Being American in France isn’t a fairy tale

“I do not wish to be forced to renounce to my US citizenship. It would break my heart.” — Danielle Deleurme, an American in France

By Danielle Deleurme 

I was born in Los Angeles in 1961 to French parents. We went back to live in France permanently in 1974. I was only 12. I have been living in France ever since -- for 50 years -- and have no relationship whatsoever with the USA. 

My bank is now harassing me and threatening me to close my account because they demand a social security number (SSN) that was never attributed to me ! 

The only way I could apply for a SSN would be to go to the US Embassy in Paris and show original documents to prove that I have lived in France for 50 years ! I am not in a position to travel owing to serious health conditions (severe arthritis) and cannot afford such a journey (I live in Cannes). My new bank officer, who does not know anything about FATCA, told me that I could obtain a SNN over the Internet "because nowadays you can do everything through the Internet" ! What an absurd and false statement that was ! I explained to her the strict rules for obtaining a SSN. 

The bank officer told me I should renounce my American citizenship ! I informed her that the cost was currently $2,350 and that this was only possible at the U.S. Consulate in Marseille... 

I do not wish to be forced to renounce to my US citizenship. It would break my heart. 

Even if I wanted to, I do not have the money it would cost me. I am a poor senior lady with very little income. 

And I have no one to escort me -- I would need assistance. 

Congress, if you are listening, please find a solution for people like me so that we can lead normal lives without having to renounce our U.S. citizenship!