Ameribank 12th Bank Failure in 2008

In the case of ANB Financial, uninsured depositors received no advance dividends.

Bank, Thrift Ratings

TheStreet.com Ratings provides objective, conservative financial strength ratings for all U.S. banks and thrifts. While you might feel safe if all of your deposits are under FDIC insurance limits, it is still a good idea to check out your institution's rating, and ask some questions if the rating is below a C- (Fair Financial Strength).

It is also important to consider that you or someone you know may be affiliated with a business or municipal depositor (such as a school district) that keeps large uninsured balances in a local institution.

Financial Strength Raitngs on each of the nation's 8,600 banks and savings and loans are available at no charge on the Banks & Thrifts Screener. In addition, the Financial Strength Ratings for 4,000 life, health, annuity and property/casualty insurers are available on the Insurers & HMOs Screener.