Recent posts on X show founders physically based in Indonesia and Vietnam sharing emails from Mercury notifying them of upcoming account closures
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According to screenshots circulating this week, the notices state that accounts will close on May 1, 2026, with funds required to be withdrawn by April 16.
“I’ve made a US LLC and apparently it’s not enough because I live in Indonesia. Wise is blocked. And today — Mercury. Can’t even receive funds from overseas.”
A second founder in Vietnam publicly asked: “What are some good alternatives that support foreign founders?”
At the time of writing, Mercury has not issued a public statement specific to Indonesia or Vietnam. The information referenced here is based on user-shared screenshots.
What the Notice States
The closure notice reportedly references “recent changes in how we determine account eligibility.” The language appears procedural and does not elaborate beyond eligibility adjustments.
- April 16: IO charge card closure
- May 1, 2026: Full account closure
For businesses using these accounts to receive client payments or manage operating expenses, this timeline creates a defined transition period.
Account Eligibility and Geographic Criteria
Many financial platforms evaluate account eligibility based on multiple factors, including legal entity structure, physical residence of founders or operators, regulatory exposure, and partner bank requirements.
Forming a US LLC does not automatically guarantee ongoing eligibility with every financial institution. Access to banking services remains subject to provider criteria and terms of service, which may evolve over time.
Financial institutions periodically review geographic eligibility as part of standard compliance and risk management practices.
What Founders Should Consider
- Whether account access depends on physical residence
- How partner bank relationships affect continuity
- Whether the provider clearly defines supported jurisdictions
- How transition timelines are handled in eligibility changes
For cross-border founders, reviewing eligibility criteria and geographic support policies can help reduce operational disruption if policies change.
Alternatives for International Founders
Founders operating internationally may wish to consider platforms that explicitly support their jurisdiction of residence and business activity.
VaultLeap provides virtual USD accounts for eligible cross-border founders through regulated partners. Availability depends on supported jurisdictions and compliance review.
Founders are encouraged to confirm eligibility requirements directly with any provider before relying on account infrastructure for core operations.
VaultLeap is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking and payment services are provided by Bridge, a licensed money transmitter and regulated payment provider, in partnership with Lead Bank, Member FDIC. VaultLeap does not hold or have custody of customer funds.
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