Subpart H of the federal underground storage tank (UST) regulations requires UST owners and operators to demonstrate financial responsibility (FR) -- the ability to pay for cleanup or third-party liability compensation that results from a release from an UST. FR ensures the timely completion of corrective action and third-party compensation and thus reduces the risk to human health and the environment posed by leaks. UST FR also may provide an incentive for operating practices that can prevent leaks. The purpose of this Manual is to provide a comprehensive reference on the federal UST FR programthat states and EPA regions can use to learn about the various FR mechanisms. This Manual also can assist them in reviewing FR documentation.

"Overview of Financial Responsibility (FR) Requirements." "Explanation of how each FR mechanism works." "Owner and implementing agency responsibilities for each FR mechanism." "Glossary."