If you recently applied for a checking account and were denied because of a negative banking history, you’re not alone. Approximately 85% of banks in Oklahoma use a company called ChexSystems when you apply for a new checking account. If you have experienced several overdraft checks from another bank or have been unable to pay overdraft fees, ChexSystems will flag that behavior making it next to impossible to find a bank willing to work with you.
Granted, ChexSystems is the safety net for bank institutions to weed out people who have committed fraud or identity theft, but if you get caught in the net it can be crippling. And most of us absolutely require the use of a bank checking account to manage our money, pay bills, and receive direct deposits from an employer or government agency.
Fortunately, some banks and credit unions offer so-called No ChexSystems Checking Accounts and/or Second Chance Checking Accounts to help people rebuild their credit and financial histories. Our job at checkingexpert.com is to find those institutions in Oklahoma that can assist you.
The Best Second Chance Banks and Credit Unions in Oklahoma
Chime is a fast-growing internet-only financial company. Unlike big banks, Chime was created during the smartphone era and, therefore, features an app that is more than just a way for customers to review their bank accounts.And, best of all, Chime accepts almost all customers who apply. Even if you have bad or poor credit or have been blacklisted by ChexSystems or credit bureaus. This makes Chime a solid choice for a second chance bank account.
Features include mobile deposits, direct deposit, online bill payment, NO monthly or annual fees, NO overdrafts, NO credit check, and NO CheckSystems.
Here are a few of the highlights:
- FREE Visa® debit card
- NO monthly Service Charge
- NO monthly minimums
- NO credit check; Bad credit OK
- NO ChexSystems or Telecheck; guaranteed approval
- FREE online banking and mobile banking/deposits
- FREE mobile and online bill pay
- NO foreign transaction fees
- NO fees at over 60,000 ATMs at convenient locations like Walgreens, 7-Eleven, CVS and more
- SAVINGS: You can round up every purchase to the nearest dollar and automatically deposit that difference into your savings account.
Chime Lets You Get A Jump On Payday
You can receive your paycheck up to two days earlier than at a traditional bank if you set up direct deposit — Chime processes your employer’s check immediately instead of waiting like other banks may.
Chime is one of the most friendly for those who have been negatively impacted by bad credit, ChexSystems, or Telecheck.
Your Chime Visa Debit Card charges NO fees at over 60,000 ATMs found at these retailers and many more:
Get a Chime Account Today!
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by, and debit card issued by, The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC.
The SoFi Money Cash Management Account is offered by SoFi Securities LLC, a FINRA registered broker dealer. It’s a checking account on steroids and we love that. Plus, they don’t use ChexSystems to approve accounts. When you sign up and deposit at least $10 within 5 days, SoFi will deposit an additional $25 in your account immediately!You get a debit MasterCard and a very slick smartphone app. You can make deposits, write checks, utilize electronic bill pay, and transfer money. There are no monthly fees or overdraft fees. Plus, you earn interest on all the money in the account! The sign-up process can take less than 60 seconds.
There is no minimum balance requirement and SoFi Money is available in all 50 states.
- No account fees
- Unlimited reimbursed ATM fees
- Access to SoFi member benefits like career coaching and financial advising
- Automated bill pay
- Freeze debit card on-the-go
SoFi Money has been great! The account was easy to open and I got my debit card a few days later. The smartphone app is easy to use and I can check everything from my computer, too. I’ve had some issues with ChexSystems in the past and SoFi Money seems to be the perfect account.
Gena M., SoFi Money Customer
Individuals who live, work, worship, or attend school in the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Statistical Area are eligible for a Second Chance Checking account with Allegiance Credit Union. Requiring a $25 minimum opening deposit and a $12 monthly service fee, this low-cost checking account is designed for those that have previously fallen on hard times.To open your Second Chance Checking account, you can conveniently apply online or visit one of their branches if you prefer to apply in person. With your account, you’ll have access to free eStatements, mobile and online banking, unlimited transactions, and a free Visa debit card.
Allegiance Credit Union has three convenient locations in Oklahoma City and one in Edmond for all your financial needs.
