Top-ranked, consumer-friendly bank that does not use ChexSystems
Finding banks that do not use ChexSystems in your hometown is difficult, and it's always embarrassing when the bank clerk looks down his nose at you and says, "sorry, we can't open an account for you." There are some good alternatives if you're on the ChexSystems report, and we've looked at most of them. There are hundreds of paid and free non ChexSystems bank lists, all sorts of systems that claim to help you get out of ChexSystems, and there are actually plenty of non ChexSystems banks out there that are waiting and ready to open an account for you. And, although there are places that offer advice on ChexSystems removal, the only sure-fire way to get out of ChexSystems is to sit and wait five years. Not an attractive option. You want a non ChexSystems checking account, and you want it now.
Unfortunately, some of these banks not using ChexSystems charge significantly higher fees than a standard ChexSystems bank. We've gone through a lot of information about which banks do not use ChexSystems, and feel confident in making this recommendation. Without a doubt, the best option, with the most features and the most reasonable fees, is called Account Now. This isn't just a debit card, it's an actual functioning, check-less bank account at a legitimate, FDIC-insured bank.
Here's the scoop on it: You don't write paper checks, but you do pay your bills online, and you get a debit card that you can use to pay bills and make purchases as well. There's no fee for making purchase transactions. You direct-deposit your paycheck (they give you the forms to take to your employer, it's easy), so you get access to your money right away. No more paying three percent at check cashing stores! Anybody with a social security number and identification can get this account. There's a full-service, online banking portal, and free live customer service as well.