There are a lot of reasons why people don’t have bank accounts. One is a general distrust of big banks and the financial service industry. Another reason is that some people experience financial hardships and end up getting blacklisted by a company called ChexSystems.
Believe it or not, that blacklisting can last for up to 7 years!
For many New Jerseyans, it’s a significant challenge. The FDIC conducted a survey that found that 4%, or nearly 128,000 households, in New Jersey are “unbanked”, meaning no one in the household has a checking or savings account. Without bank accounts, it becomes much harder to pay bills online, track your spending, and receive direct deposit paychecks from your employer.
The good news is that while most banks and credit unions use ChexSystems or check your credit when you apply for an account, there are a growing number of banks and credit unions that do not. These banks want your business! Our job at CheckingExpert.com is to find those institutions in New Jersey that can assist you.
List of Second Chance Banks and Credit Unions in New Jersey for October 2022
Open an account today!
Chime® is a fast-growing internet-only financial company and our top choice for a second chance bank account.
And, best of all, Chime accepts almost all customers who apply. Even if you have bad or poor credit or have been blacklisted by ChexSystems or the credit bureaus.
Features include mobile deposits, direct deposit, online bill payment, NO monthly or annual fees, NO overdrafts fees1, NO credit check, and NO CheckSystems. Opening an account is super easy. It takes about 2 minutes and you don’t have to make an initial deposit. Here’s what we like:
No Monthly Fees
For the past couple of years, Chime’s huge growth has come at the expense of the big banks and their outrageous fees. And it’s one of the best features of a Chime account. There are no monthly or annual service charges, no minimum balance requirement, no foreign transaction fees, no fees at over 60,000 ATMs2, and no fees for mobile and online bill pay.
Deposit Cash for FREE at Over 8,500 Walgreens
Having access to a physical location for cash deposits is important to Chime members. And now it’s easy. All you have to do is go into a Walgreens store, hand the cashier the cash you want to deposit along with your Chime card, and the deposit will show up in your account immediately. This offers Chime members more walk-in locations than any other bank in the U.S. With over 78% of the country within 5 miles of a Walgreens, this is a significant benefit for millions.3
Smart Technology
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.
You can transfer funds to friends and family, Chime members or not… and they can claim their money instantly4 without any additional apps. The Chime app also has a series of notifications that you can turn on or turn off so you stay in complete control. Misplaced or lost your card? You can instantaneously turn off your card using the app. No wonder over 300,000 customers have given the app a 5-star review.
Customers First 
Chime was one of the first to offer a “round up” option. If you use your Chime card on a purchase of $10.65, Chime gives you the option of automatically rounding up to $11.00 and putting the remaining $.35 in your free Chime savings account. And that adds up over time! Plus, Chime pays 1.50% Annual Percentage Yield (APY)5 in interest on that savings account.
If you use direct deposit with your Chime account, you can get your paycheck up to 2 days early6. And Chime is just saying no to big bank NSF charges with a fee-free overdraft program up to $200. Finally, Chime just recently launched their Credit Builder credit card with no interest and no annual fee. We don’t think there is another company innovating for their customers like Chime.
Get a Chime Account Today!Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card issued by The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. See additional disclaimers below.
Current is another web-only national bank that has some really great features… and has become one of the fastest-growing checking accounts for consumers who want it all without all the costs and hassles.
Why are we featuring Current on our website? It’s simple: they don’t use ChexSystems or your credit report to open a new account. Sign-up takes about 2 minutes and Current has extremely high acceptance rates. But what’s really cool are the incredible features offered with this account:
- NO minimum balance
- NO deposit required to open an account
- NO overdraft fees when you overdraw by up to $100 with Overdrive™
- NO fees at over 40,000 ATMS in the U.S.
- Get your paycheck up to 2 days early with direct deposit
- Earn 4.0% interest on your balance up to $6,000
- Earn points for unlimited cashback at participating retailers
- Send money instantly for free
- An elegant but simple smartphone app
- 24/7 member support
Current offers a really unique service it calls Gas Hold Removals. What’s a gas hold? Some gas stations may apply a hold from $50 to $100 when you use a debit card to pump gas. If you only pumped $10 of gas, but the gas station places a $100 hold on your funds, you won’t have access to the $90 difference for up to 3 business days! The Current debit card will immediately refund the hold so you have access to all your funds. We haven’t found that benefit anywhere in the marketplace.
