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Hummingbird connects to FinCEN using the Secure Data Transfer Mode (SDTM) connection type. If your organization has not previously used an SDTM connection, you will need to request new credentials from the BSA E-Filing help desk. Good news, though – this part’s super easy.
The SDTM connection type is different from discrete filing with a personal account. If you’ve historically made SAR filings using your personal work email address, it’s likely that you’ll need to request new credentials for the SDTM connection.
In contrast with discrete filing credentials, the Secure Data Transfer Mode (SDTM) credentials are granted at the filing institution level. This means you’ll have one set of credentials for your organization.
The amount of time it takes to obtain these credentials varies, but in our experience, it can be anywhere from 2-8 weeks.
Once you’ve received your FinCEN credentials (separate credentials for test/sandbox and production environment), you can validate these in your sandbox and production account: Click on your name at the bottom left > choose Settings > click on Filing Institution > input the username and password in the FinCEN Credentials section at the bottom of the page.
You'll see a spinning wheel indicating that validation is in process. Refresh the page after a few minutes and you should see a green check mark with the status: Credentials are valid.
