Managing your finances requires a reliable checking account. But what happens when past financial issues lead to denial?
Not to worry, there’s a solution. Second Chance Checking is an opportunity for individuals facing financial difficulties to regain control and improve their banking history.
With no opening deposit required, numerous banks and credit unions now provide this chance for a fresh start. This article will uncover the top second chance checking accounts, and where to find accounts with no deposit needed.
9 Second Chance Checking Accounts with No Minimum Opening Deposit
1. SoFi
Features & Benefits
- Sign-up bonus up to $250 with qualifying direct deposits
- No monthly fee
- Earn up to 4.50% APY on savings
- Over 55,000 fee-free ATMs
2. Chime®
Features & Benefits
- Over 14.5 million downloads
- No credit check or ChexSystems
- No minimum opening deposit
- Over 60,000+ fee-free1 ATMs
3. Current
Features & Benefits
- No minimum opening deposit
- Fee-free overdraft up to $200 with Overdrive
- 40,000 fee-free Allpoint ATMs in the U.S.
- Get paid up to 2 days faster
4. GO2bank
Features & Benefits
- No ChexSystems or credit check
- 4.50% APY on savings
- Over 19,000 fee-free ATMs
- $5 monthly fee can be waived
5. Chase
Features & Benefits
- $100 bonus after 10 purchases in 60 days
- Over 16,000+ fee-free ATMs
- Over 4,700 branches nationwide
- $4.95 monthly service fee
- No credit check or ChexSystems
6. Navy Federal Credit Union
Features & Benefits
- 4 free checking accounts to choose from
- No monthly service fees
- No minimum balance
- Up to $20 in ATM fee rebates per statement period
7. Capital One 360
Features & Benefits
- No minimum deposit
- No monthly maintenance fees
- Mobile direct deposit
- 70,000 fee-free ATMs
8. Varo
Features & Benefits
- No monthly fees
- No minimum opening deposit
- Online banking with mobile deposits and bill pay
- 55,000+ fee-free ATMs
9. Huntington National Bank
Features & Benefits
- No monthly fees
- No minimum opening deposit
- Online banking with mobile deposits and bill pay
- 55,000+ fee-free ATMs
Can I open a bank account with bad credit?
Having bad credit can make it seem like getting approved for a checking or savings account is an impossible feat. But, fear not! There are still solutions available for those in need of managing their finances.
Second Chance Checking accounts are designed specifically for individuals who have struggled in the past, and can offer a lifeline. Some of them may lack some perks of traditional accounts. But, most of them have the same essential features, and some of them (like the ones listed above) offer the best benefits and features available today.
Can I open a bank account with no opening deposit?
It’s entirely possible to start managing your finances without having to put down an initial deposit. In fact, many banks and credit unions offer checking and savings accounts that don’t require a minimum deposit. This can be especially beneficial for people who are just starting out, or who may not have a lot of money available to put into an account right away.
However, keep in mind that while some institutions may not require an opening deposit, they may impose other fees or restrictions. For instance, they may charge a monthly maintenance fee unless specific conditions are met such as maintaining a minimum balance or enrolling in direct deposit. Before opening an account, thoroughly review its terms and conditions to ensure that it aligns with your financial goals.

Steps for Opening a Second Chance Checking Account with No Deposit
Here are the steps to follow to open a second chance checking account with no deposit:
- Start by researching different banks and credit unions that offer second chance checking accounts without an opening deposit.
- Gather the necessary documentation, such as proof of identification, proof of income, and proof of residency. Each financial institution may have different requirements, so be sure to check their specific list of necessary items.
- Submit your application, either online or in person, and await approval. The application process is generally quick and easy, taking only a few minutes to complete.
- After a brief wait, your second chance checking account will be approved and ready to use. With online banks, approval is often immediate, other times you may have to wait a few business days,
- Finally, fund your account and start managing your finances. Unlike traditional checking accounts, many second chance checking accounts with no deposit won’t require you to deposit money to activate it. Get a new start today with a second chance checking account.
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.
1. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply with Chime except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.
2. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. Chime 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.
7. To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.