Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency

June 7, 2023

Interagency Guidance on Third-Party Relationships: Risk Management

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The Board, FDIC, and OCC (collectively, the agencies) are issuing final guidance on managing

risks associated with third-party relationships. The final guidance offers the agencies' views on 

sound risk management principlesfor banking organizations when developing and implementing

risk management practices for all stages in the life cycle of third-party relationships. The final

guidance states that sound third-party risk management takes into account the level of risk, 

complexity, and size of the banking organization and the nature of the third-party relationship.

The agencies are issuing this joint guidance to promote consistency in supervisory approaches; it

replaces each agency's existing general guidance on this topic and is directed to all banking 

organizations supervised by the agencies.

A. OVERVIEW

The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Board), the Federal Deposit 

Insurance Corporation (FDIC), and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC)

(collectively, the agencies) have issued this guidance to provide sound risk management

principles supervised banking organizations [Footnote 1

- For a description of the banking organizationssupervised by each agency, refer to the definition of “appropriate

Federal banking agency” in section 3(q) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (12 U.S.C. 1813(q)). This guidance is

relevant to all banking organizationssupervised by the agencies. End of Footnote 1.]

can leverage when developing and implementing

risk management practices to assess and manage risks associated with third-party relationships. [Footnote 2

- Supervisory guidance does not have the force and effect of law and does not impose any new requirements on

banking organizations. See 12 CFR Part 4, Subpart F, Appendix A (OCC); 12 CFR 262, Appendix A (FRB) 12

CFR 302, Appendix A (FDIC). End of Footnote 2.]

Whether activities are performed internally or via a third party, banking organizations are

required to operate in a safe and sound manner [Footnote 3

- See 12 U.S.C. 1831p-1. The agencies implemented section 1831p-1 by regulation through the “Interagency

Guidelines Establishing Standards for Safety and Soundness. ” See 12 CFR part 30, appendix A (OCC), 12 CFR part

208, appendix D-1 (Board); and 12 CFR part 364, appendix A (FDIC). End of Footnote 3.]

and in compliance with applicable laws and

regulations. [Footnote 4

- References to applicable laws and regulations throughout this guidance include but are not limited to those

designed to protect consumers (such as fair lending laws and prohibitions against unfair, deceptive or abusive acts or

practices) and those addressing financial crimes. End of Footnote 4.]

A banking organization's use of third parties does not diminish its responsibility to

meet these requirementsto the same extent as if its activities were performed by the banking

organization in-house. To operate in a safe and sound manner, a banking organization
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establishes risk management practices to effectively manage the risks arising from its activities,

including from third-party relationships. [Footnote 5

- This guidance is relevant for all third-party relationships, including situations in which a supervised banking

organization provides services to another supervised banking organization. End of Footnote 5.]

This guidance addresses any business arrangement [Footnote 6

- The term “business arrangement” is meant to be interpreted broadly and is synonymous with the term “third-party

relationship.” End of Footnote 6.]

between a banking organization and

another entity, by contract or otherwise. A third-party relationship may exist despite a lack of a

contract or remuneration. Third-party relationships can include, but are not limited to,

outsourced services, use of independent consultants, referral arrangements, merchant payment

processing services, services provided by affiliates and subsidiaries, and joint ventures. Some

banking organizations may form third-party relationships with new or novel structures and 

features - such as those observed in relationships with some financial technology (fintech)

companies. The respective roles and responsibilities of a banking organization and a third party

may differ, based on the specific circumstances of the relationship. Where the third-party

relationship involves the provision of products or services to, or other interaction with,

customers, the banking organization and the third party may have varying degrees of interaction

with those customers.

The use of third parties can offer banking organizations significant benefits, such as

access to new technologies, human capital, delivery channels, products, services, and markets. 

However, the use of third parties can reduce a banking organization's direct control over

activities and may introduce new risks or increase existing risks, such as operational,

compliance, and strategic risks. Increased risk often arises from greater operational or

technological complexity, newer or different types of relationships, or potential inferior 

performance by the third party. A banking organization can be exposed to adverse impacts,

including substantial financial loss and operational disruption, if it fails to appropriately manage

the risks associated with third-party relationships. Therefore, it is important for a banking

organization to identify, assess, monitor, and control risks related to third-party relationships.

The principles set forth in this guidance can support effective third-party risk

management for all types of third-party relationships, regardless of how they may be structured.

It is important for a banking organization to understand how the arrangement with a particular

third party is structured so that the banking organization may assess the types and levels ofrisks

posed and determine how to manage the third-party relationship accordingly.

B. RISK MANAGEMENT

Not all relationships present the same level ofrisk, and therefore not all relationships

require the same level or type of oversight or risk management. As part ofsound risk

management, a banking organization analyzes the risks associated with each third-party

relationship and tailors risk management practices, commensurate with the banking

organization's size, complexity, and risk profile and with the nature ofthe third-party

relationship. Maintaining a complete inventory ofits third-party relationships and periodically

conducting risk assessments for each third-party relationship supports a banking organization's
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determination of whether risks have changed over time and to update risk management practices

accordingly.

As part of sound risk management, banking organizations engage in more

comprehensive and rigorous oversight and management of third-party relationships that support

higher-risk activities, including critical activities. Characteristics of critical activities may

include those activities that could:

• cause a banking organization to face significant risk if the third party fails to meet

expectations;

• have significant customer impacts; or

• have a significant impact on a banking organization's financial condition or operations.

It is up to each banking organization to identify its critical activities and third-party

relationshipsthat support these critical activities. Notably, an activity that is critical for one

banking organization may not be critical for another. Some banking organizations may assign a

criticality or risk level to each third-party relationship, whereas others identify critical activities

and those third parties that support such activities. Regardless of a banking organization's

approach, a key element of effective risk management is applying a sound methodology to

designate which activities and third-party relationshipsreceive more comprehensive oversight.

C. THIRD-PARTY RELATIONSHIP LIFE CYCLE

Effective third-party risk management generally follows a continuouslife cycle for thirdparty relationships. The stages of the risk management life cycle of third-party relationships are

shown in Figure 1 and detailed below. The degree to which the examples of considerations

discussed in this guidance are relevant to each banking organization is based on specific facts

and circumstances and these examples may not apply to all of a banking organization's thirdparty relationships.

