Frequently Asked Questions

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

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 the "… 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?

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 sanctions… Read more

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

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?

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 retain the… Read more

97. What format options are permitted for submitting license applications pursuant to the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act of 2000 (TSRA)?

OFAC permits two format options for submitting TSRA license applications: online or hard-copy, though we highly recommend the use of OFAC’s online application portal. Applications submitted via mail must be accompanied by a cover letter that includes some essential information: the purpose of… Read more

98. How should I present my TSRA license application?

Applicants should clearly enumerate in a table format all pertinent information related to their proposed transactions, including: a) Full names and addresses of all parties involved in the transactions and their roles, including financial institutions and any Iranian broker (identify company… Read more

100. If I am submitting multiple TSRA license applications at the same time, should I send them under a single cover letter?

OFAC requires applicants to submit each individual application separately; regardless of if you are completing the online application or sending in a hard copy application through the mail. If an applicant is submitting a hard copy, each application should be in a separate envelope, accompanied by… Read more

101. Should I send a sample of the proposed export product as an attachment to my TSRA license application?

No. OFAC does not require samples of proposed export products to be sent as attachments to any application. OFAC does not need to examine samples of the actual product in making its final determination. Therefore, please do not include any samples with your …

117. Specific to Iran I hold a specific license to sell agricultural goods, medicine, or medical devices to Iran. The general license at section 560.532(a)(4) of the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations (ITSR) authorizes me to accept a letter of credit issued by an Iranian financial institution whose property and interests in property are blocked solely pursuant to the ITSR (i.e., an Iranian financial institution that is not listed on OFAC’s List of Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (SDN List)). The general license, however, also states that a U.S. financial institution may not advise, confirm, or otherwise deal in that credit. How am I supposed to know if/when a letter of credit has been issued for my sale and how do I get paid? My bank accounts are all at U.S. financial institutions.

This language is in the general license at section 560.532(a)(4) of the ITSR because it is contrary to U.S. foreign policy to allow U.S. financial institutions to maintain active correspondent relationships with Iranian banks. The language, however, does not preclude a U.S. financial institution or… Read more

500. I am an exporter of agricultural commodities, medicine, or medical devices to Sudan and have previously obtained specific licenses from OFAC for such exports. Do I still need to apply for a specific license from OFAC for exports or reexports of such items to Sudan?

No. As of December 14, 2020, no license from OFAC is required to export or reexport agricultural commodities, medicines, or medical devices to Sudan. …

Frequently Asked Questions

Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence