What method is used to mitigate message rejections and failures in FedNow?

The use of a reliable time server is crucial in mitigating message rejections and failures in FedNow because accurate time-stamping is essential for the correct processing and sequencing of transactions. In a real-time payment system like FedNow, transactions must be accurately timestamped to ensure that they are processed in the correct order and to maintain the integrity of transaction data. A reliable time server ensures that all participating entities have synchronized clocks, which facilitates better coordination and minimizes the chances of discrepancies that could lead to rejected messages or transaction failures.

By maintaining consistency in time across the system, it helps to reduce issues related to message validity, especially during critical operations like initiating, processing, and settling payments. When all parties are working from the same accurate time reference, it enhances the reliability of interbank transactions, which is vital for the overall efficiency and robustness of the FedNow system.