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 ChexySystems report.
5 Credit Unions That Don’t Use ChexSystems
Trying to improve your ChexSystems report can be a hassle, and fortunately, it isn’t always necessarily. If you’re looking to open an account at a credit union, here are five good options that don’t use ChexSystems.
1. Navy Federal Credit Union
If you or a family member is a member of the military, then Navy Federal Credit Union is a great option for you. The nationwide credit union 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. Navy Federal has been recognized for offering outstanding customer service to its members.
Navy Federal also provides a wide variety of lending products at competitive interest rates. Before you can get started, you’ll need to find out if you qualify to become a member.
2. America First Credit Union
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 provides a variety of savings products with interest rates that are competitive with what many banks offer.
3. Southwest Financial Federal Credit Union
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.
And thanks to the mobile app, you can deposit checks, receive account alerts, and view your bank statements without ever stepping foot outside of your home. The credit union provides a variety of services, including checking, savings, 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.
4. Aspire Federal Credit Union
There are a lot of benefits that come with being a member of Aspire Federal Credit Union. You’ll receive access to over 70,000 ATMs nationwide, mobile banking options, and 24/7 customer support.
Plus, Aspire partners with a number of companies to provide its members with valuable discounts. Members can save money on products from Sprint, TurboTax, SimpliSafe, and more.
5. State Department Federal Credit Union
State Department Federal Credit Union (SDFCU) offers memberships to individuals affiliated with the Department of State. They currently have over 80,000 members worldwide.
SDFCU offers free checking, savings, youth accounts, and a variety of lending products. The interest rates are competitive, making SDFCU a good option for anyone that qualifies for membership.
To get started, you’ll need to check your eligibility first. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you’ll need to provide your address, Social Security Number, and driver’s licenses to open the account.
Alternatives to Consider
It’s possible that the credit unions outlined in this article won’t be the right fit for your situation. 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 you can consider:
BBVA
BBVA is one of the best options for anyone looking for a flexible and affordable checking account. There is no service charge and no minimum balance requirements.
You’ll also receive access to free online banking, free check deposit, and a free Visa card. And you can open your account with just $25 to start.
BBVA uses EWS instead of ChexSystems.
Chime
Chime is one of the best options for anyone who prefers an online-only bank. There’s no credit check or ChexSystem screening to get started with Chime.
One of the best things about banking with Chime is the lack of fees. There are no maintenance, overdraft, or minimum balance fees. And you can access more than 38,000 ATMs across the country.
Acorns
The Acorns Spend Checking Account is an online checking account that provides access to Acorns’s investing functionality. When you open the account, you’ll receive a free debit card. From there, every time you pay with your debit card Acorns will round your purchase up to the nearest dollar and invest that money for you.
Like Chime, Acorns is an online-only account with minimal monthly fees. It’s another great option for anyone that prefers online banking.
See also: 18 Banks That Don’t Use ChexSystems
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been turned down for a checking or savings account due to a poor ChexSystems report then there are options available to you. All of the credit unions and banks outlined in this article will let you open an account without looking at your ChexSystems report.
This will make it easier for you to continue to pay your bills and go about your daily life. And in the meantime, you can work to improve your ChexSystems report by utilizing good banking habits.
Source: crediful.com