What are the federal regulations determining how long it takes a check to clear?

My wife just deposited a $15,000 check in her checking account, and the bank said that, due to federal regulations, she cannot access the whole amount for 11 business days. We would like to have access to the money sooner than that.What are the federal regulations determining how long it takes a check to clear?
It is a way the bank operates to earn interests. The booklet of the bank always tells you it will take 11-14 business days and that's the regulation. But, these days everything is done electronically and they get the money much sooner. It really depends on your relationship with the bank. Our bank that we bank over 20 years, make the fund available immediately even for over 10,000. Another bank (B of A), does that the next business day. If you never bounced your check, overdrafted, and have kept decent average balance in your account, there is no reason for them to do that. Once I deposited a check for 5000 at one branch of a bank (WM) and they said they will put a hold on it. I told them my own branch doesn't do that. I took the check back from them and started walking. That was when they said it was okay and they made the money available immediately for me. If your bank keeps that kind of attitude, I'd suggest you start shopping around for a different bank. Make sure to ask what the hold time is for a check. They will tell you.What are the federal regulations determining how long it takes a check to clear?
actually, legally, you can't put a hold on a check for more than 8 business days. Plus it depends on where the check came from and what type of check it is. And nowadays, due to the Check 21 Act, checks are clearing a lot faster. I'd go to a different bank these people don't know what they're talking about!
Doesn't matter what country you live in. the bank is right. It takes a good two weeks for any check to clear. The reason being, as far as the bank is concerned, the check, if its not certified then it is a worthless piece of paper. They will not cover it if it is no good. Be patient and be glad you did. Sit down and plan what you will do with the money when the check does clear.