The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has announced the renewal of its Geographic Targeting Orders (GTOs), a move requiring U.S. title insurance companies to identify the individuals behind shell companies used for non-financed residential real estate purchases.
The GTOs are effective from April 15, 2025, to October 9, 2025. According to FinCEN, the orders have consistently provided significant data on residential real estate purchases by those potentially engaged in illicit enterprises. Renewing these orders is expected to enhance the tracking of illicit funds and other criminal activities.
These GTOs cover specific counties and major U.S. metropolitan areas, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New York, Texas, Washington, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. The jurisdictional coverage remains unchanged since the last issuance, and the purchase price threshold continues at $300,000, except for Baltimore, where it is set at $50,000.
FinCEN has expressed appreciation for the collaboration of title insurance companies and the American Land Title Association in safeguarding the real estate market from exploitation by illicit entities.
For more information, questions can be directed to www.fincen.gov/contact. The order and frequently asked questions are available online for further reference.
