SAT Warns BBVA, Banamex Clients of Account Freezes

Mexico — The Mexican Tax Administration Service (SAT) has issued an alert for taxpayers who are clients of BBVA and Banamex, warning that they could see their bank accounts frozen or seized in October if they fail to meet their fiscal obligations.

BBVA and Banamex are the banks with the largest volume of clients and operations in Mexico, making this alert from the SAT particularly significant. The core purpose of the alert is to urge these taxpayers to ensure their fiscal situation is in order to avoid the freezing or seizure of their bank accounts, a power held by the tax authority that is established in the Federal Fiscal Code (CFF).

Taxpayers should be aware that the SAT can order any bank operating in Mexico, including BBVA and Banamex, to freeze and eventually seize funds from the bank accounts of clients who fall into any of the following categories:

• Final Tax Credits: When a debt for taxes, fines, or surcharges exists, has been legally notified, and the deadline for payment or appeal has expired.
• Failure to File Returns: Not having submitted the corresponding tax returns (monthly, annual, informational, etc.) on time and in the correct form.
• Non-Compliance with Requests: Failing to address notices or notifications from the SAT that request specific information or documentation for a review or audit.

Seizures Occur Only After Legal Avenues Are Exhausted

Article 151 of the CFF states that the seizure of bank accounts proceeds only for final tax credits, meaning those that can no longer be challenged or for which all available legal appeals have been exhausted. If clients of BBVA or Banamex do not pay or secure the debt within 30 business days following notification, the SAT can initiate the administrative enforcement procedure.

To avoid or prevent a seizure of funds in their bank accounts by the SAT, clients of BBVA and Banamex are advised to make tax payments on time, maintain control of their income and expenses, and ensure compliance with all corresponding fiscal obligations.