Cuban Immigrants Face Account freezes Due to Banking and tax Compliance Checks
Cuban immigrants in the United States are reporting potential disruptions to their financial access as banks and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) increase scrutiny of immigration and tax status. Bank of America is notifying customers with cuban citizenship or residency about the need to update their immigration documentation, potentially leading to account freezes or closures. This stems from federal sanctions against Cuba requiring stricter banking controls.
According to reports from Univision News 23, the bank is requesting updated residence information from clients whose temporary documentation is nearing expiration. Immigration attorney jesús Novo explains that individuals can demonstrate valid status with documentation like asylum notifications, work permits, or pending residency applications. However, those who entered under humanitarian parole without subsequently applying for asylum or initiating the Cuban Adjustment Act process may face greater challenges.
One migrant, speaking anonymously to Univision 23, described having their account frozen, preventing all transactions. Access was only restored weeks later after providing proof of a pending residency application under the Cuban Adjustment Act, allowing for a temporary extension of account use.
Separately, the IRS is issuing Final Notices of Intent to Seize assets for unpaid taxes. ignoring these notices can result in the immediate freezing of bank accounts, wages, and property. While funds aren’t automatically withdrawn, they become inaccessible upon notification. The IRS provides a 21-day window to respond, negotiate a payment plan, or resolve the debt, with the possibility of releasing the hold, though the underlying debt remains.
Novo advises those receiving these notices to act promptly, providing copies of all relevant immigration and tax documentation, and avoiding the submission of original documents. He stresses the importance of addressing these issues quickly to avoid prolonged financial disruption.