The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) was enacted to enhance corporate transparency and combat illicit activities such as money laundering and tax evasion. While the primary focus of the CTA is unearthing those involved in illicit activities, most businesses fall under the broad reach of the new legislation. With an effective date of January 1, 2024 rapidly approaching, it is important for business owners to be aware of key obligations under the CTA and to understand how to ensure compliance therewith. Following is a general overview:

1. Understanding the Corporate Transparency Act:

The CTA aims to create a centralized database, of beneficial ownership information, for business entities (i.e., corporations and LLC’s). These entities are required to disclose information about their beneficial owners to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).

2. Reporting Obligations:

Beneficial owners are individuals who have significant control over or own at least 25% of the equity interests in an entity. CTA reporting requirements exclude beneficial owners who are minors (the information for the guardian must be reported instead), nominees or agents of the entity, someone who inherits ownership or a creditor of the entity. In addition, anyone who files documents related to the creation of an entity, such as the company’s lawyer or other staff, must also provide required information. The information to be disclosed includes the owner’s name, address, date of birth, and a unique identifying number (e.g., Social Security number or driver’s license number).

3. Compliance Deadlines:

The deadlines for compliance (i.e., to submit beneficial ownership information) varies depending on the entity’s formation/registration date. Companies formed after the effective date of the CTA must comply within two (2) years of formation while existing companies have two (2) years from the effective date of the CTA to comply.

4. Privacy and Security Considerations:

It is essential for businesses to understand the privacy and security measures in place for the beneficial ownership information that is collected. FinCEN is required to establish protocols to safeguard this sensitive data and to ensure it is protected from unauthorized access and misuse.

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

Failure to comply with the reporting obligations under the CTA can result in significant penalties. Business owners may face civil monetary penalties of up to $500 per day for willful violations or $200 per day for negligent violations, up to a total of $10,000, and may face up to two years in jail in some cases. Additionally, individuals who knowingly provide false or fraudulent information may be subject to further criminal penalties.

6. Steps for Compliance:

To ensure compliance with the CTA, businesses should take the following steps:

1. Identify beneficial owners: Determine which individuals meet the criteria for beneficial ownership and gather the required information such as name, address, date of birth, and unique identifying number.
2. Prepare and submit reports: Complete the necessary forms and reports as specified by FinCEN while ensuring the accurate and timely submission of beneficial ownership information.
3. Maintain records: Retain copies of filed reports and any supporting documentation for at least five (5) years, as required by the CTA.
4. Stay informed: Regularly monitor updates from FinCEN and other relevant sources to stay current on any changes or additional requirements under the CTA.
5. Report Changes: Information must be updated annually to reflect any changes. If a change in beneficial ownership occurs, ensure that such changes are adequately documented especially professionals that file reports on behalf of your business entity.

It is crucial for business owners to familiarize themselves with the requirements of the CTA and to be proactive. Compliance with the CTA will help contribute to enhanced corporate transparency and combat illicit activities while avoiding the consequences of non-compliance. Considering how business owners can easily fall behind on annual reporting requirements, it is likely that many small business owners will encounter penalties under the CTA. Business owners who have encountered such situations should consider establishing a relationship with a business/corporate lawyer who is able to assist in maintaining corporate records and filings.