Acceptance Date/Time
When a company submits a filing to the SEC, it does not become official immediately. The acceptance date/time marks when the SEC’s EDGAR system confirms the filing has been received and logged.
This timestamp is recorded down to the second. It serves as the official reference point for when information becomes publicly available.
Acceptance date/time is different from the filing preparation date. It reflects when the market and regulators can first see the disclosure.
Why It Matters
Acceptance date/time determines when information enters the public record. It helps investors track disclosure timing and ensures filings are reviewed in the correct sequence.
How is acceptance date/time different from filing date?
The filing date often refers to the calendar day a document is submitted. Acceptance date/time is more precise and includes the exact time the SEC processes the filing. This distinction matters when multiple filings occur on the same day. Timing can affect disclosure order and market response.
Why does acceptance date/time matter for market transparency?
Acceptance date/time shows when information becomes available to everyone at once. It prevents selective disclosure by establishing a clear public release moment. Analysts and traders rely on this timestamp for accurate timelines. It also supports fair access to information.
Can acceptance date/time affect regulatory or legal review?
Yes, regulators use acceptance date/time to confirm compliance with filing deadlines. Late filings can trigger penalties or additional scrutiny. The timestamp provides an objective record. It is often referenced in audits or enforcement reviews.
Real-World Example
A company submits an 8-K after market close. The acceptance date/time shows it was officially accepted at 4:32 p.m., clarifying when the disclosure became public.
Acceptance Date/Time and FinFeedAPI
FinFeedAPI’s SEC API includes acceptance date and time metadata for SEC filings. This allows users to track when disclosures officially enter the public record. Precise timestamps help with compliance checks, event analysis, and market monitoring.