Deposit check fraud - account restriction FAQs

1. What does it mean when my account has been restricted?

We have placed your account in a restricted status, and you should not initiate or perform any further account transactions. At this time, we will not accept additional deposits to the account, and we may reject or return any account transactions and refer to you any third parties presenting transactions against the accounts. Please be aware that you are responsible for making alternative transaction arrangements with, or sending any necessary notifications to, any third parties who may have an interest in any pending or future account transactions (including any third parties who may periodically debit or credit the account electronically).

2. Why was my account restricted?

A recent deposit(s) to one of your accounts has been identified as suspicious, irregular, fraudulent, unauthorized, or unlawful. As a result, we have restricted the account until this matter can be resolved.

3. What can I do to resolve the restriction on my account?

In some cases, you may be able to bring the issuer of the check (with their proper ID) into a Regions branch to confirm issuance of the check. You may also be able to bring documentation into a branch for further review. For example:

• If you have legally changed your name, you may need to present documentation showing that you and the payee are one and the same.
• If the original payee on the deposit in question is listed as a small business/corporate entity or organization, business documentation is needed to show that the account owner is authorized to act on behalf of the business.

4. How long will my account be restricted?

The restriction may remain in place until appropriate documentation is received, or the item is returned by the issuer’s financial institution. Return times vary between financial institutions, but often take several months.

5. Can I have access to any of the funds in my account?

When an account is restricted, customers may visit a Regions branch to request access to protected funds such as government-sourced benefits received by direct deposit. Examples include Social Security benefits (SSA); Supplemental Security Income (SSI); veterans’ benefits; Civil Service retirement, federal retirement, and disability benefits; servicemember pay; military annuities and survivor benefits; federal student aid; railroad retirement benefits; and financial assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).