Signaturkarten

Signaturkarten, also known as signature cards, are documents used in banking and financial institutions to record specimen signatures of authorized individuals. These cards are a crucial component of internal control and security procedures, serving as a reference point for verifying transactions. When a customer, such as a business or an organization, opens an account, they typically provide a list of individuals authorized to conduct transactions. The signatures of these individuals are then captured on the signaturkarte.

The primary purpose of a signaturkarte is to prevent fraud and unauthorized access to funds. When a transaction requiring verification is presented, such as a large withdrawal or a significant payment, bank staff compare the signature on the transaction document with the specimen signature on the signaturkarte. A close match indicates that the transaction is likely legitimate and authorized. If the signatures do not match, the bank may refuse the transaction or initiate further verification steps.

Signaturkarten are usually kept securely within the bank's premises, often in a locked filing system or a secure digital database. Access to these cards is restricted to authorized personnel only. The information contained on a signaturkarte typically includes the name of the account holder, the names of authorized signatories, and their corresponding specimen signatures. Some institutions may also include additional identifying information or account details. The proper maintenance and security of signaturkarten are essential for a bank's operational integrity and customer trust.