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When it comes to having a bank account, it’s understandable why people don’t choose to have one. A study by the FDIC cites that a large percentage of unbanked people don’t have enough money to meet minimum balance requirements or simply don’t trust banks to keep their money safe.
But what about those who want an account but are blacklisted from most banks due to their negative banking history? If you fall into this category, you may have been reported to ChexSystems. This consumer reporting agency is used by the majority of banking institutions in the country and keeps a database of customers’ banking history in an attempt to weed out people who have committed fraud or identity theft.
Unfortunately, many people get caught in the crossfire and are blacklisted from other banks because they have been unable to pay overdraft fees or have experienced several overdraft checks from previous banks. Our job at CheckingExpert.com is to assist you in finding a bank that understands your situation and wants your business.
There are many banks and credit unions in Oklahoma that offer second chance checking accounts that are designed for anyone that has gone through past financial hardships. In addition, there are plenty of options out there for you that won’t even look at your ChexSystems record. Here are our top recommendations that can assist you in getting the checking account you deserve.
Second Chance Banking in Oklahoma
Allegiance Credit Union
Individuals who live, work, worship, or attend school in the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Statistical Area are eligible for a Second Chance Checking account with Allegiance Credit Union. Requiring a $25 minimum opening deposit and a $12 monthly service fee, this low-cost checking account is designed for those that have previously fallen on hard times.
To open your Second Chance Checking account, you can conveniently apply online or visit one of their branches if you prefer to apply in person. With your account, you’ll have access to free eStatements, mobile and online banking, unlimited transactions, and a free Visa debit card.
Allegiance Credit Union has three convenient locations in Oklahoma City and one in Edmond for all your financial needs.
Bank of Oklahoma
The Opportunity Checking account from the Bank of Oklahoma is perfect for those who have suffered past financial challenges. For only a $25 minimum opening deposit and a $5 monthly service charge, this account is an ideal low-cost option. Plus, the account has no overdraft or insufficient funds fees.
In order to get started, simply visit one of their numerous locations. With your account, you’ll gain numerous benefits including free e-statements, free access to more than 450 ATMs, and potential for an account upgrade after one year of well-managed financial history.
The Bank of Oklahoma has locations throughout the state including in Oklahoma City and Tulsa for easy access to your financial account.
Citizens Bank of Edmond
With the Citizens Bank of Edmond, obtaining a Fresh Start Checking account has never been easier. This account has been meticulously created for those looking for a fresh start concerning their finances.
The Fresh Start Checking account requires just a $10 monthly maintenance fee (when enrolled in eStatements) to get started. Once opened, you’ll have access to a wide variety of features and benefits including mobile and online banking, free bill pay, e-statements, and a free Visa debit card.
After 12 months of good standing, you’ll be eligible to convert to one of their traditional accounts called Forward Checking! The Citizens Bank of Edmond offers locations in both Edmond and Oklahoma City for easy access to all of your financial needs.
Communication Federal Credit Union
Rather than referring to your history with ChexSystems, Communication Federal Credit Union will pull a credit report. On top of that, they also offer a second chance account called Connect Card. This account is specifically for those that do not qualify for a traditional checking account.
Connect Card is a bare-bones account that you can use for everyday spending. The account comes with a Visa debit card and no fees to spend or load money onto the card. You also get access to online banking with bill pay, free eStatements, and optional overdraft protection products.
After 12 months of good standing, you’re able to upgrade to a traditional checking account. It’s also important to note that there is a required $25 opening deposit and a low $4.95 monthly service fee. You can apply for an account online or visit one of their branches. They have locations in cities including Ada, Bixby, Lawton, Oklahoma City, and many others!
Credit Union One of Oklahoma
Credit Union One of Oklahoma utilizes Telecheck in lieu of ChexSystems when you apply for a checking account. Out of their several different account options, we recommend their Free Checking account.
Although direct deposit and eStatements are required with this account, there are no pesky monthly service fees to worry about. Free Checking also includes the basics like a Visa debit/check card and access to online banking. Although it’s labeled as Free Checking, there are small fees you will have to pay if you want to use their bill pay feature or write checks.
