If you’ve recently been denied a bank account in Georgia, you’re not alone. Over 400,000 households in the state do not have a bank account. It’s a good bet that many of those without a bank account have had financial struggles with bounced checks or excessive bank fees they can’t pay. This lands them on ChexSystems, a company that keeps track of over 300 million account holders in the United States… and several million in Georgia.
Unable to get a checking account, they’re forced to carry cash, purchase cashier’s checks, and use expensive check-cashing services. Even though prepaid cards make life a little easier, the cost is much more expensive versus a checking account.
But all that can be avoided if you use a bank that doesn’t use ChexSystems. And some banks and credit unions offer so-called second chance bank accounts.
During the past four years, we’ve kept tabs on the banks and credit unions in Georgia who want your business, even if you’ve had a run-in with ChexSystems, experienced bad credit, or have been unable to pay escalating bank fees.
We’ve selected the best accounts in Georgia based on acceptance rates, checking account features and benefits, and the accounts with the lowest fees. The vast majority of the time, you can get a bank account with ALL the features and benefits you need and deserve with no fees, minimums, or restrictions. Best of all, you can open an account today!
List of the Best Second Chance Banks and Credit Unions in Georgia
The SoFi Money Cash Management Account is offered by SoFi Securities LLC, a FINRA registered broker dealer. It’s a checking account on steroids and we love that. Plus, they don’t use ChexSystems to approve accounts.You get a debit MasterCard and a very slick smartphone app. You can make deposits, write checks, utilize electronic bill pay, and transfer money. There are no monthly fees or overdraft fees. Plus, you earn interest on all the money in the account! The sign-up process can take less than 60 seconds.
There is no minimum balance requirement and the initial deposit is only $10. Plus, when you make that initial deposit SoFi Money will credit your account $25 as sign up bonus immediately deposited into your new account! Available in all 50 states.
- No account fees
- Unlimited reimbursed ATM fees
- Access to SoFi member benefits like career coaching and financial advising
- Automated bill pay
- Freeze debit card on-the-go
SoFi Money has been great! The account was easy to open and I got my debit card a few days later. The smartphone app is easy to use and I can check everything from my computer, too. The chip technology on the card gives me peace of mind. With no fees and all sorts of benefits, SoFi Money offers more than I imagined!
Gena M., SoFi Money Customer
Axos Bank, formerly called Bank of Internet USA, has been around for over 20 years and has created some of the best banking offerings we’ve reviewed. And our favorite is the Axos Bank Rewards Checking account. So what are the rewards? Check it out:- NO monthly minimum balance
- NO monthly maintenance fees
- NO overdraft or NSF fees
- UNLIMITED domestic ATM fee reimbursements
- Earn up to 1.25% APY
The Rewards Checking interest payment can be earned by jumping through a couple of hoops. If you have a direct deposit of $1,000 per month, you’ll earn one-third of the interest amount. If you use your Axos Visa Debit Card at least 10 times per month, you’ll earn another one-third of the interest amount. And, if you increase that number to 15 transactions per month, you’ll earn the final one-third of the interest amount. We like the fact that that the interest payment isn’t an all-or-nothing feature.
Axos has created a simple, but powerful smartphone app to manage your account. You can chat 24/7 with a financial assistant, get real-time account transactions and notifications, and freeze your account if your card is lost or stolen. Anything you need to do can be completed using their robust and user-friendly app.
Applying is easy. You’ll need your social security number, a valid form of ID such as a driver’s license, a valid U.S address, and you must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien. There is an initial deposit of $50 to set up the account.
Finally, as a member of FDIC, Axos offers the full protection offered by that institution.
Chime is a fast-growing internet-only financial company. Unlike big banks, Chime was created during the smartphone era and, therefore, features an app that is more than just a way for customers to review their bank accounts.And, best of all, Chime accepts all customers who apply. Even if you have bad or poor credit or have been blacklisted by ChexSystems or credit bureaus. This makes Chime a solid choice for a second chance bank account.
Features include mobile deposits, direct deposit, online bill payment, NO monthly or annual fees, NO overdrafts, NO credit check, and NO CheckSystems.
