As of January 1, 2025, many businesses operating in the United States must comply with the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). This guide provides the essential information you need to understand and meet your reporting responsibilities.
Overview of the Corporate Transparency Act
The Corporate Transparency Act was enacted to prevent illicit financial activities by increasing transparency around business ownership. The law requires companies to report information about the individuals who own or control them to the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
Who Needs to File?
Any company doing business in the United States that meets the CTA criteria must file a beneficial ownership information report. This includes:
· Existing Companies: Businesses created or registered before January 1, 2024, must file by January 1, 2025.
· New Companies: Businesses created or registered in 2024 must file within 90 calendar days of their creation or registration.
Filing Process
Filing is straightforward, secure, and free. Follow these steps:
- Access the Filing Portal: Visit the FinCEN website to begin the filing process.
- Gather Information: Collect the required information about your company's beneficial owners.
- Submit Your Report: Complete and submit your report online through the FinCEN portal.
Why Compliance Matters
Compliance with the CTA is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the U.S. financial system. It helps prevent activities such as money laundering, drug trafficking, and terrorism, and ensures that law-abiding businesses operate on a level playing field.
Additional Resources
For more detailed information, please refer to these resources:
- Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting | FinCEN.gov
- Brochure: An Introduction to Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting
- Video: Overview of Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting
- Small Entity Compliance Guide (101 Guide)
- Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you have further questions or need assistance, please contact DreamSpring for support.