Nonworking US Citizen in CANADA - 1040, 1116, FBAR Required?

[laraUScitizen]

Good day,
After years working as a US citizen, permanent resident of Canada and filing the appropriate tax documents in US (1040, Schedule B, 1116, 2555, former 8891, and FBARs), 2016 was my first full year non-working, as a stay-at-home-mom. I file as married filing separately since spouse is Canadian (RESP and TFSA are in his name solely). I always 0 out my US taxes.

I have a passive interest income on savings account of $50. I wanted to file the 1040 with $0 earned income just for the record. Because I'm below the $4000 threshold, do I still report the $50, thus Form 1116, and then also Schedule B (I have one RRSP in my name) for 1040? Seems a lot for no income. Assuming I need to complete FBARS regardless of earned income (accounts are well over $10K but under $200K)?

What's the protocol for an American in Canada with virtually no income? I've benefitted from your forum for years - searched for this answer as well. Have happily used TaxAct the past 2 years. Thank you kindly for your time.

[nelsona]

Form 1116 is always optional. You never HAVE TO claim foreign tax credit. I don't know if you would need to carry it forward, but I doubt it.

As long as you otherwise meet the reporting requirements, in your case that would seem to be only FBAR, then there is no need to file a 1040. Schedule B is only required if you need to file, which you do not.

[laraUScitizen]

Thank you! What I assumed initially, but then read something about it's good to file 1040 even if you're under the threshold for statute purposes.