Here’s what’s really important, though. Deposits are FDIC-insured up to the highest possible amount allowed: $250,000. We love the features, we love the smartphone app, and we love Current. That makes us think you’ll love them too.
Get a Current Account Now!Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group and Metropolitan Commercial Bank, Members FDIC.
For many people, having access to a local bank branch is paramount when setting up a checking account. With over 16,000 ATMs and 4,700 branches across the country, the Chase Secure Banking account might be the perfect fit.
Here are some of our favorite features with this account:
- NO credit check
- NO ChexSystems
- NO minimum deposit to open
- NO overdraft fees
- FREE access to over 16,000 Chase ATMs
- FREE Chase Online Bill Pay
- FREE money orders and cashier’s checks
Highly Rated Mobile App
Available for iOS and Android, the Chase Mobile app offers 24/7 access to your account. The app is highly rated, earning 4.8 stars out of 5 on the App Store and 4.4 stars out of 5 on Google Play.
You can transfer funds, deposit checks, send money with Zelle, set up account alerts and notifications, and lock your card if it’s been lost or stolen.
The app also has incredibly helpful budgeting tools, personalized insights, and the ability to check your credit score for free.
How The Account Works
Opening the Chase Secure Banking account is easy. They verify your name, address, and social security through Experian, but don’t pull a credit report or credit score. Chase doesn’t use ChexSystems for this account, either. Account approval is immediate, there’s no opening deposit requirement, and you’ll receive your Chase Secure card within a matter of days.
Chase doesn’t offer overdraft services with this account as you can only spend the money you have available and the account does not include paper checks. You should also know that using non-Chase ATMs can cost from $3.00 to $5.00 per transaction.
Chase Secure Banking carries a $4.95 monthly service fee that cannot be waived. But combined with all the free services and the $100 cash bonus when you use the card for 10 purchases within 60 days, the monthly fee doesn’t pose a problem for most customers. And, you’ll have peace of mind with Chase’s Zero Liability Protection if you detect and report unauthorized transactions.
Banking With A Leader
Chase claims to be involved with 40% of Americans in some way or another. There can be comfort in size, reach, and stability. Chase has all of that and the assurance they will be there for a long, long time.
If you’ve wanted to bank with Chase and wondered if you’d qualify, we think you’re going to be really happy with the Chase Secure Banking account.
Get a Chase Secure Banking account today!
Acorns doesn’t use ChexSystems or a credit report to approve accounts and offers some strong benefits.
We love the heavy metal tungsten Visa debit card and the world-class smartphone app that allows you to manage every aspect of your new checking account such as budgeting, spending, and security.
Another nice option is the ability to round up on every purchase and Acorns will take that money and automatically put it in a savings account. This really helps build a nest egg.
It takes about 2-3 minutes to sign up and you get both a checking and savings account. Here’s more:
- FREE Visa® debit card
- FREE bank-to-bank transfers
- FREE physical check sending online or through the mobile app
- FREE mobile check deposits
- FREE or reimbursed ATM withdrawals nationwide
- NO minimum balance or overdraft fees
- NO credit check; ChexSystems OK
- FDIC insured
There is a $3 monthly fee that is easily covered by the ATM fee reimbursement and other goodies included with the account.
If you’ve struggled with poor credit or ChexSystems, Acorns might be the perfect account.
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We highly recommend Affinity Federal Credit Union if you’ve had trouble getting a checking account in the past. They don’t use ChexSystems or a credit score when you apply for an account. All that you’ll need to provide are two forms of ID, one being government-issued.Once you’re approved as a member, you’ll be able to get an Affinity Cash Back Debit account. There is no minimum opening deposit, no minimum balance requirements, and no monthly fees if you opt for eStatements! Plus, you’ll receive 1% cashback on all the transactions you make with your debit card. We don’t see account features like these every day.
Becoming a member at Affinity FCU is accessible to everyone in the state. If you don’t live within their eligible communities, all you have to do is donate $5 to one of their financial literacy organizations. You can find their New Jersey branches in cities including Middletown, New Brunswick, Edison, Hillsborough, and many others.
