Finding banks that don’t use ChexSystems to evaluate their potential consumers can be tricky, mainly because they’re scarce (80% of banks use ChexSystems reports when deciding whether to approve applications for opening bank accounts).
So, we did some digging to find the best banks with no ChexSystems, so you won‘t have to.
We also added a short guide on finding the right financial institution with no ChexSystems, so make sure to check that out too.
Ready? Let’s go!
6 Large Banks With No ChexSystems in 2022
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Best Automated Savings Programs
- Two automated savings programs
- User-friendly mobile app
- Over 60,000 fee-free ATMs
- Zero fees
Axiom Bank
Best for Florida-Based Customers
- A variety of personal and business accounts
- Low to no-fee accounts
- No minimum balance (except for Axiom Select checking accounts)
- FDIC-insured ($250,000 per depositor)
Upgrade
Best for Small Personal Loans
- Up to 2% cashback
- 20% lower rates on cards and loans
- No minimum initial deposit
- Free credit score monitoring tool
Acorns
Top Choice for Beginner Investors
- No minimum deposit or balance requirements
- Automated savings tool
- Automatic rebalancing option
- Partnered with 350+ brands
NorthOne
Best for Small Business Owners
- Unlimited fee-free transactions
- Extensive integration options
- Free Invoice Maker App
- Tool for organizing expenses
GO2Bank
Best for Direct Deposits
- No minimum deposit
- Overdraft protection
- High APY and cashback
- Get your paycheck two days earlier
Top-Rated Banks Without ChexSystems Reviews
Chime
Best Automated Savings Programs
- Minimum deposit: None
- Minimum balance: None
- Mobile app: Android and iOS
Overview — Chime is one of the best banks that don’t use ChexSystems to vet customers applying for online checking, savings, or credit builder accounts.
The application process takes only two minutes of your time, it doesn’t impact your credit score, and there are no opening fees, minimum deposits or minimum balance requirements. Plus, you can deposit your money at any Walgreen store using your Chime card free of charge.
Accounts — You can open three types of accounts on Chime:
- Checking account
- Savings account
- Credit builder account
All three accounts come with zero opening and maintenance fees, a debit card, and no credit check.
However, if you want to open the Credit Builder account, you’ll first need to open a checking account and deposit a minimum of $200.
Features & Benefits — Like many other digital non–ChexSystems banks, Chime offers a multipurpose mobile app for Android and iOS.
The app allows you to send money to your friends or family members (even if they don’t have Chime), disable transactions, deposit a check, or request a new debit card.
Another thing that makes Chime stand out from the competition is its accessibility. Namely, Chime card users have access to over 60,000 fee-free ATMs (there’s a $2.50 withdrawal fee if you use an out-of-network ATM).
Chime is also one of the few ChexSystems banks that offers two automated savings programs.
The first one rounds up all your Chime debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and allocates the remaining change to your savings account. The second option allows you to allocate a percentage of your paycheck to your savings account.
Besides this service, Chime’s other popular choice is a debit card for families with kids.
Pros
- + Two automated savings programs
- + User-friendly mobile app
- + Over 60,000 fee-free ATMs
- + Zero fees
Cons
- − No joint accounts
Axiom Bank
Best for Florida-Based Customers
- Monthly fees: $5.99–$15.00 (can be waived)
- Minimum deposit: $25.00
- Minimum balance: $0 ($1,000 for Axiom Select checking accounts)
Overview — Axiom Bank is one of the best second chance banks that offer a variety of private and business accounts to people with a bad financial history. The bank is located in Central Florida, and you can find most of its branches within Walmart Supercenters.
You can open an account on Axiom by visiting one of the physical branches or using the online application. The process usually takes 7–10 business days.
Accounts — Axiom Bank offers personal and business checking accounts in addition to:
- Personal savings
- Personal CDs/IRAs
- Small business checking
- Small business savings and CDs
To open a checking account on Axiom, you’ll need to deposit $25, and the monthly fees for all accounts range between $5.99 and $15.00. The only account with no monthly fees is the Axiom Senior Checking account.
If you’re looking for good second chance banking, you should opt for the Opportunity checking account. It’s designed to give consumers a second chance to establish a good banking history. It also comes with unlimited check writing and no minimum balance.
