If you’ve had trouble getting a checking account due to a negative ChexSystems report or bad credit, not all hope is lost. When it comes to finding the best second chance banks and credit unions in Virginia, our team here at CheckingExpert.com is here to help. It’s our mission to assist you in finding banks and credit unions that offer second chance banking services, so you can re-establish a good banking history.
According to an FDIC study, 4.4% of all households in Virginia are “unbanked”, meaning no one in the household has a checking or savings account. That’s over 135,000 households in the state alone! With that being said, approximately 85% of banks in the country use a consumer reporting agency called ChexSystems to determine if you’re eligible for a checking account or not.
If you’ve been reported to ChexSystems, it will be next to impossible to get a traditional checking account at the majority of banks and credit unions out there.
Luckily, there are many banking institutions out there that don’t use ChexSystems or offer second chance banking services to those in need. These banks and credit unions understand that mistakes happen and everyone deserves access to a reliable checking account. They’re willing to give their customers a second chance to improve their financial situations.
If you’re ready to start fresh and open a checking account, here are some of the best financial institutions in Virginia that are more than willing to work with you!
Second Chance Banking in Virginia for October 2023
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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.
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 Virginia branch located on-base at Fort Myer. They also have a few fee-free ATMs available in the Fort Myer and Norfolk areas.
Fresh Start Checking, offered by Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union (ACFCU), is a solid choice for anyone with a ChexSystems history. Opening an account is as easy as providing a $20 initial deposit and paying a $10 monthly service fee. It’s worth noting that to become a member, you must live, work, or attend school in one of the following counties: Carter, Hawkins, Sullivan, Unicoi, or Washington.
Alternatively, you may join ACFCU if you are a member of H/Ead or if you have a family member who already has an account with ACFCU. The benefits of opening an account include no minimum balance or pay per check charge, a nationwide network of over 85,000 ATMs, and 24/7 access to your account(s).
Opening a Fresh Start Checking account can be done by visiting ACFCU’s Virginia branch located in Norton. They also have dozens of co-op shared branches across the state where you can conduct most of your in-person banking needs.
If you’ve had issues in the past with banks that use ChexSystems, Benchmark Community Bank may be a viable option for you. They do not use ChexSystems when screening new applicants. Out of their several different account options, we recommend their BCB Free Checking account.
We like this account because it doesn’t have any minimum balance requirements or pesky monthly service fees. To get started, you will need at least $100 as an opening deposit. Once opened, you can enjoy a free Visa debit card with unlimited transactions as well as overdraft protection options.
To get started, visit their website or one of their Virginia branches located in Blackstone, Chase City, Clarksville, Crewe, Emporia, Farmville, Halifax, Kenbridge, Lawrenceville, South Boston, South Hill, and Victoria.
Blue Grass Valley Bank only requires a valid photo ID when you apply for a checking account. You should be able to obtain an account regardless of your history with ChexSystems, Telecheck, or EWS.
Their Regular Checking account only has a required opening deposit of only $20. If you keep at least $20 in your account, you won’t have to pay any monthly service fees. The account also includes the basics like a free Visa debit card, online bill pay services, and unlimited check writing.
Blue Grass Valley Bank has locations conveniently located in Blue Grass and Monterey. Visit a branch nearest you to get started!
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
Carter Bank & Trust uses a credit report in lieu of ChexSystems when you apply for a checking account. As long as your credit has remained somewhat intact, there’s a good chance you’ll be approved for an account.
We like their Lifetime Free Checking account because it provides you with all of the necessities while avoiding unnecessary fees. With this account you can enjoy a free debit card, access to online and mobile banking, and free eStatements. There’s a $50 required opening deposit, but after that point there are no monthly service fees or minimum balance requirements.
To get started, visit their website or one of their many branches throughout the state in cities including Abingdon, Roanoke, Bedford, Lebanon, and plenty of others!
