Consumer complaint received 2024-11-15
Product: Checking or savings account — Checking account
Issue: Managing an account — Deposits and withdrawals
Company: CITIBANK, N.A. (NV)

I am writing to formally express my concerns regarding my recent experiences with my checking and savings accounts at Citibank, specifically related to the handling of a third-party check deposit and subsequent access to my funds. 

I opened both accounts not long ago, accompanied by my wife, and made an initial deposit. During this process, I inquired about Citibank 's policy on third-party checks and was assured by a banker that such checks are accepted. As part of my responsibilities, I manage financial matters for my father-in-law, who is a XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX ( XXXX. ). This arrangement necessitates regular deposits of his monthly checks into my account to cover his medical expenses, including medications and necessary equipment. 

Typically, I wait the standard clearance period of three to five business days for deposits. After confirming that a recent deposit had cleared, I proceeded to a nearby gas station, where I used my ATM debit card without issue. I called and listened to my available balance on my account which amounted close to {$10000.00} However, upon visiting the bank to transfer {$4000.00} to my savings account and withdraw {$2000.00} for my father-in-law 's needs, I encountered unexpected difficulties. After hearing my request of how much money i needed the teller gave me scowl type of look ; i felt she was judging me, made a phone call, and subsequently, another bank representative arrived, resulting in the blocking of my funds and my debit card. I was informed that I needed to provide further verification. 

This incident caused significant distress, as it prevented me from accessing necessary funds for my father-in-law 's medications. I am perplexed as to why my account was restricted following a normal transaction at the gas station. The only explanation I can discern is the potential perception stemming from my XXXX identity as a XXXX man withdrawing funds from my account. 

Having reviewed Citibanks policies, I understand that third-party checks are accepted, and I find the restrictions placed on my account both unwarranted and discriminatory. The bank informed me that they would issue a check for the remaining balance of {$9800.00} once the account was closed, a process which, I was told, could take 30 to 90 days. Meanwhile, my father-in-law has been left without the funds necessary to meet his medical needs. This extended delay, combined with the restricted access to our funds, has left us unable to address his essential expenses. I have not yet taken out any loans, hoping for an expedient resolution. 

As the delay continued, I grew increasingly concerned and placed a call to the branch where I opened the account. I inquired about the status of my remaining funds and the promised check from the fraud department. According to the sales representative, the computer system indicated that the check for {$9800.00} was scheduled to be sent on XX/XX/year>, to the last address on public file. But i had received a closeout letter saying my account was closed but he says theres an account balance of XXXX something dollars in it. How and why is it not being sent to me in a form of a check. its been over three months. However, I have not yet received this check, nor any further communication regarding the matter. 


Following this experience, I have decided to close my accounts with Citibank. I was disappointed to discover that my account was closed without the return of my funds or any further communication regarding this matter. 

I would appreciate your prompt attention to this issue and would like to request the immediate release of my remaining balance, as well as any additional clarification regarding the handling of my account. 

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response.