FinCEN Real Estate Reporting Rule

Overview
Starting March 1, 2026, the federal Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) requires certain residential real estate transfers to be reported to the U.S. Treasury Department. This rule applies to non-financed transfers of residential property to entities or trusts (rather than individuals).

Who Must Report
If you’re purchasing residential property through an LLC, corporation, trust, or similar entity without institutional financing, our firm (as closing/settlement agent) will need to report the transaction to FinCEN. 

What Information Is Required
We will need from you (at or before closing):

  • Full legal names and details of all persons controlling or owning the buying entity

  • Beneficial ownership data (name, date of birth, home address, taxpayer ID, citizenship)

  • Authorized signers and representatives for the entity or trust

  • Entity formation and trust documents

This information is used to complete and file the required federal Real Estate Report. 

Why This Matters
This rule is intended to increase transparency and detect illicit finance. It is a reporting obligation — not a tax or fee — but failure to comply can delay closings or expose the reporting person to risk. 

How We Handle Compliance
Our firm will:

  • Guide you on whether a FinCEN report is required;

  • Collect and verify necessary information in advance of closing;

  • File the Real Estate Report with FinCEN within required deadlines.

Please contact us if you have questions about how this rule may apply to your transaction.

For the most current and authoritative information, please visit FinCEN's official resources:

 

~ Ashworth & Rye, PLLC