Financial Consumer Agency of Canada - Agence de la consommation en matière financière du Canada

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 For Consumers

 Resource Centre: Access to Financial Services


The federal government has taken steps to improve Canadians' access to basic financial services, regardless of a person's income or place of residence. For example, financial institutions are required by law to open accounts and cash federal government cheques for any individual that meets basic requirements. The government also has agreements with the major banks to ensure that low-cost accounts are available. Use the resources below to learn more.

Know Your Rights — Cashing federal government cheques
Do you receive federal government cheques? Banks are obligated to cash them, free of charge, if you meet certain conditions.
Financial Consumer Agency of Canada

Know Your Rights — Branch closures
When closing a retail branch, financial institutions must provide customers with adequate notice. In certain situations, community consultation may be required.
Financial Consumer Agency of Canada

Know Your Rights — Opening a bank Account
Planning to open a bank account? Be aware of what financial institutions are obligated to provide you.
Financial Consumer Agency of Canada

Banks and low-cost accounts

The major banks have committed to offering a basic low-cost account among their different account options.
Financial Consumer Agency of Canada
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FCAC/ACFC Toll-free 1.866.461.FCAC (3222) Protecting Consumers / Informing Canadians
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Last Modified: 2004-09-12
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