It is important to involve staff with the requisite knowledge and skills in each stage of the

risk management life cycle. A banking organization may involve experts across disciplines, such

as compliance, risk, or technology, as well as legal counsel, and may engage external support

when helpful to supplement the qualifications and technical expertise of in-house staff. [Footnote 7

- When a banking organization uses a third-party assessment service or utility, it has a business arrangement with

that entity. Therefore, the arrangement should be incorporated into the banking organization'sthird-party risk 

management processes. End of Footnote 7.]
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Figure 1: Stages of the Risk Management Life Cycle

Source: Board, FDIC, and OCC

1. Planning

As part of sound risk management, effective planning allows a banking organization to

evaluate and consider how to manage risks before entering into a third-party relationship.

Certain third parties, such as those that support a banking organization's higher-risk activities,

including critical activities, typically warrant a greater degree of planning and consideration. For

example, when critical activities are involved, plans may be presented to and approved by a

banking organization's board of directors (or a designated board committee).

Depending on the degree of risk and complexity of the third-party relationship, a banking

organization typically considers the following factors, among others, in planning:

• Understanding the strategic purpose of the business arrangement and how the

arrangement aligns with a banking organization's overall strategic goals, objectives, risk

appetite, risk profile, and broader corporate policies;

• Identifying and assessing the benefits and the risks associated with the business

arrangement and determining how to appropriately manage the identified risks;

• Considering the nature of the business arrangement, such as volume of activity, use of

subcontractor(s), technology needed, interaction with customers, and use of foreign-based

third parties; [Footnote 8

- The term “foreign-based third-party” refers to third parties whose servicing operations are located in a foreign country and subject to the law and jurisdiction of that country. Accordingly, this term does not include a U.S.-based subsidiary of a foreign firm because its 

servicing operations are subject to U.S. laws. This term does include U.S. third parties to the extent that their actual servicing operations are located in or subcontracted to entities domiciled in a foreign country and subject to the law and jurisdiction of that country. End of Footnote 8.]

[Figure 1 image description – Three-sided, triangular diagram – Independent Reviews, documentation and reporting, and oversight and accountability – outside and circular lifecycle inside of triangle – planning, due diligence and 

third-party selection 

– contract negotiation – ongoing monitoring – termination.]
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• Evaluating the estimated costs, including estimated direct contractual costs and indirect

costs expended to augment or alter banking organization staffing, systems, processes, and

technology;

• Evaluating how the third-party relationship could affect banking organization employees,

including dual employees, [Footnote 9

- Dual employees are employed by both the banking organization and the third party. End of Footnote 9.]

and what transition steps are needed for the banking

organization to manage the impacts when activities currently conducted internally are

outsourced;

• Assessing a potential third party's impact on customers, including access to or use of

those customers' information, third-party interaction with customers, potential for 

consumer harm, and handling of customer complaints and inquiries;

• Understanding potential information security implications, including access to the

banking organization's systems and to its confidential information;

• Understanding potential physical security implications, including access to the banking

organization's facilities;

• Determining how the banking organization will select, assess, and oversee the third party,

including monitoring the third party's compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and 

contractual provisions, and requiring remediation of compliance issues that may arise;

• Determining the banking organization's ability to provide adequate oversight and

management of the proposed third-party relationship on an ongoing basis (including

whether staffing levels and expertise, risk management and compliance management

systems, organizational structure, policies and procedures, or internal control systems

need to be adapted over time for the banking organization to effectively address the

business arrangement); and

• Outlining the banking organization's contingency plans in the event the banking

organization needs to transition the activity to another third party or bring it in-house.

2. Due Diligence and Third-Party Selection

Conducting due diligence on third parties before selecting and entering into third-party

relationshipsis an important part of sound risk management. It provides management with the

information needed about potential third parties to determine if a relationship would help achieve

a banking organization's strategic and financial goals. The due diligence process also provides

the banking organization with the information needed to evaluate whether it can appropriately

identify, monitor, and control risks associated with the particular third-party relationship. Due

diligence includes assessing the third party's ability to: perform the activity as expected, adhere

to a banking organization's policies related to the activity, comply with all applicable laws and
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regulations, and conduct the activity in a safe and sound manner. Relying solely on experience

with or prior knowledge of a third party is not an adequate proxy for performing appropriate due 

diligence, as due diligence should be tailored to the specific activity to be performed by the third 

party.

The scope and degree of due diligence should be commensurate with the level of risk and

complexity of the third-party relationship. More comprehensive due diligence is particularly

important when a third party supports higher-risk activities, including critical activities. If a

banking organization uncovers information that warrants additionalscrutiny, the banking 

organization should consider broadening the scope or assessment methods of the due diligence.

In some instances, a banking organization may not be able to obtain the desired due

diligence information from a third party. For example, the third party may not have a long

operational history, may not allow on-site visits, or may not share (or be permitted to share)

information that a banking organization requests. While the methods and scope of due diligence

may differ, it is important for the banking organization to identify and document any limitations

of its due diligence, understand the risks from such limitations, and consider alternatives as to

how to mitigate the risks. In such situations, a banking organization may, for example, obtain

alternative information to assess the third party, implement additional controls on or monitoring

of the third party to address the information limitation, or consider using a different third party.

A banking organization may use the services of industry utilities or consortiums, consult

with other organizations, [Footnote 10

- Any collaborative activities among banks must comply with antitrust laws. Refer to the Federal Trade

Commission and U.S. Department of Justice's “Antitrust Guidelines for Collaborations Among Competitors” (April

2000), available at https://www.ftc.gov/sites/default/files/documents/public events/joint-venture-hearings-antitrustguidelines-coUaboration-among-competitors/ftcdojguidelines-2.pdf.10.] End of Footnote

or engage in joint efforts to supplement its due diligence. As the

activity to be performed by the third party may present a different level of risk to each banking

organization, it is important to evaluate the conclusions from such supplemental efforts based on 

the banking organization's own specific circumstances and performance criteria for the activity.

