The Balanced Pages/For Small Businesses/Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Compliance Guide for Business Owners

Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Compliance Guide for Business Owners

Thursday, June 06, 2024

Understanding BOI Reporting Requirements

As of January 1, 2024, certain businesses must comply with the Beneficial Ownership Information reporting rule established by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. This compliance guide is designed to assist small entity business owners in navigating the new regulations and ensuring that their businesses meet all reporting obligations.

What Is BOI Reporting?

Beneficial Ownership Information reporting mandates that certain business entities disclose information about the people who own or control them (beneficial owners) and confident individuals who have applied to create or register the business (referred to as company applicants).

​This regulation is part of a broader effort to enhance transparency and prevent illegal financial activities, such as money laundering and terrorism financing.

Who Needs to File BOI Reports?

  • New Entities: Companies created or registered on or after January 1, 2024, must report their beneficial owners and, in some cases, company applicants to FinCEN.
  • Existing Entities: Entities established before January 1, 2024, have until January 1, 2025, to file their initial BOI reports.
  • Exemptions: Certain entities are exempt from the BOI reporting requirement. These exemptions include, but are not limited to, larger companies that exceed a specific revenue and employee threshold, governmental authorities, and financial institutions already subject to similar regulatory requirements.

What Information Must Be Reported?

Reporting entities must provide detailed information about their beneficial owners and company applicants. This includes:

  • Full legal names
  • Birthdates
  • Residential addresses (for individuals) or principal business addresses
  • Identification numbers (such as a Social Security Number, Passport Number, or Driver's License Number)
  • A description of the role that qualifies them as a beneficial owner or company applicant

Key Reporting Deadlines

  Entities formed or registered on or after January 1, 2024, but before January 1, 2025, have 90 days after their formation or registration to file.

Entities formed or registered on or after January 1, 2025, have 30 days after their formation or registration to file.

Existing entities (formed or registered before January 1, 2024) must file by January 1, 2025.

How to File BOI Reports

Business owners must file BOI reports electronically via FinCEN's secure filing system, available on the FinCEN website. This system provides a streamlined process for submitting the required information.

Why Compliance Matters

Compliance with BOI reporting requirements is not optional. Failure to comply can result in significant civil and criminal penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment for willful non-compliance. Additionally, compliance supports the global fight against financial crimes and creates a more transparent and secure business environment.

Need Further Assistance?

If you require assistance with BOI reporting or have questions about whether your business needs to file, our accounting firm is here to help. Our team of compliance experts can guide you through the process, ensure accurate reporting, and help your business meet all regulatory requirements. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your business's compliance efforts.

​Remember, compliance is not just about meeting legal obligations—it's also about safeguarding the integrity of your business and contributing to the global effort to prevent financial crimes. Ensure your business is prepared and compliant by the designated deadlines.

For more information and to get your filing started , visit FinCEN's website directly to discuss your business's specific needs and how we can assist.

pexels-nitin-khajotia-1486064_clipped_rev_1 1 png

About J&S Accounting

At J&S Accounting, we provide expert bookkeeping services tailored to the unique needs of small businesses and nonprofits. We recognize the challenges that come with maintaining accurate financial records and how vital this is for the smooth operation and growth of your business. As a woman and minority-owned firm, we’re proud to offer our expertise to businesses in Savannah, GA, and across the nation, helping them navigate financial complexities and achieve better financial management.

More Articles

Managing finances is crucial to running a small business. Business owners can ensure long-term stability and growth by implementing effective financial strategies. Here are eight essential financial planning tips for small business owners.

As a business owner, you know that managing finances is crucial for the success of your business. However, many entrepreneurs underestimate the benefits of using a dedicated bookkeeping app.

As a business owner, it's essential to begin the new year with a clear financial plan. By adopting a money-saving mindset, you can ensure the financial health and success of your business.

CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS

What others are saying about us

" I could not recommend this company enough!"

The team at J&S Accounting are like working with trusted friends that you have had for a long time. Janel has personally walked me through my first year with QuickBooks as a small business owner, and has made it so easy and enjoyable. She is very professional, knowledgeable, and is always so affirming of how well I am doing. She really takes her time and you can tell that she cares about her customers and wanting them to feel confident about their business finances. I could not recommend this company enough!

- Kelsey H.

"The level of professionalism and commitment to supporting small businesses like mine is unmatched."

If I could give J&S 6 stars I would because they go the extra mile every time! I am so glad I found J&S Accounting. The level of professionalism and commitment to supporting small businesses like mine is unmatched. I am so grateful for J&S. I highly recommend!

"Their customer service and individualized care have remained top tier and we gladly recommend their services."

J & S Accounting has made such a huge impact in our day to day operations at Kicklighter Resource Center. They are very hands on and truly take the time to educate us, whether in person or through trainings and tutorials. Their customer service and individualized care have remained top tier and we gladly recommend their services.

- Jay Ahnee

J&S Accounting is a member of Savannah Area Chamber
J&S Accounting is a member of Association of Nonprofit Accountants & Finance Professionals
J&S Accounting is an Enrolled Agent
J&S Accounting is a BBB Accredited Business

© 2023-2025 J&S Accounting and Tax Services LLC, dba J&S Accounting.
All Rights Reserved

Disclaimer:​This content is for information purposes only and should not be considered legal, accounting, or tax advice, or a substitute for obtaining such advice specific to your business from a professional accountant. Additional information and exceptions may apply. Applicable laws may vary by state or locality. No assurance is given that the information is comprehensive in its coverage or that it is suitable in dealing with a customer’s particular situation. J&S Accounting does not have any responsibility for updating or revising any information presented herein. Accordingly, the information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for independent research. J&S Accounting does not warrant that the material contained herein will continue to be accurate, nor that it is completely free of errors when published. Readers and viewers should verify statements before relying on them.

© 2023 J&S Accounting. All Rights Reserved.

Disclaimer

This content is for information purposes only and should not be considered legal, accounting, or tax advice, or a substitute for obtaining such advice specific to your business from a professional accountant. Additional information and exceptions may apply. Applicable laws may vary by state or locality. No assurance is given that the information is comprehensive in its coverage or that it is suitable in dealing with a customer’s particular situation. J&S Accounting does not have any responsibility for updating or revising any information presented herein. Accordingly, the information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for independent research. J&S Accounting does not warrant that the material contained herein will continue to be accurate, nor that it is completely free of errors when published. Readers and viewers should verify statements before relying on them.