Bank refusing to open new account because SSC "valid for work only with DHS authorization"

[Teddy B 17,252]

The social security card is only not valid for work with that endorsement, for all other purposes there should be no issue. For banking there should be no issue, but they are choosing to make a big deal out of it.

All that is required for opening a bank account is (1) valid picture ID, and (2) either a social security number or an ITIN if it is an interest-bearing account. This is only to prove my identity, that I am who I am say I am and that my social security number is what I say it is.

Why are you so insistant on using a bank that clearly couldn't care less about having you as a customer? Find another bank.

[Hypnos 6,576]

Because 2% cash back on a debit card for most purchases is something that you cannot find anywhere else. This isn't my first rodeo, I have had an account elsewhere (at another US bank) for some time now, but decided to move to one which would actually be worth my while.

The bank actually replied, and stated that I had not provided evidence of lawful status. My response to them today was that it was impossible to provide something which I was not asked for, and indicated that I could show them my EAD if that would satisfy their requirements.

I'm not sure jumping through all these hoops is worth what they are offering, since all of this has left a bad taste in my mouth viz-a-viz their lack of communication.

Edited December 26, 2012 by Hypnos

[LeftCoastLady 441]

It's only 2% cash back if you're making an online purchase at one of the specified retailers, which is only just a few places. Not really worth going through so much hassle, but YMMV.

Because 2% cash back on a debit card for most purchases is something that you cannot find anywhere else. This isn't my first rodeo, I have had an account elsewhere (at another US bank) for some time now, but decided to move to one which would actually be worth my while.

The bank actually replied, and stated that I had not provided evidence of lawful status. My response to them today was that it was impossible to provide something which I was not asked for, and indicated that I could show them my EAD if that would satisfy their requirements.

I'm not sure jumping through all these hoops is worth what they are offering, since all of this has left a bad taste in my mouth viz-a-viz their lack of communication.

[Hypnos 6,576]

And since I do a lot of purchasing at Walmart and Amazon (both on their list) it seemed like a no-brainer of a good idea. Now, less so...

[Gary and Alla 3,694]

After recently receiving my social security card (my I-485 is still pending, so I used my EAD to obtain the SSN) I tried to open a new bank account at the online bank Perkstreet.

As part of the process, they asked for a copy of my social security card "for verification", which I supplied. A couple of days later I received a notice in the mail, stating that they "could not open an account at this time", due to "bank policies" preventing their acceptance of "a tax identification number that is 'Valid for Work Only with DHS Authorization'".

Needless to say, I am not happy about this.

1) They stated I provided a "tax identification number" (presumably meaning an ITIN, whereas I actually provided a social security number and card).

2) Isn't this discriminatory against immigrants?

I am applying for an online debit card and checking account. There is no credit check, so my lack of credit history should not be an issue.

I have emailed them asking them to reconsider, and stated that I will file a complaint with the Consumer Help Division of the Federal Reserve, should they continue to refuse to open an account based upon the reason they stated. I am also thinking that it may violate the law prohibiting discrimination against immigrants, although I would need to research that more.

I just wondered if anyone else had run into this issue and had experience in resolving it.

1. SSN is a tax ID number. So is an ITIN

2. It discrimnates against people with a restriction on their SSN, that is perfectly legal.

Use another bank.

[UK_Fan 192]

i kinda had the same problem. before i got my state ID, a local bank didn't want to open a bank account for me because i didn't have a "valid form of identification".. apparently an EAD from DHS and a SS card are not enough.. oh well, I took my business elsewhere, haven't regretted it since.

[Harsh_77 718]

If bank does not want your business, take your business to someplace else.

I just opened an account couple weeks back with chase and all they needed was my DL and SSN(verbally) heck I did not even had the card on me if he would had insisted to show the card.

Ontop I still have old ssn card which says valid only with work authorization I never got it removed.

[himher 634]

The OP has a friggin EAD card. That is the "authorization" that validates the SS card.

The bank doesnt want your business. There a a jillion banks. Find one that does.

Are you an immigrant yet or just a B2 visitor? Seems like without permanent resident status, you are not likely guaranteed any rights. Maybe you just need to calm down, get the greencard, change your Social Security card, then start making demands. Many K1s can't get a driver's license or work immediately, but thats the rules and I don't see it as discrimination. It takes a while for things to fall into place, especially adjusting from a tourist visa.

[himher 634]

I don't think you can sue a business for refusing service

Edited December 28, 2012 by himher

[Hypnos 6,576]

You certainly can; check out Title II of the Civil Rights Act (1964).

[himher 634]

The OP is running into the Bush-era anti-terrorism / laundering laws and all of the new banking requirements. Whatever rights you had in 1964 (LOL) were slightly modified during the "war on terror" - LOL

Some banks want to fool with it and some don't. Repeat - find a bank who does.

You certainly can; check out Title II of the Civil Rights Act (1964).

[Darnell 8,478]

So, what news today? Were you successful in training up a CSR for valid DHS documentation, or no ?

[awkwardsoul 20]

I'm having the same issue with online banks - I cannot find one that will let me open an account! They've turned me down not having a previous US address, state ID, not having a bank account in the US - I had issues even being added to my husband's online account and still dealing with that.

But yeah, I understand why you want a particular bank, I want to have an online bank - after living in Canada paying $14-$40 a month in banking fees, I want a freaking deal!

[LeftCoastLady 441]

You certainly can; check out Title II of the Civil Rights Act (1964).

You may want to get acquainted with the USA Patriot Act, in particular, Title III.

I'm having the same issue with online banks - I cannot find one that will let me open an account! They've turned me down not having a previous US address, state ID, not having a bank account in the US - I had issues even being added to my husband's online account and still dealing with that.

But yeah, I understand why you want a particular bank, I want to have an online bank - after living in Canada paying $14-$40 a month in banking fees, I want a freaking deal!

A lot of physical banks and credit unions offer free to low-cost checking options, especially if you have a direct deposit or automatic checking withdrawal on a monthly basis.

[Hypnos 6,576]

As a final update today, I offered to show the bank a copy of my EAD and they did not go for it.

They stated that they need to see either an unrestricted social security card (in which case my Texas ID would be all that is required on top of that) or, if using a restricted social security card then they will have to see a green card to go with it and an EAD is not acceptable to them.

It would seem that I'm taking my business elsewhere.