Frequently Asked Questions

14. Can I regard previously issued and published opinion letters, regulatory interpretations, or other statements as guidance for my transactions?

14 … Great care should be taken when placing reliance on such materials to ensure that the transactions in question fully conform to the letter and spirit of the published materials and that the materials have not been superseded. … Can I regard previously issued and published opinion letters,… Read more

15. Can OFAC change its previously stated, non-published interpretation or opinion without first giving public notice?

15 … Yes. OFAC, therefore, strongly encourages parties to exercise due diligence when their business activities may touch on an OFAC-administered program and to contact OFAC if they have any questions about their transactions. … Can OFAC change its previously stated, non-published interpretation or… Read more

468. How do I verify the authenticity of an OFAC document?

468 … If you have questions about the authenticity of an OFAC-issued document that is not publicly posted on OFAC’s website, you may contact OFAC and reference the specific case ID or FAC number that is included on the document. For specific licenses, please visit OFAC’s Licensing Portal and select… Read more

469. Does OFAC issue certificates of non-inclusion, or issue a so-called "safe list" to help prove that an entity or individual is not on one of OFAC’s sanctions lists?

469 … No. OFAC does not issue non-inclusion certificates to show an entity or individual is not listed on one of OFAC’s sanctions lists, nor does OFAC publish a “safe list.” For questions regarding whether a specific entity or individual may be a positive match to an entry on one of OFAC’s… Read more

91. What lists does OFAC maintain? Where can I find these lists?

91 … OFAC publishes lists of individuals and entities that are subject to OFAC-administered sanctions. One such list is known as the List of Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List, or "SDN List," which is available on OFAC’s website . Property and interests in property of the… Read more

126. I tried to ship a package and it was either "blocked" by a shipping company or returned to me because of "OFAC sanctions." Why? How do I get my package back?

126 … A package may be blocked or rejected for multiple reasons. U.S. persons, including shipping companies, are required to "block" packages in which a person blocked by OFAC-administered sanctions has an interest. When a package is required to be "blocked" due to sanctions, the shipper must… Read more

1190. Do U.S. sanctions target persons for engaging in political speech, religious practice, or other constitutionally protected activities?

1190 … OFAC does not sanction persons for their engagement in activities subject to U.S. constitutional protection, such as protected speech or religious practice or for their religious beliefs; nor do U.S. persons violate OFAC sanctions for engaging in such constitutionally protected activity.… Read more

Frequently Asked Questions

Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence