Getting denied for a checking account can make everyday banking feel out of reach. If that’s happened to you, the good news is that several banks make it easier to open an account, even if you’ve had problems in the past.
BMO Harris is a respected regional bank with a large presence across the Midwest. It offers a range of checking options, savings accounts, and digital tools for everyday money management. Before applying, it’s important to understand how BMO Harris evaluates new applicants and what to expect if you have a challenging banking history.
How ChexSystems Impacts Banking Access
ChexSystems is a consumer reporting agency that tracks certain types of banking activity, including overdrafts, unpaid fees, and closed accounts. These records can remain active for up to five years, and roughly 80% of banks and credit unions in the U.S. use this system when reviewing new account applications.
If your record contains negative entries, it may prevent you from opening an account at many traditional banks. This can limit access to key services such as debit cards, direct deposit, and online bill pay. However, not all banks rely on ChexSystems, and several provide easy, low-barrier accounts to help customers rebuild their financial standing.
BMO Harris’s ChexSystems Policy
BMO Harris does use ChexSystems when reviewing new checking account applications. If your record includes unpaid fees, overdrafts, or closed accounts, it could impact your ability to get approved.
At this time, BMO Harris does not offer a second chance checking account, so customers with negative records may need to look elsewhere to open a new account.
Banks That Don’t Rely on ChexSystems
If ChexSystems is keeping you from opening an account at BMO Harris, there are other banks that can help you move forward. These options focus on accessibility, quick approval, and modern online banking features to make managing your money 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.
