Consumer complaint received 2024-12-08 00:00:00
Product: Checking or savings account — Checking account
Issue: Opening an account — Didn't receive terms that were advertised
Company: KEYCORP
State: WA

Complaint narrative:
Subject : Discrimination Based on Immigration Status in KeyBanks Checking Account Promotion I am writing to file a complaint regarding KeyBanks discriminatory practices related to their {$300.00} checking account bonus promotion. I believe this policy unjustly excludes XXXX XXXX holders ( XXXX XXXX ) and violates protections against discrimination based on immigration status or national origin. 

Details of the Incident : On XX/XX/XXXX, I attempted to open a checking account online to qualify for KeyBanks {$300.00} bonus promotion. During the process, I was informed that online applications were restricted to U.S. citizens only and that, as a XXXX XXXX holder, I would need to apply in person at a branch. 

On XX/XX/XXXX, I visited the KeyBank branch located at : XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX, XXXX, WA XXXX. 

A banker began opening the account for me. However, during the process, the banker needed to call for confirmation regarding the bonus eligibility. After the call, the banker informed me that the bonus could not be applied in person and confirmed that the promotion was effectively limited to U.S. citizens because online applications for XXXX XXXX holders were not allowed. 

On XX/XX/XXXX, I called XXXX customer service for further clarification. The representative again confirmed that the {$300.00} bonus was available only to U.S. citizens since XXXX XXXX holders could not apply online, and the bonus could not be applied in-branch. 

Basis for Complaint : This practice by KeyBank appears to discriminate against XXXX XXXX holders, violating protections under federal laws such as : 1. Equal Credit Opportunity Act ( ECOA ) Prohibits discrimination based on national origin or citizenship status in financial services.

2. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of XXXX Prohibits discrimination based on national origin by institutions receiving federal financial assistance. 
3. UDAAP Regulations ( Unfair, Deceptive, or Abusive Acts or Practices ) Enforced by the CFPB to ensure fair treatment of consumers. 

As a lawful permanent resident, I meet all the standard eligibility requirements for the checking account and promotion. Excluding me solely based on immigration status is unfair and discriminatory. 


Washington state also has strong protections against discrimination that apply in this situation, in addition to federal laws. 

XXXX. Washington Law Against Discrimination ( WLAD ) RCW 49.60 Scope : WLAD prohibits discrimination in public accommodations, including financial services and banking, based on race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, among other protected classes.

Application : Banks are considered places of public accommodation, and denying a promotion to XXXX XXXX holders while offering it to U.S. citizens could violate WLAD. 
Enforcement : The Washington State Human Rights Commission ( WSHRC ) enforces this law.

2. Consumer Protection Act ( CPA ) RCW 19.86 Scope : Protects against unfair or deceptive acts or practices in trade and commerce, including banking services.

Application : Excluding XXXX XXXX holders from an advertised promotion could be seen as an unfair practice under this law. 

XXXX. XXXX Municipal Code ( SMC ) Chapter 14.06 Scope : The City of XXXX prohibits discrimination in public accommodations based on national origin, citizenship, or immigration status. 
Enforcement : The XXXX Office for Civil Rights ( XXXX ) handles related discrimination within the city. 


Requested Action : I request that the CFPB investigate this matter and ensure that XXXX promotional offers are applied fairly and without discrimination based on immigration status or national origin. Furthermore, I ask that KeyBank be required to extend the {$300.00} bonus offer to eligible XXXX XXXX holders who meet all other conditions. 

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I appreciate your assistance in ensuring fair treatment for all consumers, regardless of their immigration status.

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation