I've been making copies of my tax returns, FBARs and such since the beginning of time without any "official notation," whatever that is.
1. You can order tax transcripts in lieu of copy you tax returns.
2. A fully signed FBAR is locked and mentioned, "This form has been signed and cannot be altered."
3. Customs forms (including FinCEN Form 105) are different as they are not subject to FOIA/PA disclosure.
"Or depositing small amounts every month."
That's called layering and is itself a crime when done to avoid money laundering attention.
This step is known as placement.
Also - the money needs to be illegal to be considered money-laundering.
Originally Posted by
Steve M
Indeed it is, if you structure a large deposit into multiple smaller deposits with the intent of circumventing reporting requirements for large cash transactions.
See 31 U.S. Code § 5324.
The source and legitimacy of the money is not relevant to the crime of structuring.
While I agree on the source and legitimacy of the money is not relevant, I question the rest.
Using OP's case as an example, OP has no intent to circumvent the reporting requirement, as OP has properly reported when the money was physically brought into the U.S. But banks' practice force OP to break out the deposits. It will never meet the threshold for a criminal prosecution.