OFAC FAQ (current) # 51 - Additional Questions from Financial Institutions

Date issued: Sep. 09 2026

TURBOFAC Commentary (111 words)

Notes:

[9-9-26 Update – amended to recommend that persons seeking the unblocking of founds should contact their “financial institution to confirm the funds are in fact blocked pursuant to OFAC-administered sanctions.” And to note that “OFAC generally does not process requests for the release of blocked funds where a corresponding blocking report has not been filed.”]

It is worth having a grasp of OFAC's broad licensing policy practice prior to submitting unblocking applications; some application types are manifestly inutile. OFAC's consistent practice is to refuse requests for licenses that entail the "dissipation" of funds in which blocked persons have an interest, at least absent the most compelling of circumstances.