Effective risk management processes include evaluating the capabilities of any external party

conducting the supplemental efforts, understanding how such supplemental efforts relate to the

banking organization's planned use of the third party, and assessing the risks of relying on the

supplemental efforts. Use of such external parties to conduct supplemental due diligence does

not abrogate the responsibility of the banking organization to manage third-party relationships in

a safe and sound manner and consistent with applicable laws and regulations.

Depending on the degree of risk and complexity of the third-party relationship, a banking

organization typically considers the following factors, among others, as part of due diligence:

a. Strategies and Goals

A review of the third party's overall business strategy and goals helps the banking

organization to understand: (1) how the third party's current and proposed strategic business

arrangements (such as mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships) may affect the activity; and (2)

the third party's service philosophies, quality initiatives, and employment policies and practices

(including its diversity policies and practices). Such information may assist a banking
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organization to determine whether the third party can perform the activity in a manner that is 

consistent with the banking organization's broader corporate policies and practices.

b. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

A review of any legal and regulatory compliance considerations associated with engaging 

a third party allows a banking organization to evaluate whether it can appropriately mitigate risks

associated with the third-party relationship. This may include (1) evaluating the third party's

ownership structure (including identifying any beneficial ownership, whether public or private,

foreign, or domestic ownership) and whether the third party has the necessary legal authority to

perform the activity, such as any necessary licenses or corporate powers; (2) determining

whether the third party itself or any owners are subject to sanctions by the Office of Foreign

Assets Control; (3) determining whether the third party has the expertise, processes, and controls

to enable the banking organization to remain in compliance with applicable domestic and 

international laws and regulations; (4) considering the third party's responsiveness to any 

compliance issues (including violations of law or regulatory actions) with applicable supervisory

agencies and self-regulatory organizations, as appropriate; and (5) considering whether the third

party has identified, and articulated a process to mitigate, areas of potential consumer harm.

c. Financial Condition

An assessment of a third party's financial condition through review of available financial

information, including audited financial statements, annual reports, and filings with the U.S.

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), among others, helps a banking organization

evaluate whether the third party has the financial capability and stability to perform the activity.

Where relevant and available, a banking organization may consider other types of information

such as access to funds, expected growth, earnings, pending litigation, unfunded liabilities,

reports from debt rating agencies, and other factors that may affect the third party's overall

financial condition.

d. Business Experience

An evaluation of a third party's: (1) depth of resources (including staffing); (2) previous

experience in performing the activity; and (3) history of addressing customer complaints or

litigation and subsequent outcomes, helps to inform a banking organization's assessment of the

third party's ability to perform the activity effectively. Another consideration may include

whether there have been significant changes in the activities offered or in its business model.

Likewise, a review of the third party's websites, marketing materials, and other information

related to banking products or services may help determine if statements and assertions

accurately represent the activities and capabilities of the third party.

e. Qualifications and Backgrounds of Key Personnel and Other Human Resources

Considerations

An evaluation of the qualifications and experience of a third party's principals and other

key personnel related to the activity to be performed provides insight into the capabilities of the

third party to successfully perform the activities. An important consideration is whether the third 

party and the banking organization, as appropriate, periodically conduct background checks on
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the third party's key personnel and contractors who may have access to information technology

systems or confidential information. Another important consideration is whether there are

procedures in place for identifying and removing the third party's employees who do not meet

minimum suitability requirements or are otherwise barred from working in the financial services

sector. Another consideration is whether the third party has training to ensure that its employees

understand their duties and responsibilities and are knowledgeable about applicable laws and

regulations as well as other factors that could affect performance or pose risk to the banking

organization. Finally, an evaluation of the third party's succession and redundancy planning for 

key personnel, and of the third party's processes for holding employees accountable for

compliance with policies and procedures, provides valuable information to the banking 

organization.

f. Risk Management

Appropriate due diligence includes an evaluation of the effectiveness of a third party's

overall risk management, including policies, processes, and internal controls, and alignment with

applicable policies and expectations of the banking organization surrounding the activity. This

would include an assessment of the third party's governance processes, such as the establishment

of clear roles, responsibilities, and segregation of duties pertaining to the activity. It is also

important to consider whether the third party's controls and operations are subject to effective

audit assessments, including independent testing and objective reporting of results and findings. 

Banking organizations also gain important insight by evaluating processes for escalating,

remediating, and holding management accountable for concerns identified during audits, internal 

compliance reviews, or other independent tests, if available. When relevant and available, a

banking organization may consider reviewing System and Organization Control (SOC) reports

and any conformity assessment or certification by independent third parties related to relevant

domestic or international standards. [Footnote 11

- For example, those of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Accredited Standards Committee X9,

and the International Standards Organization. End of Footnote 11.]

In such cases, the banking organization may also consider

whether the scope and the results of the SOC reports, certifications, or assessments are relevant

to the activity to be performed or suggest that additional scrutiny of the third party or any of its

contractors may be appropriate.

g. Information Security

Understanding potential information security implications, including access to a banking

organization's systems and information, can help a banking organization decide whether or not

to engage with a third party. Due diligence in this area typically involves assessing the third

party's information security program, including its consistency with the banking organization's

information security program, such as its approach to protecting the confidentiality, integrity,

and availability of the banking organization's data. It may also involve determining whether

there are any gaps that present risk to the banking organization or its customers and considering

the extent to which the third party applies controls to limit access to the banking organization's

data and transactions, such as multifactor authentication, end-to-end encryption, and secure

source code management. It also aids a banking organization when determining whether the

third party keeps informed of, and has sufficient experience in identifying, assessing, and
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mitigating, known and emerging threats and vulnerabilities. As applicable, assessing the third

party's data, infrastructure, and application security programs, including the software

development life cycle and results of vulnerability and penetration tests, can provide valuable

information regarding information technology system vulnerabilities. Finally, due diligence can

help a banking organization evaluate the third party's implementation of effective and 

sustainable corrective actions to address any deficiencies discovered during testing.

h. Management of Information Systems

It is important to review and understand the third party's business processes and

information systems that will be used to support the activity. When technology is a major

component of the third-party relationship, an effective practice is to review both the banking

organization's and the third party's information systems to identify gaps in service-level

expectations, business process and management, and interoperability issues. It is also important

to review the third party's processes for maintaining timely and accurate inventories of its 

technology and its contractor(s). A banking organization also benefits from understanding the

third party's measures for assessing the performance of its information systems.

i. Operational Resilience

An assessment of a third party's operational resilience practices supports a banking

organization's evaluation of a third party's ability to effectively operate through and recover

from any disruption or incidents, both internal and external. [Footnote 12

- Disruptive events could include technology-based failures, human error, cyber incidents, pandemic outbreaks,

and natural disasters. End of Footnote 12.]

