FinCen Real Estate Reporting Guide
For Buyers & Sellers Without a Real Estate Agent
Effective March 1, 2026
Federal regulations issued by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) require certain real estate transactions to be reported to the U.S. Department of the Treasury. These rules are designed to prevent fraud, money laundering, and other financial crimes.
If you are buying or selling property without a real estate agent, Indiana Title Network will guide you through these requirements.
When FinCEN Reporting Applies
Your transaction is likely subject to FinCEN reporting if it involves:
- A cash purchase
- A buyer or seller that is an LLC, trust, partnership, or corporation
- An investment or rental property
- Private or hard-money financing
- Funds coming from multiple sources
- A foreign person or foreign entity
- A trust, estate, or inherited property
If any of the above applies, additional information will be required before closing.
What Buyers Should Expect
If your purchase is covered, you may be asked to provide:
- A government-issued photo ID
- Basic personal or entity information
- Information about the source of funds
- A short FinCEN compliance form
Buyers purchasing through an LLC, trust, or other entity will be asked for information about the people who control or benefit from that entity.
What Sellers Should Expect
If your sale is covered, you may be asked to provide:
- A government-issued photo ID
- Confirmation of your legal name and ownership
- Trust, estate, or entity documents, if applicable
- A FinCEN compliance form
Sellers using trusts, estates, or business entities should expect additional verification.
How Indiana Title Network Helps
Indiana Title Network is responsible for:
- Determining whether your transaction is FinCEN-covered
- Providing all required forms
- Collecting and securely handling your information
- Submitting any required federal reports
You will never be asked to file anything directly with FinCEN.
Will This Delay My Closing?
In most cases, no. As long as requested information is provided promptly, closings proceed as scheduled. We recommend responding to any FinCEN requests as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Questions?
If you are unsure whether your transaction may be subject to FinCEN reporting, contact Indiana Title Network as soon as your file is opened.
Federal compliance. Local expertise.