Navigating FIRPTA
AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE FOR BUYERS

Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act, popularly known as FIRPTA, is a crucial concept to understand for anyone involved in real estate transactions in the United States, especially when foreign individuals or entities are participating.

What is FIRPTA?

Enacted in 1980, FIRPTA is a tax law that imposes income tax on foreign persons disposing of U.S. real property interests. Essentially, the law aims to ensure that foreign sellers of U.S. real estate are paying the necessary taxes on any gain they make from the sale. This gain is generally subject to a withholding tax rate, which may go up to 15% of the amount realized on the sale (i.e., the total price, not just the gain).

Who Pays for FIRPTA?

Although FIRPTA is a tax on the foreign seller, the responsibility of withholding the necessary tax amount typically falls to the buyer. The buyer is obligated to withhold a certain percentage of the purchase price and remit it to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If the buyer fails to do so, they may be held liable for the tax. This requirement is what often surprises many buyers in a FIRPTA situation.

How Does the FIRPTA Process Work?

When a property is sold, the buyer must determine whether the seller is a foreign person. If so, the buyer must withhold 15% of the amount realized on the sale. The withheld amount must then be reported and paid to the IRS using Form 8288 and Form 8288-A within 20 days of the property transfer.

However, there are exceptions to this general rule. For example, if the property is being purchased for use as a residence and the sale price is not more than $300,000, the buyer may not need to withhold tax. Furthermore, the seller can apply for a withholding certificate from the IRS to reduce or eliminate the withholding.

What Should a Buyer Do to Protect Themselves?

As a buyer, it is crucial to take steps to protect yourself in a FIRPTA situation. Here are some key steps:

Seek Professional Advice: Real estate transactions, particularly those involving FIRPTA, can be complex. It’s crucial to consult with a real estate attorney or tax professional who can guide you through the process.

Confirm the Seller’s Status: Make sure to determine whether the seller is a foreign person. If the seller signs an affidavit stating they are not a foreign person, the buyer is usually relieved from the withholding requirement. In Washington this means verifying Form 22E.

Ensure Proper Withholding: If the seller is a foreign person and no exceptions apply, make sure to withhold the correct amount of tax and send it to the IRS within the specified time frame. It is crucial to get the assistance of escrow to make sure that the correct amount is withheld. 

Check for a Withholding Certificate: If the seller has applied for a withholding certificate from the IRS to reduce or eliminate the withholding, you should wait until the certificate is issued before remitting the withheld amount.

Understanding FIRPTA and its implications is vital for anyone involved in a real estate transaction with foreign participants. By staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, you can navigate the FIRPTA process smoothly and confidently.