The Financial Institutions File (FIF) is an electronic directory containing information to facilitate the routing of payments to the appropriate branches of CPA members, as well as other deposit-taking institutions in Canada. The FIF is essential in processing and routing millions of cheques, direct deposit payments and other items processed through the Automated Clearing Settlement System (ACSS) to their destinations each day.

The CPA updates the FIF weekly to reflect additions and modifications submitted by its direct clearer members on their own behalf as well as on behalf of other institutions for which they act as clearing agents. Changes to the FIF may include additions of new institutions or branches, closing of branches, and changes in banking arrangements that affect the routing of payment items.

CPA members may subscribe to the FIF directly through the CPA. For an annual fee of $609, other organizations may also subscribe to the FIF services, provided that they are sponsored by a CPA member. The applicant, its financial institution and the CPA enter into a three-party agreement under which the FIF service is made available to the applicant at the frequency desired.

The FIF is available for purchase in several formats, including CD-ROM, paper updates, and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) downloads via the Internet. Delivery charges apply to both CD-ROM and paper formats.  For more information on the FIF services and associated subscription costs, please contact the CPA at info@cdnpay.ca.

A print version is also published annually and may be obtained through Bowne of Canada:

Bowne of Canada, Ltd.
60 Gervais Drive, Toronto, ON M3C 1Z3
(416) 449-6400   Fax (416) 449-7114

Routing numbers are also published in PDF format on the CPA website as the Branch Directory, a useful tool for occasional reference.