A study by the FDIC indicates that about 4.6% of all households in Ohio are “unbanked”, meaning no one within the household has a checking or savings account. That’s more than 200,000 households in the state alone!
There are many different reasons why people live without a bank account. A lot of people cannot afford to meet the minimum balance requirements, have a bad credit score, or have difficulties opening an account due to their negative banking history. If you’ve been blacklisted from opening an account at the major banks in Ohio, you may have been flagged by a consumer reporting agency called ChexSystems.
Believe it or not, ChexSystems is used by over 80% of banks in the country. If you’ve banked with an institution in the past and have experienced involuntary account closures, unpaid debts, or a number of other common banking mishaps, there’s a good chance that the institution flagged that activity and reported it to ChexSystems, making it next to impossible to open an account elsewhere.
Luckily, there are still options out there for anyone who has been reported to ChexSystems or has a bad credit score! Here at CheckingExpert.com, we compile the best options out there for those that are in ChexSystems’ database. Many banks and credit unions offer second chance bank accounts that are designed for those that have a bad banking history. Other options don’t use ChexSystems at all during the application process.
Here are all the banks and credit unions we have researched in Ohio that want your business!
Second Chance Banking in Ohio for October 2023
Open an account today!
U.S. Bank is the fifth largest bank in the country with the majority of its 2,000+ branches located in 26 states mostly located in the west and midwest. When you open a U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking account and a Standard Savings account, you can earn a cash bonus of up to $1,000. This is one of the most generous checking and savings offers we’ve seen.
U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking at a Glance
- A U.S. Bank Visa debit card
- Online banking and bill pay
- Mobile banking with mobile check deposit
- Send money with Zelle®
- Access to U.S. Bank Smart Rewards™ to reap additional benefits
- No NSF charges for overdraft balances under $50
- No fees at U.S. Bank ATMs
- No surcharge fees at 40,000 MoneyPass ATMs
- Member FDIC
States Where U.S. Bank is Available
If you live in one of the following 26 states where this account is available, you can apply online: AR, AZ, CA, CO, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NM, NV, OH, OR, SD, TN, UT, WA, WI, WY.
Account Details and Costs
To get an account, you’ll need to make an opening deposit of $25. The monthly service fee is $6.95 but can be waived if you maintain a minimum balance of $1,500 or by having a minimum monthly direct deposit of $1,000. You can also avoid the monthly fee if you are 24 and under, 65 and over, or a member of the military or qualify for one of the four Smart Rewards tiers (Primary, Plus, Premium, or Pinnacle).
Earn Serious Bank from U.S. Bank
You can earn up to $1,000 when you open a new U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking account and a Standard Savings account and complete qualifying activities. The offer is subject to certain terms and limitations and is valid through October 31, 2023. Member FDIC.Banking Made Easy
The U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking account comes with one of the best mobile apps on the market. Over one million customers have given the app an overall rating of five stars. You can manage your entire account from a computer or your smartphone.
U.S. Bank repeatedly makes the list of one of the best banks in the country.
Chime® is one of our favorites for a second chance banking account. 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
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
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
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 4.50% 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 5.5 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!
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!
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!
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
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.
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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.
Instead of referring to your ChexSystems history, Antwerp Exchange Bank only requires a valid photo ID when you apply for a checking account. Most people will qualify for a New Advantage Checking account.
This account comes with an ATM/debit MasterCard and a free first order of checks. It’s important to note that there is a required opening deposit of at least $100, but you won’t have to worry about any monthly fees or balance requirements after that point.
To get started, contact a branch nearest you and apply for an account! Antwerp Exchange Bank has locations in Antwerp and Payne.
The Starting Over Checking account gives you a second chance to get back into the banking system. It’s important to note that the account requires deposit and your participation in BMI’s Financial Education Program.
Starting Over Checking comes with all the basics like access to online and mobile banking, as well as a free Visa contactless chip debit card. They also offer a few different types of savings tools like the BMIChange Jar. Plus, after 12 months of proper use you’re able to upgrade to a more traditional checking account!
To join BMI FCU, you must be associated with one of eight eligible counties in Ohio. You can also join if you are related to someone who is already a member. To learn more, visit their website or one of their branches located in Dublin, Columbus, or Westerville.
Buckeye State Credit Union offers a full banking experience to those who have been turned down by other banks. Their Second-Chance Checking gives you the benefits of a traditional account with few limitations. The free debit card does not allow ATM access. However, after six months of good money management, you are eligible to upgrade to an ATM card and access to shared banking with 6,700 credit union branches.
In order to qualify, you must first pass a checking account management course. The minimal deposit is $40. A box of checks costs between $20 to $25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Second-Chance Checking includes:
- Free online banking
- Free bill pay
- Free mobile banking app
- IDProtect Identity Theft Monitoring and Resolution
You can check out Buckeye State Credit Union online or in person at one of their convenient branches in Akron, Canton, Alliance, and Cleveland.
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
If you’ve been denied a checking account, Cardinal Credit Union offers you a second chance. Cardinal’s Second Chance Checking gives you the opportunity to build a new banking relationship with a strong credit union. After 12 months of successful banking, you may be eligible to enroll in a standard checking account.
Second Chance Checking features most of the traditional banking perks, with the exception of physical checks. Direct deposit is required. There is a low maintenance fee of $8.95 and no minimum balance. CCU Second Chance Checking includes:
- Free online banking
- Free online statements
- Free debit card
- Free ATM transactions at Cardinal ATMs
- 5 Free non-Cardinal ATM transactions every month
- 10 Free bill-pay transactions every month
- Unlimited teller transactions
To become a member of CCU, you must live, work, worship or attend school in one of nine eligible counties. Visit their website or one of their branches located in Kirtland, Austintown, Mentor, Willoughby, or Ashtabula to see if you’re eligible!
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
We like Covington Savings and Loan Association because they only require a proper form of ID to qualify for a checking account. This is a great option for those who have had issues with ChexSystems banks in the past.
Although their internet presence is somewhat limited, they offer two different checking accounts. Their Basic Checking account is non-interest bearing and has a minimum balance requirement to avoid the monthly service fees. They also offer the Now Checking account that is interest-bearing and also has a minimum balance requirement.
To get started, you will need to contact one of their branches. Visit them in Covington or Bradford to see if a checking account at Covington Savings and Loan is right for you!
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.
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
If your unpaid checking balances are less than $500 and older than 3 months, Eaton Family Credit Union offers you a second chance. Their Second Chance Checking allows you to write paper checks and make MasterCard debit transactions. There is no minimum balance requirement, and the monthly fee is only $10.
Although you are required to set up direct deposit, you can still deposit payroll and government checks with no hold limitations. There is no overdraft protection, but you can withdraw $200 in cash and make $500 in purchases every day. The Home Banking online access allows you to keep track of your funds. To become a member, you must be a resident of Lake or Cuyahoga counties or an employee of select employers. Branches are located in Euclid and Willoughby Hills.
Fifth Third Bank offers easy checking accounts to anyone without a history of fraud or a debt owed to the bank.
You have a choice of multiple checking options with Fifth Third. Their Momentum Checking account is one of their best accounts for those looking to rebuild their banking relationship. With no minimum deposit and no minimum balance required, banking is simple.
The contactless debit MasterCard offered by Fifth Third makes transactions fast and safe. You can also safely track your purchase online or through the mobile app.
Fifth Third at a Glance
- Mobile alerts for transactions
- Easy Deposits program
- Access to more than 50,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide
- Online and mobile statements
Fifth Third has more than 280 branch locations in Ohio alone! You can find them in Akron, Columbus, Middletown, Toledo, and dozens of other cities throughout the state. Visit a branch nearest you to get started.
This Dayton-based credit union will pull a TransUnion credit report in lieu of using ChexSystems when you apply for an account. They offer an array of Kasasa Checking accounts that all offer different rewards.
These different account options offer cash back on everyday purchases, earn interest on balances, or credit for iTunes, Amazon, and Google Play. All accounts offer basic services like online banking, free bill pay, and remote deposit capture.
To become a member at Firefighters & Company FCU, you must live, work, worship, or attend school in Montgomery, Greene, or Miami Counties. Their physical branch locations can be found in Dayton and Miamisburg.
Firelands Federal Credit Union is reportedly a non-ChexSystems bank. If your main issue is with ChexSystems, it’s definitely worth a shot to apply for a checking account here. We like their Simply Free Checking account if you want to save money avoiding monthly fees.
With a Simply Free Checking account you get a free debit card, access to online banking with bill pay, and free eStatements. You won’t have to worry about any monthly service charges or minimum balance requirements. You can also apply online directly through their website.
Firelands FCU extends membership to anyone who has a connection to one of several eligible geographic areas. Visit their website or one of their branches in Bellevue, Bucyrus, Galion, Monroeville, and Norwalk to see if you’re eligible!
First Central National Bank doesn’t require a ChexSystems check when you apply for an account. Instead, they only require that you provide proper identification at the time of account opening.
If you prefer an account with unlimited check writing and a low monthly fee, look no further than their Regular Checking account. This account is designed for everyone and is a simple and easy way to manage your money. If you’re interested in interest-bearing accounts, they offer a few different options.
To get started, contact a First Central National Bank location nearest you. Their branches can be found in St. Paris, Christiansburg, and Rosewood.
Rather than referring to ChexSystems, Telecheck, or EWS, First Federal Bank of Ohio only requires a photo ID when you apply for a checking account. This is a great option for anyone looking to avoid one or more of the agencies aforementioned.
We recommend their Thrifty Checking account because it offers you quite a few benefits while remaining extremely affordable. The account comes with free eStatements, a smartphone mobile banking app, and a debit card for everyday purchases. The monthly service fee of only $2.50 can be waived if you keep a daily balance of $150 or more in your account.
To get started, you will need to contact a branch nearest you. First Federal Bank of Ohio has locations in Galion, Cardington, Shelby, Mansfield, Sandusky, Mt. Gilead, and Tiffin for your convenience.
If you’re looking to avoid ChexSystems, check out First Federal Savings. They use Telecheck to verify new accounts. If you’ve had previous issues in the past managing a checking account, their Basic Checking account would be a great option to look into.
We like Basic Checking because it does not require any initial deposit to open! This simple account also comes with access to online and mobile banking, overdraft protection services, and a feature called Popmoney that allows you to instantly transfer money to friends or family.
It’s important to note that there is a moderate $7 monthly service fee that can be waived if you enroll in direct deposit, keep more than $100 in your account, or if you are below the age of 25. To get started, you can easily apply for the account online or visit one of their branches located in Newark, Granville, Heath, Pataskala, and Gahanna.
First Financial Bank’s NoWorry Checking account offers a fresh start regardless of your checking history. There is a $25 minimum opening deposit, as well as a $10 monthly service charge. If you complete one of their approved financial education courses, the monthly service fee is discounted to only $5.
You’ll receive a debit card along with free ATM access and you even get a free gift when you open at a banking center. There are also plenty of digital features, including mobile deposits and online and mobile banking.
First Financial Bank has dozens of locations in Ohio in cities including Cincinnati, Harrison, Hamilton, Springboro, and many others.
When you apply for an account at Forcht Bank, they won’t use ChexSystems, Telecheck, EWS, or a credit report during the screening process. Instead, they only require two forms of ID. As long as you don’t owe them any money, your chances are good for getting an account.
We recommend their Easy Checking account if you want an easy, low-cost account perfect for day-to-day spending. This account includes all the necessities such as online banking access, free eStatements, and a MasterCard debit card. You can also purchase checks and enable overdraft protection services. It’s important to note that there is a $50 minimum opening deposit and a $6 monthly service charge if your balance falls below $100.
To get started, contact one of their branches. Forcht Bank is primarily Kentucky-based, but they do offer services to Ohio residents and have two branches located in Cincinnati.
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.
Greenville National Bank uses a credit report in lieu of ChexSystems to verify new accounts. If your main issue is with ChexSystems but your credit score has remained decent, there’s a good chance you’ll get approved for an account.
Out of their several different account options, the Free Checking account is the simplest and most straightforward option. There is a $50 minimum opening deposit, but after that you will not need to worry about monthly service charges or minimum balance requirements. The account also includes the basics like a debit card, free eStatements, and overdraft protection.
To get started, you will need to contact one of the Greenville National Bank branch locations. You can find them in cities including Greenville, Gettysburg, Ansonia, Arcanum, Bradford, and Troy.
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
GTE Financial is based in Florida, but anyone in the 50 states can open an account online for free.
