Law
Fact-checked

At MyLawQuestions, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Bank Affidavit?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

A bank affidavit is a legal document testifying to an aspect of a customer's relationship with a bank. These documents are used in a number of different settings ranging from pursuing fraud cases to providing supporting documentation for an immigration application. The affidavit must be filled out and signed by an authorized representative of the financial institution and should be witnessed to verify its accuracy and completeness.

A common reason to need a bank affidavit is a situation where an account was used fraudulently. The bank can prepare a statement documenting the fraudulent transactions and indicating that any financial damages related to the fraud are not the responsibility of the customer in a statement of unauthorized debt. This documentation can be used in court in the event the case goes to court and is also helpful in situations where businesses targeted with fraudulent activity attempt to collect damages from the victim of the fraud.

Bank affidavits are completed by a representative of the financial institution to verify account information.
Bank affidavits are completed by a representative of the financial institution to verify account information.

People preparing immigration applications are usually asked to provide proof of financial support. This can include documents from people showing that they have the ability to support the new immigrant, along with a bank affidavit discussing the contents of a person's bank account. This document can be used to show that a person will be able to survive in a new country with savings and support from friends, family, and partners. People who cannot provide this proof may be rejected out of concerns about ending up on welfare rolls.

A bank affidavit is a legal document testifying to an aspect of a customer's relationship with a bank.
A bank affidavit is a legal document testifying to an aspect of a customer's relationship with a bank.

The bank affidavit may contain a variety of personal information and should be kept in a secure location to avoid situations where it could be misused. When paperwork of this nature is submitted to courts and government agencies, they have an obligation to store it securely and prevent unauthorized access to maintain privacy and safety.

Blank bank affidavit forms are available, where people fill in the spaces and sign as directed. In the case of immigration applications, if an embassy has a document it prefers to see people using, it is advisable to ask the bank to fill out that form to avoid problems. Attorneys can also draft a new bank affidavit with all the same information. Once the form is filled out, signed, and witnessed, a copy should be made and stored in a safe place in case the original is damaged or lost. Keeping duplicate copies of immigration paperwork with the receipts for that paperwork can be especially helpful.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a MyLawQuestions researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a MyLawQuestions researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

ceilingcat

@JessicaLynn - I see what you're saying. Other countries use financial records as part of their immigration process too though. I know in order to become a Canadian resident you have to have a certain amount of money in your bank account.

Bank affidavits are very handy for issues other than immigration though. A friend of mine had her identity stolen awhile back, and bank affidavits were instrumental in making her case when they finally caught the person.

JessicaLynn

I was not aware the financial records were a part of the immigration process. I actually don't think that makes too much sense though.

A lot of people come to this country with nothing, in hopes of securing work and a better life! If they had money they probably wouldn't be trying to immigrate in the first place. I think once people are able to work legally the chance of them going on welfare is a lot less.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Bank affidavits are completed by a representative of the financial institution to verify account information.
      By: Marzky Ragsac Jr.
      Bank affidavits are completed by a representative of the financial institution to verify account information.
    • A bank affidavit is a legal document testifying to an aspect of a customer's relationship with a bank.
      By: Pefkos
      A bank affidavit is a legal document testifying to an aspect of a customer's relationship with a bank.