Customer Identification

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Customer Verification

The CIP must contain risk-based procedures for verifying the identity of the customer within a reasonable period of time after the account is opened. The verification procedures must use “the information obtained in accordance with [31 CFR 103.121] paragraph (b)(2)(i),” namely the identifying information obtained by the bank. A bank need not establish the accuracy of every element of identifying information obtained, but it must verify enough information to form a reasonable belief that it knows the true identity of the customer. The bank’s procedures must describe when it will use documents, nondocumentary methods, or a combination of both.

Who is a customer?

The AML/CTF Rules set different identification and verification requirements for different types of customers:

• individuals (including sole traders)
• companies (both domestic and registered foreign companies)
• trustees
• partnerships
• incorporated and unincorporated associations
• registered co-operatives
• government bodies.

When does a customer need to be identified?

A reporting entity must verify a customer’s identity before providing a ‘designated service’ to the customer. Designated services are listed in section 6 of the AML/CTF Act.

In special cases, an identification procedure may be carried out after providing a designated service. Currently the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Rules Instrument 2007 (No. 1) (AML/CTF Rules) provide special circumstances for certain online gambling services.