If you’ve been turned down for a new checking account, ChexSystems might be the reason. Santander Bank does use ChexSystems to review applications, which means a negative record could make it harder to get approved.
ChexSystems tracks your banking activity — things like unpaid overdrafts, bounced checks, or accounts closed with a balance. That information can stay on file for up to five years and may affect your ability to open new accounts during that time.
How ChexSystems Affects Your Banking Options
Most banks and credit unions—around 80%—rely on ChexSystems reports to decide whether to approve new accounts. If your report has negative marks, your application can be denied automatically.
That doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Several financial institutions either skip ChexSystems entirely or offer more flexible options for customers who want a fresh start.
Santander’s ChexSystems Policy
Santander Bank checks ChexSystems when you apply for a checking account. If your report includes unpaid fees or prior account closures, there’s a strong chance your application could be declined.
If that happens, you still have options. A number of banks and credit unions don’t use ChexSystems and are much easier to work with if you’ve had banking issues in the past.
Best Banks That Don’t Use ChexSystems
Here are some strong alternatives if you can’t open a checking account at Santander:
SoFi
- Up to $300 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
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.
