NFA Orders Firms to Complete Fingerprint System Migration to Fieldprint by October 1

According to the National Futures Association, NFA Member firms must activate a Business Information Group (BIG) account by October 1, 2026, when a mandatory digital fingerprint submission system becomes mandatory. Beginning that date, individuals required to submit fingerprints for NFA registration must use Fieldprint, the FBI-approved designated service provider, rather than mailing physical fingerprint cards.

The electronic system substantially accelerates processing times, with fingerprint results typically available within one hour following an appointment, compared to delays inherent in paper-based submissions. To prepare for the transition, NFA will host a free webinar on August 18. Firms must complete the prerequisite BIG account activation to allow associated persons to schedule fingerprinting appointments; the process typically takes 10 to 20 minutes and requires reviewing service agreements and providing NFA identification details.