More details and supporting documents are on my blog http://consumerproblems. Wordpress.com
After I had a problem depositing a large check into my Wells Fargo checking account, I closed that account and opened an account with Union Bank of California. Wanting to avoid the large check problem, I made my opening deposit in cash. I did not make any other cash transactions. Two months after opening the account I received a letter from Union Bank of California accusing me of "structuring" cash transactions to "evade" Federal reporting requirements.
After they assured me that the letter was just a form letter and I had not done anything to cause concern, I continued using the bank account for my normal monthly online bill pays and deposits.
About a month later, I found myself in need of some pocket money, and withdrew $80 from the ATM. It appears that ANY cash transaction is a red flag in their system, and they closed my account citing the Bank Secrecy Act, the USA Patriot Act, and again, structuring accounts to evade Federal reporting requirements. I found out today (when I tried to open an account at another bank) that they also reported the closure to Chex Systems making it virtually impossible to open another bank account for the next 5 years. They sent me a check for the balance of my checking account, but I feel that it is practically worthless since I can't deposit it (because I can't open a bank account), cash it (the crime of using cash is what got me in trouble in the first place), or endorse it to anyone (my husband's bank won't accept an endorsed check for such a large amount).
I also feel strongly that they have falsely reported some sort of crime on my part to the Feds. No one at the branch or on the phone will discuss any aspect of problem with me, saying that they cannot discuss the account because of Federal laws. I cannot find any executive contact info.
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