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12 Credit Unions That Don’t Use ChexSystems in 2023
If you’ve ever been turned down for a checking or savings account, then you’re probably already familiar with ChexSystems. The consumer reporting agency keeps a record of any banking issues you’ve had over the years under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Your ChexSystems report will include things like account overdrafts, bounced checks, and suspected cases of fraud. Many of these items will stay on your report for five years or more.
When you apply to open a new account, most banks and credit unions will use your ChexSystems report to either approve or deny your request. Fortunately, more banks and credit unions are moving away from relying on the ChexSystems report.
12 Credit Unions That Don’t Use ChexSystems
Trying to improve your ChexSystems report can be a hassle, and fortunately, it isn’t always necessary. However, if you’re looking to open a bank account, here are some of the best credit unions that don’t use ChexSystems.
If you or a family member is a military member, then Navy Federal Credit Union is an excellent option for you. NFCU offers checking accounts, savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), money market accounts, and more.
As a member, you’ll have access to more than 300 branch locations across the country, as well as thousands of free ATMs. In addition, Navy Federal has been recognized for offering outstanding customer service to its members.
NFCU’s Free EveryDay Checking account is designed for those looking to rebuild their banking history without the burden of financial commitments. The account comes with no monthly fees and no balance requirements, offering a hassle-free way to manage your finances.
Navy Federal Credit Union also provides a wide variety of lending products at competitive interest rates. However, before you can get started, you’ll need to find out if you qualify to become a member.
America First Credit Union offers free checking and savings accounts to its members. The credit union is based in Utah, and members typically live in western states like Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and Idaho.
Branch locations are limited, but America First does provide a nationwide ATM network. The credit union also provides various savings products with interest rates that are competitive with what many banks offer.
AFCU’s Classic checking account comes with no monthly fees and features such as free online and mobile banking, free online bill pay, and direct deposit. You also get access to over 30,000 fee-free ATMs, which covers all 50 states and 10 countries.
Consumers Credit Union is another credit union that doesn’t use ChexSystems. The Rewards Checking Account earns up to 5% APY on balances up to $10,000.
It also offers unlimited ATM fee reimbursements, access to over 30,000 ATMs and 5,000 branches. Additionally, the checking account offers convenient banking features such as online and mobile banking.
Another great feature of the account is the ability to get paid as much as two days early with early direct deposit. This can be a huge help if you’re living paycheck to paycheck or need to pay bills on time.
There are no monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance requirements. Plus, you can write unlimited checks.
American Airlines Credit Union has an Ascend Checking account that comes with no monthly service charge with direct deposit of $250 or more each month.
With unlimited access to more than 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs, you’ll never have to worry about paying extra to access your own money.
Additionally, you can get your paycheck up to two days early with direct deposit. The credit union also offers a variety of mobile and online banking features such as mobile check deposit, mobile wallet payment options, and free bill pay.
PenFed Credit Union offers several checking accounts. They all come with PenFed’s free Visa Debit Card and access to over 85,000 free ATMs nationwide through Allpoint and Co-op networks.
Additionally, PenFed’s 24/7 digital banking options allow you to manage your account online or through their mobile app.
One of the most appealing features of PenFed’s checking accounts is their “Get Paid Early” option, which allows you to receive your money up to 2 days sooner when you set up direct deposit.
The Free Checking account also has no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements, making it an affordable and accessible option for anyone.
Southwest Financial Federal Credit Union is based in Dallas, but members can join from anywhere, thanks to their 100% virtual services. You can log into your eBrand account to view your accounts, transfer money, and pay bills.
The mobile app allows you to deposit checks, receive account alerts, and view bank statements from the comfort of your home.
In addition, the credit union provides various services, including checking and savings accounts, retirement accounts, and lending products.
And if you ever need to visit an ATM, then Southwest Financial has got you covered. Members can access one of the 55,000 Allpoint ATMs located worldwide.
Texas Trust Credit Union is a suitable option for those who live in select counties in Texas. The credit union offers several checking account options, some of which come with no monthly service fees and no minimum balance requirements.
One of the benefits of Texas Trust Credit Union is their debit card. Members have access to free ATMs owned by Texas Trust, as well as 55,000 fee-free ATMs within the AllPoint™ ATM Network.
