Banking Safety Basics
Click here to see the top 5 safety issues for survivors.
Banking
Bank and credit union accounts can be useful tools. However, survivors often face obstacles to opening accounts and there can be safety risks associated with established accounts. Although each individual must evaluate her or his own situation carefully there are resources available to assist in opening an account and address safety concerns related to holding the account.
General Requirements for Opening an Account
An external link to information on the rules financial institutions must follow. Keep in mind that procedures can vary from bank to bank (or credit union). For those who do not have a social security number, there may be alternative documents that can be used to open an account.
Tips for Opening and Managing Your Checking and Savings Accounts
Click here for information about banking safely.
Washington Programs for Obtaining Checking and Savings Accounts
External links for survivors who may otherwise have difficulty opening accounts. Many communities have programs to assist in obtaining checking and savings accounts. Link below to a list of these resources by area.