What is MSB Registration in the USA

MSB registration in the USA is a federal regulatory process that officially enrols your business with the FinCEN via Form 107 through the BSA E-filing portal. The portal is overseen by the Department of the Treasury.

With Enterslice, you can register with the FinCEN, appoint a compliance officer, establish an AML infrastructure, and apply for the state MSB license in the USA. Our associates will also help you fulfil your compliance obligation post-license registration.

Obtain complete documentation support- KYC-AML policy drafting, formulate a business plan, prepare financial statements, and obtain a multi-state MSB license in the USA.

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Money Service Business Registration in USA With Enterslice

Get expert guidance and assistance for Money service business registration in USA with Enterslice’s fintech experts. Get a license in Delaware, Florida, Wyoming, Texas, and Washington, D.C- easier setup at lower costs and fewer compliance requirements.

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What are The Types of Businesses That Need an MSB License in the USA

Scroll down and find out the types of businesses that need an MSB license in the USA:

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Currency Exchangers

These include businesses that buy and sell multiple foreign currencies.

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Money Transmitters

Helping businesses and individuals electronically transmit money to one another, both domestic and international.

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Issuers of Financial Instruments

Corporations can issue, sell, or redeem money orders, travellers’ cheques, and prepaid cards.

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Check Cashers

Legal entities that cash for their clients after obtaining an MSB license in the USA.

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Wire Transfer Services

This includes companies that provide e-money services from one location to another.

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Payment Processors

Businesses that facilitate electronic payments for online electronic payment transactions for an MSB license in the USA.

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Cryptocurrency

Entities dealing in digital or cryptocurrencies should also obtain a money service business registration license in the USA.

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Peer-to-Peer Transfer Services

Legal entities, after obtaining the MSB license in the USA, can enable individuals and companies to send money to each other directly without any intermediaries.

How to Apply for MSB Registration in the USA?

Scroll down and find out how Enterslice will assist you in obtaining the money service business license. The process of MSB registration in the USA is as follows:

Preparation of Documents

The first step is to prepare all the mandatory documents that are required for Form 107 FinCEN registration. Our associates will assemble all the documents to proceed with the registration through the BSA e-filing system.

Company Registration (If Applicable)

We’ll register your company in US with the concerned state authority and assist you in obtaining the Employee Identification Number (EIN) via the IRS. Subsequently, we’ll help you open a bank account and assist you in the AML-KYC framework.

Application Filing with the Department of the Treasury

Once the documents are consolidated, we’ll create your account through the BSA E-filing system to submit your application for an MSB license in the USA.

Examination by the Authority

The Department of Treasury will review your application and send the acknowledgement to your registered email if they’re satisfied with your application. Our associates will be in constant communication with the authorities in case they seek any clarification in your application.

Appointment of Compliance Officer

Once you’ve received the registration approval, we’ll assist you in appointing a compliance officer for implementing AML-KYC procedures, conducting audits, and related compliance.

Establishment of AML Program

Subsequently, we’ll help you develop the regulatory-mandated AML 31 CFR 1022.210 program that would include policies, internal controls, employee training, and independent audits.

Application for MSB license through NMLS

As per your state preference, we’ll apply for the license through the nationwide multistate licensing system portal. For example, if you wish to start your MSB business in Delaware, then it has its own mandates for minimum capital requirements and surety bonds. The portal also facilitates the filing of a license in multiple states via their portal, streamlining the process.

Examination by the State

The state authorities will examine your documents and conduct a background verification by assessing your fingerprints and criminal records. They’ll also evaluate the effectiveness of your AML and KYC protocols.

Final Approval and Issuance of the Certificate

Once satisfied, the authority will grant you the USA MSB license, authorizing you to start your business operations with continued compliance.

What Is the Timeline for Obtaining an MSB License in the USA?

The timeline for obtaining the MSB license in the USA is as follows:

Document Preparation- 1 Week

Prepare documents and gather details, including basic incorporation documents, AML-KYC policy, financial statements, business plan, minimum capital deposit, and surety bond.

Company Registration: 1 to 2 Weeks (Optional)

If you don’t have a registered legal entity in the USA, then first we’ll have to register your company with the concerned Secretary of State or Department of corporation, register for EIN with the IRS, and open a bank account. Some banks that provide the fastest services include Mercury, Relay, and Wise Business for foreigners.

FinCEN Registration: 3 Days

Apply for federal registration with the Department of the Treasury via the BSA E-filing system. Remember- the registration itself doesn’t entitle you to operate as an MSB in the USA. You’ll have to obtain a separate state license for the same.

State-Wise License Application: 2 to 3 Weeks

Depending on your state, the average time to process and examine an application for an MSB license in the USA differs based on your business activity and state norms.

Final Approval: Immediate

Once the authority is satisfied, they will issue the certificate of MSB registration in the USA for the concerned state.

What are the Mandatory Documents for an MSB License in the USA?

The list of documents required for an MSB license in the USA is as follows:

Identity proof of directors and shareholders

Fully completed Form 107

Company incorporation details

Employer identification number (EIN)

Identification & Address of the Compliance Officer

Description of the business activity

Articles of Association

Memorandum of Association

EIN (IRS CP 575)

Business Plan

A flow diagram of the Funds

Organizational structure of the company

Audited financial statements

KYC-AML policies

Passport copies of all directors and promoters

A CA-certified net worth certificate

Risk-management policies

An intent to operate reference letter from a bank

Registered business address- lease agreement

What are the Benefits of Securing a Money Services Business Registration in USA?

The benefits of getting a money services business registration in USA include compliance, increased credibility, global business expansion, and enhanced competitive edge. Some key benefits are as follows:

Federal and State Regulatory Compliance

With registration with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) and a state-level license, you can demonstrate your compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and KYC policies. This strict adherence protects the interests of your investors and clients.

Enhanced Client Trust

A registered financial service provider can establish a high sense of customer trust and credibility in the market. Investors also prefer a company that is regulated by a government authority. The MSB license in the USA increases the turnover of customer acquisition.

Wide Range of Service Options

With a single money service business registration in the USA, you can provide a wide range of business activities, including cryptocurrency, currency exchange, money order services, payment processing, e-money transfer, and peer-to-peer transfer services. With so many options under one license, you scale your business operations and generate huge profits.

Competitive Advantage

Businesses with an MSB license in the USA can leverage their registration and compliance to demonstrate their continuous and strict adherence to attract customers and investors in the market.

What Are the Federal Criteria for MSB Registration in the USA?

The federal criteria for MSB registration in the USA include mandatory registration with the FinCEN and KYC-AML compliance. Some key requirements for the federal money service business registration are as follows:

  • The company must be registered in the USA.
  • The incorporation documents must clearly define the company’s activities as one of the following, including currency exchange, financial instrument issuance, and cryptocurrency.
  • Filing of the Form FinCEN 107 through the BSA E-filing portal within 180 days post company incorporation.
  • Establishment of risk-management system and policies, including AML and KYC protocols, transaction monitoring system, and internal governance.
  • To remain intact at the federal level, this registration must be renewed every two years from the last registration.

What are the Requirements for the USA MSB license?

Explore the criteria for state registration of the USA MSB license, as explained below:

  • Physical address in the United States of America (USA).
  • A minimum capital of between USD 25,000 and USD 100,000, depending on the concerned state.
  • A surety bond between USD 25,000 and USD 500,000 based on the state license registration.
  • Appointment of a US-compliance officer.
  • Fit and proper declaration of all major personnel, including the director, promoter, and shareholder.
  • A business plan with projections for 3 to 5 years.
  • Organizational structure of the company.
  • Financial statements, including balance sheets, profit & loss accounts, and cash-flow statements.
  • Anti-money laundering program and KYC policy establishment.
  • Fingerprint of all major personnel, including the director, compliance officer, CEO, CFO, COO, managing director, and owner. States like Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, New Mexico, and Delaware accept international submissions through a foreign fingerprint card on the FBI’s FD-258.

What Compliance Requirements Must Be Followed After MSB Registration in the USA?

Check out how Enterslice will help you fulfil the compliance after money service business registration in USA by assisting you in:

  • Renewing your FinCEN registration at the federal level via Form 107.
  • Conducting employee training to ensure your employees are equipped with the latest developments.
  • Monitoring the transactions to detect potential fraud and unlawful activities.
  • Continuously monitoring the AML and KYC to develop and update the procedures and policies as per legislative and regulatory changes.
  • Conducting audits to monitor the performance of the AML software setup.
  • Filing the Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) if there’s a suspicious transaction of USD 2,000 or more, related illegal activity, or noncompliance with BSA requirements with FinCEN.
  • Submitting the Currency Transaction Report (CTR) with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) if you exceed the USD 10,000 limit in a single day.
  • Reporting financial interest in a foreign account for an amount of USD 10,000 or above during a fiscal year.
  • Recording a register of customer information.
  • Maintaining a list of all agents and timely reporting to the IRS and FinCEN as and when requested by the concerned agencies.