Here are a few of the highlights:
- FREE Visa® debit card
- NO monthly Service Charge
- NO monthly minimums
- NO credit check; Bad credit OK
- NO ChexSystems or Telecheck; guaranteed approval
- FREE online banking and mobile banking/deposits
- FREE mobile and online bill pay
- NO foreign transaction fees
- NO fees at over 60,000 ATMs at convenient locations like Walgreens, 7-Eleven, CVS and more
- SAVINGS: You can round up every purchase to the nearest dollar and automatically deposit that difference into your savings account.
Chime Lets You Get A Jump On Payday
You can receive your paycheck up to two days earlier than at a traditional bank if you set up direct deposit — Chime processes your employer’s check immediately instead of waiting like other banks may.
Chime is one of the most friendly for those who have been negatively impacted by bad credit, ChexSystems, or Telecheck.
Your Chime Visa Debit Card charges NO fees at over 60,000 ATMs found at these retailers and many more:
Get a Chime Account Today!
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by, and debit card issued by, The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC.
Ameris Bank uses ChexSystems, but as long as the report has since been settled, only one bank is reported, and there are no previous reports indicating fraud or account abuse, applicants should not have any issues opening a new account.We recommend Free Checking, which doesn’t charge a monthly fee nor has a minimum balance requirement. It offers free online, mobile, and text banking, as well as free bill pay. The only downside to this account is that it requires a steep $100 opening deposit.
You can find Ameris Bank branches located in Ocilla, Douglas, Dublin, Vidalia, and Lyons. Apply for an account online or in-person to start improving your financial standing!
Rather than referring to your ChexSystems record, Armed Forces Bank will refer to a credit report and Certegy check services to determine if you’re eligible for an account. If you only have issues with ChexSystems, there’s a good chance you will be approved.We like their Access Checking account because it provides all of the banking necessities while remaining affordable. The account comes with digital banking access, free eStatements, a free Visa debit card, and overdraft protection services. To waive the moderate $10 monthly service charge, you just need to enroll in direct deposit.
To get started, all you will need is $25 for an initial deposit. As the name may suggest, Armed Forces Bank offers accounts to anyone who is actively enrolled or retired from the U.S. Army. You can find their only Georgia branch conveniently located at Moody Air Force Base.
Becoming a member of a credit union is a good way to rebuild your banking relationship. The Lend-A-Hand Checking Account from Associated Credit Union helps get you back on track. All you need is an initial deposit of $25.If you want to add a person to this account, you are allowed a joint account holder. Direct deposit is required and there is a $9.95 monthly service charge. If you choose to receive an eStatement, your mailed statement fee is waived. The Lend-A-Hand account also includes:
- Free Visa debit card
- Credit monitoring and ID protection
- Online banking
- Mobile app and smart wallet features
- Online bill pay
- Account information through text message
You can join Associated Credit Union online. To be eligible, you must be a resident of Georgia, qualified by your employer or related to an existing family member. There are multiple locations throughout the Atlanta area.
If you’ve been turned down by other banks, we recommend Pathway Checking from Bank OZK. Many accounts limit your access to features, but this second chance checking option gives you all the benefits of a traditional checking account.There is a minimum opening balance of $50 and a $10 monthly service fee. However, there is no minimum balance requirement. Pathway Checking includes:
- Free debit card
- Free online and mobile banking
- Free telephone banking
- Free online bill pay
- eStatements
- Unlimited check writing
Bank OZK has branches in over 55 cities and towns across Georgia. Valdosta, Savannah, Macon, Atlanta, and Rome are just a few examples. Stop by a branch or visit their website to get started!
Rather than using ChexSystems, Cadence Bank will look at your credit report to determine if you’re eligible for a checking account. It’s important to note that they require a credit score of at least 675 at the time of account opening.Blue Checking is their most basic account that comes with a bunch of additional services for a low cost. There is a $50 minimum opening deposit as well as a low $8 monthly service fee that can be waived if you keep an average balance of $250 or more. We like this account because it comes with unique benefits like cell phone protection, buyer protection, and ID theft aid.
Cadence Bank has over 30 branches located in Georgia. You can find them in cities including Alpharetta, Savannah, Evans, Macon, Warner Robins, and many others.
