Consumer complaint received 2024-02-17 00:00:00
Product: Checking or savings account — Checking account
Issue: Opening an account — Account opened without my consent or knowledge
Company: WELLS FARGO & COMPANY
State: TX

Complaint narrative:
XX/XX/2024 XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX, TX XXXX Associate Personal Bankers XXXX XXXX Wells Fargo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX, TX XXXX Associate Personal Bankers XXXX XXXX and XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX Regional Banking Manager Wells Fargo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX TX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX CEO XXXX XXXX XXXX Operational Initiatives XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX Wells Fargo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX CA XXXX XXXX : Fraud Claim/Identity Theft Claim never been with Wells Fargo Claim # XXXX Wells Fargo created an account that was opened up for one month. 
When I went to Wells Fargo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX, TX XXXX on XX/XX/2024 at XXXXXXXX XXXX I was seeking to open a bank account. Associate Personal Bankers XXXX XXXX and XXXX XXXX told me that because I had already opened an account in my personal name, I could not open a business bank account due to a fraud hold. I informed them that I had never deposited money with Wells Fargo and that I believed the company had purposefully opened the account for XXXX prejudice. As a result, I was unable to open this business bank account in order for my business plan and business proposal to be approved. XXXX XXXX and XXXX XXXX, the branch manager of Wells Fargo Bank, stated that my account will be terminated and that the request will not be granted in my proposal. They both had look at my business plan and business proposal seeing what I was requesting, Regarding my register agent address XXXX XXXX stated that in order opened business bank account in my name, stating that before the business account could be opened, the claim would need to be investigated to prevent them from opening my account, which is a fraud. 
Giving me the instructions that I must use my entire name and change my business register agent address. I told her that is just an excuse to deny me the right to open up a business bank account. I asked Banking Branch Manager XXXX XXXX for a copy of the policy and to find out the policy number. She informed me that I could obtain the coverage and that opening an account would require a conversation with XXXX XXXX, the regional banking XXXX. I was denied the opportunity to open the bank account by XXXX XXXX and XXXX XXXX, the branch managers of Wells Fargo Bank. Associate Personal Banker XXXX XXXX of Wells Fargo, XXXX XXXX XXXX, XXXX, Texas XXXX informed me at XXXXXXXX XXXX. On XX/XX/2024, she was unable to open my business bank account because of a fraud hold on the account that had been opened. 

I believe Wells Fargo used my personal information to create an account as if I had a banking account so my proposal would be granted for the funding of {>= $1,000,000} for Real Estate Development to build affordable homes. I stated that the SBA had already granted my SBA 7a Loan. XXXX XXXX, the branch manager of Wells Fargo Bank, stated that my account will be terminated and that the request will not be granted in my proposal or business plan. My statement was that it will be considered XXXX discrimination. Redlining, which is an illegal discriminatory practice of denying people access to credit the systematic denial of services such as mortgages, insurance loans, and other financial services to residents of certain areas, based on their race or ethnicity. 
I am writing to express my deep dissatisfaction with the treatment I received during my recent attempt to open a business bank account and submit a funding proposal with Wells Fargo. My name is XXXX XXXX and I am a prospective entrepreneur seeking to embark on a real estate development venture. Upon presenting my business proposal requesting {>= $1,000,000} in funds to support my real estate development project, I encountered unexpected obstacles. Rather than evaluating my proposal on its merits, it appears that Wells Fargo preemptively created an account for me to facilitate a denial. This action not only reflects a lack of professionalism but also suggests a blatant disregard for fair and equitable treatment of potential clients.

Furthermore, when the bank manager reviewed my proposal, I was summarily denied the opportunity to even discuss the specifics of my venture. Instead of engaging in a constructive dialogue or offering feedback on how to improve my proposal, I was met with closed doors and dismissive attitudes.As a prospective entrepreneur, I understand the importance of due diligence and responsible lending practices. However, I expected Wells Fargo to approach my proposal with the same level of professionalism and integrity. By denying me the opportunity to present my case and refusing to consider alternative solutions, Wells Fargo has effectively hindered my ability to pursue my entrepreneurial aspirations. 
I urge you to investigate this matter thoroughly and take appropriate action to address the issues raised. It is my sincere hope that Wells Fargo will reevaluate its policies and practices to ensure fair treatment of all individuals seeking to engage in legitimate business activities.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to a prompt resolution and am available to provide any additional information that may be required.

Wells Fargo Opened an account in my name intentionally to denied me with the ability to open a business bank account. Due to being a XXXX Lender Sincerely, XXXX XXXX

Company public response: Company has responded to the consumer and the CFPB and chooses not to provide a public response
Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation