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Phennommennonn · Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2007 6:53 am

aside from BOFA is there any other friendly banks here in pa?

shannon l · Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2007 9:12 am

have you tried Wachovia? U can apply online. I am in chexsystem hell and they opened an account for me! I gave up on going to banks and just tried online. Also if your family or u was in the military try usaa.com and u can get an account. My ex was in the army so I was able to get an account with them.

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2007 10:42 am

Here is the list for PA .... Wachovia uses chexsystems but will make exceptions but be careful if you have fraud on your account they may open it then close it at a later time

WACHOVIA makes exceptions but uses chex

Dear Customer,

Thank you for contacting Wachovia.

We do make exceptions in most cases. Please call us to apply for a
checking account.

Sincerely,

Lola Brown
Schedule: Monday through Friday
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET
Phone: 1-800-WACHOVIA (922-4684) New Accounts, ext. 46038

PENNSYLVANIA

Most US banks are giving accounts to most people on chexsystems. These are regular accounts ..not 2nd chance checking...as long as you do NOT owe them money and you are not reported on your chexsystems report for any kind of " fraudulent activity " you can get an account here. It is best not to apply online but to go into a branch local to you. There are some branches that are still not not using this policy so it might be a good idea to call a branch local to you and ask about their policy first before going in. Some US branches have signs that actually say chexsystems.. no problem ..yet others will not open accounts at all ...from what we have been told you need to go to a location that is an " in store " location not a regular branch ..the " in store locations only " are the one approving these accounts not regular branches

usbank.com
----------------------------------------------------------------------

BANK OF NEW YORK
bankofny.com
email:
Thank you for writing to The Bank of New York.

In response to your question, when you apply to open a checking or
savings account we would obtain a credit report.

To open an account, visit any branch or call our customer service line
at 800-CALL-BNY (800-225-5269).

Bring identification, such as a passport or driver's license, from New
York, New Jersey, Connecticut, or Pennsylvania. Please also bring a
second form of identification, such as a credit card.

We are now offering checking that's Free-for-Life. That means no
monthly minimum balance requirements, no monthly maintenance fees, and per
check fees are waived as part of the offer (other fees may apply).

All that's needed is a $200 minimum opening deposit, acceptance of a
MasterCard debit card, and purchase of your first order of checks.

Sincerely,
Rita Harper
Customer Service

see web site for locations
-------------------------------------------------------------------

PROVIDENT BANK

-USES CHEXSYSTEMS
-HAS FRESH START CHECKING
Fresh Start Checking
A new beginning for those who had problems with checking accounts in the past.
Low $6 monthly fee when you have direct deposit, $8 fee without direct deposit.

Free Provident ATM transactions
No per-check charge
Unlimited check writing
Free Check Safekeeping

Free MasterMoney Debit Card*
Funds available for local checks 2 days after the day of deposit and 5 days for non-local checks.**

you must be in good standing with the Fresh Start Checking account with them for one year and then you will be eligible for a regular checking account OR BUSINESS ACCOUNT AS WELL.

MD, DC, VA, PA AND SOUTHERN NJ AREA

see web site for locations
---------------------------------------------------------------------- ---
BANK OF AMERICA
MANY PEOPLE IN CHEXSYSTEMS ARE GETTING ACCOUNTS EVEN OUTSIDE OF THESE GUIDELINES

Thank you for contacting Bank of America.

If you have been reported to Chex Systems, Bank of America will be
unable to open a new account for you until you have been removed. You
are normally on Chex Systems for five years (this was formerly seven
years.) The new guidelines are as follows:

- Bank of America will increase the threshold for reporting accounts
closed for non-fraud related overdrafts to $100.00.

- Bank of America will disregard Chex Systems reports based upon
non-fraudulent activity that are older than three years.

- Bank of America will disregard a Chex systems report for
non-fraudulent activity that is older than a year if the overdraft has
been paid.

