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Gary Stern

Guide to Accepting Large Cash Payments

Love those big spenders but don't forget the IRS

By Gary Stern

What could be better than a customer who pays a very large bill in cash? You get instant use of the money and no long wait for a check in the mail. But before you skip down the bank, know this:
  1. The government is looking for bad guys who might be using you to launder money. You may have to report your windfall to the IRS.
  2. Your bank may hit you with extra fees for handling your pile of cash

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done


Report it to the IRS

If you accept more than $10,000 in cash from one buyer, paid once or in installments over a 12-month period, you most likely will have to send in IRS Form 8300 within 15 days. You'll also have to ask the buyer for a Social Security or tax ID number to fill out the form.
I recommend: Read the IRS regulations carefully because there are plenty of qualifiers.In some cases, traveler's checks and money orders count as "cash" but in some cases, not. The rules cover "consumer durables" so a car purchase counts but a dump truck purchase doesn't. Download Form 8300 from the IRS.

Avoid scams

Money launderers may try to talk you out of filing Form 8300. Don't listen.
I recommend: Read a warning note to car dealers about an "exemption certificate" scam. And remember that your bank is going to file another form to the IRS reporting your large cash deposit so you are being watched.

Negotiate fees with your bank

If you're going to accept large cash payments regularly, ask your bank about fees and services for handling bills and coins
I recommend: Use this menu of deposit services from Regions bank as an example.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

  • You may voluntarily file a form 8300 for amounts less than $10,000 if you suspectthat your customer may be trying to launder money.
  • Keep careful records of accepting any large payments in cash, even those that are under $10,000. Keep the customer's name, address, and Social Security number on file or in a database.
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Best Sites to Learn More

IRS.gov: Reporting Cash Payments of Over $10,000
How to report cash payments of over $10,000.



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