Second Chance Checking Accounts in Rhode Island

Getting denied for a checking account in Rhode Island often comes down to past issues like overdrafts, unpaid fees, or a closed account. Many banks use ChexSystems or similar databases to screen applicants, making approval harder after financial mistakes.

Second chance checking accounts can help you rebuild your banking history and get reliable access to everyday financial tools.

6 Banks & Credit Unions Offering Second Chance Bank Accounts in Rhode Island

Below is a list of second chance banks and credit unions in Rhode Island that can help you open a new account, even if your banking history isn’t perfect.

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.

Berkshire Bank

Berkshire Bank offers MyFreedom Checking, a second chance account designed for individuals working to rebuild their banking access.

The account requires only $10 to open and includes no monthly fees, no overdraft charges, free mobile banking with mobile deposit, and a free debit card.

MyFreedom Checking is BankOn certified and provides access to Berkshire Bank ATMs along with GreenPath Financial Wellness resources.

Berkshire Bank operates branches in Middletown, Newport, Wakefield, and Westerly.

Centreville Bank

Centreville Bank provides EmPower Banking, a BankOn-certified second chance account for those needing affordable, accessible checking.

It requires a $10 opening deposit and carries a $5 monthly maintenance fee.

The account includes free online and mobile banking, customizable alerts, free debit card access, and surcharge-free use of Centreville Bank ATMs.

Centreville Bank has branches in Coventry, Cranston, Middletown, Newport, North Kingstown, Providence, Smithfield, Warwick, and West Warwick.

Navigant Credit Union

Navigant Credit Union offers New Beginnings Checking, a second chance option for members rebuilding their financial history.

The account has a $10 opening deposit and provides essential features such as online and mobile banking, bill pay, mobile deposits, and the ability to pair with a New Beginnings Savings account for convenient ATM access.

The monthly fee can be reduced with direct deposit enrollment.

Navigant Credit Union serves Cranston, Cumberland, Lincoln, North Kingstown, North Providence, Pawtucket, Providence, Smithfield, Warwick, Woonsocket, and other Rhode Island communities.