If you have a record of overdrafts, bounced checks, or other banking issues, you might be reported to a financial database called ChexSystems. Financial institutions use it to assess the risk of potential customers based on their financial history.
Most banks and credit unions use ChexSystems as part of their account approval process, but not all. Some even offer second-chance checking accounts for people who have been denied accounts elsewhere due to their ChexSystems report. These accounts may come with higher fees or specific requirements, such as setting up direct deposits or completing a money management course, but they provide an opportunity to rebuild your banking history.
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Banks and financial institutions that don’t use ChexSystems
We found five banks and other financial institutions that don’t use ChexSystems. If you’re looking for one that will work with you, here’s what we recommend.
Chime is LendEDU’s top-choice mobile banking platform with a second chance option for checking accounts in 2025.
1. Chime
- Online checking account with no fees
- SpotMe® lets you overdraft fee-free up to $200
- 47,000+ in-network ATMs
- 2-minute mobile app setup
Chime’s mobile banking services are provided by The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank. Chime offers online banking with no hidden fees and the opportunity to get paid up to two days early with direct deposit through its MyPay® Early Pay Access feature.
The mobile banking app allows you to manage all of your accounts from your phone. You can track your account balances, transactions, and savings.
There are two accounts available, the Spending Account and Savings Account. There is no minimum balance requirement, no foreign transaction fees, and there is no credit check required to open an account.
2. SoFi
- Earn up to 4.50% APY (with a boost)
- No account fees
- Use Vaults to organize your savings with Roundups
- FDIC-insured up to $3 million
- No withdrawal limits
SoFi Banking offers checkings and savings accounts. The APY on the savings account is 3.80%, which is higher than most savings accounts, but it can be boosted higher.
SoFi also offers student loans, personal loans, and home loans. If you’re a banking customer, you’ll typically receive a loyalty discount of 0.25% on your interest rate.
SoFi also offers an investment option using Stock Bits that allows you to own a partial share of a stock, and a money management app that helps you budget better.
3. USAA
- Offers checking and savings accounts
- No hidden or monthly service fees on checking accounts
USAA is only available to those who are Active duty, Guard, or Reserve, a veteran, an eligible family member, or a cadet or midshipman.
Once a member of USAA, you’ll have access to a wide variety of banking products. These products include insurance coverage, checking and savings accounts, credit cards, loans, investment accounts, and more.
Membership support and the USAA mobile app will help you stay connected to your finances wherever you are. A team of professionals will be available to help you before, during, and after deployment.
4. United Bank
- Multiple checking and savings accounts
- No minimum balance for some accounts
United Bank offers personal and business banking solutions. It is a community bank in New England with branches throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts.
The bank offers all the standard products including checking and savings accounts, loans, investment accounts, and credit cards. One product this bank doesn’t offer that most others do are student loans.
5. Green Dot Bank
- Get paid up to two days early
- Overdraft protection up to $200
- Free ATMs nationwide
Green Dot Bank offers the Unlimited Cash Back bank account that includes a 3% APY up to a $10,000 account balance. On top of the 3% APY, you”ll earn 3% cash back on online and in-app purchases with no caps.
Additional benefits of this account include early access to wages, no overdraft fees, and your money is FDIC insured. However, unlike a number of other banks, Green Dot does charge a $7.95 monthly fee. The company claims this can be waived.
Credit unions that don’t use ChexSystems
We also found six credit unions that don’t use ChexSystems. You might be asking, “Do credit unions even use ChexSystems?” as credit unions often have more lenient approval policies for its members. Still, many credit unions use the database to assess risk.
If you’re interested in joining a credit union that offers second-chance accounts, take a look at the list below.
6. PenFed Credit Union
- Checking and savings accounts
- Free ATMs nationwide
PenFed Credit Union offers a variety of financial products, including checking and savings accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, and retirement accounts. Members can also access loans such as auto loans, personal loans, mortgages, and student loans. PenFed provides credit cards with competitive rewards and benefits. The credit union supports members with mobile banking, online banking, and extensive ATM access.
Anyone can join PenFed. You can join online or by visiting one of the branches.
7. Navy Federal Credit Union
- No monthly, ATM, or non-sufficient funds fees
- Choice of overdraft protection plans
Navy Federal Credit Union offers checking and savings accounts, including certificates of deposit, money market accounts, retirement savings accounts, and more. Members also have access to credit cards and loans, such as auto loans, personal loans, home loans, and student loans. The credit union offers mobile and online banking and has several physical branches and ATMs.
You or a family member must be an active duty, retired, or veteran of the armed forces. See here for a full list of those eligible.
8. Cardinal Credit Union
- Free debit card
- Buys back your debit cards from other institutions up to $10
Cardinal Credit Union offers checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, and multiple loan options. Services available to members include mobile banking, online banking, telephone banking, and shared branching.
Membership is open to anyone and is instant with account opening.
9. Midland Credit Union
- Checking and savings accounts
Midland Credit Union offers checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, and loan options. It also offers e-services, mobile banking, and more.
You must live in Polk and contiguous counties, Story, Jasper, Marion, Warren, Madison, Dallas, or Boone in Iowa.
10. State Department Federal Credit Union
- Basic, advantage, and privilege checking accounts
- 24/7 account access
State Department Federal Credit Union (SDFCU) offers checking, savings, and youth accounts. Members can also apply for credit cards and loans for various financial needs. To start your membership, SDFCU will deposit $1 into a savings account in your name.
You must be affiliated with the Department of State, have organizational affiliates, have a family relation, or be a member of the American Consumer Council.
11. North Georgia Credit Union
- Checking and savings accounts
North Georgia Credit Union (NGCU) offers checking and savings accounts and a number of loan options. It serves over 100 Select Employee Groups.
Must be a resident of Stephens, Franklin, or Hart and Rabun counties in Georgia. Also, those affiliated with one of a number of participating employee groups can join. Check out the full list here.
To become a member, you’ll need a regular share/savings account in your name. An initial deposit of $25 is required, plus a $5 one-time membership fee. Members must maintain a $25 balance in their savings account to remain members and demonstrate regular activity.
How to get a second-chance banking account
Opening a second-chance account is pretty similar to opening a regular checking account, but there are a few extra things to be aware of. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Find a bank or credit union that offers second-chance accounts
The list above is a perfect starting point to find an institution that is likely to work with you.
Step 2: Gather what you’ll need to apply
You’ll usually need:
- A government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport)
- Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
- Proof of address (such as a utility bill or lease)
- Sometimes a small opening deposit (often $25–$50)
Step 3: Be ready for specific requirements
Second-chance accounts may come with conditions, such as:
- Enrolling in direct deposit
- Completing a financial education course
- Agreeing to limited features, like no overdraft protection or check writing
These requirements help show the bank that you’re serious about improving your financial habits.
Step 4: Use the account responsibly
Once you’re approved, treat the account like a fresh start. Keep your balance positive, avoid overdrafts, and follow any rules that come with the account. Many banks will let you “graduate” to a standard checking account after a period of responsible use—usually around six to 12 months.
About our contributors
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Written by Dave RathmannerDave Rathmanner has researched and developed content on a variety of finance topics, such as student loans, personal loans, credit cards, and small business loans.