Instructions for Form 8938: Statement of Specified Foreign Financial Assets
This document provides detailed instructions for filling out Form 8938 to report specified foreign financial assets. It outlines who needs to file, when to file, and how to fill the form accurately. Key reminders and updates regarding the form are also included.
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How do I fill this out?
To fill out Form 8938, start by ensuring that you meet the filing requirements. Gather all necessary information related to your specified foreign financial assets. Complete the form carefully, following the instructions provided for each section.

How to fill out the Instructions for Form 8938: Statement of Specified Foreign Financial Assets?
1
Determine if you are required to file Form 8938.
2
Gather information about your specified foreign financial assets.
3
Fill out the personal information section accurately.
4
Report the details of your foreign assets in the respective sections.
5
Submit the form along with your annual tax return.
Who needs the Instructions for Form 8938: Statement of Specified Foreign Financial Assets?
1
U.S. citizens living abroad must file to report foreign assets.
2
Resident aliens who have specified foreign financial assets need to comply.
3
Nonresident aliens electing to file jointly may require this form.
4
Domestic entities holding foreign financial assets above thresholds must report.
5
Taxpayers with foreign trust interests must disclose information via this form.
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What are the instructions for submitting this form?
To submit Form 8938, attach it to your annual income tax return. Ensure that you file by the deadline, typically April 15 or your extended deadline if applicable. Options for submission include electronic filing through authorized tax software or mailing a paper return to the designated IRS address based on your state of residence.
What are the important dates for this form in 2024 and 2025?
The deadline for filing Form 8938 coincides with your annual tax return, typically due on April 15. If you have extensions on your tax return, those extensions apply to Form 8938 as well. For fiscal year filers, ensure to check your specific deadlines based on your tax year end.

What is the purpose of this form?
The purpose of Form 8938 is to report specified foreign financial assets held by U.S. taxpayers. It aims to ensure compliance with the Internal Revenue Code requirements regarding foreign assets. Filing this form aids the IRS in tracking foreign income and assets for tax purposes.

Tell me about this form and its components and fields line-by-line.

- 1. Filer Information: Includes your name, address, and Social Security Number.
- 2. Specified Foreign Financial Assets: Details about each foreign financial asset must be reported.
- 3. Value of Assets: Total values of foreign assets must be itemized.
- 4. Reporting Threshold: Indicates if your reported assets exceed the specified thresholds.
- 5. Signature: Your signature certifying the accuracy of the information provided.
What happens if I fail to submit this form?
Failing to submit Form 8938 can lead to significant penalties, including fines and increased scrutiny of your tax returns. The IRS may impose a penalty of $10,000 for failing to file, along with additional amounts for continued failure to file after notification.
- Penalties: Failure to file can result in steep monetary penalties.
- Increased Scrutiny: Not filing can put your tax returns under increased scrutiny from the IRS.
- Potential Legal Issues: Long-term failure to report can lead to serious legal ramifications.
How do I know when to use this form?

- 1. U.S. Citizens Abroad: Citizens living overseas must report significant foreign assets.
- 2. Resident Aliens: Resident aliens with foreign interests need to file this form.
- 3. Dual Citizen Taxpayers: Dual citizens may need to report their foreign financial interests.
- 4. Specified Domestic Entities: Domestic entities holding foreign assets above thresholds must report.
- 5. Foreign Trust Beneficiaries: Individuals with benefits from foreign trusts need to document these assets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who must file Form 8938?
U.S. citizens, resident aliens, and certain domestic entities must file if they have specified financial assets exceeding thresholds.
What are the reporting thresholds?
The thresholds vary based on filing status; detailed information is available in the form instructions.
How do I submit Form 8938?
Form 8938 should be attached to your annual tax return and submitted by the deadline.
Can I edit Form 8938 on PrintFriendly?
Yes, PrintFriendly offers comprehensive editing features for this PDF.
Is it necessary to file Form 8938 if I file FBAR?
Yes, both forms may have separate requirements; consult the guidelines for clarity.
How do I access the updated instructions?
Visit the IRS website for the latest developments and instructions related to Form 8938.
Can I download Form 8938 from PrintFriendly?
Absolutely, after editing, you can easily download the updated PDF from PrintFriendly.
What happens if I don't file this form?
Failure to file may result in significant penalties; it’s essential to meet filing obligations.
What should I do if I have questions while filling this out?
Refer to the IRS instructions or contact a tax professional for assistance.
How can I ensure my entries are correct?
Carefully review each field and consult the instructions provided for guidance.
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