Such an assessment is particularly

important where the impact of such disruption could have an adverse effect on the banking

organization or its customers, including when the third party interacts with customers. It is

important to assess options to employ if the third party's ability to perform the activity is 

impaired and to determine whether the third party maintains appropriate operational resilience

and cybersecurity practices, including disaster recovery and business continuity plans that

specify the time frame to resume activities and recover data. To gain additional insight into a 

third party's resilience capabilities, a banking organization may review (1) the results of

operational resilience and business continuity testing and performance during actual disruptions;

(2) the third party's telecommunications redundancy and resilience plans; and (3) preparations

for known and emerging threats and vulnerabilities, such as wide-scale natural disasters,

pandemics, distributed denial of service attacks, or other intentional or unintentional events.

Other considerations related to operational resilience include (1) dependency on a single provider

for multiple activities; and (2) interoperability or potential end of life issues with the software

programming language, computer platform, or data storage technologies used by the third party.

j. Incident Reporting and Management Processes

Review and consideration of a third party's incident reporting and management processes

is helpful to determine whether there are clearly documented processes, timelines, and 

accountability for identifying, reporting, investigating, and escalating incidents. Such review
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assists in confirming that the third party's escalation and notification processes meet the banking

organization's expectations and regulatory requirements. [Footnote 13

- For example, regulatory requirementsregarding incident notification include the FBAs' “Computer Security

Incident Notification Rule.” See 12 CFR part 53 (OCC); 12 CFR 225, subpart N (Board); 12 CFR 304, subpart C

(FDIC). End of Footnote 13.]

k. Physical Security

It is important to evaluate whether the third party has sufficient physical and 

environmental controlsto protect the safety and security of people (such as employees and 

customers), its facilities, technology systems, and data, as applicable. This would typically

include a review of the third party's employee on- and off-boarding procedures to ensure that

physical access rights are managed appropriately.

l. Reliance on Subcontractors [Footnote 14

- Third parties may enlist the help of suppliers, service providers, or other organizations, which this guidance

collectively refers to as subcontractors. End of Footnote 14.]

An evaluation of the volume and types of subcontracted activities and the degree to

which the third party relies on subcontractors helps inform whether such subcontracting

arrangements pose additional or heightened risk to a banking organization. This typically

includes an assessment of the third party's ability to identify, manage, and mitigate risks

associated with subcontracting, including how the third party selects and oversees its

subcontractors and ensures that its subcontractorsimplement effective controls. Other important

considerations include whether additional risk is presented by the geographic location of a 

subcontractor or dependency on a single provider for multiple activities.

m. Insurance Coverage

An evaluation of whether the third party has existing insurance coverage helps a banking 

organization determine the extent to which potential losses are mitigated, including losses posed

by the third party to the banking organization or that might prevent the third party from fulfilling

its obligations to the banking organization. Such losses may be attributable to dishonest or

negligent acts; fire, floods, or other natural disasters; loss of data; and other matters. Examples

of insurance coverage may include fidelity bond; liability; property hazard and casualty; and

areas that may not be covered under a general commercial policy, such as cybersecurity or

intellectual property.

n. Contractual Arrangements with Other Parties

A third party's commitments to other parties may introduce potential legal, financial, or

operational implicationsto the banking organization. Therefore, it is important to obtain and

evaluate information regarding the third party's legally binding arrangements with

subcontractors or other parties to determine whether such arrangements may create or transfer

risks to the banking organization or its customers.
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3. Contract Negotiation

When evaluating whether to enter into a relationship with a third party, a banking

organization typically determines whether a written contract is needed, and ifthe proposed

contract can meet the banking organization's business goals and risk management needs. After

such determination, a banking organization typically negotiates contract provisions that will

facilitate effective risk management and oversight and that specify the expectations and

obligations of both the banking organization and the third party. A banking organization may

tailor the level of detail and comprehensiveness ofsuch contract provisions based on the risk and

complexity posed by the particular third-party relationship.

While third parties may initially offer a standard contract, a banking organization may

seek to request modifications, additional contract provisions, or addendums to satisfy its needs.

In difficult contract negotiations, including when a banking organization has limited negotiating

power, it is important for the banking organization to understand any resulting limitations and

consequent risks. Possible actions that a banking organization might take in such circumstances

include determining whether the contract can still meet the banking organization's needs, 

whether the contract would result in increased risk to the banking organization, and whether

residual risks are acceptable. Ifthe contract is unacceptable for the banking organization, it may

consider other approaches, such as employing other third parties or conducting the activity inhouse. In certain circumstances, banking organizations may gain an advantage by negotiating

contracts as a group with other organizations.

It is important that a banking organization understand the benefits and risks associated

with engaging third parties and particularly before executing contracts involving higher-risk

activities, including critical activities. As part ofits oversight responsibilities, the board of

directors should be aware of and, as appropriate, may approve or delegate approval of contracts

involving higher-risk activities. Legal counsel review may also be warranted prior to

finalization.

Periodic reviews of executed contracts allow a banking organization to confirm that

existing provisions continue to address pertinent risk controls and legal protections. If new risks

are identified, a banking organization may consider renegotiating a contract.

