I was able to get a bank account without an SSN

[zilchfox 296]

Hey all,

Figured I'd just post about this because you might wanna know. So I was able to successfully open an account with Bank of America without an SSN by bringing the following documents:

- Proof that SSN is on the way (Receipt from Social Security Administration)

- I-94

- Passport with valid K1 Visa

It was no issue for them, especially because it was evident I had an SSN card on the way. They generated one as a placeholder (300-00-0000) and let me know that the moment I get my SSN card, I need to schedule an appointment so they can update the placeholder in the system with my actual number. They also put my Canadian address as well as my US address on file as they've put me in as a non-immigrant. When I go to provide them the SSN next time, they'll have me sign off on a W9 form as well. I was also told that once I get my green card I will need to let them know as well, so they can remove the Canadian address on file and switch me over to a permanent resident in the system.

Yay, no more cross-border fees!

Edited October 26, 2016 by zilchfox

[vv84 0]

Hey all,

Figured I'd just post about this because you might wanna know. So I was able to successfully open an account with Bank of America without an SSN by bringing the following documents:

- Proof that SSN is on the way (Receipt from Social Security Administration)

- I-94

- Passport with valid K1 Visa

It was no issue for them, especially because it was evident I had an SSN card on the way. They generated one as a placeholder (300-00-0000) and let me know that the moment I get my SSN card, I need to schedule an appointment so they can update the placeholder in the system with my actual number. They also put my Canadian address as well as my US address on file as they've put me in as a non-immigrant. When I go to provide them the SSN next time, they'll have me sign off on a W9 form as well. I was also told that once I get my green card I will need to let them know as well, so they can remove the Canadian address on file and switch me over to a permanent resident in the system.

Yay, no more cross-border fees!

Thanks for the tip! I'm wondering If I should just open up a US bank account and credit card from TD before I leave to Boston. There's lots of TD's in the Boston area but I'm kind of afraid that they will refuse to add my SSN to the credit card and bank account and just make me close both.

[zilchfox 296]

Thanks for the tip! I'm wondering If I should just open up a US bank account and credit card from TD before I leave to Boston. There's lots of TD's in the Boston area but I'm kind of afraid that they will refuse to add my SSN to the credit card and bank account and just make me close both.

If you open one up in Canada, it'll probably still be a Canadian account that's in US Dollars. I recommend you wait until you're in Boston so you can open up a US account that'll link to your Canadian one. They won't force you to close them, but the credit card itself will have no effect on your credit score in the U.S., but you might be able to get a credit recommendation by sticking with the same bank and you might be able to get a U.S. credit card with a higher limit based on your pre-existing Canadian credit score.

[Star561 10]

If you open one up in Canada, it'll probably still be a Canadian account that's in US Dollars. I recommend you wait until you're in Boston so you can open up a US account that'll link to your Canadian one. They won't force you to close them, but the credit card itself will have no effect on your credit score in the U.S., but you might be able to get a credit recommendation by sticking with the same bank and you might be able to get a U.S. credit card with a higher limit based on your pre-existing Canadian credit score.

You might want to check with TD. I know in terms of RBC their US bank is based in the US, so you are able to get setup with a debit and credit card (based on Canadian credit history) before you move. Once you move and get an SSN you can add it in order to build your credit history. Their cross border transfers are simple and happen instantly, and you can just do it online yourself(which is handy if you qualify for Ei and need to transfer). So you might want to see if TD is similar.

[NikLR 13,227]

I agree with star561. My experience was similar with rbc

[vv84 0]

Hmmm Thanks for the advice everyone. I'll have to talk to them before I leave!

[lilacmarie213 4]

My fiance opened up an account with Bank of America longggg before we had even started the immigration paperwork - all they asked for was his passport, a deposit, and contact information. Similarly, I opened an account in Canada (TD Bank) with just my passport as well.

[Avsiws 4]

I opened up a TD US account before I left Canada- it was really easy!

In order to use the Cross Border Banking at TD, you have to have a Canadian account at TD so go into a Canadian branch and open an account. I chose a basic checking account and a US dollar checking account. If you have a US dollar checking account, you apparently get a preferred exchange rate.

At this appointment, the rep must then call the Cross Border Banking line *with you*. Don't let them tell you that you can do it at home by yourself. Essentially it will just be you talking on the phone with a US rep in the office, however the Canadian rep will be able to confirm your identity and also fax over the paperwork right away. I brought my passport, my licence and my Canadian SIN card. You should also have your US address. By the end of this appointment, the US account will be set up. You'll have 30 days (maybe it was 45?) to go into the US branch and activate your account, get a debit card (which allows you to access online US banking) and make a deposit. From what they've told me, I will be able to get a TD credit card based on my Canadian credit.

Steps when transferring money to yourself:

1. Transfer your $ from your Canadian checking/savings account to USD checking account (at TD Canada). Exchange rate charged here.

2. Send your money from your USD account (at TD Canada) to your US account (at TD USA). It charges you a wire fee ($8.95-$12.95 I believe, depending on the amount), but this is refunded the next business day.