- Bank of America will disregard a Chex system report for
non-fraudulent
activity if the applicant completes a financial responsibility course
and has repaid the overdraft.

- Bank of America will continue to inform customers about Chex Systems
upon opening an account and at least 30 days prior to closing an
account.

It will be necessary to bring all pertinent data and information
clearing you of any liabilities to a banking center, and depending on
your situation, a bank manager can make a decision as to whether or not
an account can be opened for you.

Sincerely,
Nicole R.
Bank of America

see web site for locations
---------------------------------------------------------------------- ----

1ST SUMMIT BANK
1stsummit.com
I am not sure what they use to verify but they do not use chexsystems
EMAIL BELOW:
We are not a part of Chexsystems. Which of our 11 offices is most convenient for you? I will refer you to a Customer Sales Representative to help you with your account.
Lori Baumgardner

see web site for locations
---------------------------------------------------------------------- --
THE MERCHANTS NATIONAL BANK OF KITTANNING
merchantskittanning.com

I asked if they use chexsystems, telecheck or a credit report and this was the response.

EMAIL:
We currently do not use any system to verify new accounts.
Thank You,
Bradley J. Toy

locations:

Main Office - Downtown Kittanning
222 Market Street
Kittanning, Pennsylvania 16201

West Kittanning - Highlands
316 First Avenue
Kittanning, Pennsylvania 16201

422 East
Burton Drive
Kittanning, Pennsylvania 16201

Worthington
422 W. and Claypoole Road
P.O. Box M
Worthington, Pennsylvania 16262
---------------------------------------------------------------------- ---

USA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
usafcu.org
EMAIL:
Due to the recent Patriot Act, the Credit Union is required to pull a credit report to verify new membership.
Should you have any questions or require further assistance, please let me know and I will be happy to help you.
Thank you for your inquiry and have a good day!
Sincerely,
USA Federal Credit Union
Heidi Becker
E-Services Representative

membership requirements:
You can join USA Federal and benefit from the advantages of a member-owned, non-profit credit union if you are…

A member of USA Forum - an organization for people age 50 and over living in the Detroit Area. For more information, click here.
A resident of the city of Marysville, Michigan or an employee of most companies located in Marysville.

Most locations are in Michigan but there is one in PA.
Blue Bell, PA Branch M.S. E9-101
Unisys Corp. on Unisys Way
Blue Bell, PA 19424
---------------------------------------------------------------------- --------

PRIORITY FIRST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
priorityfirstfcu.org
EMAIL:
Thank you for your inquiry. We use Certegy and/or credit reports. If I
can be of further assistance feel free to contact me again!
Charlene
MSR/Loan Processor
-you may be eligible if you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Jefferson County, PA. Also, any business or other legal entity located in Jefferson County, PA is eligible to join the credit union.
locations:
550 Main St.
Brockway, PA 15824

909 Route 28
Brookville, PA 15825
---------------------------------------------------------------------- ----

CORNERSTONE FCU
cornerstonefcu.coop
EMAIL:
In order to verify our new members we use credit reports. The credit report determines the services that we will offer a particular member. If you have any other questions, please let us know.
Thank you
Member Service
-see web site for large list of who can be eligible to join-there are may places that you can live, work, and worship to join here.

location:
Cornerstone Federal Credit Union
5 East Gate Drive
P.O. Box 1181
Carlisle, PA 17015
---------------------------------------------------------------------- ---

PARAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

paragonfcu.org
EMAIL:
Thank you for contacting Paragon Federal. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you. In response to your question, we use telecheck.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require additional assistance. I can be reached at (800) 222-8877, ext. 3774.
Again, we value your continued patronage.
Regards,
Donna Gangemi
Electronic Services Coordinator

parts of Westmoreland and Fayette Counties in Pennsylvania. If you live, work, worship or attend school within the defined perimeters you are eligible to join Paragon Federal Credit Union.

location:
1195 Pennsylvania Avenue
Bethlehem, PA 18018

-also has shared branches (see web site )
---------------------------------------------------------------------- ------

