Wells fargo - basic checking account

Be very ware of Wells Fargo! I have the opportunity package with them and they are very very strict on everything. Everything with this account is considered "HIGH RISK" with them. They hold every check deposit, even payroll. No ATM deposits allowed. If you just deal with cash and use your debit card, it's a fine account. Don't let it go in the negative!!

WOW, they told me totally differnt on the phone, thanks for the information, I think I will just stick with Suntrust Bank.

Sorry for the delay but I have been bad sick. I have even heard that some people have opened the second chance account with them but they are still later closed

I started with one and the very fact that it was strict is what helped me on my path to "re-wiring" my mental thinking about how to handle my day to day finances. I don't regret my dealings with Wells Fargo Checking for a minute!

Last year, I opened up and opportunity checking account and it was closed that same week after. I did not withdraw any money but inst4ead they sent me a check in the mail and told me to never apply ever again. I paid my previo0us over balances. Now, a year a later, I just opened one up again without any problems. Hopefully this time around they won't close my account. I will wait to see. Wells Fargo opperates very strangely but I know, since they are so strict, it will definately change my way of banking---I will aim to avoid over drafts. One thing, I learned is that you can save money--it doesnt' rot, you know?

Yes, Wells Fargo does offer a second chance checking called New Opportunity Checking. Some have been able to get these accounts and remain okay with them while others were approved but only to have the accounts frozen and closed at a later time due to chexsystems. Many times a bank may initially approve an account but later will determine that the account holder may be a risk. Another growing problem we have seen is from Early Warning Services (EWS) If you have been reported to EWS, do not apply for an account at Wells Fargo or any of the following banks. More than likely they will be closed at a later time.

Early Warning Services is a limited liability company owned by Bank of America, BB&T Corporation, JPMorgan Chase, Wachovia, and Wells Fargo.

Had a Wells Fargo Business Checking account and funds were frozen without notification. We are a business and like any business had some bounced checks but nothing crazy. Wells froze our account (40k) and almost put us out of biz. Listen, stay away from this bank. We seriously learned the hard way but will learn from the mistake and move on. By the way what happened to the funds? Still being held. The way it worked is they freeze your account, tell you they are closing it but it will take 10 days, then after the 10 days the funds go into suspense for who know's how long because they can't tell you. Once again this is a horrible bank and I will literally spend the rest of my life telling everybody I can to stay away... to many banks out there to deal with this kind of business practice.

I had a line of credit with wells fargo and a credit card that I both stopped paying due to hard economic times. I owe them about $5,000 in total. Anyways I want to open an opportunity checking account but I'm worried that they may approve it, and upon finding of my past credit history with them, freeze my new account and confiscate the funds to cover past dues. Can they do that? I do believe that I am also registered with the chexsystem. I am trying to restart my life. Thanks

yes they can and will open account that they will later close. With your past history, do not trust this bank at all.

please do not included Suntrust,,they are using EWS & chexsystem now

Girlmiami,
no there not. I just opened up 2 accounts with Suntrust within last few days here where I'm at and I have 2 negatives on my chex report

The wells fargo opportunity account is for people who have had poor track records with accounts in the past like having the closed because they are negative. Your name is most likely in the Chex system (a system all banks check to see if you are good at keeping up with your account) the opportunity account is very strict and they dont give you much freedom because they dont want you to overdraft so much that you cant pay them back. DO NOT mess up this account because it will be next to impossible to get one for a long long time.

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Yes Suntrust uses both Checksystem and EWS. They will open your account online and then later close it after a few days to a week! and so does Regions Bank

Although Suntrust insists that they do not use the chexsystem, however there are reports that there are a lot of accounts that are being closed due to cheksystems.The other thing that is important is that you should make it sure that that you are not reported to EWS to be on the safer side!

Wells Fargo is a nightmare. Overdraft by even a little & they'll call 10-20 times a day on a robo-dialer, EVERYDAY!!! Calls come from Oregon

I just got a 9.00 charge reversed by a nice gal at Wells Fargo at 2:00 a.m. from California for my business account. I guess I did not know about the fees when I opened the account 15 years ago if I went under a certain amount of bucks in my account. I guess everyone needs to feed their families.

I hate to say it but I would recommend WF and "no" I don't work there.

I have a second chance account with Chase and it sucks! They won't give you checks and they will only let you use your debit card if you have $100 in your account. I just opened a Regions Bank checking account 3 weeks ago and it is GREAT. It is a regular checking with no restrictions whatsoever! I have my checks and even a Platinum Visa card. I highly recommend trying them. By the way, I am in Chexsystems too, so they didn't even worry about that!

