The New England Accounting Advisor

The IRS has announced changes in two of its programs related to offshore accounts. The IRS has modified the terms of the Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Program (OVDP), which allows individuals to avoid criminal prosecution if they disclose their foreign accounts and pay a substantial penalty. In addition, the IRS has expanded the streamlined filing compliance process, or "streamlined procedures," which are aimed at U.S. taxpayers who have failed to disclose their foreign accounts but who are not willfully evading their tax obligations. These programs are part of a wider effort to stop offshore tax evasion, which includes enhanced enforcement, criminal prosecutions, and implementation of third-party reporting via the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA).

Program allows taxpayers with undisclosed foreign accounts and assets to “come clean” in exchange for reduced penalties and protection against criminal prosecution

Are You Eligible?

The IRS has issued guidance on its current Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Program (OVDP) and tightened eligibility requirements. Good news: taxpayers with undisclosed foreign accounts and assets can “come clean” in exchange for reduced penalties and protection against criminal prosecution.