A typical address verification requires one to send in a state ID and perhaps a utility bill or bank statement. However, American Express sometimes requires a signed letterhead from your local bank for address verification purpose.
First let me make something clear – American Express does not always require a signed letterhead but when they do, they will not accept any other document for address verification purpose. Either you produce a signed letterhead or you fail the verification.
Now, address verification can be a checkbox that needs to be checked in order for completion of your application. In such case, if you fail the verification…well, you forfeit the application. However, even if you forfeit the application, you’re not guaranteed to be hit with address verification in subsequent application.
Anyway, if you’re curious to why this method of verification is annoying then maybe this letter will help.
Before we can finish processing your application, we need the following information:
Your home address. Please provide a letter from your bank confirming your home address. To ensure timely resolution, please ensure the letter is an original letterhead from the bank and contains the following:
* The banker’s name, title, hour of availability and signature
* Confirmation of your home address
* Main number to the bank branch
* An extension or personal line to the banker when applicable
And they’re not joking about any of the above. Yes, it needs to be letterhead. Yes, they want the banker’s name. Yes, they’re going to call the branch. The verification is only complete once American Express is able to connect with that specific banker to verify you.
Closing Thoughts
If you’re “internet only bank” person and get hit with a letter like this then you’re guaranteed to fail. Get an account with a local bank or a credit union that will do this for you. I did mine at Chase.
