328, subpart A, remains due by May 1, 2025. 

FDIC’s Regulatory Goals and Industry Participation

With this extension, the FDIC aims to refine its regulations to ensure they effectively serve their intended purpose without introducing undue burdens or confusion. Financial institutions should stay engaged with the agency’s forthcoming proposals and be prepared to provide feedback during the public comment period. 

The timing clarifications for implementation of 12 CFR 328.5 and 12 CFR 328.4. can be accessed verbatim at fdic.gov.