Abstract: An apparatus for providing a data validation service on behalf of an entity is provided. The apparatus may include a receiver configured to receive a file from a client and a processor. The processor may be configured to assign a file identification number to the file, forward the file to an operations area within the entity, and provide data validation relating to the file based on the file identification number. When the file is located in the operations area, the file may retain its file identification number originally assigned to the file upon receipt by the entity. When the data validation request includes a request for file status information, the file status information response to the request may include one of collected, not collected and suspended.