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March 27, 2025
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Understanding FBAR Filing: A Crucial Tax Obligation for NRIs in the US

As a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) in the US, ensuring compliance with US tax regulations is essential to avoid IRS penalties. One of the most critical requirements for NRIs is FBAR filing (Foreign Bank Account Report). If you have foreign bank accounts exceeding $10,000 in total at any time during the year, you must file an FBAR to remain compliant.

Failure to file FBAR correctly can lead to severe penalties, making it vital for NRIs to understand who needs to file FBAR, which accounts are reportable, and how to file FBAR in 2024. This comprehensive NRI taxation guide will help you stay compliant with US tax laws while maximizing tax benefits.

What is FBAR and Who Needs to File It?

The Foreign Bank Account Report (FBAR) is an annual tax filing requirement mandated by the US Department of Treasury to track the foreign financial assets of US taxpayers, including NRIs, Green Card holders, and US residents with overseas accounts.

You must file FBAR (FinCEN Form 114) if:

  • You are a US citizen (including NRIs with US passports)
  • You hold a US Green Card
  • You qualify as a US resident under the Substantial Presence Test (SPT)
  • You have foreign financial accounts exceeding $10,000 (cumulative balance) at any time during the year

What Foreign Accounts Must Be Reported Under FBAR?

The $10,000 threshold applies to the cumulative balance across all foreign accounts. If your total exceeds this limit at any time, you must report all applicable accounts, including:

  • Foreign bank accounts (savings, checking, fixed deposits)
  • Mutual funds, stocks, and brokerage accounts held outside the US
  • Foreign pension accounts and retirement funds
  • Insurance policies with a cash surrender value
  • Business bank accounts (if you have signature authority)

How to File FBAR as an NRI in 2024?

To comply with FBAR regulations, NRIs must file FinCEN Form 114 electronically via the BSA E-Filing System.

Key FBAR Filing Deadlines:

  • Initial Deadline: April 15, 2024
  • Automatic Extension: Until October 15, 2024

Penalties for Not Filing FBAR

Non-compliance with FBAR filing for NRIs can result in hefty fines:

  • Non-Willful Violations: Up to $10,000 per violation
  • Willful Violations: Either $100,000 or 50% of the account balance, whichever is greater
  • Criminal Charges: Failure to report foreign assets may lead to criminal prosecution in extreme cases

US Tax Filing for NRIs & FBAR Compliance Assistance

Navigating NRI tax filing in the US can be overwhelming, especially with FATCA, FBAR, and foreign income tax implications. At Dinesh Aarjav & Associates, we specialize in NRI tax consulting and provide expert nri services in:

  • FBAR filing assistance
  • FATCA compliance for NRIs
  • US tax return filing for NRIs in 2024
  • Foreign income tax planning

Need Help With FBAR Filing or US Tax Returns?

If you are an NRI, US citizen, or Green Card holder struggling with FBAR filing, FATCA reporting, or US tax return filing services, we can help!

Book a Consultation Now!
Visit dineshaarjav.com for expert NRI tax solutions tailored to your needs.