Cuban migrants residing in the United States are experiencing uncertain times after receiving notifications from Bank of America warning them about the potential closure or freezing of their accounts if they fail to update their immigration status. This information was disclosed by Univision's Noticias 23.
One Cuban woman, interviewed by the television channel, shared that the bank demanded she update her residency information because her temporary documentation was nearing expiration.
This situation is not unique, as the bank appears to be sending alerts to clients who are citizens or residents of Cuba, reminding them that the island is under federal sanctions, which necessitates the institution to enforce stringent controls.
Immigration attorney Jesús Novo explained to Univision 23 that Cubans need to provide evidence of a valid immigration status or, at the very least, proof of an ongoing process. “They can present an asylum notice, a work permit, or a residency application. You don't have to have the residency itself,” he clarified.
He acknowledges, however, that many Cubans who entered under humanitarian parole and never applied for asylum or have been unable to initiate the Cuban Adjustment Act may face greater difficulties if they lack a current work permit.
The experience of another migrant, who requested anonymity, highlights the severity of the issue. “The bank directly froze my account. I couldn't withdraw money, deposit, or make purchases. Nothing,” he stated. He was only able to regain access weeks later, after providing proof that he had applied for residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act, which temporarily reinstated his account usage.
As Cubans confront this new wave of concern, another warning comes from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The agency reminded that ignoring a Final Notice of Intent to Levy can result in the immediate freezing of bank accounts, wages, and assets, such as vehicles or properties. Although funds are not automatically withdrawn, the money becomes unusable immediately.
The IRS outlines that, once the notice is issued, taxpayers have 21 days to make contact, negotiate a payment plan, or resolve the debt. Failure to do so could lead to the permanent confiscation of the held funds. In certain instances, the agency may release the levy, but the debt remains active, and any delay could reactivate the measure.
Attorney Novo advises not to panic, but to act swiftly: carry copies of all immigration documents and avoid sending originals.
Understanding Bank Account Freezes for Cuban Migrants
Why are Cuban migrants in the U.S. receiving bank account notifications?
Cuban migrants are receiving notifications because banks are enforcing strict controls due to federal sanctions on Cuba, requiring clients to update their immigration status to prevent account freezes.
What documents can Cubans provide to avoid account freezes?
Cubans can provide documents such as an asylum notice, a work permit, or a residency application to demonstrate a valid or ongoing immigration process.
How does the IRS warning relate to Cuban migrants' bank accounts?
The IRS warning about levies is a separate concern that can also result in frozen bank accounts if taxpayers ignore a Final Notice of Intent to Levy, affecting access to funds and assets.