Guide
Form 5472 Guide Guide
Form 5472 is required for all foreign-owned US LLCs. Filed with a pro-forma Form 1120. $25,000 penalty per year for non-filing. Complete guide for non-resident LLC owners.
What Is 5472
What Is Form 5472?
| Detail | Information | |--------|------------| | Full Name | Information Return of a 25% Foreign-Owned US Corporation | | Required for | Foreign-owned US LLCs and corporations | | Filed with | Pro-forma Form 1120 | | Due date | April 15 (extensions available) | | Penalty | $25,000 per form per year | | IRS form number | 5472 |
Who Must File?
- Single-member LLCs owned by non-US persons
- US corporations with 25%+ foreign ownership
- Any US entity with reportable transactions with foreign related parties
Reportable Transactions
Any monetary transaction between the US LLC and its foreign owner:
- Capital contributions
- Loans
- Payments for services
- Rent payments
- Any transfer of money or property
See Form 5472 instructions for line-by-line guidance.
Filing
How to File Form 5472
- Complete Form 5472 (6 parts)
- Attach to a pro-forma Form 1120 (even though LLCs normally don't file 1120)
- File by April 15 of the following year
- Request 6-month extension using Form 7004 if needed
Filing Methods
- Paper filing — Mail to IRS
- CPA/accountant — Most non-residents use a US tax professional ($200-500)
Important: You need an EIN before you can file Form 5472.
Penalties
$25,000 Penalty for Non-Filing
The IRS imposes a $25,000 penalty for each Form 5472 not filed or filed incorrectly. This penalty:
- Applies per form, per year
- Can accumulate over multiple years
- Is assessed automatically
- Can sometimes be abated for reasonable cause
See Form 5472 penalties for details on penalty abatement.
Related: Form 5472 instructions | Form 5472 deadline | EIN for non-residents | EIN for LLC
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Form 5472 required?
Yes, for all foreign-owned US LLCs and corporations with 25%+ foreign ownership. Filed annually with a pro-forma Form 1120.
What is the penalty for not filing?
$25,000 per form per year. Penalties accumulate and the IRS is aggressive on enforcement.
When is Form 5472 due?
April 15 (same as tax return). 6-month extension available via Form 7004 (extends to October 15).
Do I need an EIN to file Form 5472?
Yes. Your EIN is required on Form 5472. Apply for an EIN at ein.so for $49 before filing.
Can I file Form 5472 myself?
Yes, but most non-residents use a US CPA ($200-500) due to the $25,000 penalty for errors.
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