After I heard the news about Bank of America issuing credit cards to illegal aliens, I sent them a strongly worded message. I finally got a reply today:

Please be advised that Bank of America created this pilot in Los Angeles to help current customers who have deposits with us, with little or no credit history, build a credit history. The program is consistent with our goal of helping our customers meet their financial needs.

We are careful to comply with U.S. laws and regulations, including the USA Patriot Act, and use the same criteria to extend credit across our entire customer base. We require all customers to provide us with two forms of identification, one of which must be an unexpired U.S. or foreign government-issued identification card. Our banking center associates then verify the identity of the customer.

Customers who sign up for this particular credit card program must also have an existing deposit account with us.

This program is being piloted in predominantly Hispanic communities in Southern California, and offers a secured credit card to existing Bank of America deposit account holders who have little or no credit history.

We apologize for any inconvenience or miscommunication you may have experienced in this matter. We value you as a customer and appreciate your business. If we may be of further assistance, please contact us again by e-mail. Thank you for choosing Bank of America.

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Vallejo

Bank of America

I don’t think they’re complying with all U.S. laws.  When I opened my new account at Wachovia, they asked to see my driver’s license and Social Security card. I heard a story of a bank that wouldn’t open an account for a 14-year old girl, born in the United States, because she didn’t have a government issued picture ID. Seems they don’t have such “Higher Standards” after all. Guess that’s why their new slogan is “Bank of Opportunity.” Maybe that should be “Bank of Opportunity for illegal aliens.”