The Foreign Bank Account Report (FBAR) is a form that must be filed with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) by U.S. taxpayers with financial interests in or signature authority over foreign financial accounts. 

If you are a U.S. taxpayer with foreign financial accounts, it is essential to understand the basics of FBAR filing with the help of a CPA in Metuchen, NJ. 

What is FBAR, and why is it required?

The FBAR is a tool used by the U.S. government to monitor offshore financial activity and detect potential tax evasion and money laundering. U.S. taxpayers must file an FBAR if they have a financial interest in, or signature authority over, foreign financial accounts. The total value of these accounts exceeds $10,000 at any time during the calendar year. The FBAR is separate from a taxpayer’s federal tax return and must be filed annually by the taxpayer or the person with the financial interest or signature authority over the foreign accounts.

Who is required to file FBAR?

FBAR filing is required for U.S. taxpayers with financial interests in, or signature authority over, foreign financial accounts. This includes individuals, businesses, trusts, and estates. Additionally, U.S. taxpayers who live abroad may also be required to file FBAR if they have foreign financial accounts.

What is considered a foreign financial account for FBAR purposes?

For FBAR purposes, a foreign financial account is any account located outside of the U.S. This can include bank accounts, brokerage accounts, mutual funds, and other financial accounts. It is important to note that the FBAR requirement applies to the total value of all foreign financial accounts, not just the amount in each individual account.

When is FBAR due?

The FBAR is due on April 15th of each year, with an automatic extension available until October 15th. If a taxpayer fails to file an FBAR by the due date, they may be subject to penalties and fines.

What information is required on the FBAR?

The FBAR requires information about foreign financial accounts, including the name of the financial institution, the account number, the type of account, and the maximum value of the account during the year. In addition, the FBAR requires information about the U.S. taxpayer, including their name, address, taxpayer identification number, and signature.

How is FBAR filed?

The FBAR must be filed electronically through the FinCEN portal. The process is relatively straightforward and can be done by the taxpayer or their tax professional.

What are the penalties for failing to file FBAR?

Penalties for failing to file FBAR can be severe and may include fines, penalties, and even criminal charges in extreme cases. The penalties for failing to file FBAR can range from $10,000 per violation to 50% of the balance in the foreign account at the time of the violation.