OFAC sanctions lists: SDN and non-SDN coverage

Start with the list your check needs

OFAC is the U.S. Treasury office that publishes the SDN List and several non-SDN lists. Its Sanctions List Service provides both sets of data. The list names matter: entries on different lists can be subject to different rules.

SanctionsKit uses two direct source IDs: ofac-sdn and ofac-non-sdn. Choose one, or choose a versioned package that includes both. For example, a request for the SDN source alone does not also check every non-SDN list.

Read the evidence behind a possible match

A result keeps the authority, original list, program labels, and available source wording. Use those details to find the rules that apply to your activity. A name match cannot settle questions about a licence, exemption, or whether a transaction may proceed.

The U.S. Consolidated Screening List also carries OFAC records. SanctionsKit removes a duplicate copy only when the same official OFAC entity number links it to the direct record. The direct result keeps the CSL reference, so the source of that copy remains clear.

Check the format and refresh information

SanctionsKit reads OFAC’s legacy XML feeds. It retains the fields that format supports; it does not include extra metadata found only in OFAC’s advanced format. This matters when you compare a result with a different official download.

The SDN source profile and non-SDN source profile show records and refresh information. Keep the selected sources with your review notes so another reviewer can see which lists the check covered.

Write down the OFAC selection behind your policy

A request labeled “OFAC” should still disclose whether it selected SDN, non-SDN or both. Check the two source IDs in source discovery and retain the returned selection. If a required member cannot run, the unresolved coverage question belongs in the workflow instead of disappearing behind a broad OFAC label.