Second Chance Banking in New York

Most people know Chase and with over 15,000 ATMs and 4,700 branches across the country, the Chase Secure Banking account might be a good fit for a second chance bank account.

Chase Secure Banking at a Glance

• NO credit check
• NO ChexSystems
• NO minimum deposit to open
• NO overdraft fees
• FREE access to over 15,000 Chase ATMs
• FREE Chase Online Bill Pay
• FREE money orders and cashier’s checks

What to Know About the Approval Process

Opening the Chase Secure Banking account has some important qualifiers. First, Chase verifies your name, address, and social security through Experian, but doesn’t pull a credit report or credit score. Chase doesn’t use ChexSystems for this account, but the bank does use Early Warning Services (EWS). Additionally, if you’ve had an account closed by Chase in the past, your application will not be approved. Past account closures can include missteps such as non-payment of fees, excessive overdrafts, or suspected fraud.

Finally, Chase gives you the opportunity to open your new account online or by taking a printable coupon to a branch location. We strongly recommend you apply online as branch locations have been known to use ChexSystems during the approval process.

Fees

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.

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 Account Now!

Current offers an innovative account to consumers who want it all without the costs and hassles.

The Current Build account works just like a checking account but also helps you build credit every time you use the card. Sign-up takes about 2 minutes and Current has extremely high acceptance rates.

Current at a Glance

• NO credit check
• NO minimum balance
• NO deposit required to open an account
• 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% APY on your balance up to $6,000 with direct deposit; earn 0.25% APY without
• Earn points for unlimited cashback at participating retailers
• Send money instantly for free
• An elegant but simple smartphone app
• 24/7 member support
• FDIC insured account up to $250,000

Swipe The Card and Build Credit

Using your Current Build account to BUILD your credit is simple. Here’s how it works:

1. You add money to your account
2. Swipe your card to make purchases, pay bills, or get money from an ATM machine
3. The funds in your account pay for these transactions
4. Current reports your payment to build your credit history

Current Works Hard for You

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 your 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 Build card will immediately refund the hold so you have access to all your funds. We haven’t found that benefit anywhere in the marketplace.

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!

Fast-growing Chime® is one of our favorite checking accounts. The account has some amazing features and 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.

Chime at a Glance

• NO credit check or ChexSystems
• NO initial deposit required
• NO minimum balance required
• NO monthly or annual fees
• NO NSF/overdraft fees¹
• NO foreign transaction fees
• NO fees at over 60,000 ATMs²
• NO fees for mobile and online bill pay
• FREE cash deposits at 8,500+ Walgreens
• Get your paycheck up to 2 days early with direct deposit³
• FDIC insured account up to $250,000

Deposit Cash for FREE at Over 8,500 Walgreens

Chime has made depositing cash 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.⁴

Instantly Transfer Funds

You can transfer funds to friends and family, Chime members or not… and they can claim their money instantly⁵ 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 400,000 customers have given the app a 5-star review.

Savings Made Easy

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 2.00% Annual Percentage Yield (APY)⁶ in interest on that savings account.

Customers First

If you use direct deposit with your Chime account, you can get your paycheck up to 2 days early⁷. And Chime is just saying no to big bank NSF charges with a fee-free overdraft program up to $200.

We don’t think there is another company innovating for their customers like Chime.

Get a Chime Account Today!

The SoFi Checking & Savings account is offered by SoFi Bank. It’s a checking AND savings account and we love that. Plus, they don’t use ChexSystems or your credit report 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. You don’t need to make an opening deposit to get an account and SoFi never charges monthly maintenance fees. You’ll have access to a large and fee-free ATM network along with a generous cashback program.

Using the SoFi direct deposit option unlocks additional benefits. First, if you overspend a bit, SoFi will cover up to $50 with no overdraft fees. Second, you’ll receive a much higher interest amount of 4.60% APY on savings account balances and .50% APY on checking account balances.

