Introduction

On August 31, 2012, the IRS issued additional information regarding the streamlined federal income tax return and foreign bank account reporting requirements available to certain delinquent taxpayers which was first announced on June 26, 2012 (the Streamlined Program or Program). The Streamlined Program was created in response to the fact that many individuals had recently become aware (primarily due to increased media coverage) of their ongoing US tax filing obligations and wanted to become compliant. The Streamlined Program came into effect on September 1, 2012.

Who Is Eligible?

The Streamlined Program is only available to US taxpayers who have lived abroad since January 1, 2009 and who have not filed US federal income tax returns since that date. In addition, individuals are only permitted to participate in the Program if they are determined to present a “low compliance risk.. Individuals who would be eligible to participate in the Streamlined Program include dual citizens and US “green card” holders who have lived abroad since January 1, 2009.

Filing Requirements

Participants in the Streamlined Program are required to submit the following documents in connection with their participation in the Program:

  • Complete and accurate delinquent federal tax returns with appropriate related information returns (e.g., Form 3520, Form 5471) for the past three years for which a tax return is due;
  • Complete and accurate delinquent Reports of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (Form TD F 90-22.1 or FBAR) for the past six years for which an FBAR was due; and
  • A complete, accurate and signed standard questionnaire entitled “Streamlined Filing Compliance Procedures for Non-Resident, Non-Filer Taxpayers Questionnaire” (the Questionnaire).

In addition, participants are required to pay all federal income tax due and owing and statutory interest, if applicable, with the delinquent returns.

What Does “Low Compliance Risk” Mean?

The IRS will determine the level of compliance risk presented by the submission of the above noted returns and the Questionnaire. Absent the existence of any “high risk” factors, if the returns and Questionnaire show less than $1,500 of tax due for all of the three years covered by the Program, they will be treated as “low risk” and processed in a streamlined manner. A determination by the IRS that a submission presents higher compliance risk will prohibit the taxpayer from participating in the Program and may subject the taxpayer to more thorough review.

What Are the Benefits of the Streamlined Program?

The primary benefits associated with participation in the Streamlined Program are that the returns submitted will be subject to less intensive review and the taxpayer will not be subject to penalties or follow-up action. It should be noted, however, that participation in the Program does not provide protection from criminal prosecution if the IRS and Department of Justice determine that the particular facts and circumstances warrant criminal prosecution.


About Paul Bercovici

Paul Bercovici

Paul Bercovici, LL.B., is a Principal at Marks Paneth LLP. Mr. Bercovici’s practice focuses on international tax matters including advising US individuals on the income tax implications associated with working and living outside of the United States. He also advises foreign individuals on the income tax implications associated with working and living in the US. Further, he assists foreign and domestic corporations with structuring their US and offshore operations. Immediately prior to joining the firm in... READ MORE +


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