A previous checking account problem can affect your next application, even when the issue happened years ago. Banks may review unpaid balances, forced account closures, suspected fraud, and identity information before opening an account.
TBK Bank offers several checking options, including one with no opening deposit or monthly service charge. Before applying, you should know what the bank says about its screening process and whether its accounts fit your needs.
TBK Bank Doesn’t Publicly Confirm Its ChexSystems Policy
TBK Bank doesn’t state on its website whether it uses ChexSystems to review checking account applications. It also doesn’t promise that applicants with negative ChexSystems records will be approved.
Some third-party sources list TBK Bank as not using ChexSystems, but the bank’s public materials don’t confirm that claim. It’s safer to treat its screening policy as unverified rather than describe TBK Bank as a confirmed non-ChexSystems bank.
TBK Bank may use ChexSystems, another consumer reporting company, or its own account-screening process. The bank may also check your identity and review whether you owe money from a previous TBK Bank account.
Call a local branch before applying if your banking history concerns you. Ask which consumer reporting services the bank checks and whether unpaid balances affect approval.
Launch Checking Has No Monthly Service Charge
TBK Bank’s Launch Checking account is its simplest personal checking option. It has no minimum opening deposit and no monthly service charge.
The account includes:
- Online banking: Review balances, transfers, and account activity online.
- Mobile banking: Manage the account through the TBK Bank mobile app.
- Mobile deposits: Deposit eligible checks with a mobile device.
- Debit card access: Use a debit card for purchases and ATM withdrawals.
- Zelle: Send money to eligible recipients through digital banking.
- Electronic statements: Receive account statements online.
- ATM fee rebates: TBK Bank lists unlimited ATM fee rebates as an account benefit.
Launch Checking can be opened online or at a branch. Its lack of monthly fees may appeal to someone who wants a simple account without balance or deposit requirements.
However, low fees don’t mean guaranteed approval. TBK Bank can still review your application and decline it based on its current policies.
Launch Checking Isn’t Advertised as a Second Chance Account
TBK Bank describes Launch Checking as an account that helps customers get started, but it doesn’t call it a second chance checking account.
That distinction matters. A true second chance account usually has approval rules created for applicants with prior banking problems. TBK Bank doesn’t publicly say that Launch Checking has different screening standards from its other accounts.
Don’t assume the account will accept you solely because it has no opening deposit or monthly fee. Confirm the bank’s policy before submitting an application.
Other TBK Bank Checking Accounts
TBK Bank also offers Everyday Checking and AIM Checking. These accounts include added benefits but may have more requirements.
Everyday Checking is meant for regular banking needs. It includes online banking, mobile banking, debit card access, and other standard services. A monthly service charge may apply unless you meet one of the bank’s waiver requirements.
AIM Checking offers interest and added ATM benefits. It may suit customers who want more account features and can meet its terms.
Launch Checking will probably make the most sense for someone who wants to avoid monthly fees. Compare the latest account disclosures before deciding because fees and benefits can change.
Check Your ChexSystems Consumer Report Before Applying
Even though TBK Bank doesn’t publish its screening provider, you should still review your ChexSystems consumer report before applying.
ChexSystems collects information about deposit account applications, openings, and closures. Its consumer reports may include unpaid negative balances, accounts closed by banks, suspected fraud, and recent applications.
Review the following details:
- Account ownership: Confirm that every listed account belongs to you.
- Outstanding balances: Check whether the reported amounts are correct.
- Payment status: Make sure paid debts no longer appear as unpaid.
- Closure reasons: Review why each bank says the account was closed.
- Dates: Check whether the opening, closure, and payment dates are accurate.
Accurate negative ChexSystems records can remain for five years. Paying a valid debt usually won’t remove the record early, but it should update the balance to show that you paid it.
You can dispute information that’s inaccurate or incomplete. Include copies of payment receipts, account statements, or letters from the bank that support your dispute.
What Else Could Affect Your Application?
A ChexSystems entry isn’t the only reason TBK Bank might turn down an application.
Other possible problems include:
- Identity verification: The bank may decline the application when it can’t confirm your identity.
- Incorrect information: A mistake in your name, address, or Social Security number may stop the review.
- Suspected fraud: Fraud alerts or inconsistent information may lead to additional screening.
- Debt owed to TBK Bank: An unpaid balance from an older TBK Bank account may prevent approval.
- Account eligibility: Some accounts may only be open to people who live within the bank’s service area.
Use the same personal information that appears on your identification documents. Contact TBK Bank when you recently moved or changed your name and aren’t sure which documents to provide.
What to Do if TBK Bank Denies You
Ask TBK Bank whether a consumer reporting company affected the decision. When one did, the bank should provide a notice that identifies the company and explains how to request the consumer report.
Review that information before applying at another bank. The denial may have resulted from ChexSystems, another screening service, or an identity verification issue.
Dispute errors before sending another application. When the information is correct, resolve valid unpaid balances when possible or consider an account with clearly stated second chance approval standards.
Banks and Credit Unions That Skip ChexSystems
If TBK Bank’s features don’t match what you’re looking for, several other financial institutions also offer accounts without ChexSystems screening. Here are a few options to consider:
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
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 450 banks that offer second chance checking accounts.
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.