If you decide not to utilize direct deposit, you’ll receive 1.20% APY on savings balances. And finally, when you set up direct deposit from an employer, SoFi will credit your account up to $275 (depending on the amount of your direct deposit).

The sign-up process can take less than 60 seconds. With over 6 million members, SoFi is a bank you can count on!

SoFi 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 seems to be the perfect bank.

Claire M., SoFi Customer

Get a SoFi Account Now!

NorthOne is a fast-growing company built specifically around business banking solutions for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. In addition to 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 40,000 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.

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.

Open a NorthOne Account Today!

KeyBank’s Key Smart Checking® is a no monthly maintenance fee checking account that offers access to 1,000 branch locations and 40,000+ ATMs fee-free. KeyBank has a popular smartphone app with strong customer ratings on both Apple and Android devices. The account is FDIC insured.

Earn a $200 Cash Bonus

When you open a new Key Smart Checking® account before December 8, 2023 and make one direct deposit of at least $500 within the first 60 days of account opening, you’ll receive a $200 bonus deposited directly to your account within 90 days of meeting requirements. Your account must not be closed or restricted during the time of the promotional period. There is a $10 minimum deposit to open an account, but no monthly minimum balance requirement.

A Smartphone App Built for You

The app allows you to set custom alerts, lock or unlock your debit card, deposit checks, and much more:

• Easily send or receive money through Zelle®
• Mobile payments with Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay
• View and download up to 7 years of statements
• Never miss a payment with online bill pay
• Sign on with fingerprint or face ID
• Locate branch or ATM locations
• Order paper checks

EasyUp Makes Savings a Snap

Once you’ve opened your Key Smart Checking® account, you can add a free Key Active Saver savings account. EasyUp is a free feature that allows you to automatically save an amount that works for you – from 10¢ to $5 – every time you make a debit card purchase. Send it directly to your KeyBank savings account and let it grow, or to a company to pay down debt faster. The choice is yours, and you can change it anytime.

Our Verdict

While the Key Smart Checking® account is our favorite, the bank offers additional checking accounts that may more closely fit your needs. Best of all, you can get an account today!

Get a KeyBank Account Now!

The people over at Adirondack Regional FCU understand that your past banking history shouldn’t determine your financial future. They offer their New Beginnings Checking account to anyone with less-than-perfect credit, a history of bounced checks, unpaid fees, or account closures.

The only difference between this second chance account and one of their standard checking accounts is that they monitor your overdraft fees differently. As long as you have less than 5 overdrafts within the first 12 months, you become eligible to upgrade to a standard checking account.

New Beginnings Checking does not have any transaction limits or minimum balance fees. It’s a simple, straightforward account. To get started, visit their website or one of their locations in Plattsburg, Tupper Lake, and Potsdam.

Learn More

Acorns 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 access to 55,000+ fee-free ATMs
• NO minimum balance or overdraft fees
• NO credit check
• $3 monthly fee
• FDIC insured

Acorns was built to give everyone the tools to manage their finances which makes it one of our top picks.

Learn More

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. They have quite a few branches in New York in cities including Stony Point, Bardonia, Greenburgh, and several others.

Learn More

Ally Bank has been one of the most highly rated online banks for the past several years. It’s not because they have the most features, but because they consistently make their customers delighted with the features the bank offers.

For starters, there’s no minimum opening deposit required. Ally doesn’t charge any monthly maintenance fee and there is no overdraft fee (more on that below). You’ll have access to 43,000+ ATMs and Ally will reimburse you up to $10 per statement cycle if you get charged for using another institution’s machine.

You’ll become eligible for Ally’s overdraft program called CoverDraft 30 days after depositing a total of $100. Ally will activate CoverDraft automatically and send you an email when they do. You can turn CoverDraft off at any time, as long as your account balance isn’t negative. Otherwise, Ally will decline the transaction without payment. In either case, you won’t be charged an overdraft fee.

We like that you can use Zelle to send and receive money, get paid up to 2 days sooner with early direct deposit, and deposit checks remotely with Ally eCheck Deposit. We also like that Ally has high approval rates as long as you don’t have a ChexSystems or EWS fraud alert in your past.

