What Is a Numbered Account and How Does It Work

Author

Reads 1.3K

Persons Pointing at the Numbers on the Invoice
Credit: pexels.com, Persons Pointing at the Numbers on the Invoice

A numbered account is a type of bank account that allows you to keep your finances private and secure. It's often used for business or financial transactions that require confidentiality.

Numbered accounts are usually assigned a unique account number, which is the only identifying information on the account. This number is used to conduct transactions, but it doesn't reveal the account owner's identity.

This level of anonymity can be beneficial for individuals or businesses that need to keep their financial activities discreet.

What Accounts Are Needed?

To open a numbered account, you'll need a few specific accounts.

A current account is one of the most common types of numbered accounts.

In some jurisdictions, a numbered account may also require a corporate account.

A corporate account is often used to manage business finances, but it can also be used to open a numbered account.

See what others are reading: Numbered Bank Account

Characteristics and Types

A numbered account is a type of bank account that offers a high level of confidentiality and security.

Credit: youtube.com, Elements/Account Types & Account Classification Practice

To open a numbered account, you'll need some passport notarizations, which is a relatively straightforward process.

Some passport notarizations are required for personal account openings, while for companies, only incorporation details, documents, and passport notarizations are needed.

One of the best things about numbered accounts is that they don't require bank references or personal visits to the bank.

You'll also be pleased to know that there's no tax attached to numbered accounts.

The deposit for account opening is very minimal, making it an attractive option for those looking to open a new account.

A numbered account can be fully operated through the internet, with 24 hours' access to internet banking from your mobile phone or computer online.

Here are some of the key benefits of numbered accounts:

  • Total security and confidentiality
  • Non-traceable bank transfers
  • Protection of financial assets in litigious divorces
  • Protection against lawsuits
  • Access to powerful tax havens
  • Guaranteed approval

Existence and Jurisdictions

Numbered bank accounts still exist, and they're offered by many offshore private banks.

A minimum deposit of between $8 million and $70 million is the starting point for opening a numbered bank account in 2025, depending on the jurisdiction chosen.

Credit: youtube.com, Anonymous Numbered Bank Account from Prominence Bank

You can access the world's largest P2P Offshore Marketplace to find the best Offshore Service Providers (OSPs) to help you obtain a numbered bank account in 17 jurisdictions.

The numbered bank account industry is valued at over €14 trillion, with many experts estimating that HNWIs protect approximately €120 billion in financial assets every year.

Do Still Exist?

Numbered bank accounts are still a thing, despite what some misinformation spreaders claim. Many offshore private banks offer them, and some even create them for their family members and trusted customers.

In fact, the numbered bank account industry is valued at over €14 trillion, with experts estimating that high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) protect approximately €120 billion in financial assets every year. This is a significant market, and it's not going away anytime soon.

Discreet private banks are opening numbered bank accounts for HNWIs more than ever before, and these accounts are not just for tax reasons. They offer protection against data theft by corrupt bank employees, and only three people would know the identity behind a numbered bank account: the account holder, the bank manager, and God.

It's worth noting that a numbered bank account does not provide total anonymity, as the bank owner will still know who the final beneficiary of the account is. However, it does offer a level of protection and discretion that many people find attractive.

Best Jurisdictions for Your Account

Credit: youtube.com, What Is The Best Jurisdiction For My Trust Or Foundation?

Opening a numbered bank account can be a complex process, but it's a great way to manage your finances securely. You'll need to choose a jurisdiction that suits your needs.

In 2025, a minimum deposit of between $8 million and $70 million is required to open a numbered bank account, depending on the jurisdiction chosen.

The process of opening an offshore numbered bank account can be simplified by accessing the world's largest P2P Offshore Marketplace, where you can find the best Offshore Service Providers (OSPs) to help you.

The marketplace offers assistance in 17 jurisdictions, making it easier to find the right provider for your needs.

You can access a wide range of services and expertise through the marketplace, saving you time and effort.

Account Overview

A numbered account is a type of bank account that provides increased privacy and security for high net worth individuals (HNWIs). To open a numbered account, you'll need to hire banking services from a private bank that offers this type of account.

The costs of opening a numbered account can be steep, with a minimum opening deposit of €500,000 and an opening fee of €50,000. Monthly fees also apply, at €100.

Here are the key requirements and fees for opening a numbered bank account:

Account Fees & Requirements

Parking Space MArked with Number 27
Credit: pexels.com, Parking Space MArked with Number 27

Opening a numbered bank account can come with some significant upfront costs. The opening fee for any Numbered Bank Account is a steep €50,000.

To give you a better idea of what to expect, let's break down the requirements. You'll need to make a minimum opening deposit of €500,000.

In terms of ongoing fees, you'll need to budget for a monthly fee of €100. This is a standard charge that's applied to all numbered bank accounts.

Expand your knowledge: Sbi Saving Account Opening Form

What Is an Account?

A numbered bank account is a type of account that's not attached to your name, but to a number. This number is used instead of your name in transaction records.

The purpose of a numbered account is to reduce the number of bank employees who have access to your name, making it harder for them to sell client lists to foreign governments.

Unlike standard bank accounts, a numbered account is protected from employees who might have access to computer records, which only shows an account number, not a name.

Additional reading: Gcash Device Not Secure.

Hands using a calculator and writing numbers on paper under sunlight. Ideal for finance and education themes.
Credit: pexels.com, Hands using a calculator and writing numbers on paper under sunlight. Ideal for finance and education themes.

The concept of numbered accounts originated in the 1910s when Swiss bankers created them to add anonymity for European clients trying to avoid paying World War I taxes.

Today, banks in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Americas require clients to undergo stringent vetting and provide the identity of the beneficial owner to open a numbered account.

Some banks even keep physical records of numbered account customers in a vault located outside the bank premises, accessible only to a select few employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of a numbered account?

A numbered bank account provides protection against data theft by corrupt bank employees and reduces the risk of sensitive information being compromised. It offers a secure way to manage your finances discreetly.

Can you still get a numbered Swiss bank account?

Swiss banks have largely discontinued numbered accounts, but some still offer this service with specific requirements for new clients. If you're interested in opening a numbered account, it's best to research individual bank policies for more information

Wilbur Huels

Senior Writer

Here is a 100-word author bio for Wilbur Huels: Wilbur Huels is a seasoned writer with a keen interest in finance and investing. With a strong background in research and analysis, he brings a unique perspective to his writing, making complex topics accessible to a wide range of readers. His articles have been featured in various publications, covering topics such as investment funds and their role in shaping the global financial landscape.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.