OFAC - SDN Special Designated Nationals List

As part of its enforcement efforts, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) publishes a list of individuals and companies owned or controlled by, or acting for or on behalf of, targeted countries. It also lists individuals, groups, and entities, such as terrorists and narcotics traffickers designated under programs that are not country-specific. Collectively, such individuals and companies are called "Specially Designated Nationals" or "SDNs." Their assets are blocked and U.S. persons are generally prohibited from dealing with them.

• Why it matters: U.S. persons are generally prohibited from dealing with SDNs; violations are strict‑liability and can result in significant civil and criminal penalties.
• What to verify: Exact/AKA names, addresses/countries, dates of birth, passport or national IDs, and the specific sanctions program designation.
• Update cadence: OFAC updates occur ad hoc—often multiple times per month. Monitor continuously and subscribe to Treasury alerts.
• Compliance tips:
  • Use fuzzy matching and escalate potential matches; block transactions until disposition is documented.
  • Record the evidence file, search parameters, and final determination for audit.
  • Re‑screen on changes in ownership or beneficial owners.