To get the bonus, use code GET200 by Nov. 30, 2023. Make sure to fund your account within 30 days of opening it and set up one or more direct deposits totaling $1,500 within 90 days. Ally will send your bonus within 30 days of your account receiving $1,500 in qualified direct deposits.

Learn More

For individuals who live in the Ithaca area and are looking to rebuild their financial standing, a Fresh Start Checking account with Alternatives Federal Credit Union is the perfect solution. With no minimum opening deposit, it’s easy to get started.

Simply visit your closest Alternatives Federal Credit Union branch to open your own account today. With your new Fresh Start Checking account, you’ll get unlimited check writing, online and mobile banking, and free eStatements. We like this account because there are no monthly service fees!

Alternatives Federal Credit Union has one location in Ithaca and is in-network with other co-op shared branches where you can conduct most of your in-person banking needs.

Learn More

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 York branch located on-base at Fort Drum.

Learn More

If you’re looking to avoid banks that use ChexSystems during the screening process, look no further than Bank of Richmondville. They will not look at your ChexSystems history when you apply for an account.

Out of their several different checking options, we like their Basic Checking account because it provides you with the necessities while remaining affordable. There is a $25 required opening deposit and a monthly service fee of only $3. With this account, you will receive an ATM card, access to online banking with bill pay, and overdraft protection linked to a savings account.

As the name would suggest, Bank of Richmondville is based out of Richmondville. They also have other branches located in Cobleskill and Schoharie. Visit their website or a branch nearest you to get started!

Learn More

If you’ve been turned down by other banks, we recommend the Pathway Checking account 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 offers a branch location in New York City at Rockefeller Plaza, but most people open the account online.

Learn More

BankUnited is a great example of a bank that is more lenient with ChexSystems when it comes to opening new checking accounts. If you only have one bank that reported you to ChexSystems, all items on your record are paid, and there is no indication of fraud, it’s likely you’ll be approved for an account.

We like their Value Checking because it offers the basics and is a low-cost account. It requires a $50 opening deposit and has a $7 monthly service fee that can be waived in one of three ways:

• Maintain an average monthly balance of $500 or more
• Enroll in direct deposit and receive $500 or more in your account each month
• Use your BankUnited debit card ten times or more each statement cycle

You can find four BankUnited locations across the state of New York in Brooklyn, Melville, and New York City.

Learn More

Brooklyn Cooperative Federal Credit Union has their own way of screening new accounts instead of relying on ChexSystems. If your main issue has been with a ChexSystems bank, this may be a good option for you.

We recommend their Simple Checking account as an easy way to manage your money. The account comes with an ATM or debit card and includes unlimited debit transactions. You will also get access to online banking with bill pay and 4 free ATM withdrawals each month. There is a low monthly service fee of $6 and can be waived if your balance remains above $1200.

As the name would suggest, Brooklyn Cooperative FCU extends membership to anyone who has a connection to one of their eligible districts in Brooklyn and Queens. Visit their website or one of their branches in Bedford-Stuyvesant and Bushwick to get started!

Learn More

Centennial Bank offers a second chance account with the opportunity to move up to a regular checking account. Their Opportunity 100 Checking account helps you rebuild your checking history. If you keep the account in good standing for one year, you can upgrade to a traditional checking account!

Although there is a $100 minimum deposit to open the account, Centennial Bank does not require a minimum daily balance. If you sign up for direct deposit, your monthly service charge is reduced from $12.95 to $9.95. With Opportunity 100 Checking, you receive:

• Surcharge-Free ATM access
• Online banking, mobile app, and text options
• Internet bill pay and mobile payment options
• Coin machine transactions
• Free eStatements

It’s important to note that this account must be opened in person. Centennial Bank has one location in New York located in New York City.

Learn More

Rather than referring to ChexSystems, Telecheck, or EWS, Compass Credit Union requires a proper form of ID to become a member and get an account. They offer membership to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Oswego county.

