Correspondence Chess Rules Updates (Effective 10-1-2026)

All US Chess Correspondence Chess (CC) players should be aware that a revised set of US Chess CC Rules come into effect on October 1, 2026. Once effective, the revisions will apply immediately to all ongoing events as well as any new events. The revised rules can be viewed in full at https://new.uschess.org/correspondence-chess/rules.

The recent Delegates Meeting at the 2026 U.S. Open approved a major overhaul of Chapter 9 of the US Chess Rulebook. These rules, effective October 1, 2026, supersede previous versions and apply to all US Chess Correspondence Chess rated tournaments.

Repeats will now be sent after 16 days instead of two weeks. Time complaints, after a repeat, are now submitted to the TD 32 days after the initial move was sent instead of 28 days. This allows for delays in the postal service.

Also addressed in the new rules are the particulars regarding ICCF webserver transmission of moves, time keeping, and loss on time.

We would like to acknowledge the assistance of Tim Just, National Tournament Director, FIDE National Arbiter, and editor of the 5th, 6th, and 7th editions of the US Chess Rulebook. He is also a member of the US Chess Rules Committee plus the Tournament Director Certification Committee (TDCC).

Our thanks also go to the US Chess Rules Committee for their oversight and guidance.

If you have any questions regarding the revised rules, please contact the US Chess Correspondence Chess Coordinator at Click here to show email address.