You’ve got foreign financial accounts and need clear, step-by-step FBAR filing instructions to stay compliant and avoid penalties. This guide walks you through everything—from who must file to gathering your data, choosing the right filing method, hitting deadlines, keeping records, and handling late submissions. By following these simple steps, you’ll file FinCEN Form 114 with confidence and ease.
Understand FBAR requirements
You must file an FBAR if you’re a U.S. person—citizen, resident, corporation, partnership, LLC, trust, or estate—and the aggregate value of your foreign financial accounts exceeds $10,000 at any point during the calendar year. Reportable accounts include bank accounts, brokerage accounts, mutual funds, and other foreign financial interests.
Who must file
- U.S. citizens and green-card holders living abroad
- U.S. residents for tax purposes
- Entities created or organized under U.S. law
Reportable accounts and thresholds
You aggregate the maximum value of all reportable foreign accounts. If that total tops $10,000, you need to file.
Connection to FATCA
FBAR is separate from FATCA, but you may also need to meet FATCA reporting requirements if you hold certain foreign assets exceeding IRS thresholds.
Gather required information
Before you open the BSA E-Filing System, collect everything you’ll need so filing goes smoothly.
Account details to collect
- Financial institution name and address
- Account number or designation
- Type of account (bank, brokerage, mutual fund)
Personal and financial identifiers
- Your full legal name and Social Security number
- Employer identification number (for entities)
- Maximum account balance during the year, in U.S. dollars
Choose filing method
All FBARs must be submitted electronically unless you’ve obtained an exemption. Picking the right method saves time and ensures secure transmission.
Electronic filing with FinCEN
Most filers use the BSA E-Filing System at FinCEN. It encrypts your data and provides an immediate confirmation number.
Registering as a BSA E-Filer
- Go to the FBAR e-filing process page
- Create an account as an individual or institution
- Verify your identity via email link
Navigating the BSA E-Filing System
- Select “File FBAR (FinCEN Form 114)”
- Complete each section using your gathered information
- Review and submit, then save your confirmation
Exceptions for paper filing
You can request a paper-file exemption by contacting FinCEN’s Resource Center. Once granted, they’ll mail you a paper Form 114.
Complete Form 114 accurately
Accuracy is vital. Even minor mistakes can trigger delays or inquiries.
Filling personal information
Double-check your name, SSN/EIN, and address fields. A typo here can complicate processing.
Reporting maximum account value
Convert each account’s highest balance into U.S. dollars using the Treasury’s exchange rate as of December 31. Round to the nearest dollar.
Authorizing a third party
If you hire a tax pro to file on your behalf, complete FinCEN Report 114a and keep it in your records. You don’t submit this form, but FinCEN may request it later.
For more tips on form completion, see our detailed guide on how to file FBAR form.
Meet important deadlines
Missing due dates can trigger steep penalties. Here’s what you need to know.
Annual due dates
- April 15: FBAR due for the prior calendar year
- October 15: automatic extension if you miss the April date
You don’t need to file a separate extension request—the system grants it automatically.
For full details, visit FBAR filing deadline.
Maintain records correctly
Good recordkeeping makes audits and amendments easier.
Recordkeeping requirements
Keep for each reported account:
- Statements showing maximum balance
- Copies of filed FBARs
- Any correspondence with financial institutions
Retention period overview
Hold these records for five years from the FBAR due date. Exception: employees filing only for signature authority need not keep personal records.
Address late filings
If you miss a deadline, act quickly. The IRS offers relief programs but penalties vary.
Penalties for noncompliance
| Violation type | Potential penalty |
|---|---|
| Non-willful | Up to $10,000 per violation |
| Willful | Greater of 50% of account balance or $100,000 (adjusted for inflation) |
Relief and compliance programs
- Voluntary Disclosure Program
- Streamlined Filing Compliance Procedures
- Delinquent FBAR Submission Procedures
Each program has distinct requirements and risks. Consult a tax professional to choose the best path.
Key takeaways
- You must file an FBAR if foreign accounts top $10,000 in aggregate.
- Gather all account and personal details before you start.
- Use the secure BSA E-Filing System for most filings.
- Mark April 15 and October 15 on your calendar.
- Keep records for at least five years.
- If you’re late, explore IRS relief options promptly.
By following these FBAR filing instructions, you’ll simplify compliance and protect yourself from avoidable penalties. Ready to get started? Gather your statements today and file with confidence.