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 New Jersey branch located at McGuire Air Force Base.
Aspiration is a socially and environmentally conscious company that can help you make more sustainable choices — while making the most of your money. Their Spend & Save account combines both checking and savings and opening an account takes just a couple of minutes.
Here’s a few of the account features:
- NO minimum balance
- NO fees for paper checks
- NO overdraft or NSF fees
- NO credit check or ChexSystems
- NO fees at over 55,000 ATMs in the U.S.
- Get your paycheck up to 2 days early with direct deposit
Free or Monthly Fee – You Choose
With an Aspiration account, you decide how much your monthly fee will be — starting at $0. Through its “Pay What Is Fair” model, the company trusts customers to choose a monthly fee that’s fair for your wallet and fairly reflects the service you get from Aspiration. You can change your fee at any time.
For $7.99 per month, you can also choose to become an Aspiration Plus member and earn extra perks: 5% APY interest on savings, 10% cashback on certain purchases, and a debit card made of recycled ocean plastic. That’s a load of benefits!
This is the only banking product we’ve reviewed that offers the opportunity for members to spend and save with an environmentally friendly purpose.
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If you’ve struggled to get a checking account in the past due to a negative ChexSystems record, Atlantic Federal Credit Union may be able to help out. They offer their Take 2 Checking account to help people rebuild their credit and upgrade to a regular checking account quicker than other second chance accounts.Take 2 Checking comes with a free Visa debit card, access to online banking with bill pay, and free eStatements. Each month you will need to pay a moderate $12 monthly service fee. We like this account because it allows you to upgrade to another checking account after only 6 months of good standing!
Atlantic FCU extends membership to anyone who lives, works, or attends school in Union or Essex Counties. You can also join if you have an immediate family member who is already a member. Visit their website or one of their branches located in Kenilworth and West Orange to get started!
Century Savings Bank does not use ChexSystems, Telecheck, or EWS when you apply for a checking account. Instead, they ask that you provide two forms of ID. It’s important to note that at least one form of ID must be government-issued. As long as everything checks out on their end, you should have no problem opening an account.If you prefer a simple, free way of managing your money, look no further than the Consumer Checking Plus account. All you need to open the account is an initial $25 deposit. From that point, you won’t need to worry about any monthly service fees or balance requirements. The account also includes unlimited check writing privileges, a free MasterCard debit card, and access to online banking.
Century Savings Bank is New Jersey-based and has branches in cities including Elmer, Mullica Hill, Vineland, Bridgeton, and Gibbstown.
If you have a history with ChexSystems and are unable to obtain a traditional checking account, Credit Union of New Jersey has you covered with their Right Turn Checking account. As long as you do not owe them any money or have any delinquencies with them, you should be good to go!To open the account, there is a $100 initial deposit required as well as a $10 monthly service fee. There is no minimum balance requirement on the Right Turn Checking account, but there is a $5 minimum balance on a savings account to keep your account active. Once you have the account open, you will be able to enjoy a free MasterCard debit card, free eStatements, and access to over 5,000 shared branches nationwide.
After 12 months of good standing, you will be able to upgrade to a traditional checking account at Credit Union of New Jersey. Visit their website or one of their branches in Willingboro, Ewing, Trenton, and Princeton to get started!
If your main issue is with ChexSystems, First Atlantic Federal Credit Union may be a good option for you. They will not look at your ChexSystems record when you apply for a new checking account.We like their One Checking account because it provides you with an easy, hassle-free way to manage your money. With this account you won’t have to worry about monthly service fees or minimum balance requirements. You also get access to online banking, a free debit card, and unlimited check writing.
First Atlantic FCU offers membership to anyone who lives, works, or worships in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. You can also join if you have a relative who is already a member. Visit their website or one of their branches located in Eatontown, Neptune, Oceanport, and Toms River to get started!
To get an account at Garden State Federal Credit Union, you are only required to provide two forms of government ID. It’s important to note that one form of ID must be government-issued. As long as there are no red flags that pop up on their end, you should have no problem getting an account.We recommend their Primary Checking account because it provides you with an easy way to manage your money. The account is also extremely affordable. There are no minimum balance requirements, no monthly service charges, and no per-check charges. You also get access to an ATM/Visa Check card and access to co-op shared branches across the state.
