Consumer complaint received 2025-06-19 00:00:00
Product: Checking or savings account — Checking account
Issue: Opening an account — Unable to open an account
Company: AMERICAN EXPRESS COMPANY
State: FL

Complaint narrative:
Subject : Discriminatory Denial of Access to Business Checking Account Based on Disability-Related Credit Issues To Whom It May Concern, My name is XXXX XXXX XXXX and I am submitting this formal complaint regarding the denial of my application for access to a business checking account by American Express National Bank , related to application ID XXXX. 

I am a person with a XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX As a result, I lost my previous employment and experienced significant financial hardship. This hardship caused a decline in my credit score not because of financial irresponsibility, but due to a direct consequence of my XXXX. 

Recently, I applied to be an authorized user on XXXX XXXX American Express Business Checking account. My application was denied based on a credit review. I was informed via email that I was not approved, and I was told a letter would follow, but I was not given any opportunity to explain my disability-related circumstances, nor to appeal, nor to request a reasonable accommodation despite these being essential rights protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act ( ADA ). 

This decision has severely impacted me in the following ways : 1. It discriminates against me on the basis of disability.

My low credit score is the direct result of my disability. Denying access to basic financial tools, like a checking account and debit card, because of that is a form of disability-based exclusion.

2. It prevents me from fulfilling my employment duties. 
My role requires me to have access to a business checking account and a corresponding debit card for business-related expenses. Without this access, I can not perform essential functions of my job. Denying me access is not only harmful but is effectively denying me the ability to work. 
3. There was no option for accommodation, appeal, or due process.

The application process did not include any way to request an ADA accommodation, provide context for my financial profile, or appeal the decision despite this being a matter of equal access and functional employment participation. 



Institution Information : American Express National Bank XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX  XXXX Member FDIC I am requesting the following : A formal review of American Express National Banks business banking practices and their compliance with federal disability laws.

That banks be required to provide a clear and fair process for disabled applicants whose financial profiles have been impacted by health-related hardship. 
That I be given an opportunity to provide supporting documentation and request an accommodation to gain the business banking access I need to continue my work. 

I am not seeking a loan or credit extension only the basic right to participate in the financial system and carry out my employment duties like any other person. 

Thank you for your attention to this serious matter. 

Sincerely, XXXX XXXX

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation