Foreign Bank Account Reporting

In the ever-evolving landscape of offshore bank accounts, it is crucial for U.S. citizens and residents with foreign or offshore accounts to stay informed and compliant with the relevant tax laws. 

The Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) imposes an obligation on individuals with accounts valued over $10,000, including mutual funds and brokerage accounts, to file annually by June 30. Failure to comply can expose individuals to IRS investigations, severe civil penalties, and even criminal prosecution. Don’t wait until it’s too late—retain our team of qualified attorneys to represent you and navigate the complexities of FBAR.

The Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Initiative (OVDI)

To address the issue of unreported foreign accounts, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has implemented the Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Initiative (OVDI). This program offers taxpayers with undisclosed income from offshore accounts the opportunity to rectify their tax compliance obligations without the risk of criminal prosecution. By participating in OVDI, taxpayers can mitigate potential civil penalties, fines, and interest.

Your Strongest Asset: A Knowledgeable Tax Attorney

When dealing with unreported offshore bank and financial accounts, having a skilled tax attorney by your side is invaluable. At McCauley Law Offices, our experienced tax attorneys specialize in providing legal representation to taxpayers seeking to comply with OVDI. 

Our team has a proven track record of assisting clients across the United States in complex international tax matters and OVDI cases. We guide our clients through the process, ensuring federal reporting requirements for offshore bank accounts are met, while minimizing penalties and averting criminal prosecution.

Who Must Report FBAR?

The Bank Secrecy Act mandates that individuals with a financial interest in, or signature authority over, a foreign financial account must annually report the account to the IRS. This includes bank accounts, brokerage accounts, mutual funds, trusts, and other types of foreign financial accounts. The FBAR requirement is essential due to varying reporting standards between domestic and foreign financial institutions. It aids the U.S. government in identifying individuals using foreign accounts to evade taxes or engage in illicit activities.

Stay Informed: Recent FBAR Guidance

On January 9, 2012, the IRS reopened the Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Program to address the continued interest from taxpayers and practitioners. This program remains open indefinitely until further notice.

Take Advantage of the Program

U.S. citizens who meet the criteria outlined above must file an FBAR to comply with reporting requirements. It is vital to seek the assistance of attorney Gregory McCauley to navigate the intricacies of the program and protect your interests.

Don’t delay taking action.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let our team at McCauley Law Offices guide you towards compliance and peace of mind.