The Opportunity Checking account from the Bank of Oklahoma is perfect for those who have suffered past financial challenges. For only a $50 minimum opening deposit and a $5 monthly service charge with a qualifying monthly direct deposit of $300, this account is an ideal low-cost option.In order to get started, simply visit one of their numerous locations. With your account, you’ll gain numerous benefits including free e-statements, free access to more than 450 ATMs, and potential for an account upgrade after one year of well-managed financial history.
The Bank of Oklahoma has locations throughout the state including in Oklahoma City and Tulsa for easy access to your financial account.
Although Bank of the West does look at your ChexSystems history, they offer you a second chance with Fresh Start checking. If it has been one year since your last ChexSystems report, and you have no history of fraud, you won’t have any problem qualifying for a Bank of the West Fresh Start Checking account.Fresh Start Checking offers:
- Unlimited check writing
- A Bank of the West debit card
- Unlimited Bank of the West ATM access
- Online banking and bill pay
- Mobile banking
- Free bankers-by-phone access
You are required to keep the account open for at least 91 days. There is a $12 service fee. Bank of the West offers multiple locations throughout the state including branches in Oklahoma City and Tulsa for your convenience.
With the Citizens Bank of Edmond, obtaining a Fresh Start Checking account has never been easier. This account has been meticulously created for those looking for a fresh start concerning their finances.The Fresh Start Checking account requires just a $10 monthly maintenance fee (when enrolled in eStatements) to get started. Once opened, you’ll have access to a wide variety of features and benefits including mobile and online banking, free bill pay, e-statements, and a free Visa debit card.
After 12 months of good standing, you’ll be eligible to convert to one of their traditional accounts called Forward Checking! The Citizens Bank of Edmond offers locations in both Edmond and Oklahoma City for easy access to all of your financial needs.
Rather than referring to ChexSystems, Telecheck, or EWS, City National Bank only requires that you provide a proper form of photo ID when you apply for an account. They have a simple Personal Checking account that comes with all of the necessities.In addition to online banking, Personal Checking comes with unlimited check writing, notary services, and a Visa debit card. They also offer financial management tools to help you save money and stay on track with your finances! This account requires at least $50 as an opening deposit and there is a low $3.95 monthly service fee if your daily balance falls below $75.
You can find City National Bank branches located inside of Walmart stores throughout the state. They also have stand-alone branches in Lawton, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City.
Rather than referring to your history with ChexSystems, Communication Federal Credit Union will pull a credit report. On top of that, they also offer a second chance account called Connect Card. This account is specifically for those that do not qualify for a traditional checking account.Connect Card is a bare-bones account that you can use for everyday spending. The account comes with a Visa debit card and no fees to spend or load money onto the card. You also get access to online banking with bill pay, free eStatements, and optional overdraft protection products.
After 12 months of good standing, you’re able to upgrade to a traditional checking account. It’s also important to note that there is a required $25 opening deposit and a low $4.95 monthly service fee. You can apply for an account online or visit one of their branches. They have locations in cities including Ada, Bixby, Lawton, Oklahoma City, and many others!
Credit Union One of Oklahoma utilizes Telecheck in lieu of ChexSystems when you apply for a checking account. Out of their several different account options, we recommend their Free Checking account.Although direct deposit and eStatements are required with this account, there are no pesky monthly service fees to worry about. Free Checking also includes the basics like a Visa debit/check card and access to online banking. Although it’s labeled as Free Checking, there are small fees you will have to pay if you want to use their bill pay feature or write checks.
To become a member at CU One of Oklahoma, you will need to deposit $25 into a savings account to establish your membership. Visit their website or one of their branches in Oklahoma City to get started!
First Family Federal Credit Union is another example of an option that uses Telecheck in lieu of ChexSystems when verifying new accounts. They offer one general Checking Account that is fee-free if you enroll in eStatements.The account also comes with a free debit card and overdraft protection services to those who qualify. If you’re 60 years of age or older you will also get free paper statements and one free box of checks per year!
First Family FCU extends membership to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of ten eligible counties. Their branches can be found in Checotah, Henryetta, and Okmulgee.