Once you deposit $5 into a savings account to establish your membership, you can apply for a Share Draft Checking account that comes with all of the necessities. The account comes with access to online and mobile banking, optional direct deposit, and even a free first box of checks! We like this account because there are no minimum balance requirements and no monthly service fees.

To get started, visit their website or contact one of their branches in Oswego and Fulton to see if you’re eligible for membership.

Learn More

Like David slaying Goliath, Dave is taking on big banks and their predatory ways. The Dave checking account is a mobile-centric bank account that doesn’t use ChexSystems or your credit score for account approval.

The only fee Dave charges for the account is a $1 monthly maintenance fee. There are no monthly minimum balance requirements, no overdraft fees, and no fees at over 40,000 MoneyPass® ATMs in 7-Eleven and other spots near you. There’s no opening deposit requirement to get your Dave account either.

If you opt for direct deposit and get paid on a regular basis, Dave will spot you up to $250 if your balance isn’t enough to cover an incoming charge. That feature won’t cost you any fees or interest charges.

Just like a savings account, you can set aside money in “Dave Goals” for any special purpose such as a vacation or car purchase. While you work toward your savings goal, Dave will pay 4.00% APY on your money.

Finally, Dave has partnered with a number of businesses around the country to help accountholders find side gigs. This is a unique feature we’ve not seen with any other checking account. You can find work when you need it, right from the Dave app. Between instant-pay surveys and easy-apply side hustles, there are thousands of ways to get paid.

We like the robust Dave smartphone app. Customers like the app, too. Dave is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in the Apple store and 4.4 out of 5 stars in the Google Play store.

Learn More

No. Fees. Period. That’s how Discover Bank promotes its Cashback Debit Checking Account. And, after conducting our research, we can say that’s mostly true. In fact, the only fees you’ll ever incur are for outgoing wire transfers and service charge fees if you use a non-Discover ATM if it is not part of the 60,000+ ATMs in their no-fee network.

As long as there are no past incidences of fraud on your ChexSystems report, Discover might be a great account for you. The only negative? There is no way to deposit cash directly into the account.

Discover Bank® Cashback Debit Checking Account at a Glance

• 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month
• Access to 60,000+ fee-free ATMs; $510 cash withdrawal limit per day
• Fee-free opt-in overdraft protection transfer service
• Get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit
• Send and receive money with Zelle®
• No monthly fee (no balance or activity requirements)
• No fee for insufficient funds
• Mobile check deposits
• No deposit to open

Learn More

Individuals who live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Erie County are eligible for a 2nd Chance Checking account with Financial Trust Federal Credit Union. This account has been crafted to provide those with past financial hardships a second chance at proper money management.

With just a $10 monthly maintenance fee, this account has some of the lowest fees around. To open your own 2nd Chance Checking account, stop by your local branch to get started. Your new account will allow you access to all the following benefits: free bill pay, Visa check card, direct deposit, and unlimited check writing.

Financial Trust Federal Credit Union has locations in Cheektowaga, West Seneca, Orchard Park, Grand Island, Blasdell, and Buffalo for your financial convenience.

Learn More

Fulton Savings Bank offers a checking account designed for individuals who have had banking challenges in the past and are working to improve their financial reputation.

Their New Opportunity Checking account features unlimited check writing, no per-check charges, a free debit card, and access to online, mobile, and telephone banking services. There is a $9.95 monthly service fee that can be reduced to $7.95 if you set up direct deposit.

To apply for the account, you will need to visit one of their branches. Fulton Savings Bank has one branch in Fulton and one in Baldwinsville for your convenience.

Learn More

For individuals who have had past financial difficulties, the Fresh Start Checking account with Genesee Valley Federal Credit Union is the perfect option to help manage your finances. This account is available for a low monthly maintenance fee of $6 and comes with consistent financial support from the staff at Genesee Valley Federal Credit Union.

Your account includes bill pay services, online and mobile banking, and e-statements. You’ll be able to upgrade to a free checking account after six months without any negative activity. To open your own account, visit one of their locations to get started.