If you’ve lost your checking privileges through negative ChexSystems reports, you’ll find it is easy to start again with Rebound Checking at Hopewell Federal Credit Union. There is a monthly fee of $8. After 12 months of good standing, you can open a regular checking account with overdraft protection. Rebound Checking includes:
- Online account access
- e-Statements
- Mobile banking
- Direct deposit
- Bill pay
To become a member, you must live, work, or worship in Licking, Delaware, or Franklin Counties. There are three branch locations in Heath, Newark, and Johnstown. HFCU membership can be started online, but the checking application process must be completed in person.
IH Credit Union is another example of an option that will refer to your credit report rather than your history with ChexSystems. As long as your credit report doesn’t have too many negative entries, you should be good to go.
We recommend their Step Up Free Checking account because it is simple and easy to keep open. With this account you won’t need to worry about pesky monthly service fees or minimum balance requirements. They also offer direct deposit services and provide free eStatements each month.
To become a member at IH CU, you must live, work, worship, or attend school in one of eight eligible Ohio counties. You can also become a member by joining the American Consumer Council, which is a non-profit organization that is free to join. They have branches located in Springfield, Urbana, and Beavercreek.
KEMBA wants you to do more with your money. With low fees and plenty of free features, this credit union helps you begin a new banking relationship with Fresh Start Checking. If you set up direct deposit of your paycheck, pension, or social security check, your monthly fee is reduced to $8.95 a month, a $2 savings.
After completing a money management course and 6 months with less than 6 non-sufficient funds notices, you are eligible to upgrade to a KEMBA Advantage account. If life becomes difficult, you also have the ability to upgrade after 12 months with less than 12 non-sufficient funds notices.
The advantages of a KEMBA Financial Credit Union Fresh Start Checking include:
- Unlimited check writing
- Free KEMBA debit card
- Free online and mobile banking
- Free ATM transactions at 50,000 ATMs nationwide
KEMBA branches can be found in Bellefontaine, Columbus, Gahanna, Grove City, Pickerington, Powell, and Westerville.
KeyBank’s Hassle-Free Account® is a no monthly maintenance fee checking account that offers access to 1,000 branch locations and 40,000+ ATMs fee-free. There is a $10 minimum deposit to open an account.
A Smartphone App Built for You
KeyBank has a popular smartphone app with strong customer ratings on both Apple and Android devices. The app allows you to set customer 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
Our Verdict
We like KeyBank. We think the Hassle-Free Account® account offers a path to financial wellness. And, you can get an account today!
Sometimes past financial mishaps make opening a banking account difficult. LCNB National Bank offers Second Chance Checking to help you build good financial habits while giving you access to checking services. After 12 months of using the account responsibly, the bank personnel will help you transition to another LCNB checking account.
The Second Chance Checking account requires a $50 minimum deposit, but there is no monthly minimum balance to maintain. There is an $8 monthly maintenance fee, however. This account offers free online banking with bill pay, e-statements, mobile banking with mobile deposit, and a Mastercard debit card. If you prefer paper statements, they are available for a monthly fee.
To open this account, LCNB National Bank asks that you visit a branch in person. They have branches in Lebanon, Monroe, Maineville, Springboro, Waynesville, Wilmington, and several other cities across Ohio.
Clean Slate Checking through Liberty Savings Bank helps you improve your financial standing. Past banking problems are overlooked as long as you’ve been reported to ChexSystems less than 3 times. The free CardValet app helps you keep track of your account with alerts and allows you to turn your cards on and off as needed.
Clean Slate Checking requires that you deposit at least $100 at the time of account opening. There is also a recurring $10 service fee each month. The account includes unlimited check writing and no per-check fees.
Although Liberty Savings Bank does not have physical branches in Ohio, their online and mobile services make it easy to manage your money. There are 55,000 surcharge-free ATM machines across the country. Your only limit is the inability to make mobile deposits with the Clean Slate Checking program.
Members Trust Federal Credit Union gives you options to improve your banking relationship. Even if you have credit problems or a negative ChexSystem report, they offer TRUST and Alternative Checking accounts that can help you get back on your feet.
To open an account, you will need to contact their member service department to determine if you’re eligible. Membership of the credit union is limited to associates of Luxottica Retail North America, employees of the Cincinnati Service Center, and family members of current members. The main office is located in Mason, but membership gives you access to 5,000 co-op shared branches nationwide.
