One form of identification card – the `matricula consulare' ID card – is widely gaining acceptance by credit unions and banks as a way to help provide financial services to Mexican immigrants who live and work here and hopefully alleviate immigrants' fears and build a bridge to increasing household net worth.

Several California financial institutions including Arrowhead Central Credit Union, Family Federal Credit Union, El Futuro Credit Union, Wells Fargo U.S. Bancorp. and Bank of America accept the matricula as a form of identification to open a deposit account or cash a check.

The photo ID card, unlike a passport, is laminated, has a watermark, a magnetic strip and contains personal information such as a permanent address. The card has to be renewed every five years. Immigrants who come to live and work here must register for the card at the nearest consulate or embassy.