If you’ve been turned down for a checking account because of past banking issues, you’re not alone. Many people face the same challenge after unpaid fees, overdrafts, or account closures appear on their record.
Fortunately, several banks—including Wells Fargo—offer account options designed to help you move forward and rebuild your financial foundation.
Why ChexSystems Can Affect Your Banking Access
ChexSystems is a consumer reporting agency that tracks certain banking activities such as overdrafts, unpaid fees, and closed accounts. These records can remain on your ChexSystems report for up to five years, making it harder to open new accounts.
Since about 80% of banks and credit unions in the United States use ChexSystems, having a negative record can limit your access to standard banking products.
Wells Fargo’s Account Review Process
Wells Fargo does not use ChexSystems when evaluating new account applications. Instead, they rely on Early Warning Services (EWS), another consumer reporting agency owned by several major banks.
If your EWS report contains negative marks—such as unpaid balances or reported fraud—it could still impact your ability to open a traditional checking account with Wells Fargo.
Wells Fargo’s Clear Access Banking Account
For those who have had issues in the past, Wells Fargo offers the Clear Access Banking account. This is a second chance checking option designed to help customers reestablish a positive banking history.
The Clear Access account does not include overdraft coverage, which helps prevent additional fees, and it provides essential banking tools like debit card access, mobile banking, and online bill pay.
Banks That Don’t Use ChexSystems
If you’re looking for more flexibility, several banks and credit unions do not use ChexSystems at all. These alternatives make it easier to open an account and begin rebuilding your financial profile.
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.