Hi Young Jazzy

I also opened a Regions checking account a few weeks ago. I have read posts about ordering checks from certain companies and them reporting to your bank that your in chexsystems. Did you have any problems ordering checks with regions bank?

Thanks

Regions is now using EWS, not chexsystems but I am not sure which company they go through for checks

Chexsystems has been known in more than one instance to have contacted a bank realizing an account has been opened just from the customer simply ordering checks. There have been times when Chexsystems has even suggested to the bank that they close the account because they felt the customer was a potential risk etc. Here is a [URL="https://www.consumerdebit.com/consumerinfo/us/en/chexsystems/SampleChexCnsrRpt.pdf"]sample report[/URL] from chexsystems that shows the check ordering history on it. So even if you have opened an account at a non-chex bank, it is still very important not to order checks at one of these companies. Sometimes a bank manager will make an exception and open an account but when checks are ordered and chexsystems is alerted to it, they may recommend that it was a mistake. Please be cautious until you are removed from chexsystems

Walmart(THEY USE EWS AND WILL DENY IF REPORTED), Checks in the mail also uses EWS

Here are some that were found to be safe[URL="http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/tplclick?lid=41000000030279319&pubid=21000000000221374"][/URL] Suggestions: Style Checks ,Identity, Checkworks, the check gallery, 4checks, artistic checks, check crafters, promise checks checks in the mail, Costco Checks, Bradford Exchange, lifechecks

I have tried everywhere to get an account. I am on EWS and chexsystems. My job requires that we have direct deposit. Please help.

what is your zip code there? Also you can email me at [EMAIL="mca@chexsystemsvictims.com"]mca@chexsystemsvictims.com[/EMAIL] for help

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I really would like a better shot in getting my life and money back to part as in being really re possible this time around money is very hard to come about

I was thinking about opening one and wanted to look into it thus how I found this chat, and it seems to be confirming my fears about this account. I really need to open up an account so I can start moving ahead in life and start to get things settled and I have been trying to look up how else to do that, any advice on what else I can do. I am coming up with virtually nothing on my end, but I can't keep ignoring the problem anymore as it is hurting me financially. Advice would be awesome!

It is really hard to say with Wells Fargo. Wells Fargo does use chexsystems, EWS and a credit report. Some people seem to easily be approved for the New Opportunity Checking and never have any problems while others have told me that they had accounts opened for a while and then were frozen and closed.

From what I can tell but I am not 100%, it seems the main reason for closures after an account is opened is because of EWS. I have always for years now suggested that if you are reported to chexsystems and are using an account at a bank that uses chexsystems to never have all your money in one account and always have a "back up " account to be safe.

Early Warning Services is a limited liability company owned by Bank of America, BB&T Corporation, JPMorgan Chase, Wachovia, and Wells Fargo. (many reported to chexsystems are also reported to EWS)

I really want an account with wells fargo but i dont how to get one can i do it online......i need a checking account bad and i dont wanna deal with online banks i wann be able to walk in a branch and deal with the teller when dealing with my money

We have figured out why Suntrust has had accounts closed due to chexsystems. Although they do not use chexsystems when an account is opened there are times that accounts have been closed. We have foudd that they do use a billpay company that runs chexsystems.

Suntrust bill pay agreement

[QUOTE]
Agreement.

BILLER LIMITATION

Provider reserves the right to refuse to pay any Biller to whom you may direct a payment. Provider will notify you promptly if it decides to refuse to pay a Biller designated by you. This notification is not required if you attempt to make a prohibited payment or an exception payment under this Agreement.

RETURNED PAYMENTS

In using the Bill Pay Service, you understand that Billers and/or the United States Postal Service may return payments to Provider for various reasons such as, but not limited to, Biller's forwarding address expired; Biller account number is not valid; Biller is unable to locate account; or Biller account is paid in full. Provider will use its best efforts to research and correct the returned payment and return it to your Biller, or void the payment and credit your Payment Account. You may receive notification from Provider.

INFORMATION AUTHORIZATION

Your enrollment in the Bill Pay Service may not be fulfilled if Provider cannot verify identity or other necessary information about you or, where applicable, any Company System Administrator or other person authorized by you to use the Service. Through your enrollment in the Bill Pay Service, you agree that Provider reserves the right to request a review of your credit rating at its own expense through an authorized bureau. In addition, you agree that Provider reserves the right to obtain financial information regarding your account from a Biller (for example, to resolve payment-posting problems or for verification).