City National Bank helps you manage your money wisely. Their Safe Check program is designed to keep you from spending more than is in your account. In return, you don’t have to face a negative checking balance due to high NSF and overdraft fees. A free Visa check card and online bill pay provide you with easy access to your money.The low monthly maintenance fee of $5 is waived if you have direct deposits totaling at least $250 for the month. All you need is an opening deposit of at least $25. Safe Check Account features include:
- Unlimited check card transactions
- Online banking
- Mobile banking with FASTdeposit
- Telephone banking
- Five free bill pay transactions every month
You can apply online or visit the full-service location in Atlanta.
Second Slice Checking at Community Bank & Trust is a solid choice for second chance checking. With only a $100 minimum deposit to open, you receive the opportunity to build a strong banking relationship for a secure financial future. If you maintain your account in good standing, Community Bank & Trust will upgrade your checking account to a conventional option.To open an account, all you need to do is visit one of the four locations in western Georgia. Your Second Slice Checking includes:
- Unlimited check writing
- Debit card with ATM access
- Direct deposit
- Mobile banking app
- E-statement or traditional image statements
Community Bank & Trust’s main branch is located in LaGrange. There are three satellite branches in Columbus, Hogansville, and West Point.
Corporate America Family Credit Union is a valuable option for those seeking a second chance. CAFCU goes beyond simply providing you with checking, they want to see you succeed financially. They offer free money-management and financial education tools to help you manage your checking account.To open a Fresh Start Checking account with CAFCU, you must first become a member of the credit union. CAFCU makes the process easy with an online membership process. Membership is restricted to those who are:
- Employed or retired from a CAFCU sponsor group
- Members of The Hope Group, which anyone can join
- Direct family of existing members
Once you are a member, you must keep a $100 balance in your savings account (“Regular Share Account”). The Fresh Start Checking account has no minimum balance and requires a $10 monthly service fee. Although CAFCU does not have any branches in Georgia, they provide access to CO-OP shared branches in Dublin and McRae for all your in-person banking needs.
Family First Credit Union meets the needs of those seeking a full service second-chance checking. E-Checking is designed for those with a beacon score below 579 or a negative Deluxe Detect report. All you need to do is pay your outstanding debt.There is a $12.00 monthly service fee, and direct deposit is required. You aren’t allowed to write checks with E-Checking, but you do receive a free ATM/Visa debit card. The switch kit from FFCU helps you easily set up direct deposit and other account features. E-Checking also includes:
- Online banking with NetBranch
- Online bill pay
- Overdraft protection from share account
- Mobile banking and check deposit
You can apply for FFCU membership and set up your accounts in person at the Hapeville or Roswell location.
Fifth Third Bank is truly one of the leaders in providing convenience and utility to their members. Anyone is able to open a checking account at Fifth Third Bank, providing they have no history of fraud or open balances with the bank. With a low barrier of entry, almost anyone will be able to enjoy the wide array of financial products available at this bank including multiple versions of both checking and savings accounts.If you’re looking for the simplest way to manage your funds, we recommend Express Banking. This is a checkless account that has no monthly service charge, no minimum balance requirements, and no overdraft fees. Also, keep in mind that Express Banking does not allow for deposits at ATMs. If you’re looking for an account with more features, check out their Momentum Checking account.
Fifth Third has 33 branches across Georgia. You will find branches in Atlanta, Marietta, Roswell, and other convenient locations.
If you have a negative history with ChexSystems but your credit report has remained somewhat intact, a Share Draft Checking account at Fort McPherson CU could be a great option for you. When you apply for the account, they won’t look at your credit score but rather the overall health of your credit report to determine if you are eligible.With Share Draft Checking, you can enjoy a MasterCard debit card, overdraft protection services, and account access through home banking. You can also avoid the $10 monthly service fee if you keep your balance above $250.
There are some requirements in order to become a member at Fort McPherson CU. Visit their website or contact their main office in Atlanta to find out if this credit union is right for you.
