Navigating the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and Beneficial Ownership Identification Rule (BOI): Your Compliance Guide for 2024

Launching your entrepreneurial dream is a thrilling milestone. However, the legal landscape continues to evolve, and new regulations like the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and Beneficial Ownership Identification Rule (BOI) can mean additional paperwork. Drenen Financial Services, your trusted accounting and wealth management partner in Westfield, MA, helps navigate these complexities to ensure your new business remains compliant and avoids costly penalties.

Understanding the CTA and BOI

Corporate Transparency Act (CTA):
The CTA creates a national database of beneficial owners, identifying individuals with significant control over a company. Therefore, think of it as a public registry of company ownership.

Beneficial Ownership Identification Rule (BOI):
The BOI requires companies formed after January 1, 2024, to report their beneficial owners and related information to FinCEN, the U.S. Treasury Department’s anti-money laundering and financial crimes unit. In essence, this rule aims to provide FinCEN with comprehensive details about who controls your business.

For more information on the CTA and BOI rules, visit the U.S. Treasury Department’s FinCEN website or check out the IRS guidelines.

Do You Need to File a BOI Report?

If you formed your business in 2024, you generally need to file a BOI report. However, exemptions do exist. Therefore, consulting with Drenen Financial Services’ expert accountants is crucial to ensure you’re not filing unnecessarily.

Who’s Exempt from BOI Filing?

Common exemptions include:

• Publicly Traded Companies: If your company is publicly traded on a major U.S. stock exchange, you’re exempt from BOI filing.
• Certain Financial Institutions: Banks, credit unions, insurance companies, and investment funds are generally exempt.
• Government Entities: Federal, state, local, and tribal governments are exempt.
• Non-profit Organizations: Certain types of non-profits, like 501(c)(3) organizations, are exempt.

Not sure if your business qualifies for an exemption? Contact Drenen Financial Services, and our experienced accountants will analyze your specific situation and guide you through the process.

What Information Do You Need to Report (If Not Exempt)?

BOI reports require details about your business and its beneficial owners, including:

• Name, Date of Birth, Address, and Social Security Number (Optional)
• Citizenship and Passport Information (Non-U.S. Citizens)
• Relationship to the Business (e.g., Owner, Manager)

When Do You Need to File (If Not Exempt)?

• Companies Formed in 2024: Within 90 days of receiving notice of formation.
• Companies Formed After 2024: Within 30 days of formation.

Penalties for Non-Compliance (If Not Exempt)

Failing to file a BOI report or submitting an inaccurate report can result in significant penalties, including:

• Civil Penalties: Up to $10,000 per day, per violation.
• Criminal Penalties: Fines up to $500,000 and imprisonment for up to five years.

Drenen Financial Services: Your Compliance Ally

Navigating FinCEN regulations can be daunting. Thus, Drenen Financial Services’ experienced accountants will:

• Evaluate Your Specific Situation to determine if you need to file.
• Gather and Organize Necessary Information to ensure accurate reporting.
• Complete and Submit BOI Reports Electronically on your behalf.
• Keep You Informed about future changes or updates to FinCEN regulations.

Therefore, don’t let compliance paperwork distract you from building your business. Instead, partner with Drenen Financial Services and focus on achieving your entrepreneurial dreams. Give us a call today at 413-569-0015 to book an appointment.