Garden State FCU offers membership to anyone who has a connection to one of nine eligible communities in New Jersey. You can also join if you are an employee of one of their select employee groups or have a family member who has already joined. Visit their website or their main office in Moorestown to see if you’re eligible!
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, the 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
IRCO Community Federal Credit Union is another great example of an option that does not use ChexSystems, Telecheck, or EWS when you apply for a checking account. Instead, they only require two forms of ID, one of which must be government-issued.They offer one general Share Draft Checking account that comes with all of the necessities. With this account you can enjoy a free Visa debit card, free overdraft protection, and access to over 55,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide! If your balance falls below $250, you will only need to pay a moderate $10 monthly service fee.
To become a member at IRCO Community FCU, they require that you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in one of seven eligible areas in and around New Jersey. Visit their website or their branch in Phillipsburg to see if you qualify!
Jersey Shore Federal Credit Union understands that everyone deserves a second chance. They offer their Fresh Start Checking account to those that don’t qualify for a traditional checking account. We like this account because it comes with unlimited check writing, access to online banking, and overdraft protection services.To open a Fresh Start Checking account, an initial deposit of at least $25 is required. There is also a moderate $15 monthly service fee that is deducted from your account at the end of each month. Depending on the severity of your ChexSystems record, you may be required to enroll in direct deposit or payroll deduction. You’re also required to complete a checking account management program within 30 days of the account being opened.
This account can be applied for online or at any branch location. You can find Jersey Shore FCU branches located in Northfield, Mays Landing, Atlantic City, Galloway, Hammonton, and Rio Grande. Stop by a branch nearest you to get started!
Lili was custom made for freelancers and independent contractors who are operating as sole proprietors and single member LLCs and we really like their offering. Lili aims to approve most accounts within 2-3 days, but some accounts are approved in 2-3 hours.Lili offers a checking account and Visa debit card with no initial deposit or minimum balance requirement, no hidden fees, no credit check, and no ChexSystems. Lili makes getting your account easy! Here’s more of what we like:
- FREE business VISA debit card
- FREE (and very user-friendly) mobile app
- NO minimum balance
- NO NSF charges or fees
- NO credit check or ChexSystems
- Receive direct deposit funds 2 days earlier than many banks
- Mobile check deposit
- Unlimited fee-free transactions
- Takes 3 minutes to apply
Application Process
You can set up an account online. If you’re a freelancer, you should receive approval and account access almost instantly. If you’re a sole proprietor or single-member LLC, approval can take a couple of days. You can fund your account using a mobile check deposit, direct deposit, ACH transfer, or by linking your Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App account.
No matter your banking past, Navy Federal Credit Union offers traditional checking for all members in Alabama 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
Rather than referring to ChexSystems, Newfield National Bank uses EWS (Early Warning Signs) to determine your eligibility for an account. If you’ve only been reported to ChexSystems, this may be a viable option for you.Their New Jersey Consumer Checking account is the simplest option and also the most affordable. To avoid a $3 monthly service charge, you will just need to keep a balance of $1 or more in your account. You can also get a debit card, free eStatements, and unlimited check writing capabilities! All it takes to get started is a $50 opening deposit.
Newfield National Bank is New Jersey-based and has several branches located in Newfield, Malaga, Franklinville, Sewell, Williamstown, Pitman, Vineland, and Bridgeton. Stop by a branch nearest you to start improving your banking history.
NorthOne is a fast-growing company built specifically around business banking solutions for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. In addition to dramatically streamlining the application process, NorthOne doesn’t check your credit and doesn’t use ChexSystems. Here’s a recap:
- FREE business Mastercard debit card
- FREE access at over 1,000,000 ATMs nationwide
- FREE online and mobile app
- FREE live chat (not a chatbot), telephone, or email support
- FREE in-app invoice creator
- NO minimum monthly balance requirement
- NO NSF fees
- NO ACH transfer fees
- NO credit check or ChexSystems
Banking Services
NorthOne doesn’t require a minimum account balance and charges a $10 monthly fee that includes unlimited transactions in your account. These include ACH payments, bill pay, debit card usage, mobile deposits, and transfers. The only other fee is $15 for wire transfers.
