Are My Foreign Brokerage Accounts Reported on the FBAR?
Both foreign bank and foreign brokerage accounts are reportable on the FBAR. Reporting is largely identical: identify the institution, country, account number, and the maximum value during the year converted to USD. The type selector on the FBAR distinguishes between “Bank” and “Securities” accounts, but both count toward the $10,000 aggregate.
Similarities:
- Both count toward the $10,000 aggregate threshold
- Both report the maximum value during the year
- Both require the institution name, address, and account number
Differences in reporting:
| Feature | Bank account | Brokerage account |
| Type on FBAR | Bank | Securities |
| Value basis | Cash balance | Market value of holdings plus cash |
| Separate funds | No | Underlying foreign funds may be PFICs |
Related filings, brokerage accounts often trigger:
- Form 8938 (if 1040 thresholds met)
- Form 8621 per PFIC held inside the account
- Schedule B foreign account question
- Schedule D / Form 8949 for sales
Reporting tip:
- The maximum value for a brokerage account is typically a month-end statement figure, but use the highest observed during the year if known
- Convert from foreign currency using the Treasury year-end exchange rate
For FBAR filing help, see our FBAR Reporting Guide.
Last updated on April 30, 2026
