Q: Credit Union discrimination because of my immigration status/nationality??
New in the country with and EAD(Combo card-Work permit & travel), one of the Credit Unions here in Fresno, CA doesnt accept my EAD card as valid ID to open an account (checkings & savings), I feel is discrimination as I have other financial institutions banks and even other 1 credit union and did not had any problem but they state they cant accept my form of ID and asked me to return once I have my greencard. I think that is discrimination, and I feel offended and discriminated as they did not allow me to open one. I would like to get assistance if possible from a Pro Bono Lawyer.
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
- California
- (916) 704-3009
- View Profile
- Answered
A:
It sounds frustrating to be denied service based on your immigration status, especially since you've had no issues with other financial institutions. Credit unions and banks are generally required to follow federal guidelines when verifying identity, and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is often considered valid under those guidelines. However, some institutions may have stricter policies, and it's understandable that this would feel like discrimination.
You may want to consider reaching out to a civil rights organization or a legal aid group for advice. They can help determine whether the credit union's actions were discriminatory under California or federal law. Discrimination based on national origin or immigration status may be illegal, and these organizations can offer guidance on next steps.
If you're looking for legal assistance, you could search for pro bono attorneys or immigration rights groups in your area. They may be able to assist with any possible legal action or provide advice on how to handle the situation.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
