Assets blocked pursuant to sanctions administered by Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) may be released only through a specific license issued by OFAC. Since February 2000, use of this form to apply for the unblocking of funds transfers has been mandatory pursuant to 31 C.F.R. 501.801(b)(2). Use of this form greatly facilitates and speeds applicants' submissions and OFAC's processing.
The estimated burden has increased from 2,400 to 3,000 applicants due to the addition of several sanctions programs since 2016. The associated cost has thereby increased from $24,000 to $79,500 due to both the increase in sanctions programs as well as the increase in wage rates (including the additional 44% cost of private sector employee benefits) used in the calculation.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.