Features & Benefits — Axiom Bank is an ideal choice for people who are into digital and traditional banking since cash transfers can be made either online or via one of the bank’s physical locations. Plus, the bank offers a user-friendly mobile app for Android and iOS.
While Axiom’s app doesn’t offer anything groundbreaking, it’s highly functional and extremely easy to use. You’ll get to use all essential tools, such as:
- Account management
- Account balance inquiries
- Paying bills
- Controlling transactions
- Setting up alerts
- Money transferring
- Branch and ATM locator, etc.
Last but not least, all Axiom second chance bank accounts are FDIC-insured ($250,000 per depositor).
Pros
- + A variety of personal and business accounts
- + Low to no-fee accounts
- + No minimum balance (except for Axiom Select checking accounts)
- + FDIC-insured ($250,000 per depositor)
Cons
- − Physical branches are limited to Florida only.
Upgrade
Best for Small Personal Loans
- Monthly fees: $0
- Minimum deposit: None
- Minimum balance: None
- Mobile app: Android and iOS
Overview — Upgrade is a digital bank that recently launched a special checking account that offers its users high cashback on everyday expenses (up to 2%). It also comes with zero transfer, monthly, ATM, and overdraft fees.
Additionally, the bank will rebate your ATM fees charged by other banks up to five times a month if you’ve maintained an average daily balance of $2,500 or have made a direct payroll deposit of $1,000 during the previous month.
Accounts — Compared to other no ChexSystems bank accounts, Upgrade’s rewards checking account comes with one unique feature. If you keep your account active, you’ll be able to get 20% lower rates on Upgrade cards and loans.
On top of that, once you use Upgrade’s debit card, you’ll be eligible for a 2% cashback on expenses at gas stations, restaurants, grocery stores, etc., and an unlimited 1% cashback on all other purchases.
Features & Benefits — One of Upgrade’s best features is the free credit score monitoring tool. It’ll give you access to your VantageScore, where you can check your credit report.
Moreover, the tool also comes with educational articles, personalized recommendations based on your credit history, email alerts, trending charts, and many other features.
To use the tool, you’ll have to create an account on Upgrade.
Like other second chance banks with online-only accounts, Upgrade comes with a mobile app that allows you to:
- Check your balance
- Pay your bills
- Track your rewards
- Transfer your funds
Pros
- + Up to 2% cashback
- + 20% lower rates on cards and loans
- + No minimum initial deposit
- + Free credit score monitoring tool
Cons
- − Strict limitations on ATM reimbursements
Acorns
Top Choice for Beginner Investors
- Monthly fees: $3.00–$5.00
- Minimum deposit: None
- Minimum balance: None to open the account ($5 to start investing)
- Mobile app: Android and iOS
Overview — Next on our list of banks that don’t use ChexSystems, we have Acorns’ robo-advisor app designed specifically for investors.
Acorns works like a micro-investing app. It’ll automatically invest the change (rounded up to the nearest dollar) from your everyday purchases.
For example, if you spend $4.25 on breakfast, it’ll automatically be rounded up to $5, and the difference (75 cents in this case) will be instantly invested.
Accounts — Acorns lets you choose between two tiers: Personal ($3.00 per month) and Family ($5.00 per month).
The personal plan comes with an investment account, a retirement account, and a checking account, whereas the Family plan includes all the aforementioned accounts + an investment account for kids.
Acorn’s online checking accounts have no minimum deposits or balance requirements.
Features & Benefits — As mentioned before, Acorn is an ideal second chance banking solution for inexperienced investors since the app has an automated savings tool and an automatic rebalancing option.
In other words, if the market shifts, Acorns will automatically adjust your portfolio to maintain it within its intended allocation.
Acorns is also partnered with more than 350 brands, such as Walmart, Sephora, and Nike. To use the cashback option, you need to connect your card with your active Acorns account. Your bonus investment profits will be credited to your account within 60–120 days.
The Acorns mobile app is available for iOS and Android.
Pros
- + No minimum deposit or balance requirements
- + Automated savings tool
- + Automatic rebalancing option
- + Partnered with 350+ brands
Cons
- − High fees for small balances
NorthOne
Best for Small Business Owners
- Monthly fees: $10 per month
- Minimum deposit: $50.00
- Minimum balance: None
- Mobile app: Android and iOS
Overview — If you’re after banks that don’t use ChexSystems for business accounts, NorthOne should be your first choice. NorthOne accounts are built specifically for small business owners and freelancers.
