Second Chance Checking Accounts in New York

If you’ve been denied a checking account in New York, negative banking history such as unpaid fees or account closures could be the reason. Many banks review your ChexSystems record before approving new accounts.

Second chance checking accounts give you a way to start fresh and work toward rebuilding your banking history.

9 Banks & Credit Unions Offering Second Chance Bank Accounts in New York

Below is a list of banks and credit unions in New York offering second chance accounts to help you get back on track.

Current

Our Top Pick

Features & Benefits

  • Build credit automatically with your debit card activity
  • No monthly fees or minimum deposit required
  • Over 40,000 Allpoint ATMs nationwide
  • Early direct deposit—get paid up to 2 days sooner

Current gives you a simple way to open a checking account without ChexSystems or credit checks. You can start building credit by using your debit card for everyday purchases—no loans, hard inquiries, or interest involved.

There’s no minimum balance to maintain, no hidden fees, and access to thousands of fee-free ATMs across the U.S.

Current’s Premium account also includes early direct deposit and Savings Pods that earn up to 4.00% APY, helping your money grow without sacrificing flexibility.

Chime

Features & Benefits

  • No ChexSystems checks or credit pull
  • Open an account with no minimum deposit
  • Access over 60,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide
  • Optional secured credit card to help build credit

Chime makes it easy to open a checking account, even if your banking history isn’t perfect. There are no monthly fees, no foreign transaction charges, and no minimum balance required.

You can also boost your credit with the Chime Credit Builder Visa®—a secured card with no credit check, no annual fee, and no interest charges.

Chime gives you access to over 60,000 fee-free ATMs, early direct deposit, and cash deposit options at more than 8,500 Walgreens locations.

SoFi

Features & Benefits

  • Earn up to $300 with qualifying direct deposit
  • No monthly fees or minimum balance requirements
  • Up to 3.80% APY on savings balances
  • Access to 55,000+ fee-free ATMs

SoFi’s Checking and Savings account is designed to help you keep more of your money. There are no monthly maintenance fees, no overdraft fees, and no minimums to worry about.

Set up direct deposit, and you can unlock a sign-up bonus of up to $300, plus earn a competitive 3.80% APY on your savings. Checking accounts earn 0.50% APY as well.

You’ll also have access to over 55,000 fee-free ATMs and the ability to get paid up to two days early with direct deposit.

Adirondack Regional Federal Credit Union

Adirondack Regional Federal Credit Union offers New Beginnings Checking, a second chance account for individuals working to rebuild their banking history.

The account requires a $25 opening deposit and comes with a low monthly fee. You’ll receive a Visa debit card, access to online and mobile banking, and free eStatements.

After maintaining the account in good standing for 12 months, members may be eligible to upgrade to a standard checking account.

ADK Credit Union has branches in Malone, Tupper Lake, and Potsdam, New York.

Alternatives Federal Credit Union

Alternatives Federal Credit Union offers Fresh Start Checking, a second chance account designed to help rebuild your financial history.

The account has no minimum balance or opening deposit and includes unlimited check writing.

After three months of positive account activity, you may qualify for a Visa debit card.

Alternatives FCU has branches in Ithaca and Rochester, New York.

Financial Trust Federal Credit Union

Financial Trust Federal Credit Union provides 2nd Chance Checking for those looking to reestablish their banking history.

The account includes unlimited check writing, free bill pay, direct deposit access, and a Visa debit card. There’s a $10 monthly maintenance fee and no transaction limits.

Financial Trust FCU has locations in Blasdell, Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Grand Island, Hanover, Orchard Park, and West Seneca.

Fulton Savings Bank

Fulton Savings Bank offers New Opportunity Checking for individuals with a negative banking history.

The account provides unlimited check writing, direct deposit, a free debit card, and full access to online, mobile, and phone banking. There’s a $9.95 monthly fee, reduced to $7.95 with direct deposit.

Fulton Savings Bank has branches in Baldwinsville, Brewerton, Central Square, Constantia, Fulton, and Phoenix.

Genesee Valley Federal Credit Union

Genesee Valley Federal Credit Union provides Fresh Start Checking for those working to overcome banking challenges.

The account has no minimum balance requirement and includes essential banking services for a small monthly fee.

After six months of positive account history, you may request an upgrade to a standard account.

Genesee Valley FCU has branches in Dansville, Geneseo, and Warsaw, New York.

Webster Bank

Webster Bank offers Opportunity Checking for individuals seeking a second chance account.

It requires a $50 opening deposit, with a $16.95 monthly fee that drops to $11.95 if you enroll in direct deposit.

The account includes mobile banking, free bill pay, a debit card, and access to over 300 surcharge-free ATMs.

Webster Bank has branches throughout New York, including Astoria, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Flushing, Jamaica, Manhattan, Queens, Rego Park, Valley Stream, and Yonkers.