# Eyeing ID: Access to Identification as a Barrier to Banking and Other Social Determinants of Health

## TL;DR

This study explores how lack of personal identification in New Brunswick, Canada, limits access to banking and other essential services, worsening social and health outcomes.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into ID-related barriers and their impact on vulnerable populations through mixed-methods research in a local context.

## Key findings

- Many respondents faced difficulty obtaining or replacing IDs like driver’s licenses and birth certificates.
- Cost and required documentation were the main barriers to acquiring ID.
- ID policies restrict access to services like banking, housing, and employment, exacerbating social disparities.

## Abstract

Personal identification (ID) is a prerequisite to many financial and social services; however, many vulnerable residents do not have ID and lack the resources to acquire it. To assess the impact of ID inaccessibility in a local context, a study was conducted throughout New Brunswick, Canada. The study objective was to understand the implications of ID requirements and the barriers to acquiring it through the lens of consumers. This mixed-methods, observational study included surveys and interviews. The survey collected demographics, socioeconomic status (SES), financial behaviors and experiences, and barriers to accessing ID. The semi-structured interviews explored individual experiences. In order to address disparities in health and social outcomes, ID requirements and barriers to access need to be acknowledged and mitigated. A total of 142 surveys were completed. Many respondents reported difficulty obtaining or replacing a driver’s license (30.8%), a provincial photo ID (47.7%), or their birth certificate (39.4%), identifying cost (34.4%) and required documentation (28.1%) as the main barriers. Thematic analysis identified three main themes: the difficulty of living without ID, barriers to obtaining or replacing an ID, and an exploration of solutions. Current ID policies restrict access to community services such as banking, housing, and employment, which are intended to support individuals to improve their situation and gain autonomy. Policies and services are required to address this urgent issue.