ACCOUNT INFORMATION

Your Account information is confidential. Bank may, however, disclose information to a third party about your Account or the transfers only if you have given us permission to do so, or when it is necessary to complete transactions; to verify the existence or status of your Account to a third party such as a credit bureau or merchant; to comply with a court order or the request of a government agency; or where it is necessary for activating additional services; or to a credit reporting agency for research purposes only. By using the Service you agree the information and transfers will be recorded and/or data captured. By using the Service you consent to such recording.

CREDIT INFORMATION

You agree to allow Provider, for the purpose of qualifying and maintaining your Accounts and Service, to the extent permitted under applicable law, to obtain information from credit reporting agencies, ChexSystems or similar agencies, as Provider deems necessary.

DISPUTES

In the event of a dispute regarding the Service, you and Provider agree to resolve the dispute by looking to this Agreement. You agree that this Agreement is the complete and exclusive statement of the agreement between you and Provider which supersedes any proposal or prior agreement, oral or written, and any other communications between you and Provider relating to the subject matter of this Agreement. If there is a conflict between what an employee of Provider or Customer Service Department says and the terms of this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement will prevail.

SEVERABILITY

If any provision of the Agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable under applicable law, said provision shall be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity only, without affecting the remaining provisions of this Agreement.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Mediation
Should any dispute arise between you and Bank relating to the Service and if following the good faith negotiation of the dispute, it cannot be resolved, Bank may elect to first submit the dispute claim to mediation. Mediation shall be conducted at the nearest office of the mediation organization mutually agreed upon by you and Bank
[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=mca;746764]It is really hard to say with Wells Fargo. Wells Fargo does use chexsystems, EWS and a credit report. Some people seem to easily be approved for the New Opportunity Checking and never have any problems while others have told me that they had accounts opened for a while and then were frozen and closed.
From what I can tell but I am not 100%, it seems the main reason for closures after an account is opened is because of EWS. I have always for years now suggested that if you are reported to chexsystems and are using an account at a bank that uses chexsystems to never have all your money in one account and always have a "back up " account to be safe.
Early Warning Services is a limited liability company owned by Bank of America, BB&T Corporation, JPMorgan Chase, Wachovia, and Wells Fargo. (many reported to chexsystems are also reported to EWS)[/QUOTE]

I just went into a wells fargo to open an opportunity account and I was told that the computer said i was eligible for a regular account. my chexsystems entries are about 3 years old. I have another checking which is spotless...not a single nsf in over a year. I had prior dealing with wells fargo and left in good standing. what are the chances that they will close my account a week from now? I'm nervous after reading your post

They will run the EWS report in the first week of opening the account, As long as you are not reported to EWS then you are good.

How would I know whether or not I'm in EWS?

Just found out that I am reported to EWS. It specifically says NOT account abuse or fraud. What effect will that have on my recently opened Wells Fargo Account

Generally if they find out that you are reported to EWS, they will close the account. They normally run the EWS verification about a week after the account is opened.

Thanks. It's been exactly one week. I already received the visa debit and ordered checks, but I'm waiting to change my direct deposit until the end of October, just to be on the safe side. I figure if its still open at that point I'm pretty safe. I did note on my debit card that they have as a customer since 2003. I previously had a positive banking account with them. So MAYBE that will sway them to keep the account open. I bank with a small bank now and swore off of the big banks. However at times it's very inconvenient since they only have a few branches. Thanks for your help.

If you are reported to chexsystems or EWS and bank at a chexsystems or EWS bank

I suggest the following

1. be sure to only order checks at a safe company and
2. have a backup account and never keep all of your money in one place

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I opened and an account with citibank online, was approved. Received my debit check card, 10 checks. Used my account with no problems or overdrafts. then almost 2 months later, I get a letter that the risk dept. decided to close my account. When you have a new account it goes thru audit with the back room. Guess they pulled a second chexsystem report and didnt liek what they saw:( I had 2 banks on chexsystmes. I owed wamu 627.00 and union bank 310.00 both will be off 10/2012:( I was so sad because I was soooo good with my citibank account. I was so happy to be on the right path:(

Unfortunately Citibank and some other banks like Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Chase, BB&T etc are well known to open accounts that end up closed at a later date due to chexsystems and EWS issues. It is also important to only order checks from companies that are safe. Something as simple as ordering checks from the wrong company can trigger an account to be closed.

