LetMeBank is committed to helping you improve your financial standing. Whether it’s opening a bank account or getting approved for a loan, we believe your credit history and/or past banking experiences shouldn’t stand in the way. That reason alone is why we exist. We personally understand the frustration that can arise from being on the bad-side of ChexSystems, or getting disapproved for that life-changing loan just because you missed a payment 2 years ago.
But how are we able to offer viable solutions and advice to you free of charge? If banks or lenders that we trust allow us to, we use a special link that informs them that the visitor on their site originated from us. If you end up signing up or applying for a quote, we will potentially get commission in return.
How does this effect you? Well, we make sure that it doesn’t. We will NEVER rank or suggest a bank or lender due to their willingness to pay us. We are not for sale. We will always offer our honest opinions, and vow to give you the best advice that we are capable of providing to you. You are the reason we do this, you are what matters to us.
Having a bank account is essential for managing everyday financial transactions, such as receiving your salary, paying bills, and saving for the future. So, when a bank denies your application, it can be frustrating.
A history of unpaid overdrafts or bounced checks can get you blacklisted at most major banks if you’re listed in ChexSystems. However, even with bad credit, you still have options.
Top 10 Bank Accounts for Bad Credit
Here are ten of the best checking accounts for people with bad credit. With just a few clicks, you can open a bank account online in less than 5 minutes with these banks.
Sign-up bonus up to $300 with qualifying direct deposits
No monthly fee
Earn up to 3.80% APY on savings
Over 55,000 fee-free ATMs
The SoFi Checking and Savings account offers a range of advantages, such no overdraft fees, balance requirements, or no monthly fees.
Currently, there’s an attractive limited-time offer – a sign-up bonus that could reach as high as $300 provided you make qualifying direct deposits.
In addition, account holders have access to 55,000 ATMs at no cost via the Allpoint® Network. By setting up direct deposit, you’ll be eligible to earn up to 3.80% APY on savings and 0.50% on checking accounts. This option also provides advanced access to paychecks, up to two days earlier.
Current is an online bank that doesn’t use ChexSystems or pull your credit report, and they have a lot to offer.
With Current, your everyday purchases can now shape your financial future. Simply by swiping your debit card, you can build credit. No loans or credit checks needed. There are also no monthly or annual fees for this service.
A Current mobile bank account includes fee-free overdraft protection of up to $200. You also get free cash withdrawals at over 40,000 Allpoint ATMs, and there is no minimum balance or hidden fees.
Additionally, you can get paid up to two days early with direct deposit with a Current Premium account. Plus, Current offers up to 4.00% APY with Current Savings Pods.
Stash offers a checking account that doesn’t require a credit check or ChexSystems approval, making it accessible if you’ve had banking issues in the past.
Each time you use your Stash debit card, you earn Stock-Back® rewards—small pieces of stock in the companies where you shop.
You can also get your paycheck early with direct deposit, and there are no overdraft fees to worry about.
The account includes access to over 55,000 fee-free ATMs and is managed entirely through the Stash app, which also features investing and money management tools.
With Chime, a negative banking history is not an issue. They offer an award-winning financial app, a checking account with a debit card, and a savings account, all with no credit check.
When you open a Chime Checking Account, you won’t have to worry about monthly maintenance fees, foreign transaction fees, or minimum balance fees.
You can also start building your credit with the Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card7. It’s a secured credit card with no annual fees, no credit checks, and no interest charges1.
With Chime, you get free access to over 60,0001 MoneyPass® and Visa® Plus Alliance ATMs. Plus, you can get your paycheck up to 2 days earlier with direct deposit2. You can also deposit cash for free at over 8,500 Walgreens.
Found is an online banking option built specifically for the self-employed. There’s no ChexSystems screening, no credit checks, and no hidden fees, making it a strong fit for anyone with bad credit.
Beyond standard checking features, Found offers built-in tools to track expenses, set aside money for taxes, and send invoices—all inside the app.
