If you’ve been denied a checking account because of past banking issues, you’re not alone. Overdrafts, unpaid fees, or account closures can stay on your record for years, making it harder to start fresh.
Fortunately, not every financial institution treats banking history the same way. Knowing which banks use ChexSystems—and which don’t—can make all the difference when reopening an account.
How ChexSystems Affects Your Banking Options
ChexSystems is a consumer reporting agency that tracks certain banking activities such as overdrafts, unpaid fees, and closed accounts. Records can remain on file for up to five years and may affect your ability to open new accounts.
Since around 80% of banks and credit unions rely on ChexSystems, a single negative entry can make it harder to qualify for a standard checking account.
Bank OZK’s ChexSystems Policy
Bank OZK does use ChexSystems when reviewing new account applications. If your ChexSystems report shows negative marks, such as unpaid balances or repeated overdrafts, it could affect your approval for a checking or savings account.
Bank OZK also does not offer a second chance checking account, which may limit options for people who are rebuilding their banking history.
How to Move Forward After Being Denied
A denial can feel discouraging, but there are still ways to rebuild. Some banks and credit unions don’t use ChexSystems at all, while others offer accounts designed specifically for people recovering from financial setbacks.
These options usually include core features like debit card access, direct deposit, and mobile banking, giving you full control over your finances without extra barriers.
Banks That Don’t Use ChexSystems
If Bank OZK isn’t an option, here are some trusted alternatives that make opening a checking account much easier:
SoFi
- Up to $300 sign-up bonus with direct deposit
- No minimum opening deposit
- Earn up to 3.60% APY
- Over 55,000 fee-free ATMs
- Early pay with direct deposit
Current
- Build credit and earn points with every swipe
- No minimum opening deposit or maintenance fees
- Get paid up to 2 days faster
- No credit check or ChexSystems
Chime
- Up to 3.75% APY on a high-yield savings account
- Over 47,000+ fee-free ATMs
- Up to $200 fee-free overdraft coverage
- Get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit
Learn More
- Banks That Don’t Use ChexSystems – Take the first step to rebuilding your banking history with our list of banks that do not use ChexSystems for account approval.
- Credit Unions That Don’t Use ChexSystems – Find a credit union that will work with you, not against you. Learn about the credit unions that don’t use ChexSystems.
- Am I in ChexSystems? – Unsure if you’re in ChexSystems? Learn how to find out and take control of your financial status.
- How to Get Out of ChexSystems – Learn how to get out of ChexSystems in four simple steps.
- Second Chance Checking Accounts – Take control of your financial future with our list of over 250 banks that offer second chance checking accounts.
