Why do I keep getting denied to open a bank account?
You can be denied a checking account for a number of reasons, such as negative marks in your banking history, suspicions of fraud or an inability to verify your identity. Read on to find out why banks may turn down your checking account application and what your options are.
A bank can deny your request to open an account because of past accounts that were closed due to negative balances, a history of overdrafts or problems verifying your identity.
Such negative activities that show up on your report and hurt your approval chances include bouncing checks, leaving an overdraft balance unpaid, abusing a debit card or applying for too many accounts in a short period of time, according to credit bureau Experian.
Common reasons consumers are turned down for a bank account include a history of overdrafts, unpaid bank fees or suspected fraud. Applications can also be denied due to mistakes on one's checking account report. If you've been denied a bank account, ask the bank why this happened.
- Applying for a different current account. Each bank has different eligibility rules, meaning you may be able to get an account elsewhere. ...
- Getting a basic bank account. ...
- Considering a prepaid card. ...
- Talking to a credit union.
- Get a copy of your ChexSystems report.
- Dispute errors in your report.
- Settle your debts.
- Request an updated report.
- Other possible actions.
- Consider a second-chance checking account.
Second-chance checking accounts allow those who have been denied a traditional account to open a specialized one to help them build a strong financial foundation. Financial institutions offering second-change checking accounts include Capital One, Chime, GO2bank, GTE Financial, Fifth Third, Varo and Wells Fargo.
Requirements for opening a checking account generally include a valid, government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID or passport. You'll also need basic personal information, such as your birthdate, Social Security number, taxpayer identification number or phone number.
Banks and credit unions want to learn about your financial past before establishing an account with you. They do this by running a bank history report on you. Like a credit check, this report highlights the consumer's financial behavior, but for bank accounts instead of credit cards.
Bank / Credit Union | Forbes Advisor Rating | LEARN MORE |
---|---|---|
Capital One 360 Checking Account | 4.5 | |
Chime® Checking Account | 4.4 | Learn More On Chime's Website |
LendingClub Bank Rewards Checking | 4.2 | Learn More Read Our Full Review |
Varo Bank Account | 4.1 | Learn More Read Our Full Review |
How to get a bank account with bad ChexSystems?
Many credit unions will open an account for you if you can reasonably explain why you haven't paid a ChexSystems debt, and some credit unions will not pull a report on you even if you do have poor history. Call and ask to speak to the branch manager or other bank official.
How long does negative information stay on ChexSystems and/or EWS consumer reports? Generally, negative information remains on ChexSystems and/or Early Warning Services (EWS) consumer reports for five years. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, certain negative information may be reported for up to seven years.
Order a ChexSystems report by phone.
Consumers can request a ChexSystems report over the phone by calling 1-800-428-9623.
TABLE_CELL_STYLE | Co-op Cashminder | Santander Basic Current Account |
---|---|---|
Accepts those with an undischarged bankruptcy | Yes | Yes |
Accepts those in an IVA, DMP, DRO or discharged bankruptcy | Yes | Yes |
Accepts those with a record of fraud | No | No |
Minimum age | 16 | 16 |
While most banks and credit unions use ChexSystems or another consumer reporting agency, there are several that offer what's called second-chance banking. These financial institutions either don't check your ChexSystems report at all, or they're willing to look past some negative items.
- File a dispute online (chexsystems.com).
- File a dispute using certified mail with return receipt requested, so you have proof they received it. Download the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's Sample Letter (consumerfinance.gov). Send it to: ChexSystems, Inc. Attn: Consumer Relations.
If you prefer, you may submit a five-year opt-out request by calling ChexSystems' opt-out request line at 877. OPTOUT 5 (877.678. 6885).
Account | Annual Percentage Yield | Minimum Deposit Requirement |
---|---|---|
Navy Federal Credit Union Free EveryDay Checking | 0.01% | $0 |
Capital One 360 Checking Account | 0.10% | $0 |
Chase Secure Banking℠ | N/A | $0 |
Chime® Checking Account | None | $0 |
You can be denied an account if you're in debt to another bank because of an overdrawn account or overdraw your account too often.
Chime Second Chance Banking
Chime is an online-only fintech company that offers banking services through The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A. Its Second Chance Banking option boasts no monthly fees and no credit or ChexSystems check.
Is it better to open a bank account online or in person?
Online banks offer higher interest rates on savings products and lower interest rates on loans. If you need to deposit cash regularly, you'll likely want the convenience of a brick-and-mortar bank's ATM network.
- Key takeaways.
- What are the easiest bank accounts to open online?
- Discover: Best for getting cash back on purchases.
- SoFi Checking and Savings: Best for high APY.
- U.S. Bank: Best mobile app.
- Truist: Best for no overdraft fees.
- Bank of America: Best for flexible banking.
- Chime®: Best for bad credit.
If you're a new customer, the bank may allow you to apply for credit immediately. If enticed, you can speed up the process by providing additional information. Consider bringing your last two pay stubs from work or—in the case of certain loans or a mortgage—at least two years' worth of tax returns.
Bank tellers can technically access your account without your permission. However, banks have safety measures in place to protect your personal data and money because account access is completely recorded and monitored.
While Bank of America doesn't require a specific credit score to open an account, they will likely check to see if you have an existing ChexSystems report. ChexSystems is like the credit reporting agencies, but for bank accounts.
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