Fort Sill National Bank is an excellent choice for those looking for second chance checking. Their Basic Checking account does not require a credit check. We like that you aren’t required to enroll in direct deposit or pay high service fees. If your account balance is over $75, your monthly service fee of $6 is waived. If your account balance is over $500, you begin to earn interest.All you need is $5 to open an account at one of their branches in Conyers, Covington, Lovejoy, Lithia Springs, or Snellville. The Basic Checking account comes with:
- A free Visa CheckCard
- Unlimited check writing
- Surcharge-free ATM withdrawals at FSNB locations
- Access to the Savings Round Up program
- Online, mobile, and text checking options
Although Georgia United Credit Union uses ChexSystems during the verification process, you may still be able to open an account and improve your financial standing. If you have an outstanding balance with another financial institution of $100 or less, there’s a good chance you will be approved.Their Simple Checking account is the simplest option and the easiest to qualify for. This straightforward account comes with a Visa debit card, access to online and mobile banking, and can easily be applied for online! We like that there are no monthly service fees or a required opening deposit.
Georgia United CU offers well over a dozen branches in the state. You can find them in cities including Atlanta, Conyers, Athens, Mcdonough, and many others. Once you become a member, you also have access to additional shared co-op branches in Georgia and across the US.
If you are looking to get back to a place of financial peace, Resolution Checking from Georgia’s Own Credit Union is a step in the right direction. If you aren’t eligible for other checking accounts, the representatives at Georgia’s Own can help you open an account. You’ll receive:- A free debit card
- Free online access
- Free mobile banking and check deposits
- Free bill pay
- Free balance text alerts
Georgia’s Own has branches in Savannah, Augusta, and the Atlanta area. There are also more than 30 additional shared co-op locations in Georgia. Contact one of their representatives to get started with a Resolution Checking account!
GO2bank is an offering of pre-paid card giant GoBank and we think it’s a step in the right direction. Like some of the newer “challenger banks” GO2bank will deposit your direct deposit check up to 2 days early and has cashback rewards on several categories of purchases. This account also makes you eligible for the GO2bank credit card, which has no annual fee or required credit check.One significant drawback to many online-only bank accounts is that they have no way to accept cash deposits. But GO2bank accepts cash deposits at over 90,000 Green Dot locations nationwide. However, participating retailers may charge you a fee.
If you direct deposit over $500, your monthly maintenance fee of $5.00 is waived. And, they offer a pretty sweet overdraft protection program, but it has a gotcha charge of $15 if you don’t replace the funds within 24 hours.
Account-holders will appreciate the ability to budget their money with the help of a mobile app, budgeting tools, and a savings vault. In fact, they pay 1% on all money in the saving vault up to $5,000.
Go Further from GTE Financial helps put you on the path to a better checking account. If you don’t qualify for a traditional account, GTE’s Go Further account will help you get there in as little as 12 months. We consider this a low-cost second chance checking. As long as you make a total deposit of $500 for the month, opt to receive eStatements and make 15 monthly transactions, the $9.95 maintenance fee is waived.GTE Financial is one of the largest credit unions in the US. Membership is open to anyone through easy requirements and an online application process. The Go Further account includes:
- Free EMV-equipped debit card with built-in rewards
- Online and mobile banking tools
- Free bill pay service
- Easy money transfers through the Popmoney service
Although there are no physical branches in Georgia, all of your banking can be easily done online, by phone, or through the mobile app. You’ll find 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs across the US.
Health Center Credit Union understands that managing money can be difficult. Their Fresh Start Checking account requires no minimum balance and offers free e-Statements. All you need is $10 to open an account and $10 each month to maintain the account.Membership in HCCU is open to all persons associated with Augusta University and the University Health Systems, medical and dental offices in greater Augusta, and the Richmond, Columbia, and Lincoln County school systems. You can also be eligible through a relationship with a current member.
Fresh Start Checking includes a Check Card and access to member discounts, financial tools, and money management education. Visit one of their seven branches located in Augusta and Evans to apply for an account!
We like Heritage Bank because they do not use ChexSystems, Telecheck, EWS, or a credit report when you apply for an account. Instead, all that is required is a valid form of government-issued ID.Out of their several checking options, Quest Checking is a simple, no-fuss account. You’ll gain access to easy account management tools and receive free eStatements. If you’d rather have an account with more perks and a low monthly fee, Select Checking can be an alternative option.
