17 Bank Accounts for Bad Credit for October 2025

Having trouble getting approved for a bank account because of past overdrafts or a negative ChexSystems record? You’re not alone—and fortunately, plenty of banks still say yes.

Most traditional banks use ChexSystems or pull your credit report when screening new applicants. If you’ve ever had a closed account, bounced checks, or unpaid fees, that history can make it harder to get approved. But not every bank holds that against you.

Some banks skip ChexSystems entirely, while others offer second chance checking accounts designed to help you rebuild. In this guide, we’ve highlighted the 10 best accounts that make approval easy, plus 7 more options worth considering if you need additional choices.

10 Best Bank Accounts for Bad Credit

The accounts below are the easiest to qualify for if you’ve had past banking issues. They skip ChexSystems or credit checks, keep fees low, and offer useful features like early direct deposit, large ATM networks, and mobile tools that make everyday money management simple.

7 Other Bank Accounts Worth Considering

If none of the top picks fit your needs, these additional accounts are also available. They may be better suited depending on where you live, your banking preferences, or whether you qualify for membership.

• Southwest Financial Federal Credit Union: Offers no-fee checking with nationwide ATM access.
• Wells Fargo Clear Access Banking: Simple account with a $5 monthly fee waived for younger users.
• Cadence Bank My Way Checking: Second chance account with an $8 monthly fee, waived if you meet activity requirements.
• United Bank: Regional bank with rewards and discounts if you meet monthly deposit or transaction minimums.
• Huntington National Bank: Offers Asterisk-Free Checking with no monthly fee, though they do use ChexSystems.
• Varo: Online-only bank with no fees and up to 5.00% APY on savings.
• Regions Now Checking: Basic account with an $8 monthly fee (or $5 with e-statements).

What Is a Bank Account for Bad Credit?

A bank account for bad credit is tailored for individuals with an unfavorable banking history, often denied by traditional banks due to issues like bounced checks, overdrafts, and unpaid negative balances.

Bad credit bank accounts, provided by some financial institutions, include essential services such as debit cards, online and mobile banking, and check-writing abilities. Key advantages of these accounts are their ease of opening, low fees, and no credit checks or ChexSystems reports.

What Is ChexSystems and How It Works

ChexSystems is a consumer reporting agency that banks and credit unions use to review your banking history before approving a new account. Think of it as the banking version of a credit bureau.

Your ChexSystems report tracks past account activity, such as:

• Overdrafts that weren’t repaid
• Bounced checks
• Unpaid bank fees
• Accounts closed with a negative balance
• Suspected fraud or account misuse

If your report shows unpaid balances or repeated issues, many banks may deny your application. Negative records usually stay on your ChexSystems report for up to five years.

Not every bank relies on ChexSystems, though. Some skip it entirely, while others offer second chance checking accounts that give you a fresh start even if your history isn’t perfect.

See also: How to Get Out of ChexSystems

How to Open a Bank Account With No Credit Check or ChexSystems

Getting a bank account without a credit check is more accessible than ever. Many banks now offer options for people with bad credit or a negative ChexSystems report—and the features are just as good as traditional accounts.

There are two main types of accounts to consider:

Banks That Don’t Use ChexSystems

Some banks don’t use ChexSystems entirely when reviewing new applicants. That means your past overdrafts, unpaid fees, or closed accounts won’t be held against you.

These accounts function just like any standard checking account. You’ll get access to:

• Online and mobile banking
• Debit card for everyday purchases
• Bill pay and mobile check deposit
• FDIC or NCUA insurance

Approval is typically fast, and many accounts have no monthly fees or minimum deposit requirements.

Second Chance Checking Accounts

Second chance checking accounts are designed for people who’ve been denied by other banks. They may still check your ChexSystems report, but they’re more forgiving—and focused on helping you rebuild.

These accounts often include:

• Fixed monthly fees (usually $5–10)
• Standard banking features like overdraft protection, mobile tools, and bill pay
• A path to upgrade to a regular checking account with responsible use

If you’ve had banking problems in the past, second chance accounts can be a smart stepping stone to getting back on track.

Tips for Choosing the Best Bank Account With Bad Credit

If you’ve been denied a bank account due to past overdrafts or unpaid fees, finding the right account can help you regain financial stability. Here’s what to look for:

• No credit checks: Some banks don’t use ChexSystems or run credit checks, making approval easier if you’ve had banking issues.
• Low or no fees: Look for accounts with no monthly fees or ones that can be waived with direct deposits or minimum balances.
• Overdraft protection: Some banks offer fee-free overdraft coverage or options like linked accounts or small-dollar loans to prevent expensive fees.
• ATM access: A large fee-free ATM network ensures you won’t pay extra to withdraw cash when needed.
• Mobile banking features: Online bill pay, mobile check deposit, and instant transfers make managing your money easier.
• FDIC or NCUA insurance: Make sure your account is insured to protect your deposits in case the bank or credit union fails.

Choosing the right account can help you avoid more fees, rebuild trust with banks, and finally get back in control of your money.

Final Thoughts

Getting denied for a bank account doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Whether you’ve had overdrafts, unpaid fees, or a negative ChexSystems report, there are still plenty of banks that offer easy approval—with features that match or beat traditional accounts.

The key is finding the right fit. Look for an account with low fees, strong mobile tools, and no hidden screening. Once you’re in, use it wisely to rebuild trust with the banking system—and put yourself in a stronger financial position moving forward.