Each depositor insured to at least $250,000 per insured bank

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has unveiled a new Internet service allowing the public easy access to a listing of banks' pending applications that are subject to public comment.

The public has the right to comment on applications the FDIC receives from banks to establish a domestic branch, relocate a domestic branch or main office, relocate an insured branch of a foreign bank, engage in a merger or other business combination, or request deposit insurance.

With the new Internet service, users can now quickly obtain a list of applications pending with open public comment periods. Lists can be obtained for a specific region or state.

The Web site is updated daily with new applications as they are received. Users are directed to the appropriate FDIC regional office to send their comments.

The Internet service may be found at http://www2.fdic.gov/cra/.

Congress created the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation in 1933 to restore public confidence in the nation's banking system. The FDIC insures deposits at the nation's 10,712 banks and savings associations and it promotes the safety and soundness of these institutions by identifying, monitoring and addressing risks to which they are exposed.

FDIC press releases and other information are available on the Internet at www.fdic.gov , and may also be obtained through the FDIC's Public Information Center (800-276-6003 or (703) 562-2200).