Bank Account Queries

[SL2024 63]

On 11/9/2024 at 6:38 PM, ScarletWitch6x said:

For proof of address:

• Is your fiance planning to add you to car insurance? There's a proof of address there  
• I already added my fiance to one utility and will be adding/transferring another to him.
• Once you have your SSN you can be added to your USC fiance's credit card as an authorized user (please make sure this is the best option for you before pursuing it). Credit card statements will come with both names on and depending on the statement layout can be used for proof of address. 
• Once married is your fiance adding you to their health insurance? They should mail you your medical card - proof of address!
• Some states will allow you to have the USC spouse execute an affidavit swearing that you live at the address with them, this can help you get a state-issued ID or driver's license. Then you have more proof of address. I would contact your state's BMV for guidance as its so much easier that trying to piece together policy by yourself. 
• As someone else mentioned - the letter SSA sends you with your SSC is proof of address as well. 
• If your non-US bank allows you to use a foreign (US) address, them generating a statement with that address is now proof of address. *please please please make sure you will not be penalized for this. Some banks will allow this and others will not. 

 

In the US banks are governed by federal regulations but depending on their risk profile may have stricter rules around non-citizens opening accounts. I would recommend calling the bank your fiance uses and starting there. They can tell you what you may need in order to open an account there. That way you have a checklist to work off of when you go in.

 

Smaller banks typically have stricter policies as they are low-risk. Bigger banks may be more well-versed in immigration matters and will be willing to take (what they see) as a risk as they will understand your documentation. Not a hard and fast rule but something to keep in mind. Some smaller credit unions are willing to be more helpful than big banks because they don't always have the corporate overhead that chains do. 

Great advice as well @ScarletWitch6x! Thank you!

[TBoneTX 45,248]

16 hours ago, SL2024 said:

So I think what will do is [...]

Great that you're taking proactive steps.  You'll get it done!

[SL2024 63]

Hi all, 

 

Not sure if I need to start another post regarding this but I just wanted to ask what you did after travelling but before your bank account was opened in terms of spending money for expenses? 

 

Did your fiance/fiancee cover all expenses? Did you take some cash or use a travel card with some money uploaded onto it to pay for things?

 

As there will be a period after travelling where I will need to get my SSN, California Driving License or California ID card and then open the bank account. So although my fiancée is financially responsible for me I still want to contribute where I can while out of work. I have been approved as an authorised user on her credit card but I will need my SSN to begin building my credit score.

 

I am still keeping my UK account open as well.

Hope you can help!