Why Trust Enterslice for an MSB license in the USA?

We are the world’s leading fintech consulting and compliance management company. Get the best solution to streamline your experience for money service business registration. Below are the reasons why Enterslice is the best choice for an MSB license in the USA:

  • 100% Remote Process – No Need to Visit the USA
  • 99% Success Rate: Best in the Industry
  • Monitor Compliance Easily – Avoid Hefty Penalties
  • Individual US State-Wise Guidance
  • File Error-Free and Remain Stress-Free – Continued Regulatory Monitoring
  • Get Real-Time Updates – Check the Progress of Your Application via Live Tracking
  • End-to-End Client Support – From Application Filing & Documentation to Final Approval and Compliance Support
  • Obtain Local Lease Agreement from India – No Need to Travel
  • 24/7 Customer Support – Our Executives Are Available to Provide Uninterrupted Assistance
  • Expert Legal Guidance from Lawyers with 10+ Years of Professional Experience

FAQs on Money Services Business Registration

The state fee structure ranges from USD 500 to 5000, depending on the individual state rules. However, there are no fees in the state of Montana. There’s no state license required for the USA MSB license as long as you operate in Montana.

The following compliance obligation with the Financial Crime Enforcement Network:

  • Suspicious Activity Reports (SAR): The SAR form is submitted if there’s a suspicious transaction that involves money laundering or terrorist financing.
  • Currency Transaction Reports (CTR): This is filed if a single transaction amounts to USD 10,000 in physical currency. The reporting helps companies comply with anti-money laundering regulations.
  • Form 8300 IRS Filing: Required for any company that receives USD 10,000 or more in cash payments to prevent tax evasion and financial crimes. This form is filed through the BSA E-Filing system.

No, there’s no application or registration fees for federal registration with the Financial Crime Enforcement Network. The FinCEN Form 107 will help you obtain the registration number and list it in the federal database.

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCen) is the federal authority that oversees the registration of money service business licenses in the United States of America.

Companies that want to engage in the business of transmitting currency, funds, or financial instruments from one individual or artificial person to another in the same or different location. Such companies must obtain the USA MSB license because it is mandatory to comply with:

  • Compliance with USA federal and state laws
  • Assists you in avoiding hefty penalties and fines
  • Enhances the trust of your investors and clients
  • Constant monitoring by federal and state authorities prevents money laundering and fraud
  • With an MSB license in the USA, you can be assured of business continuity

The FinCEN can enforce the following:

  • The federal authority can levy a fine that may go up to USD 250,000
  • Imprisonment for up to five years
  • The agency can issue a cease-and-desist order against your business operations
  • Your business may be referred for further prosecution under applicable laws

You can secure MSB license in the USA in 3 to 4 weeks.

The money services business registration in the USA applies to the following economic activities:

  • Currency exchange dealers
  • Prepaid card and related instruments
  • Cryptocurrency and digital-asset service providers
  • Virtual wallet custodians
  • Value transmitters
  • Payment processors

Follow the steps below to obtain a money services business registration in the USA:

  • Initial mandatory registration at the federal level with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN)
  • Application filing, document submission, capital & surety bond deposit, and subsequent registration to acquire the state license via the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS) portal
  • Background verification by state authorities to ensure transparency under applicable USA laws, including fingerprint assessment and criminal record checks
  • Proper review of the AML–KYC program, internal governance, and risk-management framework
  • Final approval and issuance of the MSB license certificate in the USA
  • Continued compliance and reporting to fulfill obligations as per FinCEN and state rules and regulations

The applicant must demonstrate proper compliance with Anti-Money Laundering and Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
Subsequently, they’re also required to adhere to state regulations. The authorities investigate the applicant’s background and financial stability.

The key laws and regulations that govern the money services business registration in the USA are as follows:

  • Bank Secrecy Act
  • USA PATRIOT Act
  • FinCEN and OFAC compliance regulations and protocols

The best states in the USA for money services business registration include Delaware, Florida, Washington D.C., Wyoming, and Texas. These states offer the lowest cost, fewer regulatory compliance requirements, and simplified registration.

It is a process that allows businesses to operate in multiple states through a single license. The regulator conducts a single review of the company’s business plan, ownership, and risk-management framework. The review is conducted through the Multi-State Money Services Businesses Licensing Agreement (MMLA).

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