Overview
Partner Lauren Azebu authored an article titled "Offshore and Out of Mind: Reporting Foreign Assets and Gifts" for The Tax Adviser. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the federal tax reporting requirements for US taxpayers with foreign assets, business interests, and gifts. She emphasizes that ignorance of these reporting obligations can lead to severe civil and criminal penalties. The specific reporting requirements are discussed, including for foreign accounts (FBAR and Form 8938), foreign business entities (varying depending on whether the entity is classified as a corporation, partnership, or disregarded entity for U.S. tax purposes), and foreign trusts and gifts (Form 3520).
Additionally, Azebu outlines the options available for taxpayers who have failed to comply with these reporting requirements in the past, which include delinquent international information return and FBAR submission procedures, streamlined filing compliance procedures, and the voluntary disclosure program. She advises taxpayers to consult with tax professionals to ensure they are meeting their reporting obligations and to promptly rectify any past noncompliance.
