By SanctionsAI team · Updated 2026-08-09

OFAC recordkeeping requirements and retention

OFAC requires retaining sanctions-related records for 5 years. This includes screening results, blocking reports, transaction records, and compliance documentation.

5-year retention requirement

Record typeRetention periodWhy
Sanctions screening results5 yearsAudit trail for regulators
Blocking and rejection reports5 yearsEvidence of compliance
Transaction records (sanctions-relevant)5 yearsInvestigation evidence
Customer due diligence records5 years (FinCEN)BSA/AML compliance
Training records5 yearsCompliance evidence
Risk assessments and audits5 yearsProgram evidence
Format: Records can be digital or paper but must be retrievable within a reasonable time. OFAC may request records during examinations or investigations.

Screen your agent's next payment

Check any wallet, name, or entity against OFAC, EU, UN sanctions lists in real time.

Free wallet checker

Frequently Asked Questions

How long must I keep OFAC screening records?
5 years. This includes the screening result, timestamp, subject screened, and SDN list version used.
What format should records be in?
Digital or paper, but must be readily retrievable. OFAC may request records during examinations.
Do I need to keep records of non-matches?
Yes. Keep records of all screening results including non-matches. This demonstrates comprehensive screening coverage.
What if I cannot produce records when requested?
Failure to maintain records is a sanctions violation. Civil penalties up to $356,571 per violation.

← Back to deadlines · SanctionsAI