Depending on the degree ofrisk and complexity ofthe third-party relationship, a banking

organization typically considers the following factors, among others, during contract

negotiations:

a. Nature and Scope of Arrangement

In negotiating a contract, it is helpful for a banking organization to clearly identify the

rights and responsibilities of each party. This typically includes specifying the nature and scope

ofthe business arrangement. Additional considerations may also include, as applicable, a

description of(1) ancillary services such as software or other technology support, maintenance,

and customer service; (2) the activities the third party will perform; and (3) the terms governing

the use ofthe banking organization's information, facilities, personnel, systems, intellectual

property, and equipment, as well as access to and use ofthe banking organization's or
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customers' information. If dual employees will be used, it may also be helpful to specify their

responsibilities and reporting lines. It is also important for a banking organization to understand

how changes in business and other circumstances may give rise to the third party's rights to

terminate or renegotiate the contract.

b. Performance Measures or Benchmarks

For certain relationships, clearly defined performance measures can assist a banking

organization in evaluating the performance of a third party. In particular, a service-level

agreement between the banking organization and the third party can help specify the measures

surrounding the expectations and responsibilitiesfor both parties, including conformance with

policies and procedures and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Such measures

can be used to monitor performance, penalize poor performance, or reward outstanding

performance. It is important to negotiate performance measures that do not incentivize

imprudent performance or behavior, such as encouraging processing volume or speed without

regard for accuracy, compliance requirements, or adverse effects on the banking organization or

customers.

c. Responsibilitiesfor Providing, Receiving, and Retaining Information

It is important to consider contract provisions that specify the third party's obligation for 

retention and provision of timely, accurate, and comprehensive information to allow the banking 

organization to monitor risks and performance and to comply with applicable laws and 

regulations. Such provisions typically address:

• The banking organization's ability to access its data in an appropriate and timely manner;

• The banking organization's access to, or use of, the third-party's data and any supporting

documentation, in connection with the business arrangement;

• The banking organization's access to, or use of, its own or the third-party's data and how 

such data and supporting documentation may be shared with regulators in a timely

manner as part of the supervisory process;

• Whether the third party is permitted to resell, assign, or permit access to customer data, or

the banking organization's data, metadata, and systems, to other entities;

• Notification to the banking organization whenever compliance lapses, enforcement

actions, regulatory proceedings, or other events pose a significant risk to the banking

organization or customers;

• Notification to the banking organization of significant strategic or operational changes,

such as mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, use of subcontractors, key personnel changes,

or other business initiatives that could affect the activities involved; and
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• Specification of the type and frequency of reports to be received from the third party, as

appropriate. This may include performance reports, financial reports, security reports,

and control assessments.

d. The Right to Audit and Require Remediation

To help ensure that a banking organization has the ability to monitor the performance of a

third party, a contract often establishes the banking organization's right to audit and provides for

remediation when issues are identified. Generally, a contract includes provisions for periodic,

independent audits of the third party and its relevant subcontractors, consistent with the risk and 

complexity of the third-party relationship. Therefore, it would be appropriate to consider

whether contract provisions describe the types and frequency of audit reports the banking 

organization is entitled to receive from the third party (for example, SOC reports, Payment Card

Industry (PCI) compliance reports, or other financial and operational reviews). Such contract

provisions may also reserve the banking organization's right to conduct its own audits of the

third party's activities or to engage an independent party to perform such audits.

e. Responsibility for Compliance with Applicable Laws and Regulations

A banking organization is responsible for conducting its activities in compliance with

applicable laws and regulations, including those activities involving third parties. The use of

third parties does not abrogate these responsibilities. Therefore, it is important for a contract to

specify the obligations of the third party and the banking organization to comply with applicable

laws and regulations. It is also important for the contract to provide the banking organization

with the right to monitor and be informed about the third party's compliance with applicable

laws and regulations, and to require timely remediation if issues arise. Contracts may also reflect

considerations of relevant guidance and self-regulatory standards, where applicable.

f. Costs and Compensation

Contracts that clearly describe all costs and compensation arrangements help reduce

misunderstandings and disputes over billing and help ensure that all compensation arrangements

are consistent with sound banking practices and applicable laws and regulations. Contracts

commonly describe compensation and fees, including cost schedules, calculationsfor base

services, and any fees based on volume of activity and for special requests. Contracts also may

specify the conditions under which the cost structure may be changed, including limits on any

cost increases. During negotiations, a banking organization should confirm that a contract does

not include incentives that promote inappropriate risk taking by the banking organization or the

third party. A banking organization should also consider whether the contract includes 

burdensome upfront or termination fees, or provisions that may require the banking organization

to reimburse the third party. Appropriate provisions indicate which party is responsible for 

payment of legal, audit, and examination fees associated with the activities involved. Another

consideration is outlining cost and responsibility for purchasing and maintaining hardware and

software, where applicable.
Page 14 of 23

g. Ownership and License

In order to prevent disputes between the parties regarding the ownership and licensing of

a banking organization's property, it is common for a contract to state the extent to which the

third party has the right to use the banking organization's information, technology, and

intellectual property, such as the banking organization's name, logo, trademark, and copyrighted

material. Provisions that indicate whether any data generated by the third party become the

banking organization's property help avert misunderstandings. It is also important to include

appropriate warranties on the part of the third party related to its acquisition of licenses or

subscriptions for use of any intellectual property developed by other third parties. When the 

banking organization purchases software, it is important to consider a provision to establish

escrow agreements to provide for the banking organization's access to source code and programs

under certain conditions (for example, insolvency of the third party).

h. Confidentiality and Integrity

With respect to contracts with third parties, there may be increased risks related to the 

sensitivity of non-public information or access to infrastructure. Effective contracts typically

prohibit the use and disclosure of banking organization and customer information by a third party

and its subcontractors, except as necessary to provide the contracted activities or comply with

legal requirements. If the third party receives personally identifiable information, contract

provisions are important to ensure that the third party implements and maintains appropriate

security measures to comply with applicable laws and regulations.

Another important provision is one that specifies when and how the third party will

disclose, in a timely manner, information security breaches or unauthorized intrusions. 