If you’ve had financial issues in the past and are looking for an account that can help you build your credit, Central Virginia Federal Credit Union has you covered with their Fresh Start Checking account. This account has a low monthly service fee and no minimum balance requirements.
With a Fresh Start Checking account you can enjoy a free Visa debit card, unlimited check writing, and free notary services. You can also enroll in direct deposit or payroll deduction, but it is not required to do so.
To join Central Virginia FCU, you must live, work, worship, or attend school in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, or Campbell Counties. Eligible areas also include Lynchburg, Bedford, and Altavista. Visit their website or one of their branches located in Forest, Lynchburg, and Madison Heights to apply!
Chesapeake Bank is a non-ChexSystems bank that utilizes Telecheck during the screening process. Out of their several account options, we like their myChecking 1 account because it’s simple and provides you with all the features you need for everyday use.
To open a myChecking 1 account, all that is required is a $25 initial deposit. From there, you’ll receive a free Visa debit card and access to online banking. There is a $5 monthly maintenance fee, but it can be waived if you meet simple requirements like enrolling in direct deposit, eStatements, and text banking.
You can apply for an account conveniently online or at one of their branches. Chesapeake Bank has branches spread across the state in cities including Irvington, Hayes, Lafayette, Chesterfield, and many others.
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
City National helps you manage your money wisely. Their Bounce Back program is a second chance account to help you get back on track. The account is easy to open, has no minimum balance requirement, and features a reasonably low monthly fee of $6.99 with direct deposit or $8.99 without.
Other features include free e-Statements, free mobile banking, online banking and bill pay, and free text banking.
City National has over a dozen locations in Virginia. You can find them in cities including Waynesboro, Stuarts Draft, Staunton, Buena Vista, and many others!
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
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.
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
If you’re looking for a true second chance account, look no further than Healthcare Systems Federal Credit Union. They offer their Renew Checking account to anyone who has gone through financial hardships and wants to get their finances back on track.
It’s important to note that direct deposit is required for the Renew Checking account. Once you open the account and receive the first direct deposit into your account, you will receive a debit card. The account also includes mobile access and a moderate $10 monthly service fee.
After 12 months of responsible use, Healthcare Systems FCU allows you to upgrade to one of their traditional checking accounts. Anyone working volunteering in the healthcare industry is welcome to join. You can also join if you have a household family member that works in the industry. Their branches are located at hospitals in Falls Church, Fairfax, Springfield, and Alexandria.
Rather than referring to ChexSystems, Main Street Bank uses Telecheck to screen new applicants. If your main issue has been with ChexSystems banks in the past, this may be an excellent alternative for you.
They offer Kasasa Checking products that come with different rewards. The Kasasa Cash account allows you to earn interest on your balance while the Kasasa Cash Back account gives you cashback on everyday purchases. Both accounts are fee-free and do not have minimum balance requirements.
Main Street Bank branches are primarily located across northern Virginia. You can find them in cities including Clarendon, Leesburg, Herndon, McLean, and Fairfax. Apply online or at a branch nearest you to get started!
Market USA Federal Credit Union offers a second chance to those that have experienced checking difficulties in the past. Their Fresh Start Checking is an excellent option for anyone who wants to rebuild a positive checking history while enjoying some of the benefits of a traditional checking account.
It’s important to note that direct deposit is required with this account. There are no minimum balance requirements, no monthly service fees, and a free Visa check card that is included. We like this account because it allows you to upgrade to a traditional checking account after only six months of good standing! With Fresh Start Checking, you can improve your financial standing quicker than other second chance accounts out there.
All Virginia residents are eligible to become a member at Market USA FCU. Once you’re approved, all that is required is a $5 deposit into a savings account to establish membership. Unfortunately, there aren’t any physical branch locations in Virginia, but you gain access to co-op shared branches where you can conduct most of your in-person banking needs.
Member One Federal Credit Union offers a second chance to those who have been denied a checking account due to less-than-perfect banking history in the form of their Smart Choice Checking account.