You can also grant read-only access to employees or your accountant or bookkeeper. This keeps your account safe while also giving access to those who need it.
Integrations
With NorthOne business banking, you can connect your account to an almost unlimited number of third-party apps. NorthOne integrates with business tools including Paypal, Stripe, Square, Etsy, Shopify, Airbnb, Amazon, Venmo, Toast, Uber, Lyft, Quickbooks, FreshBooks, Wave, Expensify, and many more. Through these integrations, you can sync transaction details, collect payments, see and pay invoices, send payroll, pay contractors, and more.
If creating and sending invoices, quotes, and estimates is critical to your business, NorthOne offers a free stand-alone invoice creator that integrates seamlessly with the banking app. We’ve tried it and think it’s an elegant solution.
Application Process
NorthOne targets account approvals within one to two business days. Information required to open an account includes name, address, and social security number or tax identification number. If applicable, NorthOne may ask for a copy of your business license and business formation documents. After you’re approved, you’ll need to make a $50 minimum opening deposit.
One of the most important steps to taking your business to the next level is the need to set up a business bank account. And if you get the right business account, it can give your growing business all the tools much larger businesses enjoy… without all the big business costs.
Novo understands small business owners and makes it easy to open and manage an account. As an online-only bank, you’ll find Novo strikes the right balance between technology, human touch, and real-world benefits. Here are some of our favorite features for Novo Business Checking:
- NO monthly fees
- NO minimum balance requirement
- NO ATM fees
- NO credit check or ChexSystems
- FREE Mastercard debit card
- FREE mobile app
- FREE transfers, mailed checks, and incoming wires
- FREE invoicing to create, send, and track invoices
- FREE mobile check deposit
Application Process
It takes about 10 minutes to sign up for a Novo account. You’ll need personal and business information, which may include a social security number, business tax ID, and business formation documents. They do not check your credit or use ChexSystems.
Novo is growing quickly. Their offering is popular with small business owners. The account approval process is currently taking 1-2 business days and once you’re approved, you can get full access to your account with a simple $50 deposit.
We like Novo. We think you’ll like it, too.
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OceanFirst Bank does not use ChexSystems, Telecheck, EWS, or a credit report when screening new applicants. Instead, all they require are two forms of ID. One of those forms of ID is required to be government-issued. This option is excellent for anyone with a negative checking history.They offer one general checking account option called FreeStyle Checking. To get started, they require an opening deposit of at least $50. From there, you won’t have to worry about any monthly service fees or minimum balance requirements. You’ll also get a free Visa debit card and access to online banking.
OceanFirst Bank has dozens of locations predominantly along the coast of New Jersey. You can find branches in cities including Bayville, Holmdel, Flemington, Linwood, Sewell, and many others.
Pennsville National Bank will not refer to ChexSystems when you apply for a checking account. Instead, they require that you provide two forms of valid ID. They offer over ten different checking account options so there’s a good chance you will find one that works for your lifestyle!If you prefer an account that is easy to maintain, look no further than the Freedom Account. The account comes with all of the necessities like access to online banking and a debit card for day-to-day spending. If you keep a balance of $300 or more, they will waive the monthly service fee. If you use direct deposit and want to avoid monthly charges, we recommend checking out their e-Checking account.
To get started, visit their website or one of their branches located in Pennsville, Carneys Point, Woodstown, Pedricktown, and Elmer!
The SoFi Checking & Savings account is offered by SoFi Bank. It’s a checking and savings 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. With over 2.5 million members, SoFi is a bank you can count on!
The $325 bonus comes in two parts. When you deposit at least $10, SoFi will credit your account $25. When you set up direct deposit from an employer, SoFi will credit your account up to $300 (depending on the amount of your direct deposit) and bump the interest rate you earn to 1.25% APY. The bonus and interest rate are some of the highest we’ve seen.
- No account fees
- No minimum balance
- No overdraft fees
- No fees at over 55,000 ATMs
- 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. I’ve had some issues with ChexSystems in the past and SoFi Money seems to be the perfect account.