Considerations may include the types of data stored by the third party, legal obligations for the

banking organization to disclose the breach to its regulators or customers, the potential for

consumer harm, or other factors. Such provisions typically stipulate that the data intrusion

notification to the banking organization include estimates of the effects on the banking 

organization and its customers and specify corrective action to be taken by the third party. They

also address the powers of each party to change security and risk management procedures and 

requirements and resolve any confidentiality and integrity issues arising out of shared use of

facilities owned by the third party. Typically, such provisions stipulate whether and how often

the banking organization and the third party will jointly practice incident management exercises

involving unauthorized intrusions or other breaches of confidentiality and integrity.

i. Operational Resilience and Business Continuity

Both internal and external factors or incidents (for example, natural disasters or cyber

incidents) may affect a banking organization or a third party and thereby disrupt the third party's

performance of the activity. Consequently, an effective contract provides for continuation of the

activity in the event of problems affecting the third party's operations, including degradations or

interruptionsin delivery. As such, it is important for the contract to address the third party's

responsibility for appropriate controlsto support operational resilience of the services, such as

protecting and storing programs, backing up datasets, addressing cybersecurity issues, and

maintaining current and sound business resumption and business continuity plans.
Page 15 of 23

To help ensure maintenance of operations, contracts often require the third party to

provide the banking organization with operating procedures to be carried out in the event

business continuity plans are implemented, including specific recovery time and recovery point

objectives. Contracts may also stipulate whether and how often the banking organization and the

third party will jointly test business continuity plans. Another consideration is whether the

contract providesfor the transfer of the banking organization's accounts, data, or activitiesto

another third party without penalty in the event of the third party's bankruptcy, business failure,

or business interruption.

j. Indemnification and Limits on Liability

Incorporating indemnification provisions into a contract may reduce the potential for a 

banking organization to be held liable for claims and be reimbursed for damages arising from a

third party's misconduct, including negligence and violations of laws and regulations. As such,

it is important to consider whether indemnification clauses specify the extent to which the 

banking organization will be held liable for claims or be reimbursed for damages based on the

failure of the third party or its subcontractor to perform, including failure of the third party to

obtain any necessary intellectual property licenses. Such consideration typically includes an

assessment of whether any limits on liability are in proportion to the amount of loss the banking

organization might experience as a result of third-party failures, or whether indemnification

clauses require the banking organization to hold the third party harmless from liability.

k. Insurance

One way in which a banking organization can protect itself against losses caused by or

related to a third party and the products and services provided through third-party relationships is

by including insurance requirements in a contract. These provisions typically require the third 

party to (1) maintain specified types and amounts of insurance (including, if appropriate, naming

the banking organization as insured or additional insured); (2) notify the banking organization of

material changes to coverage; and (3) provide evidence of coverage, as appropriate. The type

and amount of insurance coverage should be commensurate with the risk of possible losses,

including those caused by the third party to the banking organization or that might prevent the

third party from fulfilling its obligations to the banking organization, and the activities

performed.

l. Dispute Resolution

Disputes regarding a contract can delay or otherwise have an adverse impact upon the

activities performed by a third party, which may negatively affect the banking organization.

Therefore, a banking organization may want to consider whether the contract should establish a 

dispute resolution process to resolve problems between the banking organization and the third 

party in an expeditious manner, and whether the third party should continue to provide activities

to the banking organization during the dispute resolution period. It is important to also

understand whether the contract contains provisions that may impact the banking organization's

ability to resolve disputes in a satisfactory manner, such as provisions addressing arbitration or

forum selection.
Page 16 of 23

m. Customer Complaints

Where customer interaction is an important aspect of the third-party relationship, a 

banking organization may find it useful to include a contract provision to ensure that customer

complaints and inquiries are handled properly. Effective contracts typically specify whether the 

banking organization or the third party is responsible for responding to customer complaints or

inquiries. If it is the third party's responsibility, it is important to include provisions for the third

party to receive and respond to customer complaints and inquiries in a timely manner and to

provide the banking organization with sufficient, timely, and usable information to analyze

customer complaint and inquiry activity and associated trends. If it is the banking organization's

responsibility, it is important to include provisions for the banking organization to receive

prompt notification from the third party of any complaints or inquiries received by the third

party.

n. Subcontracting

Third-party relationships may involve subcontracting arrangements, which can result in

risk due to the absence of a direct relationship between the banking organization and the

subcontractor, further lessening the banking organization's direct control of activities. The

impact on a banking organization's ability to assess and control risks may be especially

important if the banking organization uses third parties for higher-risk activities, including

critical activities. For this reason, a banking organization may want to address when and how the

third party should notify the banking organization of its use or intent to use a subcontractor and 

whether specific subcontractors are prohibited by the banking organization. Another important

consideration is whether the contract should prohibit assignment, transfer, or subcontracting of

the third party's obligations to another entity without the banking organization's consent. Where

subcontracting is integral to the activity being performed for the banking organization, it is 

important to consider more detailed contractual obligations, such as reporting on the

subcontractor's conformance with performance measures, periodic audit results, and compliance

with laws and regulations. Where appropriate, a banking organization may consider including a

provision that states the third party's liability for activities or actions by its subcontractors and

which party is responsible for the costs and resources required for any additional monitoring and

management of the subcontractors. It may also be appropriate to reserve the right to terminate

the contract without penalty if the third party's subcontracting arrangements do not comply with

contractual obligations.

o. Foreign-Based Third Parties

In contracts with foreign-based third parties, it is important to consider choice-of-law and

jurisdictional provisions that provide dispute adjudication under the laws of a single jurisdiction,

whether in the United States or elsewhere. When engaging with foreign-based third parties, or

where contracts include a choice-of-law provision that includes a jurisdiction other than the

United States, it is important to understand that such contracts and covenants may be subject to

the interpretation of foreign courts relying on laws in those jurisdictions. It may be warranted to

seek legal advice on the enforceability of the proposed contract with a foreign-based third party

and other legal ramifications, including privacy laws and cross-border flow of information.
Page 17 of 23

p. Default and Termination

Contracts can protect the ability of the banking organization to change third parties when 

appropriate without undue restrictions, limitations, or cost. An effective contract stipulates what

constitutes default, identifies remedies, allows opportunities to cure defaults, and establishes the

circumstances and responsibilities for termination. Therefore, it is important to consider

including contractual provisions that:

• Provide termination and notification requirements with reasonable time frames to allow

for the orderly transition of the activity, when desired or necessary, without prohibitive

expense;

• Provide for the timely return or destruction of the banking organization's data,

information, and other resources;

• Assign all costs and obligations associated with transition and termination; and

• Enable the banking organization to terminate the relationship with reasonable notice and 

without penalty, if formally directed by the banking organization's primary federal

banking regulator.

q. Regulatory Supervision

For relevant third-party relationships, it is important for contracts to stipulate that the

performance of activities by third parties for the banking organization is subject to regulatory

examination and oversight, including appropriate retention of, and access to, all relevant

documentation and other materials. [Footnote 15

- See 12 U.S.C. 1464(d)(7)(D) and 1867(c)(1). End of Footnote 15.]