To get started at Heritage Bank, visit one of their many branches spread across eastern Georgia. Blackshear, Brunswick, Homerville, and Jesup are just a few examples of where you can go to open an account.
If you’ve had trouble opening a checking account, Interstate Credit Union can help you build a new banking relationship with Renew Checking. You’ll receive all the traditional checking perks, including:- A Visa debit card
- Internet banking access and bill pay
- Online statements and notices
- Easy mobile banking
- Telephone banking access
- Optional direct deposit
Because ICU wants you to succeed, they provide you with complimentary financial counseling, budgeting services, and money-management tools through the Balance Financial Fitness Program. If you sign up with direct deposit, your monthly fee of $10 is reduced to $7.
With 5 branches in Georgia, ICU serves those who live, work, worship or attend school in Appling, Bacon, Glynn, Jeff Davis, Liberty, Long, McIntosh, Pierce, Tattnall, and Wayne Counties.
LendingClub Banking, formerly Radius Bank, has a second chance checking account called Essential Checking. It’s an FDIC-insured checking account designed to help you manage your money with powerful technology and limited fees. Available to residents in all 50 states.- Free MasterCard® debit card
- Free mobile banking with check deposit
- Free online banking with bill pay
- $10 minimum deposit to open account
- Monthly service charge of $9.00
- No minimum balance
- Ability to upgrade account after 12 months of responsible banking
Market USA Federal Credit Union offers a second chance to those that have experienced checking difficulties in the past. Their Fresh Start Checking is an excellent option for anyone who wants to rebuild a positive checking history while enjoying some of the benefits of a traditional checking account.It’s important to note that direct deposit is required with this account. There are no minimum balance requirements, no monthly service fees, and a free Visa check card that is included. We like this account because it allows you to upgrade to a traditional checking account after only six months of good standing! With Fresh Start Checking, you can improve your financial standing quicker than other second chance accounts out there.
All Georgia residents are eligible to become a member at Market USA FCU. Once you’re approved, all that is required is a $5 deposit into a savings account to establish membership. They primarily focus on remote banking services and do not currently have any branches in the state. The closest branch can be found in Greenville, South Carolina.
Another Chance Checking through Members United Credit Union helps you repair your poor checking history. We like the low monthly fee of only $5. Free telephone banking, online banking and bill pay helps you stay in control of your money. You can also access your accounts through a convenient mobile banking app.All you need to join MUCU is a $5 membership fee. There are several ways to qualify for membership, including residency, relationships and employment. You must apply in person at one of the branch locations in Albany, Columbus or Leesburg.
MyGeorgia Credit Union offers extra assistance to those who are looking to rebuild their financial reputation with Secured Checking. We like this account because it allows you to upgrade to a traditional checking account after only six months of proper management.It’s important to note that in addition to a $10 monthly service charge, Secured Checking requires that you deposit $100 in your savings account that is placed on hold during your 6-month probationary period. Also, overdraft protection is not available on this account, but can be available once you upgrade.
MyGeorgia CU extends membership to anyone with ties to one of eight Georgia counties. Family members of current members are also eligible to join. Visit their website or one of their branches located in Gainesville, Flowery Branch, Clarkesville, Homer, Clayton, or Cleveland to get started!
No matter your banking past, Navy Federal Credit Union offers traditional checking for all members in Georgia and across the US. With no review requirements of your banking history, NFCU is an excellent choice for active duty or retired US military, family members and government contractors. There are two banking choices to choose from: Active Duty Checking and Free eChecking.Both account options come with a free NFCU debit card. There is no monthly service fee with direct deposit. Your account is protected from overdrafts with free savings transfers, a checking line of credit or an optional overdraft protection service. You also receive:
- Free mobile deposits
- Free bill pay
- Free traditional name-only checks
- Dividends credited monthly
You can apply online or in person at one of Navy Federal’s branch locations in Georgia.
