Does FSNB Use ChexSystems?

Updated

Past banking problems don’t have to prevent you from opening another checking account. FSNB takes a different approach from banks that reject applicants based on negative deposit account history.

Formerly known as Fort Sill National Bank, FSNB offers checking accounts with low opening deposits and no credit check. Its branch network is concentrated in several states, but customers can also apply online.

FSNB Doesn’t Use ChexSystems

FSNB doesn’t use ChexSystems when reviewing checking account applications. Past overdrafts, unpaid bank balances, and involuntary account closures listed in your ChexSystems consumer report shouldn’t prevent you from opening an account.

FSNB also states that its checking accounts don’t require a credit check. Your traditional credit score and credit report shouldn’t determine whether you qualify.

The bank still verifies your identity and reviews the information you provide. An application may be denied because of suspected fraud, incorrect personal information, or money previously owed directly to FSNB.

Basic Checking Requires Only $5 to Open

FSNB Basic Checking requires a $5 opening deposit. The account includes unlimited check writing, a Visa debit card, online banking, and access to FSNB ATMs without a transaction fee.

The account can also earn interest when the balance reaches at least $500. The current annual percentage yield is low, so the account’s main appeal is its easy opening requirements rather than its interest earnings.

Basic Checking includes:

  • Visa debit card: Make purchases and withdraw cash without a monthly or annual debit card fee.
  • Unlimited checks: Write personal checks without a transaction limit from FSNB.
  • Online banking: Check balances, transfer money, and pay bills from a computer or mobile device.
  • Savings Round Up: Round eligible debit card purchases and move the difference into savings.
  • Early direct deposit: Receive eligible electronic deposits before the scheduled payment date.
  • FSNB ATM access: Use FSNB ATMs without paying an FSNB transaction fee.

These features make Basic Checking a practical option for someone who has been denied by banks that rely on ChexSystems.

Basic Checking May Charge a Balance Fee

Basic Checking charges a $6.50 fee when the balance falls below $100 during the applicable account cycle. FSNB also charges $3.50 for itemized paper statements, but customers can avoid that charge by choosing electronic statements.

Keeping at least $100 in the account can prevent the balance fee. Customers who expect to maintain a smaller balance should include the possible charge when comparing FSNB with no-fee online accounts.

FSNB’s published checking comparison also lists accounts with monthly charges that can be waived through direct deposit. Read the account disclosure closely because fees differ by checking account.

Career Checking Rewards Direct Deposit

FSNB Career Checking is another option for customers who receive a regular paycheck or government benefit electronically.

The account charges a $6.50 monthly maintenance fee when it doesn’t receive a direct deposit during the statement cycle. Customers who meet the direct deposit requirement avoid that fee.

Career Checking also requires $5 to open and includes:

  • No credit check: FSNB doesn’t review your traditional credit report when you apply.
  • Interest earnings: The account earns interest when the balance reaches at least $500.
  • Debit card access: The Visa debit card has no monthly or annual card fee.
  • Unlimited check writing: The account supports paper checks.
  • Electronic banking: Online banking and bill payment are included.
  • No FSNB ATM fee: FSNB doesn’t charge a transaction fee at its own ATMs.

Career Checking may cost less than Basic Checking when you receive direct deposit but don’t expect to keep at least $100 in the account.

FSNB Isn’t Limited to Military Customers

FSNB has strong ties to military communities, but you don’t need to serve in the military to open an account. The bank accepts applications from members of the public who meet its identity and account-opening requirements.

Branches are often located on military installations and inside Walmart stores. FSNB also allows eligible customers to open checking and savings accounts online.

Online applicants should prepare a Social Security number, government-issued identification, contact information, and the required opening deposit. FSNB may request more information when it can’t confirm an applicant’s identity electronically.

Watch the Overdraft Fees

FSNB’s flexible account-opening policy doesn’t mean the checking accounts are free from overdraft charges.

The bank offers overdraft protection that may cover eligible transactions when the account lacks enough money. FSNB charges $20 for each transaction that causes an overdraft under the service.

Its overdraft terms also state that paid or returned items may each receive a $20 fee. The bank limits overdraft fees to seven per day, which could result in as much as $140 in daily charges.

Account alerts and regular balance checks can reduce that risk. Pay attention to pending debit card purchases and deposit holds because they can change how much money is available to spend.

FSNB Can Help After a Bank Account Denial

FSNB may be worth considering when ChexSystems information has prevented you from opening an account elsewhere. The bank’s $5 opening deposit and no-credit-check policy keep the initial requirements low.

Basic Checking works best when you can maintain at least $100 and prefer electronic statements. Career Checking may be the better choice when you receive direct deposit each month.

Before applying, compare the possible balance fees and overdraft charges with other banks that don’t use ChexSystems. The easiest account to open isn’t always the least expensive account to keep.

Other Banks That Don’t Use ChexSystems

While FSNB is a great place to start, you have more options. Several other banks and credit unions also skip ChexSystems checks, giving you the same freedom to open an account and manage your money without stress.

Crediful’s rating

SoFi

  • Up to $400 sign-up bonus with direct deposit
  • No minimum opening deposit
  • Earn up to 3.80% APY
  • Over 55,000 fee-free ATMs
  • Early pay with direct deposit
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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
Crediful’s rating

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

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Jake Caldwell
Meet the author

Jake is a personal finance writer with a background in consumer lending and credit counseling. He specializes in credit education, debt management, and helping readers understand the financial systems that affect their daily lives. His goal is simple: cut through the jargon and give people the information they actually need.