Tilinhaltija

Tilinhaltija is a Finnish banking term referring to the person or organization that holds an account with a financial institution. The tilinhaltija is typically the primary point of contact for the account and is authorized to perform standard operations such as deposits, withdrawals, and signing of account-related documents, within the limits defined by the bank’s terms and conditions. The tilinhaltija is often the recipient of account statements and bears responsibility for ensuring that the account is used in accordance with applicable laws and the bank’s policies.

The word derives from tili meaning “account” and haltija meaning “holder.” As such, tilinhaltija denotes the holder or owner of the account. The term is used in Finnish contract language and is applicable to both individual and corporate clients. In joint accounts, there can be more than one tilinhaltija, and each holder may have authority to manage the funds according to the contract with the bank.

Authority and arrangements vary by bank and contract. A tilinhaltija may grant additional authorities through power of attorney or appoint authorized signatories to act on the account. Banks typically require compliance with anti-money laundering and know-your-customer regulations, and the tilinhaltija is responsible for maintaining proper credentials and handling transactions in accordance with these requirements. The exact scope of powers, such as limits on withdrawals or the right to sign on behalf of the account, is described in the bank’s account terms.

Changes to tilinhaltija status, including addition or removal of holders, are processed by the bank and subject to relevant legal and contractual procedures.