Field H-3OptionalIdentification Fields

    Metro 2 Field H-3: Cycle Identifier

    Optional two-character code that identifies the billing/reporting cycle the file represents. Furnishers who report multiple cycles per month use it to distinguish each submission; single-cycle furnishers may leave it blank.

    Quick Reference

    Field Number:H-3
    Position:11-12
    Length:2 characters
    Type:alphanumeric
    Record:Header Record
    Required:No

    Validation Rules

    • Two characters or blank-filled
    • If used, must match the cycle agreed with each bureau

    Examples

    0112

    Common Errors

    • Reusing the same cycle id for distinct cycles
    • Populating a cycle id the bureau has not enabled

    Tips & Best Practices

    • Most monthly furnishers report a single cycle and can leave this blank
    • Coordinate cycle numbering with each bureau before using it

    Related Fields

    Other Identification Fields

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    Cycle Identifier - Metro 2 Field H-3