This means you can easily access your money without having to pay extra fees. Additionally, the credit union offers unlimited check writing.
With online banking, you can view your account balances, transfer money, and pay bills, all from the comfort of your own home. Mobile banking is also available, which means you can access your bank account information and perform transactions on the go.
Lastly, Texas Trust Credit Union also offers overdraft protection for all of their checking accounts. This feature can help prevent costly overdraft fees and help you manage your money more effectively.
Staley Credit Union caters to members in Illinois, Indiana, and Tennessee.
The credit union offers several checking accounts, but the Staley Renew Checking account is designed for those who have faced difficulties in opening a checking account.
With all checking accounts, you get 24/7 access via online and mobile banking, free bill pay, and a contactless debit card. You also get access to over 30,000 free ATMs nationwide.
Be aware that there is a $50 minimum deposit required and a monthly maintenance fee of $7.
Staley Credit Union is chartered by the state of Illinois and offers account holders insurance coverage up to $500,000 through American Share Insurance and Excess Share Insurance Corporation.
Premier America Credit Union is based in California and Texas. This credit union provides a broad range of financial services and products to its members, including the Fresh Start Checking account, designed for those turned away by other financial institutions.
The checking account comes with a monthly fee of $10 – $13, overdraft protection, and no minimum balance requirement.
To qualify for membership, you can reside, work, attend school, or worship in a qualifying community, or become a member of the Alliance for the Arts.
With Premier America, members have access to online and mobile banking, making it easy to manage your money, transfer funds, and pay bills at your convenience.
Additionally, the credit union offers access to over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs through the CO-OP ATM Network.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Delta Community Credit Union offers its members a hassle-free checking experience.
Delta Community’s checking account offers no monthly fees and overdraft protection. It also offers modern features such as Visa® Debit Cards and seamless Online and Mobile Banking—all without hidden fees or mandatory minimum balances.
The credit union provides a widespread network of surcharge-free ATMs. This vast accessibility ensures members have 24-hour access to their funds, no matter where they are.
For those residing in Atlanta and its neighboring regions, Delta Community Credit Union offers a contemporary approach to personal banking, emphasizing transparency and member-centric services.
With its roots spread across five southern states, Hope Credit Union operates 28 branch locations in Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Alabama, providing its members with a vast local network.
But their reach doesn’t stop there; as part of the Shared Branching Network, members benefit from access to an impressive 5,000+ additional branches nationwide.
Their “Easy Checking” account lives up to its name, offering a straightforward solution for those needing day-to-day banking.
Whether it’s for individuals venturing into the world of checking accounts for the first time, those looking to rebuild their banking history, or people transitioning from payday lenders, this account is designed to be inclusive.
Key features of the Easy Checking account include unlimited paperless transactions, ensuring members can go green while keeping tabs on their finances.
There’s a modest $25 minimum balance and a $9.95 monthly fee, which is effortlessly waived with a balance of just $200. This ensures that even those on tighter budgets can maintain and benefit from a robust checking account without the stress of high fees.
Marking its presence as one of the largest credit unions in Maryland, Tower Federal Credit Union serves members not just in its home state, but also in Virginia and Washington D.C.
With 17 branches strategically placed throughout Maryland, members have easy local access to a suite of financial services.
Central to Tower Federal’s offerings is their free checking account—a no-nonsense solution for members. There are no monthly fees or minimum balance prerequisites, making everyday banking straightforward and hassle-free.
Members’ convenience is heightened with access to over 30,000 fee-free ATMs, allowing them to withdraw cash without incurring extra charges, even beyond Maryland’s borders.
Beyond the brick-and-mortar, Tower Federal Credit Union harnesses technology for its members. With a top-rated mobile app, members can perform their banking tasks 24/7, right from the palm of their hands.
One added perk that distinguishes them is the early pay feature—members using direct deposit can receive their salary up to a day before the standard payout.
Alternatives to Consider
The credit unions that don’t use ChexSystems mentioned may not be suitable for your needs. For example, credit unions tend to have stricter guidelines for memberships, and many are only available to individuals in certain states.
