The New Jersey Uniform Commercial Code (the “UCC”) was amended, effective May 11, 2015, imposing new requirements on the filing of a financing statement to perfect a security interest in collateral within the scope of Article 9 of the UCC. The amendment provides that in order to be sufficient, a financing statement must state that the collateral listed in the financing statement falls within the scope of Article 9 of the UCC, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 12A:9-102 and 12A: 9-109. Furthermore, the name of the secured party listed on the financing statement must be the legal name of the secured party or the legal name of its representative.

While the purpose of the amendment is to prevent fraudulent filings, a failure to comply, even if there is no fraudulent intent, could result in an ineffective filing, a restraint of collection or enforcement, an alternative disposition of the collateral and in some instances statutory damages, attorneys fees and/or an injunction from filing any future liens, encumbrances or claims against the debtor (or any other persons specified by the court) without court approval. In addition, for some creditors, the filing office can refuse to file a financing statement that does not comply with the new requirements. The amendment is applicable to all financing statements filed on or after May 11, 2015.

If you have filed a financing statement since May 11th or intend to file a financing statement, ensure your filing complies with the strict requirements set forth in the newly enacted amendment. If any financing statement filed on or after May 11th is not in compliance, an amendment should be filed immediately.