To learn more about the details, you will need to call their main telephone line or visit one of their branch locations. Unfortunately, they don’t provide too many specifics directly on their website. You can find branches located in cities including Roanoke, Vinton, Salem, Daleville, Hardy, and several others in the surrounding area.
To join Member One FCU, you must live, work, worship, or attend school in Altavista, Radford, Vinton, Amherst, Bedford, Botetourt, Campbell, Forest, or Lynchburg. You can also join if you have a connection to Franklin, Montgomery, or Pittsylvania Counties.
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
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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Instead of referring to your history with ChexSystems, Old Point National Bank utilizes Telecheck to determine if you’re eligible for an account. Out of their five different checking options, we recommend their Free Checking account.
Especially if you’ve had issues in the past maintaining a checking account, a simple account like Free Checking can provide you with all the basics while avoiding unexpected service fees. All you need to open the account is a $25 deposit. From there, you won’t have to worry about monthly service fees or minimum balance requirements.
Old Point National Bank is primarily located in northeast Virginia. They have branches located in cities including Norfolk, Carrollton, Williamsburg, Yorktown, Virginia Beach, Hampton, and several others. Contact a branch nearest you to get started!
If you’ve experienced financial hardships in the past and are looking to get your finances back on track, Peoples Advantage Federal Credit Union has you covered. Their Fresh Start Checking account comes with many of the features you’d find in a traditional checking account.
The account includes a free Visa debit card, access to online banking with bill pay, and overdraft protection options. If you enroll in direct deposit, you can even access your money a few days early! There is a $50 opening deposit required as well as a low monthly service fee.
You can apply for membership at Peoples Advantage FCU directly on their website or in person at a branch. Their branches are located in Petersburg and Colonial Heights for your convenience.
Pioneer Bank is another example of an option that refers to Telecheck in lieu of ChexSystems during the screening process. If you’ve only been reported by a bank that uses ChexSystems, this may be an excellent alternative for you.
We like their Everyday Checking account because it is a truly free account! The only requirement is that you enroll in eStatements. There is no opening deposit, no minimum balance requirement, and no monthly service fee. You also get a free Visa debit card and access to online and mobile banking.
To get started, visit their website to learn more or apply in-person at one of their branches. You can find Pioneer Bank locations in Stanley, Luray, Shenandoah, Stanardsville, Harrisonburg, Ruckersville, and Charlottesville.
Select Seven Credit Union offers their Second Chance Checking account to anyone struggling to open a traditional checking account due to past financial difficulties. This account includes many features from a traditional option and can help you get back on your feet.
Second Chance Checking includes a free Visa check card, checks for purchase, and optional courtesy pay for those that are approved. To open the account, you will need to deposit at least $50 and pay a $10 service fee each month. After 12 months of good standing, they will waive the service fee altogether!
Select Seven CU extends membership to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Scott and Washington Counties in Virginia. You can also join if you have a family member who already has an account. Unfortunately they do not have physical branches in the state, but they do have nearby branches in Johnson City and Kingsport, Tennessee.
SouthState Bank recognizes that managing finances can sometimes be challenging. That’s why they offer their Direct Checking account. This account is a simple, no-frills account that delivers all of the basics.
Having no overdraft privilege attached to the account helps people stay on top of their money. Keep track of your deposits and purchases with online or mobile banking. Online banking includes bill pay to help you keep on top of managing your monthly expenses. The mobile banking feature also includes mobile deposits to make life more convenient.
Opting for eStatements allows you to track your spending and any deposits you’ve made without accruing the $2 paper statement fee. This simple account has a $5 monthly maintenance fee. To open the account, you can apply online or visit one of their Virginia branches in Richmond, North Chesterfield, and Ashland.
Transit Employees FCU offer their Fresh Start account for those who don’t qualify for a traditional checking account. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of other accounts offered, it’s still a solid checking account nonetheless.