Direct deposit gets your funds quickly, and withdrawals are free at more than 55,000 ATMs nationwide.
With no monthly maintenance fees and banking tools designed to simplify money management, Found is one of the best options for freelancers, gig workers, and small business owners who need a second chance at banking.
GO2bank is a neobank provided by Green Dot. You can open an online checking account with subaccounts called vaults, all without requiring a minimum balance.
Furthermore, GO2bank offers a competitive 4.50% APY on savings accounts for up to $5,000 in savings. You can easily access your funds at 90,000 retail locations for cash deposits and 19,000 ATMs for free withdrawals.
In addition, you can receive their pay up to 2 sooner and government benefits up to 4 days early with direct deposit.
You can opt for overdraft protection of up to $200 with eligible direct deposits, providing them with peace of mind.
GO2bank also provides the GO2bank Secured Visa Credit Card, which can assist you in building your credit over time through responsible use.
The monthly fee of $5 is waived when you receive payroll or government benefits via direct deposit in the previous monthly statement period.
The Walmart MoneyCard is a prepaid debit card that acts much like a checking account.
This card has a cash back rewards program, that offers 3% cash back when shopping at Walmart.com, 2% at Walmart fuel stations, and 1% at Walmart stores, up to $75 each year.
Additionally, users can benefit from the overdraft protection feature, which offers peace of mind with three coverage levels, up to $200, for purchase transactions with opt-in and eligible direct deposits.
Another great benefit of the Walmart MoneyCard is the early direct deposit feature, which enables users to get their pay up to two days before payday and their benefits up to four days early.
You can also earn 2% APY on savings, with chances to win cash prizes each month. The monthly fee of 5.94 can be waived with direct deposit of $500 or more in the previous monthly period.
If you qualify for membership to Navy Federal Credit Union, you won’t have to worry about them using ChexSystems. To become a member, you need to be either on active duty or retired from the U.S. military.
There are two free checking accounts from Navy FCU, one of which is Active Duty Checking. There’s no monthly fee, but you’ll need to receive direct deposits from the military.
If you do, you’ll get access to those deposited funds one business day earlier than usual. You also get $20 a month in ATM free rebates.
The other free account from Navy FCU is called EveryDay Checking. It’s a basic account with no opening deposit requirement or minimum balance requirement.
Varo Bank offers a fully digital banking experience with no credit check, no ChexSystems screening, and no hidden fees. It’s a great option for anyone with bad credit who wants fast, easy access to banking tools.
There’s no minimum balance requirement or monthly service fees. You’ll get access to your paycheck up to two days early with direct deposit, plus access to over 40,000 fee-free ATMs through the Allpoint® network.
For savers, Varo offers one of the highest APYs in the industry—up to 5.00% on your savings balance when you meet direct deposit and balance requirements.
Varo also includes automatic savings tools, early alerts, and a sleek mobile app to help you manage money on the go.
Woodforest National Bank operates over 760 branches across 17 states and prioritizes financial inclusivity with its “Second Chance” checking account, created for those facing previous banking challenges.
This account is designed to help individuals rebuild their financial footing and gain reliable access to everyday financial tools.
With a low opening deposit of $25, it’s an accessible choice for those working toward better financial health.
The Second Chance account has a monthly maintenance fee of $9.95 with direct deposits, or $11.95 without, plus a one-time setup fee of $9.00.
To open this account, customers must visit a Woodforest National Bank branch.
BOK Financial’s Opportunity Banking is a checking account created to offer customers a safe and affordable way to manage their finances, regardless of their financial background.
With no overdraft fees, a low monthly fee of only $5, and a low opening deposit requirement, this account offers all the perks of a traditional checking account while remaining affordable and accessible.
Opportunity Banking offers a free Visa® Debit Card, free online and mobile access with bill pay and mobile deposit, and access to over 32,000 ATMs nationwide.
