OFAC Screening API Endpoint

The URL or function that receives a screening request and returns a match result, such as a sanctions endpoint exposed over HTTP.

TL;DR

TL;DR: A screening API endpoint is the single address an application calls to check a counterparty and get back a clean or flagged result. For an agent, it is the wiring point where sanctions enforcement enters the payment path.

What an endpoint does

An endpoint takes a name, wallet address, or identifier, runs it against the current sanctions data, and returns a structured result. The response should carry enough detail to act on: whether the counterparty matched, which list entry matched, and a recommended decision. A well-formed endpoint returns quickly so the caller never has to pause the transaction.

Why it matters for agent payments

An AI agent pays through code, so the endpoint is the seam where screening plugs in. One HTTP call to screen a counterparty, returning in under 100 ms, lets the agent keep its normal flow: clean means ALLOW, flagged means BLOCK. If the endpoint is missing or slow, the agent either skips screening or stalls, and either outcome is a compliance problem.

Endpoint essentials

• Accepts a counterparty identifier
• Returns a match result and decision
• Responds fast enough to stay in the payment path

Endpoint design that agents can use

A useful endpoint is predictable: it accepts a counterparty identifier, returns a structured result, and fails loudly when it cannot screen. For an agent, the endpoint must be fast and consistent, because the agent may call it on every payment in a high-volume flow. Rate limits, authentication, and error handling should be designed for a machine caller, not a human clicking a form. The endpoint is the control surface, so its availability is part of the compliance posture.