TWBROKEWATERHOUSE
I have dealt with ameritrade on issues regarding deposits. If you mail a check, it may take up to 10 business days to clear. In the mean time, they could liquidate. Your only immediate assurance would be to wire the money in. There will likely be a fee on both ends (your bank and Ameritrade). But that money would likely post by tomorrow morning and you'd be covered. I'm not giving advice but you should look into it. And be careful of the distinction between a straight wire and an electronic bank transfer. The wire is available immediately whereas I believe the other form could take 3-5 business days still to clear. Talk to an Ameritrade rep about how to best handle it. Good luck. Hope they don't screw your buddy.
Z
As always, these are my personal opinions.
Hopefully nobody in here is investing anything but "fun" money that they can afford to gamble with.