Starting January 1, 2024, individuals can request a FinCEN identifier through an electronic web form. This involves providing details such as full legal name, date of birth, address, unique identifying number from an acceptable identification document, and an image of said document. Upon submission, the individual promptly receives a unique FinCEN identifier.
Reporting companies can request a FinCEN identifier by indicating so on the BOI report. After submission, the company instantly obtains a unique FinCEN identifier. If a reporting company desires a FinCEN identifier after its initial BOI report, it can submit an updated report specifically for this purpose, even if other information remains unchanged.
Obtaining a FinCEN identifier is not mandatory for individuals, company applicant, or reporting companies.
The FinCEN identifier replaces the need to provide personal information when filing a BOI report - and is practical if one anticipates filing multiple BOI reports. Each entity or individual is entitled to only one FinCEN identifier.