We all make mistakes. At Focus Federal Credit Union they offer a second chance account called Fresh Start Checking. Perhaps you’ve had a difficult time and run into some problems with your finances. Fresh Start Checking is an affordable option that provides you with the tools to help you manage your account wisely and build a history of responsible money management.After six consecutive months of no NSF fees and upon your request, Focus Federal Credit Union will convert your account to a Focus FCU checking account of your choice. There is a $50 initial deposit required as well as a moderate $9.99 monthly service fee. You also get access to financial counseling to help you stay on track!
Focus FCU offers membership to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Oklahoma, Cleveland, Canadian, Lincoln, Logan, McClain, and Grady Counties. You can also join if you have a close relative who is already a member. Their branches are located in Oklahoma City, Chickasha, and Newcastle for your convenience.
Fort Sill National Bank is an excellent choice for those looking for second-chance checking. Their Basic Checking Account does not require a credit check. We like that you aren’t required to direct deposit and you won’t pay high fees. If your account balance is over $75, your monthly service fee of $6 is waived. If your account balance is over $500, you begin to earn interest.All you need is $5 to open an account. The Basic Checking Account comes with:
- A free Visa CheckCard
- Unlimited check writing
- Surcharge free ATM withdrawals at FSNB locations
- Access to the Savings Round Up program
- Online, mobile and text checking options
FSNB has numerous locations in both Fort Sill and Lawton.
GO2bank is an offering of pre-paid card giant GoBank and we think it’s a step in the right direction. Like some of the newer “challenger banks” GO2bank will deposit your direct deposit check up to 2 days early and has cashback rewards on several categories of purchases. This account also makes you eligible for the GO2bank credit card, which has no annual fee or required credit check.One significant drawback to many online-only bank accounts is that they have no way to accept cash deposits. But GO2bank accepts cash deposits at over 90,000 Green Dot locations nationwide. However, participating retailers may charge you a fee.
If you direct deposit over $500, your monthly maintenance fee of $5.00 is waived. And, they offer a pretty sweet overdraft protection program, but it has a gotcha charge of $15 if you don’t replace the funds within 24 hours.
Account-holders will appreciate the ability to budget their money with the help of a mobile app, budgeting tools, and a savings vault. In fact, they pay 1% on all money in the saving vault up to $5,000.
Go Further from GTE Financial helps put you on the path to a better checking account. If you don’t qualify for a traditional account, the Go Further account will help you get there in as little as 12 months. We consider this a low-cost second chance checking. As long as you make a total deposit of $500 for the month, opt to receive eStatements and make 15 monthly transactions, the $9.95 maintenance fee is waived.GTE Financial is one of the largest credit unions in the US. Membership is open to anyone through easy requirements and an online application process. The Go Further account includes:
- Free EMV-equipped debit card with built-in rewards
- Online and mobile banking tools
- Free bill pay service
- Easy money transfers through the Popmoney service
Liberty National Bank is yet another Oklahoma-based option that refers to Telecheck instead of ChexSystems when screening new applications. If you’ve had issues in the past with a ChexSystems bank, this may be a viable option for you.We recommend their Classic Club Checking because it is simple and the most affordable account. You’ll get all of the necessities like access to online banking, mobile check deposit, and a Visa debit card. We like this account because it also includes free unlimited basic checks and discounts on hotels and shopping!
It’s important to note that this account also requires a $9.95 service fee each month. You can find Liberty National Bank branches located in Apache, Blanchard, Chickasha, Elgin, Lawton, and Oklahoma City.
MTC Federal Credit Union reportedly only requires that you provide proper ID when you apply for a new checking account. Out of their several different options, their E-Checking account has the fewest requirements.It’s important to note that the E-Checking account requires a direct deposit of $400 or more each month and that you enroll in eStatements. You get access to online banking and are able to earn interest on your balance over $1,500.
MTC FCU offers membership to anyone who has some connection to Carter County. You can also join if you have a close relative who is already a member or if you work for an eligible employer. Visit their website or one of their two branches in Ardmore to see if you qualify!
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
A Fresh Start Checking account from Oklahoma Educators Credit Union is available to school employees, students, and specific employee groups within Oklahoma. A direct deposit is required to be eligible for this account.Requiring no minimum opening deposit and no monthly maintenance fee, this account is a fantastic option for those looking to save on fees. Upon opening your account, you’ll have access to fantastic benefits including online banking services, a free Visa check card after your first direct deposit, and free ATM Zone transactions.
