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Compliance holds happen when a name, address, country, or transaction pattern matches a sanctions list, PEP list, or AML rule. The holding bank cannot disclose what triggered the match (regulatory rule). Your only options are: (1) provide more information to clear the screen, (2) wait for the screening to complete (4 hours to several days), (3) recall the payment if it cannot clear.
Details
Step-by-step:
1. Track the UETR on Ohmyfin to identify which bank is holding the payment.
2. Ask your bank to contact the holding bank for an update — the holding bank may request additional KYC on the originator or beneficiary.
3. Provide any additional information requested (originator full name + address, beneficiary purpose of payment, source of funds, invoice copy).
4. If the screen does not clear within 5 business days, request a recall.
Quick facts:
Key facts
Compliance holds are most common in USD payments (OFAC screening), Russia/Iran/North Korea/Cuba/Syria-linked corridors, and high-risk commodity sectors.
Banks cannot tell you "what" triggered — only that a screen is in progress.
Provide complete originator data on the original payment to minimise hold risk.
Frequently asked questions
My payment shows PDNG and the bank says "compliance" — what now?
Compliance holds happen when a name, address, country, or transaction pattern matches a sanctions list, PEP list, or AML rule. The holding bank cannot disclose what triggered the match (regulatory rule). Your only options are: (1) provide more information to clear the screen, (2) wait for the screening to complete (4 hours to several days), (3) recall the payment if it cannot clear.
Is Ohmyfin tracking free?
Yes. Public UETR tracking on Ohmyfin is free, with 10 free scans per IP per day for individuals worldwide and 100 free credits when you sign up.
Do I need a bank account at the sending bank?
No. Ohmyfin looks up the SWIFT payment status with just the UETR — no bank login or account required.
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