Have you been denied a bank account because of ChexSystems or Early Warning Services (EWS)? You’re not the only one. Many banks use these systems to track overdrafts, unpaid fees, and account closures—blocking access to new accounts for people with a troubled banking history.
Second chance checking accounts are built to give you a fresh start. These accounts are easier to qualify for, even if you’ve been flagged by ChexSystems. They offer essential features like debit cards, direct deposit, online bill pay, and sometimes even cashback or savings rewards.
Best Second Chance Checking Accounts
We’ve done the research to find the best second chance checking accounts available nationwide, plus over 200 local banks and credit unions that can help you get back on track.
1. SoFi
- Up to $300 sign-up bonus with direct deposit
- No minimum opening deposit
- Earn up to 3.80% APY
- Over 55,000 fee-free ATMs
- Early pay with direct deposit
2. Current
- Build credit and earn points with every swipe
- No minimum opening deposit or maintenance fees
- Get paid up to 2 days faster
- Over 40,000 fee-free ATMs
3. Chime
4. Stash
- No credit check or ChexSystems
- Banking, investing, and budgeting in one app
- Stock rewards on everyday purchases
- No minimum opening deposit
5. GO2bank
- Earn up to 4.50% APY on savings
- 19,000 fee-free ATMs
- Cash deposits at 90,000 retail locations
- Overdraft protection up to $200
6. Chase
- $100 bonus with qualifying purchases
- No credit check or ChexSystems
- No overdraft fees
- 16,000+ fee-free ATMs
7. Upgrade
- No monthly fees or overdraft fees
- No minimum opening deposit or balance requirements
- Get paid up to 2 days early
- Earn up to 2% cash back on select purchases
8. Walmart MoneyCard
- Up to 3% cash back at Walmart
- Overdraft protection up to $200
- Earn 2.00% APY on savings
- $5.94 monthly fee waived with $500 direct deposit
9. LendingClub
- Earn 1% cash back on debit card purchases
- No monthly fees or minimum opening deposit
- Earn up to 4.50% APY on savings
- Get paid up to two days early with direct deposit
10. Capital One 360
- No monthly fees
- No minimum opening deposit
- Earn up to 3.70% APY on savings
- Over 70,000 fee-free ATMs
11. Wells Fargo
- No overdraft fees
- $25 minimum opening deposit
- $5 monthly fee (waived for ages 13-24)
- Mobile app and online banking access
12. Bank of America
- No overdraft fees
- $25 minimum opening deposit
- $4.95 monthly fee (waived for students under 25)
- Debit card with access to mobile and online banking
Best Regional & National Banks That Offer Second Chance Checking
If the nationwide options above don’t meet your needs, these regional banks and credit unions are worth a look. Many offer second chance checking accounts with flexible approval criteria, lower fees, and more personalized service—especially if you prefer in-person banking.
American Airlines Credit Union
American Airlines Credit Union offers Ascend Checking, a no-fee account designed for those rebuilding their banking history. It includes online and mobile banking, along with access to shared branches nationwide.
New members may qualify for a $50 bonus by setting up direct deposit and making purchases with their debit cards. With no monthly fees and digital banking tools, it’s a solid option for a fresh start.
Bok Financial
BOK Financial’s Opportunity Banking is a second chance checking account available in AZ, AR, CO, KS, MO, NM, OK, and TX. It provides essential banking services with digital and in-person access.
The account has a $10 monthly fee, which drops to $5 with a qualifying $300 direct deposit. It also includes free access to 32,000+ MoneyPass ATMs, making cash withdrawals more convenient.
Centennial Bank
Centennial Bank offers Opportunity 100 Checking in AL, AR, FL, and NY for those looking to reestablish their banking history. Digital banking tools make it easy to manage finances from anywhere.
A $100 opening deposit is required, and the monthly fee is $9.95 with direct deposits. This option provides a straightforward path to better banking habits.
City National Bank
City National Bank’s Bounce Back checking account is available in KY, OH, VA, and WV. It includes online banking, bill pay, and debit card access with no minimum balance requirement.
The $8.99 monthly fee drops to $6.99 with direct deposit, and the first two non-sufficient funds fees are waived. This helps reduce costs while transitioning back to traditional banking.
Fifth Third Bank
Fifth Third Bank’s Express Banking is a second chance option with no credit check. It allows in-person banking at branches and digital account management.
The account offers discounted fees on select services but does not support check writing or check deposits at ATMs. It’s best suited for those who rely on debit transactions and direct deposits.
HomeStreet Bank
HomeStreet Bank offers a free checking account with no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements. A $100 deposit is required to open the account.
Available in CA, ID, OR, UT, and WA, it offers online banking and in-person services, making it a flexible choice for rebuilding financial stability.
Hope Credit Union
Hope Credit Union serves AR, LA, MS, and TN with a second chance bank account that includes online banking, bill pay, and mobile check deposit.
A $25 deposit is required to open the account. The $9.95 monthly fee is waived with a $200 balance, offering a manageable way to regain financial footing.
InTouch Credit Union
InTouch Credit Union serves MI, NV, TN, TX, and VA. Membership starts with a $5 savings account deposit, and a checking account can be opened with as little as $50.
The account includes digital banking access and in-person services at select branches. It’s a solid option for those looking to rebuild their banking history with a low-cost entry point.