Parkview Community Federal Credit Union
pc-fcu.org
-use chexsystems
email:
We will open savings accounts regardless of the Chexsystems record. Normally, if you have a record in Chexsystems we will not open a checking account up right away but within 3 to 6 months depending on the severity of the report. If you would like more information please let me know.
Thank you,
Liana Falchetti
Member Service Manager
Parkview Community FCU
412-678-9564

membership requirements :
Parkview Community Federal Credit Union provides financial services to persons who reside or work in the following Pennsylvania Communities
Braddock
Chalfant
Churchhill
Clairton
Dravosburg
Duquesne
East McKeesport
East Pittsburgh
Edgewood
Elizabeth Borough
Elizabeth Township
Forest Hills
Forward Township
Glassport
Jefferson Hills
Liberty
Lincoln
McKeesport
North Versailles
Pitcairn
Pleasant Hills
Port Vue
Rankin
South Versailles
Swissvale
Turtle Creek
Versailles
Wall
West Elizabeth
West Mifflin
White Oak
Wilkins Township
Wilmerding

locations:
The Main Office is located at:
2100 Eden Park Boulevard
Mc Keesport, PA 15132

The Branch Office is located at:
2001 Lebanon Road
West Mifflin, PA 15122
---------------------------------------------------------------------- -

FIRST MERIT BANK
firstmerit.com
-HAS 2ND CHANCE CHECKING CALLED FOUNDATIONS ACCOUNT
-CHEX MUST BE PAID
-MUST GO INTO A BRANCH TO APPLY
- 9.00 A MONTH FEE
-THIS ACCOUNT CAN BE CONVERTED TO A REGULAR ACCOUNT AT A LATER TIME

LOCATIONS
SEE WEB SITE
--------------------------------------------------------

PEOPLES FIRST CREDIT UNION
peoplefirstcu.org
-IF CHEX IS PAID YOU CAN GET A SAVINGS, POSIBLY A CHECKING
EMAIL:
You can get a savings account but a checking account would have to be decided upon the manager.
Thank You,
Member service center

If you live in, work in, worship in or attend school in Lehigh or Northampton counties you can benefit from membership in People First

LOCATIONS:
2141 Downyflake Lane
Allentown, PA 18103-4774

1530 Eighth Avenue
Bethlehem, PA 18018

Trexler Mall
6900 Hamilton Boulevard
PO Box 756
Trexlertown, PA 18087-0756

3682 Crescent Court East
Whitehall, PA 18052-3400
-----------------------------------------------------

LEHIGH VALLEY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
lvfcu.com/home.html

EMAIL:
We will check with chexsystems to be sure the item is listed as paid. If it is, we will open a savings account only and it will be placed on 6 months probation. After the six months we will issue a MAC card if you are interested and also a checking account.
lvfcu

Membership in the Lehigh Valley Federal Credit Union is open to anyone who meets
at least one of the following five guidelines:

1. Anyone who lives in Lehigh County may open an account.
2. Anyone who works in Lehigh County may open an account.

LOCATIONS
1821 Allen Street
Allentown, PA 18104
------------------------------------------------------------------
C&G SAVINGS BANK
cgsbonline.com
EMAIL:
Yes, as long as the report shows that you are paid in full. If not, we would require a letter from the financial institution stating that you have paid any outstanding balances.
Thank you,
Wendy

LOCATIONS:
Altoona
Altoona/Pleasant Valley
Hollidaysburg
Gallitzin
Patton
Nanty Glo
-------------------------------------------------------
COMMERCIAL BANK AND TRUST OF PA
cbthebank.com
-I EMAILED THEM ASKED IF THEY USED CHEX, TELECHECK OR A CREDIT REPORT.
REPLY IS
EMAIL:
Thank you for your interest in our accounts. In order to open an account you would need to come to our office with a valid drivers liscense and another form of identification.
Susan Kozlowski CSR
Latrobe Branch