Miami University and Community Federal Credit Union understands past financial mistakes. Their Second Chance Checking account gives you the chance to rebuild your finances and banking reputation. All you need is an explanation of your checking difficulties. In return, you receive an account with many of the same perks as regular checking accounts.
You are eligible for Second Chance Checking if your ChexSystems unpaid balances are less than $300 and you are willing to set up direct deposit. After 30 days of good standing, you will be eligible for overdraft protection. After 60 days of good standing, you will be issued a debit card. Miami University and Community Federal offers:
- One free box of checks
- No sign up fee
- Unlimited check writing
- Free online banking and bill pay
You can find their branches located in Oxford and Hamilton for your convenience.
No matter your banking past, Navy Federal Credit Union offers traditional checking for all members in Ohio and across the US. With no checking 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
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.
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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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If your credit score is 620 or higher, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to secure a checking account at Ohio University Credit Union. They offer a Free Checking account that is truly fee-free and provides you with an easy way to manage your money.
Free Checking doesn’t have a monthly service charge, minimum balance requirement, or required opening deposit! It is truly a free checking account. You also get a free debit card with unlimited transactions and multiple overdraft protection options.
Ohio University CU offers membership to anyone with a connection to one of eight eligible Ohio counties. You can also join if you are an employee of one of their partner companies. Visit their website or one of three branches located in Athens to get started!
Sharefax Credit Union reportedly does not use ChexSystems when screening new accounts. Out of their several checking options, the Checking Plus is the simplest account that comes with all of the basics.
The Checking Plus account does not have any monthly fees, minimum balance requirements, or monthly debit transaction requirements. You can also enjoy nice benefits like 1 free box of checks per year, overdraft protection from a savings account, and access to online banking.
To become a member at Sharefax CU, you must have some connection to one of twelve eligible counties. You can also join if you work for one of their partnering companies. You can access a membership application online or visit one of their branches in Batavia, Evendale, Mason, Milford, and Lebanon.
Superior Federal Credit Union knows that everyone deserves a second chance. With Fresh Start Checking, you aren’t actually able to write checks, but you have the opportunity to build a banking relationship with a free ATM/Visa debit card. The low monthly fee of $5 keeps your costs low.
SFCU allows Fresh Start members to switch over to a Superior Checking account with full privileges after 12 months of good standing. Free online and mobile banking allows you to know exactly where you stand at all times. There are no minimum balance requirements.
You are eligible for membership if you live, work, worship or attend school in one of over twenty eligible counties in Ohio. Visit their website or one of their many branches in cities including Lima, Delphos, Wapakoneta, Kenton, and dozens more to see if you’re eligible!
In lieu of ChexSystems, The Farmers State Bank uses a TransUnion credit report to determine if you’re eligible for an account. We like their FSB Direct Checking account because it provides you with all of the basics while avoiding unnecessary service fees.
FSB Direct Checking comes with access to online banking with bill pay and even allows you to earn interest on your balance! There are no monthly service fees and all it takes to open the account is a deposit of $50 or more.
The Farmers State Bank has several locations in New Madison, New Paris, Lewisburg, Greenville, and Springboro. Stop by a branch nearest you to get started.
United Bank does not use ChexSystems or a credit report when you apply for their Essential Checking account with them.
Essential Checking has no overdraft fees and no minimum balance requirements. All that you’ll need to get it started is a $25 opening deposit. You’ll also gain access to their mobile smartphone app where you can deposit checks and monitor your account.
There is no monthly fee for customers 25 and under. For customers 26 years of age or older, there is a $5 monthly fee with eStatements and a $7 monthly fee if you want paper statements.
United Bank has several locations in Ohio. You’ll find them in cities including Bellaire, Marion, Columbus, and a few others. Visit their website to find a branch nearest you!
Universal 1 Credit Union gives you an opportunity to build a positive banking experience with their Freedom Express Checking account. Although the monthly fee is $15, you receive access to nearly 30,000 ATMs and 5,000 shared branches across the country.
With this account a free Visa debit card is provided and you have the potential to have check writing abilities. Other perks include online and mobile banking, direct deposit, and an online resource center for financial education.
