sending valuable documents through the post

money_tree

Hi, i have recently applied to open an internet savings account.However they say that since they are unable to verify me electronically,i will have to send documents through the post such as a passport or driving license.
I am rather concerned about sending such valuable documents through the post.Is there any way round this,or do i have to just hope for the best?

many thanks mt

MattB_4

Be sensible with the class of post you use. There is always the chance they will lose them. Even a courier could do that though.

I presume the institution providing the account isn't a highstreet based one?

barak

This problem has been addressed more than once on this board.

Don't send originals by post. Get certified copies.

Stephen_Leak

Let me guess: Sainsbury's?

The anti-money laundering procedures are a pain, but preferable to the alternative.

How do you get a copy document "certified"?

masonic

barak wrote: »

Don't send originals by post. Get certified copies.

Actually, you have to weigh up the cost of replacing or insuring the original documents against the cost of paying for a certified copy (if you don't have a friend who is a solicitor/accountant etc. and can do it for you for free).

Since a certified copy of the documentation can still be used fraudulently, sending that is not really safer than sending originals. It might be cheaper in some cases, but since, say, RM special delivery costs about a fiver and would effectively insure you against loss, it would probably work out cheaper to do that than pay for a certified copy.

Remember that the DVLA, for example, send out all their driving licences by normal first class post.

masonic

Stephen_Leak wrote: »

How do you get a copy document "certified"?

You get someone of recognised prefessional standing (usually a very limited list) to write and sign a statement on the copy to attest that it is a true likeness of the original and/or that they can confirm your identity.

Stephen_Leak

masonic wrote: »

someone of recognised prefessional standing (usually a very limited list)

Which, presumably, does not now include doctors ...

isofa

Couple of threads to read:

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=528432

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=519730

masonic

Stephen_Leak wrote: »

Which, presumably, does not now include doctors ...

For example, ICICI list: bank/building society official, solicitor, accountant, commissioner of oaths, justice of the peace, legal secretary, member of parliament, police officer or an officer of the armed services.

Some banks still allow doctors to do the certifying, but I've even heard of doctors charging people for doing such things these days. If you have a good relationship with your GP, though, I guess it could come in quite handy.

MattB_4

I always wondered what qualifies as a 'bank/building society official'! Any ideas?

Stephen_Leak

For the attention of anyone struggling to find an acceptable document with your full name, other than your passport or driving licence.

A building society passbook is on the list of acceptable documents, and mine has my full name.