If you have foreign financial accounts that meet the reporting threshold, filing the FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Report) is a crucial part of your annual tax compliance responsibilities. Officially known as FinCEN Form 114, the FBAR must be submitted electronically through the BSA E-Filing System. This guide provides everything you need to know about the 2025 FBAR filing deadlines, automatic extensions, and how it aligns with IRS tax deadlines.
📅 What Is the FBAR Filing Deadline for 2025?
The standard due date for filing your FBAR in 2025 is April 15, 2026. This deadline applies to all U.S. persons who had a financial interest in or signature authority over foreign accounts that exceeded $10,000 in aggregate at any point during the 2025 calendar year.
⏳ Is There an Automatic Extension for FBAR?
Yes. If you miss the April 15 deadline, there is an automatic extension until October 15, 2026. You do not need to submit a separate extension request or form to qualify for this extra time. The extension is granted automatically and applies to everyone who is required to file FBAR.
Important: Unlike IRS tax return extensions, the FBAR extension does not require any proactive filing. You simply have until October 15 to submit without penalty.
🔄 How the FBAR Deadline Relates to IRS Tax Filing
The IRS tax filing deadline and the FBAR deadline are aligned in terms of timing, but the forms are filed separately:
- IRS Form 1040: Due April 15, 2026 (with extension to October 15, 2026 via Form 4868)
- FinCEN Form 114 (FBAR): Also due April 15, 2026, with an automatic extension to October 15
- Form 8938 (FATCA): Filed with IRS Form 1040—different from FBAR but often overlaps in content
Even if you file an extension for your tax return with the IRS, it has no impact on your FBAR because the FBAR extension is automatic for everyone.
📌 Where and How Do You File the FBAR?
- Submit electronically through the BSA E-Filing System
- FBAR is NOT filed with your income tax return
- Form 114 is filed online directly with FinCEN, a bureau of the U.S. Treasury
The form is typically filled out and submitted using an online interface or as an uploaded XML file for high-volume filers (e.g., CPAs or institutions).
🔍 Who Must File an FBAR?
Any “U.S. person” (including citizens, green card holders, and resident aliens) who has:
- A financial interest in or signature authority over foreign accounts
- With an aggregate value exceeding $10,000 at any time during the calendar year
Accounts include bank accounts, securities accounts, mutual funds, pension funds, and foreign life insurance with cash value.
⚠️ What Happens If You File Late?
If you miss the October 15 extended deadline without reasonable cause, the IRS and FinCEN may impose penalties:
- Non-willful violations: Up to $10,000 per account per year
- Willful violations: Greater of $100,000 or 50% of the account value
If you realize you missed a previous FBAR deadline, you may be eligible for Delinquent FBAR Submission Procedures or Streamlined Filing Compliance to reduce or eliminate penalties.
📅 FBAR Filing Timeline Summary for 2025
- Tax year: 2025
- FBAR due date: April 15, 2026
- Automatic extension to: October 15, 2026
- No separate extension form required
✅ Final Tips
- File your FBAR even if your foreign accounts are used for personal purposes
- Start gathering account details early to avoid missing the deadline
- Report the highest account value during the year, not just year-end balances
- Use the U.S. Treasury’s year-end exchange rate for currency conversion
- Retain copies of all filings and confirmations
📝 Summary
The FBAR deadline for the 2025 tax year is April 15, 2026, with an automatic extension through October 15. No form is needed to request this extension, and the FBAR must be submitted electronically through the BSA E-Filing System—not with your IRS tax return. Missing the deadline can trigger significant penalties, so timely filing is essential. By staying organized and understanding your obligations, you can remain fully compliant and avoid costly errors.