I am not an attorney. I am an advocate who has fought (and won) against banks who've adopted what I believe is unethical operational lending practices. I am not sure where BethT got her information that it is perfectly LEGAL for a Bank to confiscate money for a bad debt as a bad 'debt' under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) 15 USC 1692 (d) has to be 'verified' or 'validated' as viable before ANY entity can collect or garnish it. Any entity that takes on the persona of 'debt collection' is bound by the Federal Trades Commission (FTC). If they claim they are not, you may file a complaint with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency ( OCC) who has helped me 'tremendously' with my concerns. Until the process of 'debt validation' has been utilized and proof in writing has been provided, no entity can freeze or hold a checking account (without a court order) and benefit from 'unjust enrichment'. If a person puts in writing that they dispute the so called 'bad debt' and demand the release of funds based on this premise (be sure to send the document 'certified return receipt' mail as the signed receipt holds up in court) the bank has to acknowledge their civil legal rights under Universal Commercial Codes (UCC) and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) regulations as most banks are governed by these entities. Some banks are governed by the Federal Reserve Department depending on whether they're locally owned or federally owned. You can go to the OCC or Federal Reserve website(s) to determine which one your bank falls under. Do not feel that the bank is the 'all mighty' institute you can't challenge as you have rights as a consumer and can challenge ethical laws related to your funds. No bank has a right to just take your money at will and not be held accountable without a viable forthright and legal reason for keeping your money without your permission. Do your research and stand on your convictions. I've seen it workout favorably numerous times.

i found that,bb&t was preety easy to deal with and i im in chex systems too i dont know about ews though its ;)worth a try??

Include Regions in the banks that use EWS...I was closed today after opening an account using their online system but they cannot return my money for 2 weeks!!!!

On my lists it clealy states that regions uses EWS. The loss prevention runs this report after the account is opened

[COLOR=#222222]It would seem that we have now determined that Regions will open accounts for those reported to chexsystems [/COLOR][COLOR=red]but will close[/COLOR][COLOR=#222222] them at a later time if you have been reported to EWS. If you have not been reported to EWS, it looks as if the account will stay opened.[/COLOR]

Please inform me how do you discover if your on the EWS system?

go here for help and info on how to get the report

http://www.chexsystemsvictims.com/Early_Warning_Services.html

Never mind I found it! EWS?s Consumer Call Center at 800-325-7775.

Early Warning Services
8777 E. Harford Drive Suit 110
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
800-325-7775

EWS is a credit reporting agency the same as chexsystems. Because of this, you are entitled to see a copy of your report and it is your right to dispute.

What information should you give them:
1. name
2. address
3. social security number
4. drivers license number
5. previous address if you have moved in the last 5 years.

When you request a report from chexsystems, ews, or telecheck, avoid giving them any information that is not absolutely necessary.

For example: if they ask where you work and for the address, phone etc,. I would not give them this information. Tell them you are currently unemployed.

If they ask for current checking account information. Simply say you have none. Do not volunteer any information. They have no right to ask for this information or for a cancelled check.

It is your right to a FREE annual report by providing basic information:
name, address, social security number ..if the address has changed, they may need something to verify this. They have no right to know the name of your employer, phone numbers, or other account information or cancelled checks.

If they refuse to give you a copy of your report:
1. file a complaint with the FTC [URL="https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/"]https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/[/URL]

I had 3 banks before and all of them were closed and were from overdraft/insufficient funds. Its been a year and its hard to carry cash all the time. I still havent paid them. All together they will prolly sum up to 1500 or less. But i feel like its really bad. Eventhough i know there are people that did worse. I wasn't aware of the real world consequences until then. Now my friend is letting me use her spare banking card but it gets complicated because i have to deposit it under her name and when i need to buy something i always have to withdraw cash because of id check. I want to have a fresh start but i am completely lost to where to start. I saved up a lil money to pay skme of the outstanding balance and i am sincerely honest to pay them back. I want to get a bank and a card under my own name. But my name is in this chexsystem. I still have 4 years or 3+ years till my name clears according to what i read earlier but im still uncertain of the facts.

Chech out the signature link under MCAs posts regarding non Chex banks. Also try your local credit union. There are a lot of second chance programs out there. A manager at BOA opened me up even though I was in chex. He did me a favor though.

The 5 years that being on ur name does that start from the day you owed them?

Yes, it starts from the day you owed them.