This can help ensure that a third party is aware of its role

and potential liability in its relationship with a banking organization.

4. Ongoing Monitoring

Ongoing monitoring enables a banking organization to: (1) confirm the quality and 

sustainability of a third party's controls and ability to meet contractual obligations; (2) escalate

significant issues or concerns, such as material or repeat audit findings, deterioration in financial

condition, security breaches, data loss, service interruptions, compliance lapses, or other

indicators of increased risk; and (3) respond to such significant issues or concerns when 

identified.

Effective third-party risk management includes ongoing monitoring throughout the

duration of a third-party relationship, commensurate with the level of risk and complexity of the 

relationship and the activity performed by the third party. Ongoing monitoring may be 

conducted on a periodic or continuous basis, and more comprehensive or frequent monitoring is

appropriate when a third-party relationship supports higher-risk activities, including critical

activities. Because both the level and types of risks may change over the lifetime of third-party

relationships, banking organizations may adapt their ongoing monitoring practices accordingly,

including changes to the frequency or type of information used in monitoring.
Page 18 of 23

Typical monitoring activitiesinclude: (1) review of reports regarding the third party's

performance and the effectiveness of its controls; (2) periodic visits and meetings with thirdparty representatives to discuss performance and operational issues; and (3) regular testing of the

banking organization's controls that manage risks from its third-party relationships, particularly

when supporting higher-risk activities, including critical activities. In certain circumstances,

based on risk, a banking organization may also perform direct testing of the third party's own 

controls. To gain efficiencies or leverage specialized expertise, banking organizations may

engage external resources, refer to conformity assessments or certifications, or collaborate when

performing ongoing monitoring. [Footnote 16

- Refer to important considerations discussed in “Due Diligence and Third-Party Selection” ofthis guidance when 

a banking organization chooses to engage external resources to supplement its third-party risk management. End of Footnote 16.]

To support effective monitoring, a banking organization

dedicates sufficient staffing with the necessary expertise, authority, and accountability to

perform a range of ongoing monitoring activities, such as those described above.

Depending on the degree ofrisk and complexity ofthe third-party relationship, a banking

organization typically considers the following factors, among others, as part of ongoing

monitoring:

• The overall effectiveness ofthe third-party relationship, including its consistency with the

banking organization's strategic goals, business objectives, risk appetite, risk profile, and

broader corporate policies;

• Changes to the third party's business strategy and its agreements with other entities that

may pose new or increased risks or impact the third party's ability to meet contractual

obligations;

• Changes in the third party's financial condition, including its financial obligations to

others;

• Changes to, or lapses in, the third party's insurance coverage;

• Relevant audits, testing results, and other reports that address whether the third party

remains capable of managing risks and meeting contractual obligations and regulatory

requirements;

• The third party's ongoing compliance with applicable laws and regulations and its

performance as measured against contractual obligations;

• Changes in the third party's key personnel involved in the activity;

• The third party's reliance on, exposure to, and use of subcontractors, the location of

subcontractors (and any related data), and the third party's own risk management

processes for monitoring subcontractors;

• Training provided to employees ofthe banking organization and the third party;
Page 19 of 23

• The third party's response to changing threats, new vulnerabilities, and incidents

impacting the activity, including any resulting adjustments to the third party's operations

or controls;

• The third party's ability to maintain the confidentiality, availability, and integrity ofthe

banking organization's systems, information, and data, as well as customer data, where

applicable;

• The third party's response to incidents, business continuity and resumption plans, and

testing results to evaluate the third party's ability to respond to and recover from service

disruptions or degradations;

• Factors and conditions external to the third party that could affect its performance and

financial and operational standing, such as changing laws, regulations, and economic

conditions; and

• The volume, nature, and trends of customer inquiries and complaints, the adequacy ofthe

third party's responses (ifresponsible for handling customer inquiries or complaints), and

any resulting remediation.

5. Termination

A banking organization may terminate a relationship for various reasons, such as

expiration or breach ofthe contract, the third party's failure to comply with applicable laws or

regulations, or a desire to seek an alternate third party, bring the activity in-house, or discontinue

the activity. When this occurs, it is important for management to terminate relationships in an

efficient manner, whether the activities are transitioned to another third party, brought in-house,

or discontinued. Depending on the degree ofrisk and complexity ofthe third-party relationship,

a banking organization typically considers the following factors, among others, to facilitate

termination:

• Options for an effective transition ofservices, such as potential alternate third parties to

perform the activity;

• Relevant capabilities, resources, and the time frame required to transition the activity to

another third party or bring in-house while still managing legal, regulatory, customer, and

other impacts that might arise;

• Costs and fees associated with termination;

• Managing risks associated with data retention and destruction, information system

connections and access control, or other control concerns that require additional risk

management and monitoring after the end ofthe third-party relationship;

• Handling ofjoint intellectual property; and
Page 20 of 23

• Managing risks to the banking organization, including any impact on customers, if the

termination happens as a result of the third party's inability to meet expectations.

D. GOVERNANCE

There are a variety of ways for banking organizationsto structure their third-party risk

management processes. Some banking organizations disperse accountability for their third-party

risk management processes among their business lines. [Footnote 17

- Each applicable business line can provide valuable input into the third-party risk management process, for

example, by completing risk assessments, reviewing due diligence information, and evaluating the controls over the

third-party relationship. End of Footnote 17.]

Other banking organizations may

centralize the processes under their compliance, information security, procurement, or risk

management functions. Regardless of how a banking organization structures its process, the

following practices are typically considered throughout the third-party risk management life

cycle, [Footnote 18

- Referto Figure 1: Stages ofthe Risk Management Life Cycle. End of Footnote 18.]

commensurate with risk and complexity.

1. Oversight and Accountability

Proper oversight and accountability are important aspects of third-party risk management

because they help enable a banking organization to minimize adverse financial, operational, or

other consequences. A banking organization's board of directors has ultimate responsibility for 

providing oversight for third-party risk management and holding management accountable. The

board also provides clear guidance regarding acceptable risk appetite, approves appropriate

policies, and ensures that appropriate procedures and practices have been established. A banking

organization's management is responsible for developing and implementing third-party risk

management policies, procedures, and practices, commensurate with the banking organization's

risk appetite and the level of risk and complexity of its third-party relationships.