You may link your NorthOne business account to numerous third-party apps, such as Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, Lyft, QuickBooks, etc. Through these connections, you can receive payments, sync transaction data, view and pay invoices, etc.
Accounts — To open a NorthOne business checking account, you’ll need to pay a monthly fee of $10 and make an initial deposit of $50.
You’ll also get a debit card, which you can use to make cash deposits at Green Dot locations ($4.95 fee per deposit). Besides the monthly $10 fee, you’ll have to pay a $15 fee for domestic wire transfers (incoming and outgoing) and a $25 fee for international wire transfers.
Features & Benefits — Many banks that do not use ChexSystems offer unique features to their clients, and NorthOne is no exception.
Its main feature is called Envelopes. This tool will help you plan and organize your major expenses, such as payroll and taxes. You can create as many plans (envelopes) as you like and set your own rules. Pretty much like the famous cash envelope system, but more practical since you don’t deal with actual envelopes.
In addition to Envelopes, small business owners will benefit from NorthOne’s free Invoice Maker App that’s compatible with iOS and Android mobile devices. The app helps you create professional invoices using pre-built templates, keep track of payments, and send reminders.
Pros
- + Unlimited fee-free transactions
- + Extensive integration options
- + Free Invoice Maker App
- + Tool for organizing expenses
Cons
- − No check-writing
GO2Bank
Best for Direct Deposits
- Monthly fees: $5 (can be waived)
- Minimum deposit: None
- Minimum balance: None
- Mobile app: Android and iOS
Overview — If you’re looking for banks with second chance checking/savings accounts with no minimum balance and deposit requirements, GO2Bank has got you covered.
Namely, GO2Bank is Green Dot’s flagship digital bank that provides an inexpensive alternative to traditional banking.
Accounts — GO2Bank offers an excellent checking/savings hybrid account for only $5 per month. The monthly fees will be waived once you receive a payroll or government benefits direct deposit. This is also a high-yield savings account with a 1% APY on savings up to $5,000.
When it comes to fees, apart from the monthly fees, GO2Bank members will also be subject to:
- Cash deposit fees (up to $4.95)
- Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fee ($3 per transaction)
- Out-of-network ATM balance inquiry ($0.50 per transaction)
- Teller cash withdrawal ($3 per transaction)
- Foreign transaction fee (3% of the transaction amount)
- Overdraft protection fee ($15)
Features & Benefits — Compared to other second chance checking banks on our list, GO2Bank provides the highest cashback option of up to 7% on electronic gift card purchases. For example, Amazon eGift Cards will provide a 3% cashback.
Another key feature we need to mention is GO2Bank’s overdraft protection for up to $200. However, to qualify for this feature, you’ll need to get a minimum of $200 in direct deposits over a 35-day period.
Pros
- + No minimum deposit
- + Overdraft protection
- + High APY and cashback
- + Get your paycheck two days earlier
Cons
- − Cash deposit fees
How to Find Banks That Don’t Check History — A Short Guide
Before we get into the specifics of how to find banks that won’t check your credit history, let’s get familiar with ChexSystems.
What’s ChexSystems?
ChexSystems is a credit monitoring service that keeps track of bank and credit union account closures, as well as other deposit activities.
ChexSystems reviews the financial histories of people applying for bank and credit union accounts to see if they have a history of money problems like bounced checks, outstanding debt, and closed or inactive accounts.
They collect this data to help banks evaluate their potential consumers before approving their applications.
While your ChexSystems history won’t have a big influence on your FICO credit scores, you may have a hard time getting a bank account after you’ve been tagged by ChexSystems. Therefore, finding banks or credit unions that don’t use ChexSystems such as Navy Federal or Motor City is essential.
How Does It Work?
ChexSystems pulls data from your account information, which is then used to create a credit report and risk score. Traditional banks use these reports to help them determine whether they should do business with you.
The ChexSystems report covers the following:
- Overdrafts
- Unpaid fees
- Unpaid negative balances
- Fraudulent activities
- Public records about your checking account, etc.
You can request a free copy of your ChexSystems report once per year.
