SEC Simplifies Company Filing Rules Again
Published Date: 5/21/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The SEC is making it easier for companies that report their finances by simplifying their categories into just two groups: big and small filers. Smaller companies, including emerging growth ones, will get more time to file reports and enjoy simpler rules, while big companies keep stricter standards. These changes aim to save time and money, with feedback open until July 20, 2026.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Extend SRC and EGC Accommodations
The SEC proposes to extend existing scaled disclosures and accommodations that apply to smaller reporting companies (SRCs) and emerging growth companies (EGCs) to all non-accelerated filers (NAFs). Those accommodations include scaled financial statement disclosure, scaled executive compensation disclosure, deferred adoption of certain new or revised accounting standards, and the exemption from the internal control over financial reporting (ICFR) auditor attestation under section 404(b) for EGCs.
Two-Tier Filer System Simplified
The SEC proposes to simplify Exchange Act reporting categories into just two groups: large accelerated filers (LAFs) and non-accelerated filers (NAFs). Under the proposal, LAFs would continue to face non-scaled disclosure requirements while all other reporting companies would be treated as NAFs.
Raise Bar For Largest Filers
The SEC proposes to raise the public-float threshold and seasoning requirements used to determine large accelerated filer (LAF) status. That means fewer companies would qualify as LAFs under the new tests, shifting some companies into the non-accelerated filer group.
Longer Deadlines For Smallest Filers
The SEC proposes to extend the deadlines to file periodic reports for the smallest non-accelerated filers, with eligibility measured by total assets. Smallest NAFs would have longer periodic-report filing deadlines than other filers under the proposal.
Update Small Entity RFA Definition
The SEC proposes to update the rules that define which issuers are considered small entities for purposes of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA). This would change which issuers qualify for special small-entity analysis and considerations under the RFA.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-12163 — The Trade-Through Rule and Locked and Crossed Markets Provisions of Regulation NMS
The SEC wants to scrap some old rules that stop stocks from being traded at worse prices and prevent confusing market quotes. This change affects stock traders and exchanges, aiming to simplify trading and possibly speed things up. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until August 17, 2026, so don’t miss out!
2026-10373 — Registered Offering Reform
The SEC wants to make it easier and cheaper for more companies to sell their stocks and bonds to the public. They’re opening up special forms and benefits to more businesses, updating rules to be more modern, and cutting red tape by overriding some state rules. If you’re a company planning to raise money, these changes could speed things up and save you money, with feedback due by July 27, 2026.
2026-07651 — Concept Release on Consolidated Audit Trail and Other Audit Trails and Data Sources
The SEC wants your thoughts on how it tracks stock market trades using the Consolidated Audit Trail and other data tools. They’re thinking about updating rules to keep up with new tech, privacy, and security needs, and to make sure the system is fair and cost-effective. If you’re involved in the stock market or data tracking, speak up by June 22, 2026!
2026-13532 — Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE American LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of a Proposed Rule Change To Modify the NYSE American Options Fee Schedule Regarding Fees and Rebates Applicable to Manual Transactions
Starting now, NYSE American is changing how it charges fees and gives rebates for manual options trades. Market Makers will see updated fees on non-Penny stocks, and Floor Brokers will get new rebates when they trade with Market Makers on the floor. These changes kick in immediately and could affect how much traders pay or earn during manual transactions.
2026-13521 — Self-Regulatory Organizations; NYSE Texas, Inc.; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of Proposed Rule Change To Adopt a Policy Relating to the Exchange's Treatment of Trade Reports
NYSE Texas just rolled out a new policy to handle trade reports that don’t match the usual market prices. This change affects traders and investors by making sure weird or off-price trades don’t mess up the market’s true picture. The policy is effective immediately, helping keep trading fair and clear without any extra costs.
2026-13524 — Self-Regulatory Organizations; BOX Exchange LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate Effectiveness of a Proposed Rule Change To Amend the Review of Professional Orders
BOX Exchange is updating how it reviews orders from 'Professional' traders—those who place lots of option trades but aren’t brokers. This change tweaks the quarterly checkup process to keep things fair and smooth. It kicks in right away and mainly affects these active traders, with no big money changes announced.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-10207 — Air Plan Approval; FL; Emissions Reporting Requirements and Permitting Forms
The EPA is proposing to approve Florida’s updates to how businesses report air pollution and submit permit forms. These changes make the process easier and clearer by updating forms, deadlines, and removing an old rule. If you’re involved in Florida’s air permits, get ready to follow the new rules and submit comments by June 22, 2026—no extra costs, just smoother paperwork!
Next: 2026-10224 — Modernizing NRC Regulations for Byproduct Material Use
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is updating its rules for using certain radioactive materials to make them clearer and easier to follow. This affects businesses and organizations that handle byproduct and special nuclear materials. The correction takes effect on May 21, 2026, and aims to improve licensing without adding extra costs or delays.