The EPC has announced the publication of its five 2025 EPC payment scheme rulebooks along with the associated Implementation Guidelines.
These rulebooks are set to become effective from 5 October 2025, a significant shift from the traditional late November entry-into-force dates. This change aligns with the upcoming requirements of Regulation (EU) 2024/886 on instant credit transfers in euro, also known as the Instant Payments Regulation (IPR), which amends the well-established SEPA Regulation.
The EPC’s decision for an earlier implementation date is strategic, aimed at providing Payment Service Providers (PSPs), Clearing and Settlement Mechanisms (CSMs), and other technical service providers with ample time to adapt to the new regulations. These adjustments are particularly crucial as some mandates under the IPR are set to take effect as early as January and October 2025 for PSPs operating within the euro area.
An important update in the 2025 rulebooks is the introduction of a hybrid format for the submission of payer and payee addresses, alongside the existing structured and unstructured options. However, starting 22 November 2026, the EPC will mandate the use of only the structured and hybrid formats, phasing out the unstructured format. This move is aimed at enhancing the clarity and efficiency of payment processing across Europe.
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