Do you have a U.S. business with foreign ownership or investment? The U.S. government requires businesses with foreign direct investment to file detailed reports under the BE-12 and BE-13 surveys, administered by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA).
Optic Tax provides educational consulting to help businesses understand BE-12 and BE-13 reporting requirements and how these filings fit into their broader cross-border structure. Whether your business involves foreign ownership, new investment, or international expansion, we help you understand the reporting framework and prepare to work effectively with your filing provider.
Our Services Include:
Reporting Education
We help business owners understand BE-12 and BE-13 reporting requirements, key concepts, and the information typically required so they can work efficiently with their filing provider.
Cross-Border Perspective
BEA reporting is part of a larger international structure. We help business owners understand how these filings relate to foreign ownership, investment activities, and overall cross-border planning.
Independent Guidance
Our consulting services help you understand reporting expectations and identify the questions and information needed before engaging a filing provider.
Planning Support
For businesses with ongoing international activities, we provide educational guidance to help you anticipate future reporting considerations and stay informed as your structure evolves.
What Are the BE-12 and BE-13 Forms?
- BE-12: Filed every five years (next in 2028), the BE-12 form is required for U.S. businesses with 10% or more foreign ownership. It provides comprehensive data on the foreign entity’s ownership and investment.
- BE-13: Required for certain foreign investments in U.S. businesses, this form reports new foreign acquisitions, expansions, or the establishment of new U.S. affiliates.
Who Needs to File?
- U.S. Companies with Foreign Owners: If you have direct or indirect foreign ownership of 10% or more, you are required to file BE-12 every five years.
- U.S. Entities Receiving Foreign Investment: If your business has recently received a foreign investment or been acquired by a foreign entity, you may need to file a BE-13 report.
Not sure if you need to file? Our team can help assess your specific situation and ensure you’re meeting all your compliance obligations.
Why Timely Filing Matters
Failure to file BE-12 and BE-13 forms can lead to civil penalties of up to $25,000, and even potential legal action. Avoid these risks by letting us handle your filings and ensure your business remains in compliance with federal reporting requirements.