ChexSystems is a credit reporting agency that stores information about bank customers who have misused their banking privileges. If you had overdraft fees, non-sufficient fund fees, or some other bank fees that were not paid that bank will report you to ChexSystems. You remain in the ChexSystem database for five years. In some cases this can prevent you from opening a checking account in the future. Internet checking accounts allow you to do all of your banking electronically. When you are ready to open an Internet checking account you will need to find a bank that does not access ChexSystems.

Instructions:

1 )Find a bank that does not reference ChexSystems. Some banks don't access ChexSystems prior to opening a checking account. Once you have found several banks that function this way compare their terms and agreements to see which one fits your banking needs. Some banks have different banking products, such as checking accounts that pay interest.

2 )Go to the bank's website. Once you are on the bank's website, begin the process of opening the checking account. Click on the link that says open new account. You will be redirected to the page with the checking account application. Put a check box by the type of checking account you want. You will need to show the source of your initial bank deposit. If you are mailing a check or money order, indicate this by checking the appropriate box. You will have the option of paying by electronic debit as well. Some banks allow you pay with a credit card.

3 )Fill out the application. You must provide your name, address, Social Security number, date of birth, and your driver's license number, state of issue and expiration date. The bank will also need your work phone, home phone and your email address. You must provide the same information about anyone who will be a joint account owner on the checking account.

4 )Hit the submit button. The bank will do an identity verification based on the information you have submitted. You will receive an email from the bank thanking you for submitting your application. The bank will contact you within two business days about the disposition of your application. If you are approved, the bank will provide further instructions by email on how to complete the process.