At North Georgia Credit Union, they utilize an Equifax credit report in lieu of ChexSystems when members apply for a checking account. The account doesn’t have a minimum balance requirement or monthly service fee. You’ll also gain access to free bill pay, free eStatements, and possibly even overdraft protection upon approval.Membership at North Georgia CU is extended to anyone who lives or works in Stephens, Franklin, Hart, and Rabun Counties. They also accept employees from a huge list of eligible employers. To become a member, you will need to deposit $25 into a savings account and maintain that balance at all times. They also charge a one-time fee of $5.
If you have any questions or would like to apply for membership in person, visit one of their branches in Toccoa, Hartwell, or Lavonia.
OneSouth Bank provides you with the chance to move forward. Their Opportunity Checking is designed for those who have been denied traditional checking privileges. With a $100 minimum deposit, you will be on your way to a positive banking relationship.You’ll find managing your money is easy with online and mobile banking. OneSouth offers account balancing assistance to all account holders. With a moderate $15 monthly service fee, you’ll receive a OneSouth Bank ATM/debit card, which can be used to make ATM withdrawals and purchases anywhere Visa or MasterCard is accepted.
OneSouth Bank has locations in Blakely, Lawson, and Macon.
If you are looking for a great banking relationship, Peach State Federal Credit Union is one of our top picks. Fresh Start Checking gives you the opportunity to rebuild your ChexSystems record and move forward. After 12 months with PSFCU, you request an upgrade to a Basic, or even Premium, checking account.It costs $10 in one-time fees to join PSFCU. You’ll also be required to pay a $9 monthly account fee. In return, you receive a debit card, full digital services, and access to financial planning and money management tools.
You must apply in person at one of the 19 branch locations in Georgia. Membership is open to specific employee groups, boards of education, and various associations. You are also eligible if you live, work, worship, or attend school in Chattooga, Clarke, Habersham or Richmond counties.
Peoples Cash Solutions doesn’t hold your negative ChexSystems or TeleCheck past against you. If you haven’t been involved in fraudulent activity, all you need is a fresh start. You can find it with a Peoples Cash Solution’s Second Chance Checking Account.Second Chance Checking offers easy direct deposit to save you time and money by eliminating the check cashing process. Your access to your money is simple through a Peoples Cash Solutions debit Mastercard. Other convenient features include:
- Online banking
- Online money transfers
- Online bill pay
- A personal checkbook
- ATM access
You can easily apply online with a $30 minimum deposit. There is a monthly maintenance fee of $4.95 for Second Chance Checking through Peoples Cash Solutions.
Even if you have a negative ChexSystem history, Renasant Bank offers you conventional checking options. As long as you don’t have an account in bad standing with Renasant, you can choose from several checking accounts. We recommend Renasant Checking if you’re looking for a straightforward account with no strings attached.One of the convenient features of Renasant Checking is the ability to use Renasant’s Mobile Wallet with Zelle, Apple Pay, and Google Pay options. If you opt to receive eStatements instead of traditional paper statements, your monthly fee of $10 is waived. Renasant Bank checking accounts come with:
- Online banking with online bill pay
- Mobile banking app access
- Renasant Debit Mastercard
- Unlimited check writing
Renasant Bank branch locations can be found throughout the state of Georgia in cities like Reidsville, Macon, Atlanta, and many others.
Rochelle State Bank does not use ChexSystems, Telecheck, EWS, or a credit report to screen new checking account applicants. All they require is a government-issued ID. Among their several different checking options, we recommend the Regular Checking account.Regular Checking requires a steep $100 opening deposit, but has a low monthly service fee of $5. You can waive the fee altogether if you maintain a daily balance of $500 or more each month. It’s also important to note that if your balance is less than $500, a per debit fee of $.10 will be charged to your account after the first ten debit transactions each month.
As the name would suggest, Rochelle Bank only has one location in Rochelle. Although their internet presence is somewhat limited, the fact that they only require proper ID is awesome.
Synovus will approve your checking account application by looking at your credit report instead of ChexSystems. Their friendly account specialists can help guide your checking account choice, but we recommend their Free Checking account as a good starting point to rebuilding your checking history.With Synovus, you receive full access to your accounts through newly designed online experiences and an easy-to-use mobile app. All Synovus personal checking accounts come with:
- Free unlimited ATM transactions at Synovus and Publix Presto! ATMs
- Free Visa debit card with no annual fee
- Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay compatibility
- Overdraft protection options
You can apply online or in person. Synovus has branch locations in Byron, Warner Robins, and Perry.