Oklahoma Educators Credit Union offers five locations throughout the state in Oklahoma City, Midwest City, Moore, Yukon, and Norman for your convenience.
Peoples Cash Solutions understands that being denied a checking account for bad credit or problems with ChexSystems or TeleCheck isn’t a good feeling. If you haven’t been involved in fraudulent activity, all you need is a fresh start. You can find it with the Second Chance Checking account from Peoples Cash Solutions.Second Chance Checking offers easy direct deposit to save you time and money by eliminating the check cashing process. Your access to your money is simple through a Peoples Cash Solutions debit Mastercard. Other convenient features include:
- Online banking
- Online money transfers
- Online bill pay
- A personal checkbook
- ATM access
You can apply online with a $30 minimum deposit. There is a monthly maintenance fee of $4.95 for Second Chance Checking through Peoples Cash Solutions.
You do not need a perfect banking history to open an Essential Checking account through Radius Bank. Designed to help you manage your money, this is an excellent opportunity to start over.All you need is a $10 minimum opening deposit. After that, you have no minimum balance requirements. There is a monthly service charge of $9, but you can apply for a free checking account after 12 months of positive banking history.
You can easily apply online for all Radius banking services. Essential Checking comes with:
- Free MasterCard® debit card
- Free mobile banking with check deposit
- Free online banking with bill pay
- No minimum balance
Individuals who are employees, students, or volunteers at select schools or select employee groups are eligible for a Fresh Start Checking account with TTCU Federal Credit Union. Requiring a $5 minimum opening deposit along with a $10 monthly maintenance fee, this account is a great choice for those who have had past checking account struggles.To get started, simply visit your closest branch to apply. Upon opening your Fresh Start Checking account, you will have access to free bill pay, free e-statements, and online and mobile banking.
TTCU Federal Credit Union offers eighteen branches in Oklahoma in cities including Tulsa, Bixby, Owasso, Miami, Edmond, and many others!
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.When you open an account at Varo you can do so with no initial deposit. Plus, there are never any monthly maintenance fees, foreign transaction fees, transfer fees, or debit card replacement fees.
Finally, if Varo receives a payroll notification before your payday, it can deposit your money more quickly than many banks.
Washington Savings Bank gives you the opportunity to start fresh with their Online Rewards Checking. We understand that you need an account with easy accessibility and plenty of options. Washington Savings Bank provides all the perks you need to rebuild your banking relationship.With relaxed CheckSystems requirements, you’ll find it is easy to open an Online Rewards account. All you need is a minimum deposit of $10 and an online application. There is no minimum balance requirement, but there is a $14.95 monthly fee. After a year of good standing, you can convert your account to a free checking plan.
With Online Reward Checking, you have access to:
- A free Mastercard EMV debit card
- Free online banking and bill pay
- Free budgeting tools
- Free mobile banking
- Mobile deposit after 3 months of direct deposits
- Free eStatements
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
Weokie Federal Credit Union believes that everyone deserves a fresh start. With a minimal monthly fee, individuals who have had past struggles with obtaining a checking account can apply for the Fresh Start Checking account. This account has been specifically designed to give individuals a second chance to manage their finances.To apply for a new account, visit your local branch. Weokie offers some good benefits, including unlimited check writing, no minimum balance requirement, and up to $300 in overdraft protection.
Visit one of their numerous branches throughout Oklahoma City, Edmond, Midwest City, Moore, or Yukon.
Obtaining a Fresh Start Checking account with Western Sun Federal Credit Union is as simple as opening a savings account and depositing $5. Once this has been done, anyone can apply for the Fresh Start Checking account.With just a $10 monthly maintenance fee that can be brought to $0 with an account balance over $150, this account is perfect for those looking to rebuild their creditworthiness. Once your account is active, you’ll have access to all the following benefits: a free debit card, a potential account upgrade after one year of good history, and access to over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs.
Western Sun Federal Credit Union has locations throughout Oklahoma in Broken Arrow, Bixby, Okmulgee, Owasso, and two in Tulsa for your financial convenience.
Did we leave your financial institution off this list of The Best Second Chance Banks and Credit Unions in Oklahoma? Has there been a change in any of the listings? Please let us know.