With the extension of the individual filing deadline to May 17, 2021, practitioners have been asking if the FBAR filing deadline was also extended. The assumption for many was that, because the FBAR filing deadline has been adjusted to match the individual filing deadline, the FBAR deadline would be extended too. Today the IRS has stated that the extension of the federal income tax filing due date and other tax deadlines for individuals to May 17, 2021, does not affect the FBAR requirement. (IR-2021-83) However, keep in mind that taxpayers are allowed an automatic extension to October 15 if they fail to meet the FBAR annual due date of April 15. You don’t need to request an extension to file the FBAR.
IF you need help with your FBAR or catching up with past unfiled FBAR forms, contact us. There are procedures to avoid the $10,000 late filing penalty if you file the form properly. Remember if your combined highest balances in foreign bank accounts (or other financial accounts in your congtrol) ever exceed $10,000 (even if just for a day) you must file the form. The form must be filed in your sign on someone elses account or corporate accounts also. Email us at
taxmeless. Skype: dondnelson
