Trouble persists for some IndyMac customers

Wachovia Corp. and Citibank also aren't changing their deposit policies regarding IndyMac checks.

"Citibank welcomes IndyMac customers," said spokesman Robert Julavits.

William Ruberry, a spokesman for the Federal Office of Thrift Supervision, which regulates the banks, said the agency has received a handful reports about IndyMac customers having problems transferring their money to other banks.

"Our position is that other institutions should honor IndyMac checks, and we're looking into the situation," Ruberry said.

Most customers were given immediate access of up to $100,000 in their accounts and 50 percent of any money over that, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., which is now operating IndyMac. Depositors with joint accounts or retirement accounts could immediately withdraw greater sums.

IndyMac customers who encounter problems with their checks can contact the FDIC at 1-866-806-5919. Consumers with other banking issues can call the OTS at 1-800-842-6929.

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_ AP Business Writer Alan Zibel in Washington contributed to this report.

J.W. Elphinstone reported from New York.