In carrying out its responsibilities, the board of directors (or a designated board

committee) typically considers the following factors, among others:

• Whether third-party relationships are managed in a manner consistent with the banking

organization's strategic goals and risk appetite and in compliance with applicable laws

and regulations;

• Whether there is appropriate periodic reporting on the banking organization's third-party

relationships, such as the results of management's planning, due diligence, contract

negotiation, and ongoing monitoring activities; and

• Whether management has taken appropriate actions to remedy significant deterioration in

performance or address changing risks or material issues identified, including through

ongoing monitoring and independent reviews.

When carrying out its responsibilities, management typically performs the following

activities, among others:
Page 21 of 23

• Integrating third-party risk management with the banking organization's overall risk

management processes;

• Directing planning, due diligence, and ongoing monitoring activities;

• Reporting periodically to the board (or designated committee), as appropriate, on thirdparty risk management activities;

• Providing that contracts with third parties are appropriately reviewed, approved, and

executed;

• Establishing appropriate organizational structures and staffing (level and expertise) to

support the banking organization's third-party risk management processes;

• Implementing and maintaining an appropriate system of internal controlsto manage risks

associated with third-party relationships;

• Assessing whether the banking organization's compliance management system is

appropriate to the nature, size, complexity, and scope of its third-party relationships;

• Determining whether the banking organization has appropriate access to data and

information from its third parties;

• Escalating significant issues to the board and monitoring any resulting remediation,

including actions taken by the third party; and

• Terminating business arrangements with third parties when they do not meet expectations

or no longer align with the banking organization's strategic goals, objectives, or risk

appetite.

2. Independent Reviews

It is important for a banking organization to conduct periodic independent reviews to

assess the adequacy of its third-party risk management processes. Such reviews typically

consider the following factors, among others:

• Whether the third-party relationships align with the banking organization's business

strategy, and with internal policies, procedures, and standards;

• Whether risks of third-party relationships are identified, measured, monitored, and 

controlled;

• Whether the banking organization's processes and controls are designed and operating

adequately;

• Whether appropriate staffing and expertise are engaged to perform risk management

activitiesthroughout the third-party risk management life cycle, including involving

multiple disciplines across the banking organization, as appropriate; and
Page 22 of 23

• Whether conflicts of interest or appearances of conflicts of interest are avoided or

eliminated when selecting or overseeing third parties.

A banking organization may use the results of independent reviews to determine whether

and how to adjust its third-party risk management process, including its policies, reporting,

resources, expertise, and controls. It is important that management respond promptly and 

thoroughly to issues or concerns identified and escalate them to the board, as appropriate.

3. Documentation and Reporting

It is important that a banking organization properly document and report on its third-party

risk management process and specific third-party relationshipsthroughout their life cycle.

Documentation and reporting, key elements that assist those within or outside the banking

organization who conduct control activities, will vary among banking organizations depending

on the risk and complexity of their third-party relationships. Examples of processes that support

effective documentation and internal reporting that the agencies have observed include, but are

not limited to:

• A current inventory of all third-party relationships(and, as appropriate to the risk

presented, related subcontractors) that clearly identifies those relationships associated

with higher-risk activities, including critical activities;

• Planning and risk assessments related to the use of third parties;

• Due diligence results and recommendations;

• Executed contracts;

• Remediation plans and related reports addressing the quality and sustainability of the

third party's controls;

• Risk and performance reports required and received from the third party as part of

ongoing monitoring;

• If applicable, reports related to customer complaint and inquiry monitoring, and any 

subsequent remediation reports;

• Reports from third parties of service disruptions, security breaches, or other events that

pose, or may pose, a material risk to the banking organization;

• Results of independent reviews; and

• Periodic reporting to the board (including, as applicable, dependency on a single provider

for multiple activities).
Page 23 of 23

E. SUPERVISORY REVIEWS OF THIRD-PARTY RELATIONSHIPS

The concepts discussed in this guidance are relevant for all third-party relationships and

are provided to banking organizations to assist in the tailoring and implementation of risk

management practices commensurate to each banking organization's size, complexity, risk

profile, and the nature of its third-party relationships. Each agency will review its supervised

banking organizations' risk management of third-party relationships as part of its standard

supervisory processes. Supervisory reviews will evaluate risks and the effectiveness of risk

management to determine whether activities are conducted in a safe and sound manner and in

compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

In their evaluations of a banking organization's third-party risk management, examiners

consider that banking organizations engage in a diverse set of third-party relationships, that not

all third-party risk relationships present the same risks, and that banking organizations

accordingly tailor their practices to the risks presented. Thus, the scope of the supervisory

review depends on the degree of risk and the complexity associated with the banking 

organization's activities and third-party relationships. When reviewing third-party risk

management processes, examiners typically conduct the following activities, among others:

• Assess the ability of the banking organization's management to oversee and manage the

banking organization's third-party relationships;

• Assess the impact of third-party relationships on the banking organization's risk profile

and key aspects of financial and operational performance, including compliance with

applicable laws and regulations;

• Perform transaction testing or review results of testing to evaluate the activities

performed by the third party and assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations;

• Highlight and discuss any material risks and deficiencies in the banking organization's

risk management process with senior management and the board of directors as

appropriate;

• Review the banking organization's plans for appropriate and sustainable remediation of

any deficiencies, particularly those associated with the oversight of third parties that

involve critical activities; and

• Consider supervisory findings when assigning the components of the applicable rating

system and highlight any material risks and deficiencies in the Report of Examination.

When circumstances warrant, an agency may use its legal authority to examine functions

or operations that a third party performs on a banking organization's behalf. Such examinations

may evaluate the third party's ability to fulfill its obligations in a safe and sound manner and 

comply with applicable laws and regulations, including those designed to protect customers and 

to provide fair access to financial services. The agencies may pursue corrective measures,

including enforcement actions, when necessary to address violations of laws and regulations or

unsafe or unsound banking practices by the banking organization or its third party.