Kevin M., SoFi Money Customer
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South Jersey Federal Credit Union does not use ChexSystems, Telecheck, EWS, or a credit report when verifying new accounts. Instead, they only require two forms of ID. It’s important to note that at least one form of ID must be government-issued.We like their Free Checking account because it is easy to manage and doesn’t have any monthly service fees! The account includes all of the necessities like a Visa debit card, access to digital banking, and competitive dividends on your account balance. There is also no minimum deposit required when you open the account.
South Jersey FCU extends membership to anyone who lives in one of nine eligible cities in New Jersey. You’re also eligible if you work for one of their select employee groups or have a family member who has already joined. Their locations can be found in Deptford, Camden, Vineland, Pleasantville, Voorhees, Glassboro, and Moorestown.
Right Start Checking, provided by UNIFY Financial Credit Union, is a go-to option for people who have been denied membership of a traditional account due to a negative history with ChexSystems. Opening a Right Start Checking account, with an initial deposit of $25, will allow you to write as many checks as you need and overdraft protection up to $250.This account has no monthly fees associated and allows for eBanking from any device, meaning you’ll have access to your funds anywhere in the world that you have service. Building a positive checking history has never been easier with this second chance bank account.
UNIFY FCU has one branch in New Jersey in Roseland. They are also in-network with dozens of co-op shared branches where you’re able to make payments, transfers, check deposits, ect. These branches can be found throughout the entire state.
United Teletech Financial FCU offers a second chance to those who have a negative ChexSystems record. The account is called Fresh Start Checking and can help you rebuild a positive banking history while providing most of the features included in a traditional checking account.To get started, there is a required opening deposit of at least $25 and a recurring $10 monthly service fee. Fresh Start Checking comes with access to online banking, free eStatements, unlimited check writing, and online bill pay options for an additional fee. We like this account because it allows you to upgrade to a traditional account after 12 months of good standing!
Membership at United Teletech Financial FCU is offered to anyone who has a connection to Monmouth, Ocean, or Middlesex Counties. You can also join if you have a close relative who is already a member. Their branches can be found in Morganville, Neptune, North Brunswick, and Tinton.
Rather than going through ChexSystems, Telecheck, or EWS to determine your eligibility for an account, US Alliance Financial only requires a government-issued ID and social security card. This is definitely worth a try for anyone who has a negative history with one or more of the previous agencies.We like their MyLife Checking account because it comes with a bunch of great features while avoiding pesky service fees. In addition to a Visa debit card and a free first order of checks, you’ll also receive a free monthly credit score to track your finances. Our favorite feature of this account is that you’re able to get paid up to two days early if you enroll in direct deposit!
To get started, visit their website or their New Jersey branch located in Wayne if you prefer to apply in person.
Varo Bank is another internet-only bank with services based on their mobile apps for Apple and Android devices. Varo doesn’t charge fees at 55,000+ Allpoint ATMs and offers strong budgeting tools and automatic savings programs.Opening an account is easy and Varo doesn’t check your credit or use ChexSystems. Varo doesn’t even require an initial deposit to open an account, either. There are never any monthly maintenance fees, account balance minimums, overdraft fees, foreign transaction fees, transfer fees, or debit card replacement fees.
Varo’s recent bank charter has them innovating more than ever. They have a very strong cashback program, a payroll advance option, and have started to offer their customers a secured credit card called Varo Believe.
Finally, if Varo receives a payroll notification before your payday, it can deposit your money more quickly than many banks.
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
Did we leave your financial institution off this list of The Best Second Chance Banks and Credit Unions in New Jersey? Has there been a change in any of the listings? Please let us know.
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card issued by The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.
1Eligibility requirements apply. Overdraft only applies to debit card purchases and cash withdrawals. Limits start at $20 and may be increased up to $200 by Chime. See chime.com/spotme.
2Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM. Cash deposit or other third-party fees may apply.
3Customers are limited to three $1,000 cash deposits at Walgreens each day and $10,000 each month.
4Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed. The recipient must use a valid debit card to claim funds. See your issuing bank’s Deposit Account Agreement for full Pay Friends Transfers details.
5The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of August 25, 2022. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.
6Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.