Genesee Valley Federal Credit Union has convenient locations in Geneseo, Warsaw, and Dansville.

Learn More

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 secured credit card, which has no annual fee and no 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 4.50% on all money in the savings vault up to $5,000.

Learn More

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

Learn More

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!

Lili at a Glance

• 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
• NO fees for incoming wire transfers
• 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. All others (Sole Proprietor, Single-Member LLC, Multi-Member LLC, General Partnership, Limited Liability Partnership, or S Corp) can take a couple of days to get approved. You can fund your account using a mobile check deposit, direct deposit, ACH transfer, or by linking your Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App account.

Open a Lili account now!

When you apply for Maple City Savings Bank, they only require that you provide proper ID. Valid forms of ID can be an unexpired New York State license or passport. Once you’re approved, we recommend applying for a Free Checking account.

Free Checking is a simple, hassle-free account that can help you stay on top of your finances. We like this account because you won’t have to worry about any pesky monthly service fees or minimum balance requirements. You also receive a free Visa debit card, gain access to online banking, and even earn competitive interest! There is a $25 opening deposit required.

To get started, you can easily apply for the account online or visit one of their two locations both located in Hornell.

Learn More

If you’ve had problems in the past with ChexSystems but your credit has remained intact, Meridia Community Credit Union could be a great option for you. They refer to your credit report to determine your eligibility. As long as there aren’t too many negative entries, you should have no problem getting an account.

They offer one general Checking Account that doesn’t require an initial opening deposit or minimum balance. The account also comes with overdraft protection, free mobile check deposit, and a free Visa debit card.

You will need to apply for membership to Meridia Community Credit Union. Once approved, you can add checking to your account on their website or in-person at one of their branches in Hamburg and Eden.

Learn More

To apply for a checking account at Mohawk Progressive Federal Credit Union, all that is required is a form of valid identification. Regardless of your history with ChexSystems, Telecheck, or EWS, you still may be able to get an account.

Their general Share Draft Checking account comes with all of the necessities while avoiding unnecessary fees. There is no minimum balance requirement, no monthly service charge, and no per-check fees. We like they offer overdraft privilege services and provide you with your first 40 checks for free!

To become a member at Mohawk Progressive FCU, you must live in Schenectady or work for one of their eligible employee groups. To see if you qualify, visit their website or contact one their branch in Schenectady.

Learn More

It’s a tall order to “Make People Happy” when it comes to banking, but that’s the stated mission behind mph.bank.

Powered by Liberty Savings Bank (established in 1889!), the mph.bank Fresh account does use ChexSystems, but as long as you don’t have more than 3 charge-offs totaling $1,000 or reports of fraud approval rates are very high. Fees for the account include a $9 monthly service fee and a $10 overdraft fee.

mph.bank Fresh Account at a Glance

• $0 initial deposit to open account
• Send and receive money with Zelle®
• Access your account with your phone or computer
• When coupled with a free savings account, earn up to 5.00% APY
• Optional ability to round up charges and stash the cash into savings
• Get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit
• Access to over 55,000 fee-free ATMs

Apply for a Fresh Account Today!

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

Learn More

Neighborhood Trust Federal Credit Union only requires a valid form of government-issued ID as well as a proof of address when you apply for an account. If you have negative marks with ChexSystems, this may be a good option for you.

They offer one general Share Draft Checking account that provides you with a simple and affordable way to access your money. There is a required $25 opening deposit and a $6.50 that can be waived if you keep a minimum balance of $500 or enroll in a qualifying direct deposit. Share Draft checking includes a debit card, checks, online and mobile banking, and free eStatements.

To become a member at Neighborhood Trust FCU, you can apply online or visit their location in New York City.

Learn More

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.

Learn More

If you apply for an account at People’s Alliance Federal Credit Union, they won’t look at your ChexSystems report or EWS status. Instead, they will use Telecheck to determine if you’re eligible for an account. Out of their several different checking account options, we like PAFCU Standard Checking the best.

