Get Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about Consumer, Departmental and Financial Institution Information. If you have questions that are not addressed here, please contact us to request for more information.
Consumer FAQ
How do I file a complaint about a bank?
We are occasionally contacted by people who have complaints about their bank. The answer to this question depends upon whether your bank is chartered by the State of Arkansas, another state, or by the US Government.
All complaints must be submitted in writing. See File a Complaint for more information.
What does “FDIC Insured” mean?
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is an independent agency of the United States government that protects the funds depositors place in banks and savings associations.
Visit FDIC Deposit Insurance (links off-site) for more information.
Who can answer my questions regarding collection agencies?
Contact the Arkansas State Board of Collection Agencies at 501-371-1438 or visit www.asbca.org.
Who should I contact regarding credit bureaus?
For questions regarding credit reports and credit bureaus, visit:
- Equifax: https://equifax.com
- Experian: https://experian.com
- TransUnion: https://transunion.com
Who can answer my questions regarding private mortgage or money services companies?
Contact the Arkansas Securities Department at 501-324-9260 or www.securities.arkansas.gov.
How do I find out if my mortgage loan officer is licensed?
Visit NMLS Consumer Access to verify a mortgage loan officer’s license.
How can I locate an inactive bank account?
Generally, after five years without activity, bank deposits are considered unclaimed property and turned over to the Arkansas State Auditor.
Please visit AR Unclaimed Property for more information.
How do I find out if my mortgage loan officer is licensed?
The increased interest in virtual currency and other payments innovations has led to the rapid emergence of different types of currencies and payments mechanisms. As these are released into the marketplace, it is important for consumers and investors to educate themselves with accurate information to make informed decisions about this innovative and evolving industry.
For more information, download CBSC Model State Consumer and Investor Guidance on Virtual Currency PDF (opens in a new tab).
Department FAQ
How do I apply for a job?
The Arkansas State Bank Department is a regulatory agency of state government. The workforce of the department is generally divided into three areas: Administration, Examination and Support. Working at the Arkansas State Bank Department is a worthwhile, rewarding experience.
From time to time, employment opportunities arise at the Arkansas State Bank Department. When vacancies occur we post an announcement of those position on our website. As a part of Arkansas state government, to apply for a position with the department you will have to fill out an application online.
To see current available positions or to apply, visit https://arcareers.arkansas.gov/.
Where can I find the Exam Questionnaires?
Please see Examination Report Questionnaires for more information.
Financial Institutions FAQ
Who regulates my bank?
Banks are authorized to conduct business in the United States of America through a charter. A bank can obtain a national charter or a state charter. National charters are issued by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. State charters issued by the various state governments.
Search Financial Institutions in Arkansas and their designated charters.
What is a State Chartered Bank?
A state-chartered bank is a financial institution that receives its charter from a state authority such as the Arkansas State Bank Department. State-chartered banks are supervised jointly by their state chartering authority and either the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the Federal Reserve System. A state-chartered bank that chooses to become a member of the Federal Reserve System is supervised by the Federal Reserve.
As an alternative, a bank can choose to organize as a national bank or federal savings association with a charter issued by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. This agency, commonly referred to as the OCC, is a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. In addition to its chartering authority, the OCC regulates and supervises national banks and federal savings associations.
This choice of state or national charter for commercial banks is referred to as the “dual banking system.”
All federal credit unions are chartered and supervised by the National Credit Union Administration.
Where can I find a list of Arkansas Banks?
A full list of Arkansas Banks are available on the Financial Institutions page.