To become a member at CU One of Oklahoma, you will need to deposit $25 into a savings account to establish your membership. Visit their website or one of their branches in Oklahoma City to get started!
First Family Federal Credit Union
First Family Federal Credit Union is another example of an option that uses Telecheck in lieu of ChexSystems when verifying new accounts. They offer one general Checking Account that is fee-free if you enroll in eStatements.
The account also comes with a free debit card and overdraft protection services to those who qualify. If you’re 60 years of age or older you will also get free paper statements and one free box of checks per year!
First Family FCU extends membership to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of ten eligible counties. Their branches can be found in Checotah, Henryetta, and Okmulgee.
Focus Federal Credit Union
We all make mistakes. At Focus Federal Credit Union they offer a second chance account called Fresh Start Checking. Perhaps you’ve had a difficult time and run into some problems with your finances. Fresh Start Checking is an affordable option that provides you with the tools to help you manage your account wisely and build a history of responsible money management.
After six consecutive months of no NSF fees and upon your request, Focus Federal Credit Union will convert your account to a Focus FCU checking account of your choice. There is a $50 initial deposit required as well as a moderate $9.99 monthly service fee. You also get access to financial counseling to help you stay on track!
Focus FCU offers membership to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Oklahoma, Cleveland, Canadian, Lincoln, Logan, McClain, and Grady Counties. You can also join if you have a close relative who is already a member. Their branches are located in Oklahoma City, Chickasha, and Newcastle for your convenience.
FSNB (Fort Sill National Bank)
Fort Sill National Bank is an excellent choice for those looking for second-chance checking. Their Basic Checking Account does not require a credit check. We like that you aren’t required to direct deposit and you won’t pay high fees. If your account balance is over $75, your monthly service fee of $6 is waived. If your account balance is over $500, you begin to earn interest.
All you need is $5 to open an account. The Basic Checking Account comes with:
- A free Visa CheckCard
- Unlimited check writing
- Surcharge free ATM withdrawals at FSNB locations
- Access to the Savings Round Up program
- Online, mobile and text checking options
FSNB has numerous locations in both Fort Sill and Lawton.
GO2bank
GO2bank is an offering of pre-paid card giant GoBank and we think it’s a step in the right direction. Like some of the newer “challenger banks” GO2bank will deposit your direct deposit check up to 2 days early and has cashback rewards on several categories of purchases. This account also makes you eligible for the GO2bank secured credit card, which has no annual fee and no credit check.
One significant drawback to many online-only bank accounts is that they have no way to accept cash deposits. But GO2bank accepts cash deposits at over 90,000 Green Dot locations nationwide. However, participating retailers may charge you a fee.
If you direct deposit over $500, your monthly maintenance fee of $5.00 is waived. And, they offer a pretty sweet overdraft protection program, but it has a gotcha charge of $15 if you don’t replace the funds within 24 hours.
Account-holders will appreciate the ability to budget their money with the help of a mobile app, budgeting tools, and a savings vault. In fact, they pay 4.50% on all money in the savings vault up to $5,000.
GTE Financial
Go Further from GTE Financial helps put you on the path to a better checking account. If you don’t qualify for a traditional account, the Go Further account will help you get there in as little as 12 months. We consider this a low-cost second chance checking. As long as you make a total deposit of $500 for the month, opt to receive eStatements and make 15 monthly transactions, the $9.95 maintenance fee is waived.
GTE Financial is one of the largest credit unions in the US. Membership is open to anyone through easy requirements and an online application process. The Go Further account includes:
- Free EMV-equipped debit card with built-in rewards
- Online and mobile banking tools
- Free bill pay service
- Easy money transfers through the Popmoney service
Liberty National Bank
Liberty National Bank is yet another Oklahoma-based option that refers to Telecheck instead of ChexSystems when screening new applications. If you’ve had issues in the past with a ChexSystems bank, this may be a viable option for you.
We recommend their Classic Club Checking because it is simple and the most affordable account. You’ll get all of the necessities like access to online banking, mobile check deposit, and a Visa debit card. We like this account because it also includes free unlimited basic checks and discounts on hotels and shopping!
