Apparently the lender did not fill out the 1098 correctly per the IRS instructions. If they do not issue you a corrected 1098, then go ahead and enter the amount you "Know" it's supposed to be. Keep all of your paperwork associated with this - especially your e-mails with the bank. When the IRS computer generates the nasty-gram to you (in about 24 months give or take) respond within the timeframe that will be specified in that letter and include copies of your correspondence with the lender.
In the end, the lender will be penalized and fined because of their failure (refusal) to correct their error within 10 business days.
Oh yeah, wait at least 10 business days from the day you notify the lender of their error, before you e-file the return too. Otherwise, if they do issue you a corrected 1098, that "could" create a problem for you. Though I don't see how. But we're talking about the IRS here....