Standard Checking is inexpensive and includes all the basics. You won’t need to worry about any minimum balance requirements or monthly maintenance fees. If you want an account that earns dividends or is designed for members 55 and older, they have options for that as well.

PAFCU has a myriad of membership eligibility requirements, so feel free to visit their website or one of their branches located in Jamaica, Brooklyn, Ronkonkoma, Hauppauge, Westbury, or Yonkers to see if you qualify!

Learn More

Rather than referring to your ChexSystems report, Rochester and Monroe County Employees Credit Union uses an Experian credit report. As long as there aren’t too many negative entries, you should be good to go.

Their internet presence is limited, but they offer a Checking Account with all of the basics like debit/ATM cards, access to online banking, payroll deduction, and direct deposit.

Rochester and Monroe extends membership to all employees working for the City of Rochester and the City of Monroe. They also extend the membership circle to a few other surrounding towns and villages. Visit their website or contact one of their branches in Rochester to see if they’re a good fit for you!

Learn More

If your main issue is with ChexSystems and your credit report has remained somewhat healthy, RT Federal Credit Union may be a good option for you. As long as your report does not have too many negative entries, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to get an account.

RT FCU is another option that unfortunately does not have an outstanding internet presence. However, they do offer a general Checking Account that comes with a few simple features like online banking, a free Visa debit card, fee-free ATM access, and direct deposit.

RT FCU extends membership to anyone who works for one of their select employee groups. You can also join if you are a student, employee, or retiree from one of over a dozen eligible schools in New York. You can find their branch located in Rome.

Learn More

Sidney Federal Credit Union reportedly does not use ChexSystems when verifying new accounts. So if you’ve been reported by a ChexSystems bank in the past, this may be a viable option for you.

They offer one general checking account that is jam packed with nice features. There are no minimum balance requirements or monthly service charges to worry about. You also get access to online and mobile banking, a MasterCard debit card, and if you enroll in direct deposit you will receive free checks!

To become a member at Sidney FCU, you must live, work, or attend school in Oneonta, Sidney, or the surrounding areas. To get started, you can apply for membership online or apply in-person at one of their nine branches in Walton, Oneonta, Norwich, Hancock, Greene, Delhi, Bainbridge, and Sidney.

Learn More

UFirst Federal Credit Union is known to only require a proper ID when you apply for a new checking account. They ask that you provide your government-issued ID, proof of address, social security number, and telephone number at the time of account opening.

We like their Everyday Checking account because it is an easy way to manage your money while avoiding unnecessary fees. You won’t need to pay any monthly service fees or worry about minimum balance requirements. The account also comes with a fee Visa debit card, online banking with bill pay, and overdraft protection options.

UFirst FCU extends membership to anyone who has a connection to Clinton County. If you live, work, worship, or attend school within that county you are eligible for membership. Visit their website or one of their branches in Plattsburgh and Rouses Point to apply!

Learn More

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 one of their many New York branches located in the Bronx, Hopewell Junction, Napanoch, New York City, Port Chester, Purchase, and Woodbourne.

Learn More

Van Cortlandt Cooperative FCU reportedly does not use ChexSystems when screening new applicants. Instead, they require that you meet their eligibility requirements.

In order to join, you must be residents of the Amalgamated, Park Reservoir, Mutual, Orloff Towers, or Cannon Heights Cooperatives. You can also join if you are the immediate family member of someone who is also a member. There are additional ways you can join, so be sure to visit their website if you’d like to see a complete list.

They offer a Free Share Draft Checking account that does not have any per-check fees or minimum balance requirements. The account also comes with a Visa debit card and optional overdraft protection. Visit their location in Van Cortlandt and deposit $5 into a savings account to establish your membership!

Learn More

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.

Learn More

Want to earn cash back on Walmart purchases – up to $75 each year? Then you might love the Walmart MoneyCard. It’s a debit card that has some strong features such as cashback on Walmart purchases, overdraft protection, interest on your savings, and a mobile app that lets you track your purchases and deposit funds into your account.