It’s important to note that this account also requires a $9.95 service fee each month. You can find Liberty National Bank branches located in Apache, Blanchard, Chickasha, Elgin, Lawton, and Oklahoma City.
MTC Federal Credit Union
MTC Federal Credit Union reportedly only requires that you provide proper ID when you apply for a new checking account. Out of their several different options, their E-Checking account has the fewest requirements.
It’s important to note that the E-Checking account requires a direct deposit of $400 or more each month and that you enroll in eStatements. You get access to online banking and are able to earn interest on your balance over $1,500.
MTC FCU offers membership to anyone who has some connection to Carter County. You can also join if you have a close relative who is already a member or if you work for an eligible employer. Visit their website or one of their two branches in Ardmore to see if you qualify!
Navy Federal Credit Union
No matter your banking past, Navy Federal Credit Union offers traditional checking for all members in Alabama and across the US. With no review requirements of your banking history, NFCU is an excellent choice for active duty or retired US military, family members and government contractors. There are two banking choices to choose from: Active Duty Checking and Free eChecking.
Both account options come with a free NFCU debit card. There is no monthly service fee with direct deposit. Your account is protected from overdrafts with free savings transfers, a checking line of credit or an optional overdraft protection service. You also receive:
- Free mobile deposits
- Free bill pay
- Free traditional name-only checks
- Dividends credited monthly
Oklahoma Educators Credit Union
A Fresh Start Checking account from Oklahoma Educators Credit Union is available to school employees, students, and specific employee groups within Oklahoma. A direct deposit is required to be eligible for this account.
Requiring no minimum opening deposit and no monthly maintenance fee, this account is a fantastic option for those looking to save on fees. Upon opening your account, you’ll have access to fantastic benefits including online banking services, a free Visa check card after your first direct deposit, and free ATM Zone transactions.
Oklahoma Educators Credit Union offers five locations throughout the state in Oklahoma City, Midwest City, Moore, Yukon, and Norman for your convenience.
TTCU Federal Credit Union
Individuals who are employees, students, or volunteers at select schools or select employee groups are eligible for a Fresh Start Checking account with TTCU Federal Credit Union. Requiring a $5 minimum opening deposit along with a $10 monthly maintenance fee, this account is a great choice for those who have had past checking account struggles.
To get started, simply visit your closest branch to apply. Upon opening your Fresh Start Checking account, you will have access to free bill pay, free e-statements, and online and mobile banking.
TTCU Federal Credit Union offers eighteen branches in Oklahoma in cities including Tulsa, Bixby, Owasso, Miami, Edmond, and many others!
USE Federal Credit Union
When finances have you down, and you think there’s no hope of resurrecting your financial future, USE Federal Credit Union has a great low-cost checking account for you. The Fresh Start Checking can help you get back on your feet.
We like this account because it has no minimum balance requirements. There is only a $10 minimum deposit to open the account and a $5 monthly maintenance fee. With the account, you get both a free Visa debit card and unlimited check-writing ability. In addition, you’ll get the basics like access to digital banking services and free eStatements.
To be eligible to join USE FCU, you must meet a certain criteria. You can join if you have a family member or household partner that is already a member, you are an employee of the United States Postal Service, or if you are a federal employee living in one of six eligible Oklahoma counties.
Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo recently changed the Opportunity Checking account to Clear Access Banking. And we like one change, in particular. Wells Fargo has done away with overdraft and non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees. Clear Access Banking is a debit card-only account (no paper checks available) and if you attempt to purchase something without sufficient funds, the transaction will be denied. That’s a lot better than having the transaction approved and then discovering you’ve been hit with a $35 overdraft fee.
There is a $5 monthly fee, but that is be waived for account holders 24 years old and younger. This account is available to residents in all 50 states.
- The largest number of branches in the U.S.
- Minimum deposit of $25 to open an account
- Online bill pay and smartphone app
- Mobile check deposit
- Includes a Visa debit card
- Send and receive money through Zelle
- Additional features include account alerts, 24/7 fraud monitoring, and zero liability protection for your debit card
Weokie Federal Credit Union
Weokie Federal Credit Union believes that everyone deserves a fresh start. With a minimal monthly fee, individuals who have had past struggles with obtaining a checking account can apply for the Fresh Start Checking account. This account has been specifically designed to give individuals a second chance to manage their finances.