The account also features QuickSave, a tool designed to help customers save money faster by automatically transferring a chosen amount into savings with every qualifying debit card purchase or online bill pay transaction.
Cadence Bank has branches across Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, and Texas.
They provide a range of bank account options to accommodate the unique financial needs of its customers.
Among their offerings are a student checking, high yield checking, and a senior checking account.
By offering tailored personal and business banking solutions, Cadence Bank aims to create lasting relationships and contribute positively to the financial well-being of the communities it serves.
FSNB offers a checking account option for those reported to ChexSystems, allowing new applicants to open an account without a credit check and with a low minimum deposit of just $5.
To avoid the $5.50 monthly statement fee, account holders need to maintain a balance of at least $75.
This account includes a Visa debit card, online account access, and a range of digital tools to make managing finances straightforward.
With FSNB’s online banking, customers can handle transactions, check balances, and pay bills anytime from their computer or mobile device. Additional features include online bill pay and optional overdraft protection.
For those rebuilding their financial history, FSNB provides an accessible, full-featured checking account that supports convenient, everyday money management.
HomeStreet Bank is a customer-oriented regional bank with branches in California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington.
It offers a range of bank accounts with no credit check to meet different customer needs.
These accounts include options with no monthly service charges, low fees, and tools that support financial growth.
HomeStreet Bank provides accounts for individuals new to banking or with a negative checking history, featuring no overdraft fees and low-cost maintenance.
This approach makes banking accessible and affordable for a wide range of customers.
Liberty Savings Bank is a community bank with branches in Colorado, Florida, and Ohio.
They offer a solution for individuals with past banking issues through their Clean Slate Checking account.
This account caters to individuals who have been reported to ChexSystems three times or fewer for account abuse, providing them with the opportunity to improve their financial standing and start anew.
MidWest America Federal Credit Union (MAFCU) serves communities across Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky, providing members with a range of checking and savings accounts to suit different customer needs.
These accounts are structured to help members effectively manage their finances, with benefits like no monthly fees, access to digital banking, and a mobile app for convenient account oversight.
MAFCU also offers accounts that include overdraft protection and competitive interest rates, along with flexible terms designed to make banking more accessible and affordable.
Members can find options that address everyday needs, support savings growth, and offer the convenience of seamless mobile and online management.
Mountain West Bank offers several checking accounts to fit different financial needs and preferences.
Every new account includes free features like a VISA® Debit Card, online and mobile banking, bill pay, mobile check deposit, and eStatements with check images.
You’ll also get a free thank-you gift at account opening and reimbursement for unused checks and debit cards from other banks.
Account options include Totally Free Checking, Easy Interest Checking, 50+ Interest Checking, and Premier Interest Checking.
There’s no minimum opening deposit, and some accounts earn interest—making it easy to choose one that fits your style of banking.
Synovus Bank is a non-ChexSystems bank that is committed to delivering a personal touch to banking, ensuring a seamless experience for customers throughout the Southeast.
Their personal checking accounts come with various useful features. Customers can enjoy unlimited fee-free transactions at Synovus ATMs and Publix® Presto!® ATMs.
Additionally, a contactless Synovus Visa® debit card is provided with no annual or monthly fees.
Deposits are insured by the FDIC up to $250,000, providing customers with a secure and reliable banking experience.
If you’ve been turned down for a bank account due to your banking history and live in West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, or Washington DC, United Bank is worth considering.
They don’t use ChexSystems or Early Warning Services to screen applicants, making it easier to get approved.
United Bank offers three checking account options, including United Free Checking, which has no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements.
A $50 opening deposit is required, but after that, you can manage your money without worrying about surprise fees or balance limits.
A bank account is one of the most important tools for managing your money. Without one, everyday tasks like paying bills, depositing checks, or saving for the future become more difficult and expensive. Here are some of the main benefits:
Pay bills on time: Online bill pay helps you stay current with payments and avoid late fees.
