Source of funds vs source of wealth: what money platforms ask and why

By SendPay Business · · 2 min read

Source of funds vs source of wealth: what money platforms ask and why

Banks and payment platforms sometimes ask customers where their money came from. Two phrases come up: source of funds and source of wealth. They sound alike, but they ask different questions.

The differenceEvidence people are often asked forWhy they ask

The difference

Source of funds is about a particular payment or balance: where did this specific money come from, such as a salary, a house sale or a loan? Source of wealth is about the bigger picture: how did the person build up their overall wealth, such as a career, a business, an inheritance or investments?

Evidence people are often asked for

  1. Payslips or an employment contract.
  2. A house sale completion statement.
  3. Business accounts or dividend records.
  4. A will or grant of probate for an inheritance.
  5. Bank statements showing the money arriving.

Why they ask

Anti-money-laundering rules require firms to understand where larger or unusual sums come from, especially for higher-risk customers. Asking is routine, and answering clearly with documents usually settles it quickly.

Where SendPay fits

SendPay platforms include customer identity verification at sign-up, powered by licensed partners. As a platform owner you set your own anti-money-laundering policies, including when to ask for source of funds evidence.

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Questions people ask

What is enhanced due diligence?

When these questions usually come up.

Enhanced due diligence →
What is a money mule?

Why unexplained money gets checked.

Money mules →
Can I launch my own money app?

Yes, with identity checks built into sign-up.

See platforms →

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This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank, and does not take deposits; regulated services on the platforms are provided by licensed partners. PayPal, Patreon and Substack are named as reference points only and are not affiliated with SendPay Business.