ChexSystems Scores
Another key factor in finding the right banks or second chance banks that don’t use ChexSystems is understanding the scores.
Namely, ChexSystems scores are similar to credit scores. They might have an impact on your attempts to open a bank or credit union deposit account.
ChexSystems scores can be:
- Exceptional: 800–850
- Very good: 740–799
- Good: 670–739
- Fair: 580–669
- Poor: 300–579
Second Chance Banks vs. Banks With No ChexSystems
Second chance financial institutions use ChexSystems to screen applicants, while banks with no ChexSystems don’t. The first will generally allow you to open an account despite your bad credit history as long as you don’t owe them money.
Still, like banks with no ChexSystems, second chance financial institutions will offer you to open an account for a low or no minimum balance. Yet, you might be subject to monthly fees.
As you can see from our banks that don’t use ChexSystems reviews above, second chance and non-ChexSystems accounts have similar features, such as bill pay, online banking, overdraft protection, and FDIC insurance.
You can also upgrade to a regular checking account if you have a good banking history with either account.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Banks With No ChexSystems
Finding a bank with no ChexSystems can be challenging. Therefore, you should pay attention to the following factors:
Minimum Deposits and Monthly Fees
Choose banks that offer accounts with no (or low) minimum deposit requirements and affordable monthly fees. In addition, you should read the fine print and keep an eye on hidden fees, such as debit/credit card replacement or inactivity fees.
Banking Services
Go with banks that provide standard banking services such as deposit accounts, upgrades, and easy-to-use mobile apps.
ATM Network
Many banks and credit unions that do not use ChexSystems also have an extensive ATM network. For example, Chime has over 60,000 fee-free ATMs. So, choose a bank with in-network ATMs to avoid paying out-of-network ATM fees.
Mobile App
Find non-ChexSystems financial institutions that offer user-friendly mobile apps available for Android and iOS devices.
Mobile apps offer many benefits. For example, you can transfer your money, request or cancel your debit cards, deposit checks, find ATM or branch locations, pay your bills, or set up alerts.
Additional Perks
Many financial institutions with non-ChexSystems offer their customers numerous banking features that make them stand out from the competition.
For example, Chime‘s second chance banks offer two automated savings programs to its users, whereas Upgrade accounts come with a free credit monitoring tool.
So, you should find a bank that offers the features that’ll fit your needs the most.
Alternatives to Banks with No ChexSystems
If you don’t get approved by financial institutions with non-ChexSystems, you can always try one of the following alternatives:
Credit Unions
The interest rates charged by credit unions are typically lower than those found at banks. They do, however, have fewer financial services to offer.
Secured Credit Cards
A secured credit card, or a credit card backed by a cash deposit from the user, is a great alternative for people who want to rebuild their credit history.
Debit-Card-Based Accounts
Debit-card-based accounts aren’t connected to online bank accounts. Instead, they’re based on prepaid cards. The main advantage of debit card-based accounts is the lack of risk of uncollected overdrafts.
Conclusion
We hope that our banks that don’t use ChexSystems reviews helped you figure out what to expect from these financial institutions. As you can see, having a non-ChexSystems account comes with many benefits.
An account like this usually comes with low to no monthly fees and minimum deposit requirements. On top of that, it’s typically FDIC-insured. This means that non-ChexSystems accounts can help you get past your financial problems while giving you a second chance to improve your credit history.
So, what are you waiting for? Create your new account and get ready to unwind!
FAQs
Can a bank override ChexSystems?
Banks can ignore the ChexSystems report if they wish to do business with you.
The only way to get removed from ChexSystems is to file a dispute, pay off your debt, create a consumer statement, file a lawsuit, or wait it out.
Does PNC use ChexSystems?
Unfortunately, it does. However, you can write a dispute and send it to ChexSystems or the bank (by fax or email) if you believe the information on your report is incorrect or incomplete.
Does Wells Fargo use ChexSystems?
The answer is no. Wells Fargo offers a clear access banking account for everyone who wants to use a second chance financial account.
To open the account, you’ll need to deposit a minimum of $25. There’s also a monthly service fee of $5. However, there are no fees for account users aged 13–24.
What are the most popular banks with no ChexSystems?
Some of the most popular banks that don’t use ChexSystems are Chime, Axiom Bank, Upgrade, NorthOne, Acorns, and GO2Bank.