The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a branch of the U.S. The Department of the Treasury is in charge of enforcing anti-money laundering (AML) legislation on a federal level. Financial institutions and money service organisations must follow the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and its AML rules, which include conducting thorough client due diligence, reporting suspicious transactions, and maintaining complete AML programmes.
Money service firms, such as money transmitters, check cashers, currency exchanges, and prepaid access providers, are required to register with FinCEN as MSBs. This registration aids in ensuring compliance with federal AML requirements and offers a structure for monitoring and reporting financial activities.
The country is located in North America and is bounded to the west by the Pacific Ocean and to the east by the Atlantic Ocean. Canada forms the northern border, while Mexico forms the southern border. There are 50 states and the District of Columbia.
According to Worldometer’s elaboration of the most recent United Nations data, the current population of the United States of America is 336,502,050 as of Saturday, May 6, 2023. According to UN figures, the 2020 population of the United States is predicted to be 331,002,651 people at the midpoint of the year.
The United States does not have an official language at the federal level, yet English is the most widely spoken language.
The law of the United States is made up of numerous levels of codified and uncodified legislation, the most important of which is the nation’s Constitution, which prescribes the foundation of the federal government of the United States as well as certain civil liberties.
By registering as an MSB, you demonstrate your commitment to working within the legal framework and in accordance with applicable legislation. It boosts your legitimacy and reputation as a respectable financial organisation, which is important in earning the trust of consumers, partners, and investors.
MSB registration grants you access to banking and financial services that are critical to the operation of your business. Financial institutions are more likely to form ties with registered MSBs, allowing you to open bank accounts, process payments, and gain access to other financial infrastructure needed for your business.
As an MSB, you must follow strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) processes. While these rules can be onerous, they also safeguard your company from being utilised for illegal purposes and help to ensure the integrity of your operations. A solid AML framework improves your company’s overall security and reputation.
Compliance with consumer protection regulations is frequently required for MSB registration. By following these standards, you provide your consumers confidence that their financial transactions and personal information are secure. This has the potential to attract additional clients who value the security and protection provided by registered MSBs.
MSB registration allows you to broaden your market reach by offering your services to customers in many states. Although each state may have its own licencing requirements, establishing a foundation as a registered MSB allows you to more quickly negotiate the state-level regulatory framework.
When you register as an MSB, you gain access to regulatory guidelines and support. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) agencies can give materials, clarifications, and updates on regulatory expectations, assisting you in remaining compliant with evolving regulations.
Because of the increased regulatory scrutiny and compliance, several financial institutions and payment processors prefer to operate with registered MSBs. MSB registration can increase your chances of forming collaborations with established financial service providers, allowing you to tap into their networks and capabilities.
License: | Money Service Business Registration |
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Timeframe for Approval: | 1 to 2 weeks |
Regulator: | Department of the Treasury |
Local Director: | At least one director |
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Local Shareholder: | At least one shareholder |
Local Registered Office: | Required |
Local Staff: | Required |
Compliance Officer: | Required |
AML/KYC: | Required |
Audit: | Required |
Economic Substance: | Required |
Corporate Tax Rate: | 21% |
Currency: | United States Dollar (USD) |
Tax Structure: | 0% Tax on Offshore Profits |
Capital Requirement: | Zero |
Note: If required, TBA & Associates can provide compliance officer services in order to meet the requirements.