Effective March 1, 2026
FinCEN Reporting Is Coming to Residential Real Estate
Starting March 1, 2026, certain non-financed residential purchases—especially when the buyer is an entity or trust—may require reporting to FinCEN. PCT helps you spot reportable deals early and keep closings on track.
What's Changing
FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, U.S. Treasury) has issued a national rule designed to reduce money laundering risks in U.S. real estate by requiring reporting for certain residential purchases.
This rule does not apply to every deal. It's focused on transactions that are:
- Residential
- Non-financed (all-cash or certain private money, or not covered by a lender AML program)
- Purchased by an entity or trust (not an individual)
Who This Impacts
This will show up most often in:
- All-cash buyers purchasing with an LLC, corporation, or partnership
- Trust purchases (depending on the trust structure and exemptions)
- Private money / hard-money / seller-financed situations (where applicable)
- Trustee sale purchases using entities or trusts
If your buyer is using an entity or trust, expect additional identity and document requests during escrow.
How PCT Helps
PCT's role is to help you:
- Identify likely reportable transactions early
- Collect the information that may be required (BOI + entity/trust docs + IDs)
- Coordinate timelines so closing doesn't stall at the finish line
- Document exemptions when applicable and maintain required records
What You Can Do Now
For Agents
- Set expectations early when buyers plan to use an entity or trust
- Encourage fast response to identity and document requests
For Buyers
- Gather beneficial owner details and IDs in advance
- Have entity/trust documents ready before opening escrow
Rule Overview
How the rule works, what triggers reporting, and who must file.
Is It Reportable?
Quick 3-question checker for a directional answer.
Agent Guidance
Set the right expectations and protect closing timelines.
Entity & Trust Buyers
What documents and info to prepare before escrow.
Trustee Sales
Cash buyers at trustee sales — what to have ready.
FAQ
Common questions answered in plain English.
Keep the Deal Moving — Don't Let FinCEN Surprise You
If a purchase looks like it may fall under FinCEN reporting, we'll help you understand what's needed and when.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal or tax advice. FinCEN applicability can vary by facts and exemptions. Please confirm specifics with your escrow officer or legal counsel.