Walmart Moneycard at a Glance

• Easy approval: no ChexSystems or credit check
• No initial deposit is required and there are no monthly minimums
• Deposit cash for free at any Walmart store and it shows up 10 minutes later
• Deposit checks using the Walmart MoneyCard smartphone app
• Easily request multiple cards for family use¹
• Manage your account from your computer or the smartphone app
• 3% cashback on Walmart.com purchases, 2% cashback for Walmart fuel stations, and 1% cash back for use in-store²
• Earn 2.00% APY on money you set aside in a free savings account³
• With qualifying direct deposits⁴, you can opt-in and enjoy overdraft protection of up to $200 on eligible purchases⁵
• No monthly fee when you direct deposit $500+ in the previous monthly period. Otherwise, there’s a $5.94 monthly fee.⁶

The Walmart MoneyCard is available in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico.

Open an account today!

For those looking to move on from past financial management issues, the Opportunity Checking account with Webster Bank is the perfect opportunity. This account requires a simple minimum opening deposit of $50 as well as a recurring $11.95 monthly maintenance fee with a qualifying direct deposit.

Opening your own Opportunity Checking account is as easy as visiting your nearest Webster Bank branch. Upon opening, you’ll be given access to many account benefits including paperless statements, online and mobile banking, and a free Visa debit card

Webster Branch has branches in Larchmont, Scarsdale, Yonkers, Rye, White Plains, and New Rochelle.

Learn More

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. Wells Fargo has over 80 branch locations in New York.

• 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

Learn More

Westside Community Federal Credit Union extends services to anyone within their field of membership. Regardless of past mistakes, you may still be able to get a checking account. In order to be eligible, you must live or work in Chili, Churchville, Ogden, Riga, or Sweden.

If this fits your situation, they offer a general Share Draft Checking account that has no monthly service fees, no minimum balance requirements, and no per-check charges. You also get access to a Visa debit card and overdraft protection from a savings account.

To get started, you will need to fill out a membership application and deposit $5 into a savings account once you’re approved. Their only branch can be found in Churchville.

Learn More

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 their branch locations in Glenmont, Albany, Herkimer, Fulton, Rochester, Newark, Rome, Canandaigua, Horseheads, Olean, Watertown, Hamburg, Niagara Falls, and Batavia.

Learn More

The Capital One 360 Checking Account uses a proprietary approval process that does not include ChexSystems and might be a solid option for those who have had past financial challenges.

Available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, Capital One acts more like an online bank than one with over 400 branches in a few states. Its highly-rated smartphone app gives customers full control of their account and you can access everything from a computer, too.

Capital One 360 Checking at a Glance

• No opening deposit is required
• No monthly or annual fees
• No minimum balance and no overdraft fees
• Add cash to your account at CVS® locations.
• No-fee access to over 70,000 ATMs nationwide
• No foreign transaction fees when traveling abroad
• Deposit checks and pay bills with the smartphone app
• Send and receive money with Zelle®
• Early direct deposit feature
• Monitor your credit score with Capital One’s CreditWise feature
• FDIC insured account up to $250,000

Learn More

The Citi® Access Checking account is a solid option if you’ve been blacklisted by ChexSystems or Early Warning Systems. As long as you haven’t been flagged for fraudulent behavior and don’t owe Citibank an outstanding amount, approval rates for this account are good.

There are no monthly service fees for the first 3 months after opening the account. The $5 monthly service fee can easily be waived after that time by depositing at least $250 per month.

We also like that there are no overdraft or returned item fees because if you don’t have enough money in your account, the item will be returned.

Citibank Access Checking at a Glance

• 65,000+ fee-free ATMs
• Send money to almost anyone with a U.S.-based bank account through Zelle®
• No overdraft or NSF fees
• $5 monthly fee can be waived with $250 in qualified direct deposits
• $0 liability for unauthorized charges
• Available in all 50 states and Washington DC
• No minimum opening deposit

Learn More