With over 50,000 members, Universal 1 has branch locations in Dayton, Kettering, Centerville, Huber Heights, Beavercreek, Sugarcreek Township, Miamisburg, Vandalia, Sidney, and Chillicothe. You can apply for membership online or in person.
Vacationland Federal Credit Union reportedly only requires that you provide proper ID when you apply for a checking account. We recommend their Regular Checking account if you’re looking for a simple way to manage your money.
Regular Checking comes with unlimited check writing capabilities, a free debit card, and access to online banking with bill pay. You can also add overdraft privileges to your account if you qualify. To open the account, you will need to become a member of the credit union and deposit at least $25 into a savings account.
To qualify for membership at Vacationland FCU, you are required to live, work, worship, or attend school in Erie County. Visit their website or stop by a branch in Huron, Sandusky, Vermillion, or Norwalk to see if they’re a good fit for you!
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
Previous bank account challenges don’t stand in your way at Woodforest National Bank. Second Chance Checking gives you the opportunity to maintain a positive banking relationship. There is a required minimum opening deposit of $25 and a $9 one-time account set-up fee. If you sign up for monthly direct deposits, the maintenance fee is $9.95, a savings of $2. Monthly paper statements are available for $3. E-Statements are provided free of charge.
Woodforest offers a full online banking experience for all accounts. This includes:
- Free online banking
- Email notifications of transaction activity and account balances
- Account alerts by SMS
- Automatic security alerts
- Integration with Quicken and Quickbooks for budgeting and financial tracking
- Free eStatements
You can find Woodforest National Bank locations inside of Walmart stores across Ohio in cities including Amelia, Wilmington, tiffin, and dozens more.
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. 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.
3Early 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.
4Customers are limited to three $1,000 cash deposits at Walgreens each day and $10,000 each month.
5Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed. The recipient must use a valid debit card to claim funds. Once you are approved for a Chime Checking Account, see your issuing bank’s Deposit Account Agreement for full Pay Anyone Transfers details. Please see the back of your Chime debit card for your issuing bank. See Terms and Conditions.
6The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of May 22, 2023. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.
7Early 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.
1Family Accounts: Activated, personalized card required. Other fees apply to the additional account. Family members age 13 years and over are eligible. Limit 4 cards per account. See Deposit Account Agreement for details.
2Cash back, up to $75 per year, is credited to card balance at end of reward year and is subject to successful activation and other eligibility requirements. Redeem rewards using our website or app. You will earn cash back of three percent (3%) on qualifying purchases made at Walmart.com and in the Walmart app using your card or your card number, two percent (2%) at Walmart fuel stations, and one percent (1%) on qualifying purchases at Walmart stores in the United States (less returns and credits) posted to your Card during each reward year. Grocery delivery and pickup purchases made on Walmart.com or the Walmart app earn 1%. For the purposes of cash back rewards, a “reward year” is twelve (12) monthly periods in which you have paid your monthly fee or had it waived. See account agreement for details.
3Interest is paid annually on each enrollment anniversary based on the average daily balance of the prior 365 days, up to a maximum average daily balance of $1,000, if the account is in good standing and has a positive balance. 2.00% Annual Percentage Yield may change at any time before or after account is opened. Annual Percentage Yield is accurate as of 3/1/2022.
4Direct Deposit: Early availability of direct deposit depends on timing of payroll’s payment instructions and fraud prevention restrictions may apply. As such, the availability or timing of early direct deposit may vary from pay period to pay period. Make sure the name and social security number on file with your employer or benefits provider matches what’s on your Walmart MoneyCard account exactly. We will not be able to deposit your payment if we are unable to match recipients.
5Opt-in required. $15 fee may apply to each eligible purchase transaction that brings your account negative. Balance must be brought to at least $0 within 24 hours of authorization of the first transaction that overdraws your account to avoid the fee. We require immediate payment of each overdraft and overdraft fee. Overdrafts paid at our discretion, and we do not guarantee that we will authorize and pay any transaction. Learn more about overdraft protection.
6No monthly fee with qualifying direct deposit, otherwise $5.94 a month. Waived when $500+ is loaded in the previous monthly period. First monthly fee occurs upon first use, the day after card activation or 90 days after card purchase, whichever is earlier.
