> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.lead.bank/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# FAQ

> Frequently asked check questions.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="What cut-off times does Lead support for receiving X9 files?">
    For outgoing check forwards (Deposit a Check), submit files to Lead by 6:30 a.m. ET for same-day settlement at 8:30 a.m. ET. For outgoing returns, the cut-off is 12:30 a.m. ET, also settling at 8:30 a.m. ET.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How frequently can you submit X9 files?">
    You can submit files intraday. Lead supports three settlement windows: 8:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 5:30 p.m. ET. Target the first morning window for standard check forwards.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="What is the processing timeline after Lead receives your X9 file?">
    After Lead receives a positive ACK from the Fed, Lead makes GL movements promptly. Funds become available to your customers upon crediting of the Customer FBO. Final settlement occurs on the `settlementDate` in the file — typically the same day for the 8:30 a.m. window.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="When do returns appear after initial file submission?">
    Returns from the paying bank arrive via X9 files through the Fed and Lead forwards them to you as they are received. There is no fixed service-level agreement from the paying bank — returns can arrive within a few days or, in some cases, later.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="At what point is a deposit considered accepted?">
    A deposit is accepted once Lead receives a positive ACK from the Fed and credits the Customer FBO. Funds are immediately available for spending at that point.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Does Lead support conditional crediting before Fed settlement?">
    No. Lead does not credit customers before receiving a positive ACK from the Fed on outgoing X9 files.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="How does lead communicate returns?">
    Lead sends returns to you via X9 return files, following the Write a Check flow. When the paying bank contacts Lead's operations team directly outside of the Fed, Lead opens a case and contacts you as needed.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Are there different cut-off times for Same-Day vs. Next-Day processing?">
    Same-day settlement is available via the 8:30 a.m. ET window (submit your file by 6:30 a.m. ET). The 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. ET windows provide additional intraday settlement on the same business day. Checks on Pacific Island bank routing numbers (1214 or 3214 prefix) always settle the next business day.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>