These frequently asked questions and answers are provided for general information only and should not be cited as any type of legal authority. They are designed to provide the user with information required to respond to general inquiries. Due to the uniqueness and complexities of Indian law and Federal tax law, it is imperative to ensure a full understanding of the specific question presented, and to perform the requisite research to ensure a correct response is provided. Under the Bank Secrecy Act, money services businesses are a type of non-bank financial institutions. The following types of businesses are considered money services businesses: Money transmitters Currency dealers or exchangers* Check cashers* Issuers of traveler’s checks, money orders, or stored value* Sellers or redeemers of traveler’s checks, money orders, or stored value* The U. S. Postal Service, except with respect to the sale of stamps and related items For more complete information see, Am I an MSB? * There are requirements before a currency dealer, check casher, or issuer, seller or redeemer of traveler’s checks, money orders, or stored value cards is considered a Money Services Business. These requirements include engaging in one or more transactions on or after September 20, 1999 in an amount: Greater than $1,000 In currency or monetary instruments For any person During any one day Registration, recordkeeping & filing for money services businesses The FinCEN website Money Services Business Registration contains information related to: Who must register Who is not required to register Agent relationships Single or multiple location registration requirements Initial registration and required forms Renewal information and required forms Business changes and re-registration requirements Correcting prior reports BSA E-Filing System Record retention requirements There is also contact information on how to get more information. See BSA Requirements for MSBs regarding reporting of suspicious activities and money laundering prevention (including civil and criminal penalties and their applicability).
