Does U.S. Bank Use ChexSystems?

Updated

Have you been turned down for a checking account due to negative banking history? If so, there are still alternatives available to help you manage your finances and find a bank that suits your needs.

ChexSystems is a consumer reporting agency that tracks your banking history, such as unpaid fees, overdrafts, or account closures. These records can stay on file for up to five years, making it difficult to open new accounts, especially since about 80% of U.S. banks and credit unions use ChexSystems.

U.S. Bank’s ChexSystems Policy

U.S. Bank does use ChexSystems when reviewing account applications, but they tend to be more lenient than most banks. While a ChexSystems record may still impact your ability to open an account, U.S. Bank often looks past these issues if you don’t have a history of fraud or owe any money to them directly. This means you may still have a chance to open a checking account with U.S. Bank, even if you’ve had some past challenges.

What to Expect With U.S. Bank’s Approval Process

For those concerned about their ChexSystems report, U.S. Bank provides more flexibility compared to most banks. While they still check ChexSystems, they may approve your application if your past issues are less severe or if you have shown signs of financial recovery. Additionally, U.S. Bank offers a wide range of checking accounts, including the U.S. Bank Smartly Checking Account, which may be worth exploring.

Alternatives to U.S. Bank That Don’t Use ChexSystems

If you’re worried about your ChexSystems record affecting your ability to bank with U.S. Bank, don’t worry. There are several other banks and credit unions that don’t use ChexSystems, offering more accessible account options. Here are two excellent alternatives:

SoFi

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  • 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

SoFi Checking & Savings is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an alternative to traditional banking. This online bank offers a unique blend of checking and high-yield savings features in one streamlined account.

There is no minimum balance required, no monthly fees, and no overdraft fees, making SoFi an affordable option for a wide range of individuals. You can also earn up to $300 with qualifying direct deposits.

SoFi offers up to 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings accounts, and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Deposits are also FDIC-insured up to $2 million.

Accessing your money is easy with SoFi Checking & Savings. With over 55,000 fee-free ATMs available worldwide through the Allpoint® Network, you can conveniently withdraw money at no extra charge.

On top of this, SoFi also offers the option to get your paycheck up to 2 days sooner when you set up direct deposit.

Chime

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  • No minimum deposit or monthly fee
  • Over 60,000+ fee-free1 ATMs
  • Get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit2
  • No credit check or ChexSystems

With Chime®, a bad credit score is no longer a deal-breaker. They offer an award-winning financial app and debit card with no credit check.

You can open a Chime Checking Account online with no monthly fees. And by that, we mean no overdraft fees, no monthly maintenance fees, no foreign transaction fees, and no minimum balance fees—ever.

They offer over 60,000 fee-free1 MoneyPass® and Visa® Plus Alliance ATMs. You can also deposit cash for free at over 8,500 Walgreens.

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