Is a letter from my bank really necessary?

[Claire and Troy 2]

I realize this is a consulate specific issue, so anyone that has been through the London embassy please chime in. As always, all replies are welcome.

I have checked the embassy website and I can satisfy the stated minimum requirements for proof of income with my tax return for 2008 and a letter from my employer with pay stubs.

My concern is that I've had some unexpected expenses recently that has brought me to what I would consider dangerously low on my account. I will recover in a months time or so, however, I don't want a CO scrutinizing my expenditures or current balance. In fact, the more I think about it the more I loathe even providing that type of sensitive information. I'm thinking in addition to the other items I already have maybe a letter signed by a bank officer showing direct deposits from my employer over the past 6 months would be sufficient. Another thing that concerns me a bit is the deposits are net amounts after child maintenance garnishment which is required by law in my state.

Researching the forum has revealed the general opinion on this is optional, but again, we are submitting these documents to London and any experiences or advice is welcome.

T&C

[Gary and Alla 3,694]

I realize this is a consulate specific issue, so anyone that has been through the London embassy please chime in. As always, all replies are welcome.

I have checked the embassy website and I can satisfy the stated minimum requirements for proof of income with my tax return for 2008 and a letter from my employer with pay stubs.

My concern is that I've had some unexpected expenses recently that has brought me to what I would consider dangerously low on my account. I will recover in a months time or so, however, I don't want a CO scrutinizing my expenditures or current balance. In fact, the more I think about it the more I loathe even providing that type of sensitive information. I'm thinking in addition to the other items I already have maybe a letter signed by a bank officer showing direct deposits from my employer over the past 6 months would be sufficient. Another thing that concerns me a bit is the deposits are net amounts after child maintenance garnishment which is required by law in my state.

Researching the forum has revealed the general opinion on this is optional, but again, we are submitting these documents to London and any experiences or advice is welcome.

T&C

It is optional and with what you state, unnecessary. That said...

A bank letter states...

!. When you opened the account

2. total deposits in last 12 months

3. Current balance

Current balance is not important if your income exceeds the guidelines. So get one if you want, it will do no harm. Then again, it will do no tharm not to have one with the evidence you already have.

[Claire and Troy 2]

I realize this is a consulate specific issue, so anyone that has been through the London embassy please chime in. As always, all replies are welcome.

I have checked the embassy website and I can satisfy the stated minimum requirements for proof of income with my tax return for 2008 and a letter from my employer with pay stubs.

My concern is that I've had some unexpected expenses recently that has brought me to what I would consider dangerously low on my account. I will recover in a months time or so, however, I don't want a CO scrutinizing my expenditures or current balance. In fact, the more I think about it the more I loathe even providing that type of sensitive information. I'm thinking in addition to the other items I already have maybe a letter signed by a bank officer showing direct deposits from my employer over the past 6 months would be sufficient. Another thing that concerns me a bit is the deposits are net amounts after child maintenance garnishment which is required by law in my state.

Researching the forum has revealed the general opinion on this is optional, but again, we are submitting these documents to London and any experiences or advice is welcome.

T&C

It is optional and with what you state, unnecessary. That said...

A bank letter states...

!. When you opened the account

2. total deposits in last 12 months

3. Current balance

Current balance is not important if your income exceeds the guidelines. So get one if you want, it will do no harm. Then again, it will do no tharm not to have one with the evidence you already have.

Thank you for the reply.

I have read tons of information on what people are gathering for evidence and I have seen people talking about bank statements, etc. I guess that's where I got confused. I'm not opposed to providing deposit information so much as I am the actual statements. Balance, in my opinion, is no one's business and proves nothing in regard to my actual income.

T&C