Segregating Security Deposits

[Jason Ross]

I have a rental home. I have a mortgage, operating/checking account, and savings account all with the same bank. I have the tenant's security deposit segregated in the savings account, while rent, mortgage payment, and other bills go through the operating/checking account.

I recently noticed an "inactivity fee" on the savings account. I was told by the bank that there is a federal law which requires banks to ensure that all deposit accounts remain active, and that is why my bank imposes this "inactivity fee".

Is this accurate? And more broadly, how do other landlords ensure that their tenants' deposits are kept segregated without being eaten up by fees?

Thanks!