The linked notification form should be used by your institution in requesting permission to relocate a branch office. For those institutions that qualify, the filing of the Uniform Interstate Application/Notice will generally be all that is required by OFI for the relocation of a branch office. Please refer to the linked policy to determine if your institution is eligible to utilize this notification. If you do not meet these criteria, please contact this Office for the “standard” application form. Also linked is a copy of our “Rules and Regulations for Making Application,” which became effective November 20, 1993.
The following provisions will need to be complied with in order to ensure the timely processing of your notification:
- This Office will require the original of the completed notification. One copy should be retained in the institution’s files.
- The institution must “post” a notice of intent to relocate its branch in the lobby of the affected branch at least 30 days prior to said relocation. The notice must indicate the proposed date of the move, as well as the new location. For the relocation of a branch which does not substantially affect the nature of business or customers served, the institution is not required by this Office to publish a notice.
- If the institution is to lease any or all of the proposed premises, submit a copy of the proposed lease, together with a statement from a Certified Public Accountant stating whether the lease is to be considered an operating lease or a capitalized lease according to the provisions of the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards #13 – Accounting For Leases.
- Include a summary of the cost estimates of the relocation. This should include all land, buildings, and FF&E associated with the proposed relocation.
The institution should ensure that any ownership of real estate for future expansion is in compliance with this Office’s Investment in Real Estate for Business Purposes Policy, revised March 14, 2005, a copy of which is linked to this location for your convenience.
If your Board decides that the existing branch facility will not be utilized for future premises use, you should also refer to Part 362 of the FDIC’s Rules and Regulations for guidance relating to divestiture requirements.
If you have not already done so, you should contact your federal regulator to determine their relocation requirements.
If a relocation would affect the nature of business or customers served, a relocation application may not be filed. In these instances, the institution must comply with the branch closing requirements contained in state and federal statutes.
Any questions you may have concerning the notification should be directed to Deputy Chief Examiner Tim Robichaux at (225) 922-0878.