Deposit and access money easily: Skip check-cashing fees and access your paycheck through ATMs and debit cards.
Protect your savings: Funds are insured (up to $250,000 per depositor at FDIC-insured banks), giving you a secure place to store money.
Cut out costly alternatives: Avoid the high fees of prepaid cards or check-cashing services.
Build a financial foundation: A bank account makes it easier to qualify for credit cards, loans, and mortgages later on.
In short, a checking account isn’t just a convenience—it’s the foundation for managing your finances, reducing costs, and setting yourself up for future opportunities.
What Is a Checking Account for Bad Credit?
A checking account for bad credit, often called a second chance checking account, is designed for people who have been denied traditional accounts due to past banking issues or low credit scores. These accounts allow you to access essential banking services while rebuilding your financial record.
They usually come with lower balance requirements and safeguards to help you manage money responsibly, such as blocking overdrafts instead of charging fees. Some banks and credit unions also include budgeting tools or financial education resources.
Over time, consistent use of a bad credit checking account can help you transition into a standard account with fewer restrictions and better perks. For many, it’s the first step toward repairing their financial profile and moving forward with confidence.
Apply at a financial institution that doesn’t use ChexSystems.
Clearing Your ChexSystems Report
If past banking issues are recorded with ChexSystems, disputing these records can improve your chances of approval. You’re entitled to a free ChexSystems report each year, which can help you see what’s affecting your banking eligibility.
If you find inaccurate or outdated information, consider filing a dispute with ChexSystems to correct or remove these records. Removing negative items can open the door to more bank account options.
Some banks and credit unions offer second chance checking accounts, which are specifically for individuals with a troubled banking history. These accounts typically have a small monthly fee or balance requirement, but they’re an excellent option if traditional accounts aren’t available to you.
Additionally, many second-chance accounts provide opportunities to upgrade to a traditional checking account after a period of responsible account management. By keeping your account in good standing, you may qualify for accounts with fewer account fees and more benefits.
Banks That Don’t Use ChexSystems
While most financial institutions pull your ChexSystems record when reviewing applications, there are some banks that don’t use ChexSystems. These banks aren’t necessarily targeting people looking for a bank account with bad credit; they just don’t look at their customers’ banking history. The banks that offer these checking accounts are typically the best for people having trouble getting a bank account.
Whichever option you choose, finding a bank account that works for you can be a practical step toward improving your financial future.
How Bank Accounts for Bad Credit Can Help You Build Credit
A bank account tailored for people with bad credit can be a stepping stone toward financial stability. While most checking accounts don’t report directly to the three major credit bureaus, using one responsibly builds positive habits that lenders value.
Keeping your account in good standing—by avoiding overdrafts, maintaining a balance, and managing deposits regularly—shows financial discipline. Some banks even offer features like overdraft protection or credit-building tools that prevent setbacks and help you stay on track.
Over time, these habits can improve your financial profile and increase your chances of qualifying for traditional accounts, credit cards, or loans with better terms.
Tips for Choosing the Right Bad Credit Checking Account
Not all checking accounts for bad credit are created equal. The best ones make it easier to manage your money while avoiding unnecessary fees. Here are key features to look for:
Low or no minimum balance: Choose an account that doesn’t penalize you for having a small balance.
Reasonable or waivable fees: Some accounts charge monthly fees, but the best options keep them low—or waive them with direct deposit or other activity.
Full digital access: Mobile and online banking should let you pay bills, deposit checks, and transfer money anytime.
Debit card included: Look for a Visa or Mastercard debit card with broad ATM access, so you can skip check-cashing services and prepaid cards.
Overdraft protection options: Linking a savings account or having fee-free overdraft coverage can save you from costly penalties.
By comparing these features, you’ll find an account that not only accepts your application but also helps you rebuild your financial foundation.
Non-ChexSystems Banks by State
Looking for more information and additional options available in your area? Select your state from the list below to explore your options.