To apply for a new account, visit your local branch. Weokie offers some good benefits, including unlimited check writing, no minimum balance requirement, and up to $300 in overdraft protection.
Visit one of their numerous branches throughout Oklahoma City, Edmond, Midwest City, Moore, or Yukon.
Western Sun Federal Credit Union
Obtaining a Fresh Start Checking account with Western Sun Federal Credit Union is as simple as opening a savings account and depositing $5. Once this has been done, anyone can apply for the Fresh Start Checking account.
With just a $10 monthly maintenance fee that can be brought to $0 with an account balance over $150, this account is perfect for those looking to rebuild their creditworthiness. Once your account is active, you’ll have access to all the following benefits: a free debit card, a potential account upgrade after one year of good history, and access to over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs.
Western Sun Federal Credit Union has locations throughout Oklahoma in Broken Arrow, Bixby, Okmulgee, Owasso, and two in Tulsa for your financial convenience.
Did we leave your financial institution off this list of The Best Second Chance Banking in Alabama? Has there been a change in any of the listings? Please let us know.
Best Second Chance Banks by State
To find more information and additional options available in your area, select your state from the list below and explore your options.
Additional Chime Disclaimers: Back to Chime Review
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.
1Eligibility requirements apply. Overdraft only applies to debit card purchases and cash withdrawals. Limits start at $20 and may be increased up to $200 by Chime. See chime.com/spotme.
2Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM. Cash deposit or other third-party fees may apply.
3Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.
4Customers are limited to three $1,000 cash deposits at Walgreens each day and $10,000 each month.
5Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed. The recipient must use a valid debit card to claim funds. Once you are approved for a Chime Checking Account, see your issuing bank’s Deposit Account Agreement for full Pay Anyone Transfers details. Please see the back of your Chime debit card for your issuing bank. See Terms and Conditions.
6The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of September 20, 2023. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.
7Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.
Additional Walmart MoneyCard Disclaimers: Back to Walmart Review
1Family Accounts: Activated, personalized card required. Other fees apply to the additional account. Family members age 13 years and over are eligible. Limit 4 cards per account. See Deposit Account Agreement for details.
2Cash back, up to $75 per year, is credited to card balance at end of reward year and is subject to successful activation and other eligibility requirements. Redeem rewards using our website or app. You will earn cash back of three percent (3%) on qualifying purchases made at Walmart.com and in the Walmart app using your card or your card number, two percent (2%) at Walmart fuel stations, and one percent (1%) on qualifying purchases at Walmart stores in the United States (less returns and credits) posted to your Card during each reward year. Grocery delivery and pickup purchases made on Walmart.com or the Walmart app earn 1%. For the purposes of cash back rewards, a “reward year” is twelve (12) monthly periods in which you have paid your monthly fee or had it waived. See account agreement for details.
3Interest is paid annually on each enrollment anniversary based on the average daily balance of the prior 365 days, up to a maximum average daily balance of $1,000, if the account is in good standing and has a positive balance. 2.00% Annual Percentage Yield may change at any time before or after account is opened. Annual Percentage Yield is accurate as of 3/1/2022.
4Direct Deposit: Early availability of direct deposit depends on timing of payroll’s payment instructions and fraud prevention restrictions may apply. As such, the availability or timing of early direct deposit may vary from pay period to pay period. Make sure the name and social security number on file with your employer or benefits provider matches what’s on your Walmart MoneyCard account exactly. We will not be able to deposit your payment if we are unable to match recipients.
5Opt-in required. $15 fee may apply to each eligible purchase transaction that brings your account negative. Balance must be brought to at least $0 within 24 hours of authorization of the first transaction that overdraws your account to avoid the fee. We require immediate payment of each overdraft and overdraft fee. Overdrafts paid at our discretion, and we do not guarantee that we will authorize and pay any transaction. Learn more about overdraft protection.
6No monthly fee with qualifying direct deposit, otherwise $5.94 a month. Waived when $500+ is loaded in the previous monthly period. First monthly fee occurs upon first use, the day after card activation or 90 days after card purchase, whichever is earlier.
