Do I still "own" or "control" a foreign bank account I have no access to and that has no money in it, but not sure if I closed it?

[kevin-mcclung]

Years ago, I used to teach English in Spain and China. At the end of each stint abroad, I withdrew all the money in each respective foreign bank account (or at least I am pretty sure I did), but I did nothing to formally close the accounts. I no longer have my bank cards and I don't know if the accounts are open, dormant or closed. I don't know how I could access my accounts even if I wanted to, nor do I confidently remember the names of the banks.

When asked if I owned or controlled a foreign bank account in 2022, is it reasonable to answer no?

[AmyC]

Correct You are not knowingly and willingly amassing a fortune outside the US that needs to be reported on Form 8938 with your return. Here is a comparison of the FATCA (Form 8938) and FBAR requirements.