LOCATIONS:
19 North Main Street
Greensburg, PA 15601

Georges Station Road
P O Box 3206
Greensburg, PA 15601

900 Ligonier Street
P O Box 429
Latrobe, PA 15650

Route 981 at Terry Way
P O Box 429
Latrobe, PA 15650

201 West Main Street
Ligonier, PA 15658

Lincoln Road Shopping Center
P O Box 429
Latrobe, PA 15650

Norwin Hills Shopping Center
8775 Norwin Avenue
North Huntingdon, PA 15642

Routes 981 and 130
P O Box 503
Pleasant Unity, PA 15676

109 East Main Street
P O Box 219
West Newton, PA 15089
---------------------------------------------------------------
COMPASS FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK
compassbank.us

email
If proof of payment is made we will usually open the account - however, we
will not allow debit cards on the account for about 6 months -
Thank you.
TomZezyus

LOCATIONS:
Compass Federal Savings Bank
111 Westinghouse Ave.
Wilmerding, PA 15148
-----------------------------------------------------

ABING TON BANK
abing tonbankonline.com
-SHOULD NOT SHOW FRAUD OR ACCOUNT ABUSE ON CHEX AND MUST BE PAID

EMAIL:
You should come into one of our branches with a letter from the bank to whom the money has been paid. Usually, that is sufficient to open a new account.
Sincerely,
Louise Wylie

LOCATIONS:

Jenkintown Branch
180 Old York Road
Jenkintown, PA 19046
215.886.8280
Fax: 215.887.4100/215.887.4900
Manager: Louise Wylie

Abing ton Branch
990 Old York Road
Abing ton, PA 19001
215.887.4666 Fax: 215.887.3226
Manager: Sharon Hessing

Glenside Branch
273 Keswick Avenue
Glenside, PA 19038
215.885.2313 Fax: 215.885.4945
Manager: Nicole Tancor-Gormont

Willow Grove Branch
275 Moreland Road
Willow Grove, PA 19090
215.659.2100 Fax: 215.659.8715
Manager: Grace Vitelli

Horsham Branch
Rt. 611 & County Line Road
Horsham, PA 19044
215.675.5900 Fax: 215.675.5600
Manager: Elaine Boyle

Huntingdon Valley Branch
667 Welsh Road
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
215.914.0400 Fax: 215.914.0464
Manager: Sheryl Wardle

Fort Washington Branch
101 Fort Washington Avenue
(Corner of Fort Washington and Pennsylvania Avenues)
Ft. Washington, PA 19034
215.542.1600 Fax: 215.542.2300
Manager: Judy Stakelbeck

Montgomeryville Branch
Village Shopping Center
521 Stump Road
North Wales, PA 19454
215.855.3500 Fax: 215.855.6400
Manager: Ruth Hardin

Warrington Branch
1111 Easton Road
Warrington, PA 18976
215.343.8777 Fax: 215.343.6181
Manager: Maryellen Rosanova
---------------------------------------------------------------------- ------
VISIONARY FCU
visionaryfcu.org
-SHOULD NOT SHOW FRAUD OR ACCOUNT ABUSE

EMAIL:
it is possible but we would need proof that it was paid

you must live, work, or worship in one of the following Pennsylvania communities:
Bridgeville
Scott
Collier
South Fayette
Heidelberg

LOCATION:
Visionary Federal Credit Union
201 Beram Avenue
Bridgeville, PA 15017-2976

Posted: Sat Nov 10, 2007 9:25 pm

My co worker is also in chex systems hell and he was able to open an account with Wachovia online here in PA.

Posted: Sun Nov 11, 2007 2:37 am

I always suggest that if you are going to go with a bank that uses chexsystems that also is known for freezing accounts and then closing them...that you ALWAYS have a back up account. WAMU, Wells Fargo and Wachovia are just a few that are well known for this practice. NEVER HAVE ALL OF YOUR MONEY IN ONE PLACE