OneUnited Bank
OneUnited Bank offers second chance checking with a $50 minimum deposit and free mobile and online banking. The mobile app allows check deposits and balance monitoring.
The account is available nationwide, with physical branches in CA, FL, and MA. Customers can also access cash at over 30,000 ATMs across the country.
Simmons Bank
Simmons Bank offers the Affordable Advantage checking account in MO, OK, and TX. This account is designed for customers with low monthly balances and provides essential banking services.
It requires a $25 opening deposit and has a $5 monthly service fee. However, check writing is not available with this account, making it best suited for those who rely on digital transactions and debit cards.
Staley Credit Union
Staley Credit Union serves IL, IN, and TN, offering a second chance checking account for those looking to rebuild their financial standing. The account comes with online and mobile banking for easy access.
A $50 minimum deposit is required to open the account, and there is a $7 monthly service fee. This account provides a simple way to regain access to banking services.
WaFd
WaFd Bank’s Fresh Start Account is available in AZ, CA, ID, NV, NM, OR, TX, UT, and WA. It requires a $25 opening deposit and has a $4 monthly maintenance fee.
The account includes online and mobile banking, person-to-person payments, and no minimum balance requirement. There are no overdraft or nonsufficient funds fees, and customers can upgrade to a standard checking account after maintaining a positive history.
Woodforest National Bank
Woodforest National Bank offers a second chance checking account with access to over 700 branches across 17 states. The account requires a $25 opening deposit and a one-time setup fee of $9.95.
The standard monthly fee is $11.95, which drops to $9.95 with direct deposit. Features include online and mobile banking, bill pay, and debit card access, making it a strong option for those working to improve their banking history.
Second Chance Checking Accounts by State
In addition to national and regional banks, many local credit unions and community banks across the U.S. offer second chance checking accounts. If you’re looking for a fresh start close to home, these institutions can be a solid option.
To help you find one near you, we’ve organized accounts by state below.
What is a second chance checking account?
Banks and credit unions use ChexSystems and Early Warning Services (EWS) to track banking history. If you’ve had overdrafts, unpaid fees, or account closures, you may have trouble opening a new checking account.
Second chance checking accounts help people with a negative banking history regain access to everyday banking. Unlike prepaid debit cards, these accounts allow for direct deposits, bill pay, and debit card access—sometimes with the option to upgrade to a standard account.
These bank accounts for bad credit may come with monthly fees or restrictions, but they offer a path back to mainstream banking. Some even provide overdraft protection, rewards, or early direct deposits. Managing a second chance account responsibly can improve your banking history and open the door to better financial products in the future.
See also: Banks That Don’t Use ChexSystems & Credit Unions That Don’t Use ChexSystems
How to Choose the Best Second Chance Checking Account
Not all second chance checking accounts are the same. Some have high fees, while others offer a path to a regular checking account. Here’s what to consider when choosing the right one.
Monthly Fees
Many second chance accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee, but some waive it if you set up direct deposit or maintain a minimum balance. Before opening an account, check if there’s a way to avoid the fee to save money.
Restrictions
Some accounts come with limitations, such as:
- No check-writing privileges
- Limits on withdrawals or transfers
- A required financial education course
If an account has restrictions, make sure they won’t interfere with your everyday banking needs.
Upgrade Potential
The best second chance accounts allow you to switch to a standard checking account after several months of responsible use. Look for banks that offer an upgrade option so you don’t stay in a restricted account longer than necessary.
Online vs. In-Person Banking
Consider whether you need access to physical branches or if online banking is enough. Many second chance accounts are offered by online banks, which typically have lower fees and better features. If you prefer in-person banking, look for a local credit union or regional bank.
Additional Features
Some second chance accounts come with extra perks, including:
- Cash back on debit card purchases
- Overdraft protection
- Access to a large ATM network
The best account for you will depend on your banking habits and how quickly you want to move toward a traditional checking account.
Pros & Cons of Second Chance Checking Accounts
Second chance checking accounts can help you get back into the banking system, but they also come with some trade-offs. Here’s what to consider before opening an account.
Pros
- Gives you access to essential banking services – Having a checking account makes it easier to pay bills, deposit paychecks, and manage your money.
- Helps you rebuild your banking history – Responsible account management can improve your standing with banks, potentially leading to an upgrade to a standard checking account.
- Safer and more convenient than cash or prepaid cards – Using a debit card and online banking makes it easier to track spending and avoid extra fees.
Cons
- May have monthly fees – Some second chance accounts charge unavoidable maintenance fees, though some can be waived with direct deposit.
- Limited features – Certain accounts restrict check-writing, overdrafts, or require financial education courses.
- Does not build credit – While a second chance account can improve your banking history, it won’t directly impact your credit score.
These accounts can be a great stepping stone to traditional banking, but it’s important to choose one with reasonable fees and features that fit your needs.
Final Thoughts
A rocky banking history doesn’t have to hold you back. Second chance checking accounts can help you rebuild your financial standing while giving you access to essential tools like direct deposit, debit cards, and online bill pay.
To get the most from your account, avoid overdrafts, keep a positive balance, and use direct deposit when you can. Many banks will let you upgrade to a standard account after a period of responsible use.
The right second chance account can make managing money easier and help you avoid the high costs of prepaid cards or check-cashing services—while putting you on a path to better financial options.
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