Getting denied for a checking account can feel discouraging, especially when you’re trying to get your finances back on track. The good news is that several banks make it easier to open an account, even if you’ve had problems in the past.
Comerica Bank is a well-known regional institution that serves customers across multiple states, offering both personal and business banking services. Before applying for a new account, it helps to understand how this bank evaluates new applicants and what to expect if you have prior banking issues.
How ChexSystems Can Affect Banking Access
ChexSystems is a consumer reporting agency that collects information about certain banking activity, such as overdrafts, unpaid fees, and closed accounts. These records can stay active for up to five years, and roughly 80% of banks and credit unions in the United States use this system when reviewing new applications.
If your record contains negative marks, it can make it harder to open an account at many financial institutions. This can limit access to key services like direct deposit, debit cards, and online bill payments. However, not every bank uses ChexSystems, and some offer second chance or no-ChexSystems accounts to help you start over.
Comerica Bank’s Policy on ChexSystems
Comerica Bank does use ChexSystems when reviewing new checking account applications. If your record shows unpaid fees, overdrafts, or past account closures, it could affect your ability to get approved.
Currently, Comerica does not offer a second chance checking account, which may make it harder to open a new account if you have negative marks on your record.
Better Banking Alternatives
If Comerica’s use of ChexSystems is preventing you from opening an account, there are other banks and fintech companies that can help. These options offer easy approval, modern mobile tools, and fee-free banking designed for flexibility and accessibility.
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.