The Wright Credit Union offers 2nd Chance Checking to members who truly need a fresh start. Managing your money is easy through online banking and a 24-hour telephone system. You have the ability to check your balances, transfer funds and more with secure access to your account. 2nd Chance Checking also comes with a free Visa debit card.Membership in The Wright CU is open to anyone who lives or works in Stephens County. You are also eligible if you are an employee or former employee of select work groups. Membership includes a full line of free or discounted financial products and dependable service.
Visit their website or main office in Toccoa if The Wright CU sounds like the right option for you!
For those that have been denied a checking account due to their record with ChexSystems, UNIFY Financial Credit Union has a solution. The Right Start Checking account requires a $25 initial deposit and is perfect for anyone trying to reestablish themselves financially with an all-purpose checking account.This second chance checking account offers many of the benefits of a traditional checking account with unlimited check writing, overdraft protection, and online access to your account from anywhere. This bank won’t turn you down due to minor marks on ChexSystems and is the perfect solution for anyone in need of a fresh start.
Unfortunately, UNIFY FCU only has one branch in Georgia located in Augusta. However, they are in-network with several co-op shared branches where you’re able to make payments, transfers, check deposits, etc. These branches can be found in McRae, Dublin, and Swainsboro.
If you don’t need a physical bank branch, we recommend Varo Bank. This online bank keeps the banking process simple. You have no minimum balance, and there is no minimum opening deposit requirement. As an online bank, Varo keeps your costs low. You won’t pay monthly maintenance fees, transfer fees or other traditional banking fees.With 55,000 Allpoint ATMs, your money is always easily accessible. The easy-to-navigate mobile app keeps you up-to-date on all transactions and balances. As an added bonus, you have access to budgeting tools, automatic savings programs, and early direct deposit.
Varo understands that banking mistakes happen. They do not use ChexSystems or credit reports to determine your eligibility.
Washington Savings Bank gets you back into checking with Online Rewards Checking. There are no minimum balance requirements for this full service checking account. With Online Rewards, you aren’t limited to only a debit card. You have full check writing privileges.You’ll want to use your free debit card on a regular basis to earn up to $20 back in rewards every month. After a year of good management, the $14.95 monthly service fee disappears.
Free digital banking services keep you in touch with your account balance at all times. You can apply for Online Rewards Checking online with a $10 minimum opening deposit. You must have a banking background free of criminal activity and a limited charge-off history of $2,000 or less. Direct deposit is required.
Wells Fargo recently changed the Opportunity Checking account to Clear Access Banking. And we like one change, in particular. Wells Fargo has done away with overdraft and non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees. Clear Access Banking is a debit card-only account (no paper checks available) and if you attempt to purchase something without sufficient funds, the transaction will be denied. That’s a lot better than having the transaction approved and then discovering you’ve been hit with a $35 overdraft fee.There is a $5 monthly fee, but that is be waived for account holders 24 years old and younger. This account is available to residents in all 50 states.
- The largest number of branches in the U.S.
- Minimum deposit of $25 to open an account
- Online bill pay and smartphone app
- Mobile check deposit
- Includes a Visa debit card
- Send and receive money through Zelle
- Additional features include account alerts, 24/7 fraud monitoring, and zero liability protection for your debit card
Woodforest National Bank’s Second Chance Checking is designed for those with previous banking account challenges. With a minimum initial deposit of only $25 and a $9 one-time account fee, you can begin to build a positive banking relationship.You can lower your Second Chance monthly maintenance fee from $11.95 to $9.95 by setting up monthly direct deposit. Woodforest offers:
- Online banking
- A mobile banking app
- Woodforest Debit Card
- Overdraft solutions
- Free platinum debit card
All services are easily managed online or in-person at branches in Walmart Supercenters across the US. Woodforest National Bank has locations spread across northwestern Georgia in and around Atlanta.
Did we leave your financial institution off this list of The Best Second Chance Banks and Credit Unions in Georgia? Has there been a change in any of the listings? Please let us know.