The Fresh Start account comes with access to online banking and Bill Pay, a complimentary Visa debit card and ATM access for over 30,000 ATMs with no surcharge, and eStatements.
For more information about the requirements for opening a Fresh Start account, or if you’re interested in beginning the process, contact Transit Employees Federal Credit Union by phone or visit one of their branches located in Alexandria, Appomattox, Prospect, Farmville, Dillwyn, Concord, and more.
Right Start Checking from UNIFY Financial Credit Union is perfect for those starting out with a new checking account. You can easily open a UNIFY account online or in-person with a $25 deposit. You aren’t required to have a minimum balance or direct deposit for this opportunity to build a positive checking account history.
All UNIFY checking accounts offer:
- No monthly service fees or per-check fees
- Free online eBanking
- Free Visa debit card
- Free UNIFY ATM access
- Free online eStatements
UNIFY Financial CU has one branch in Norfolk located in Virginia. They’re also in-network with several shared co-op branches across the state for your convenience.
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 dozens of locations in Virginia. You’ll find them in cities including Arlington, Charlottesville, Bridgewater, Fredericksburg, and many others. Visit their website to find a branch nearest you!
In lieu of ChexSystems, United Southeast Federal Credit Union utilizes Telecheck when screening new applicants. If your main issue has been with ChexSystems banks in the past, this may be a good alternative for you.
They offer their Premier Checking account that is loaded with nice features. In addition to identity theft protection services, you get one free box of checks per year and a Visa debit card to use for everyday purchases. This account also comes with online banking with mobile check deposit and has a low monthly service fee of $5.95.
To become a member at United Southeast FCU, you must live, work, worship, or attend school in Washington County. You can also join if you have an immediate family member who has an account with them. They have locations in Bristol, Abingdon, and Lebanon for your convenience.
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.
Available through Virginia Credit Union, the Encore Checking account is designed for individuals who may not qualify for a traditional checking account. If you want to rebuild your finances and get on track, this checking account is made for that purpose. It includes online and mobile banking, ATM fee rebates, and a free debit card.
To open an Encore Checking account, $20 needs to be deposited. After that, a charge of $9.95 is levied each month. The account comes with all the basics like a free debit card, eStatements, and online banking. After a period of responsible use, you’re able to upgrade to one of their traditional checking accounts.
To become a member at Virginia CU, you must meet some eligibility requirements. You can if you have an association with one of several cities including Richmond, Petersburg, Hopewell, and Fredericksburg. There are also other ways to be eligible, so be sure to visit their website or a branch to see if you qualify!
Wells Fargo recently changed the Opportunity Checking account to Clear Access Banking. And we like one change, in particular. Wells Fargo has done away with overdraft and non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees. Clear Access Banking is a debit card-only account (no paper checks available) and if you attempt to purchase something without sufficient funds, the transaction will be denied. That’s a lot better than having the transaction approved and then discovering you’ve been hit with a $35 overdraft fee.
There is a $5 monthly fee, but that is be waived for account holders 24 years old and younger. This account is available to residents in all 50 states.
- The largest number of branches in the U.S.
- Minimum deposit of $25 to open an account
- Online bill pay and smartphone app
- Mobile check deposit
- Includes a Visa debit card
- Send and receive money through Zelle
- Additional features include account alerts, 24/7 fraud monitoring, and zero liability protection for your debit card
Woodforest National Bank’s Second Chance Checking is designed for those with previous banking account challenges. With a minimum initial deposit of only $25 and a $9 one-time account fee, you can begin to build a positive banking relationship.
You can lower your Second Chance monthly maintenance fee from $11.95 to $9.95 by setting up monthly direct deposit. Woodforest offers:
- Online banking
- A mobile banking app
- Woodforest Debit Card
- Overdraft solutions
- Free platinum debit card
Woodforest National Bank has over a dozen locations across the state in cities including Lynchburg, Richmond, Manassas, and many others. You can find the majority of branches located inside of Walmart stores as well as a few stand-alone branches.
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.
