Spent three hours at the branch yesterday only to be told my proof of address was too old. The list they gave me over the phone didn't mention a six-month limit. Now I have to go back with a utility bill, a lease, and apparently a blood sample. Anyone else get burned by these hidden doc rules?
Banking
I wish I had checked the bank's document requirements before applying
The phone people never know the real list. The branch people don't know it either half the time. It's like a secret menu at a restaurant you don't want to eat at.
Which bank? Some are way worse than others. The one near me wanted two forms of ID plus a letter from my landlord. I don't even have a landlord.
Last time I applied, they rejected my passport because it was "damaged." There was a tiny crease on the corner. I've had library cards approved with less hassle.
Always ask foor the requirements in writing before you go in. And then ask again. And then screenshot the email. Learned that the hard way after a similar runaround.
That only works if the person emailing you knows what they're talking about. I got a written list once and it was still missing two things. The teller just shrugged.
The six-month thing is pretty standard though. Not saying it's right, but it's not exactly hidden. Though if the phone rep didn't mention it, that's on them.
Standard where? My old bank took a bill from 2021. New one wanted something from this decade. It's all over the place.
I brought a passport, a utility bill, my lease, my birth certificate, and a printout of my credit report. The guy looked at all of it and asked if I had a second utility bill. I walked out.
Walking out is underrated. I once sat there for an hour just to be told I needed an appointment for something I could have done online.
The online account opening is usually easier but then you still have to go in to verify. It's the worst of both worlds.
Honestly the best trick is to go on a Tuesday morning. The manager is usually there and can waive the stupid stuff if you're polite. Worked for me twice.
Update: went back today with a newer bill and a printout of their own website showing the requirements. The teller looked at the printout like I'd handed her a frog. Eventually got it done but took another 40 minutes. The manager said the phone list is "outdated."
"Outdated." Classic. So they know it's wrong and just leave it that way.
At least you got it sorted. I'm still waiting for my second utility bill to arrive in the mail. Should be any day now.