If you’re looking for some other alternatives, here are three banks that don’t use ChexSystems to consider:
No ATM transaction fees at U.S. Bank ATMs and no surcharge fees at MoneyPass® Network ATMs
U.S. Bank is currently welcoming new applicants in 26 U.S. states with a special online offering:
Earn up to $450 when you open a new U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking account and a Standard Savings account online and complete qualifying activities. Subject to certain terms and limitations. Offer valid through November 30, 2023. Member FDIC.
Applicant must reside in AZ, AR, CA, CO, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NM, NC, ND, OH, OR, SD, TN, UT, WA, WI, WY to be eligible for Checking account.
The account includes a complimentary debit card that can be locked or unlocked if ever misplaced or stolen. There are no ATM transaction fees at U.S. Bank ATMs and no surcharge fees at over 40,000 MoneyPass Network ATMs.
The checking account requires a $25 opening deposit and a $6.95 monthly fee. This fee can be waived for those 24 and under, 65 and over, or military members.
Additionally, the fee can be waived with monthly deposits of $1,000+, an average balance of $1,500+, or holding an eligible U.S. Bank credit card. Qualifying for any Smart Rewards™ tier (Primary, Plus, Premium, or Pinnacle) also waives the fee.
The SoFi Checking and Savings account ensures a hassle-free experience with no overdraft fees, minimum balance fees, or monthly fees.
For a limited period, SoFi is offering a rewarding bonus of up to $250 to customers who make qualifying direct deposits. Plus, enjoy access to over 55,000 Allpoint® Network ATMs courtesy of SoFi.
You can also enjoy the convenience of receiving your paycheck up to 2 days in advance with SoFi’s early direct deposit feature.
One of the defining features of SoFi is its impressive annual percentage yield (APY) – a hefty 4.60% on savings and 0.50% on checking balances, all tied to direct deposits. There’s no need for a minimum direct deposit amount to enjoy these rates.
In addition, SoFi debit card users can earn up to 15% cash back at local establishments, providing an extra incentive to make use of SoFi’s comprehensive banking services.
With Chime®, a bad credit score is no longer a deal-breaker. They offer an award-winning mobile bank account and debit card with no credit check.
There are no overdraft fees, no monthly maintenance charges, no foreign transaction fees, and no minimum balance fees—ever.
They offer over 60,000 surcharge fee-free1 ATMs. Plus, you can get your paycheck up to 2 days earlier with direct deposit2. Chime is one of the best second chance banking options available.
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.
1. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply with Chime except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.
2. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. Chime generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ChexSystems?
ChexSystems is a consumer reporting agency that banks and credit unions use to check the banking history of potential customers. This information can include whether someone has a history of bounced checks, unpaid fees, or other banking-related issues.
If someone has a negative record on ChexSystems, they may be denied a bank account or be offered an account with restricted features.
Why do credit unions use ChexSystems?
Credit unions, like banks, use ChexSystems as a way to verify a potential customer’s banking history and to help identify potential risks. ChexSystems provides credit unions with information about a consumer’s previous banking experiences, such as whether the potential customer has had a history of bounced checks or unpaid fees.
This information can help a credit union assess the risk of opening an account for a particular individual and can also be used to establish account terms and conditions.
Furthermore, the credit union may use ChexSystems to comply with federal regulations requiring them to verify the identity of their customers and detect and prevent money laundering.
Do all credit unions use ChexSystems?
While most of them do, there are plenty of credit unions that don’t use ChexSystems. Credit unions can be a great alternative to traditional banks for people who have been flagged by ChexSystems. Unlike banks, credit unions are not-for-profit organizations that are owned and controlled by their members.
This means that they may be more willing to work with people who have a negative banking history. Many credit unions do not use ChexSystems or have more lenient policies when it comes to opening bank accounts for people with a ChexSystems record.
If you’ve been turned down for a checking or savings account due to a poor ChexSystems report, there are still options available to you. All the credit unions and banks outlined in this article will let you open an account without looking at your ChexSystems report. You can also check out our list of second chance checking accounts for more options.
This will make it easier for you to continue to pay your bills and go about your daily life. In the meantime, you can work to improve your ChexSystems report by utilizing good banking habits.
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.
Jamie Johnson is a freelance writer who has been featured in publications like InvestorPlace and GOBankingRates. She writes about various personal finance topics including student loans, credit cards, investing, building credit, and more.
