Got my Early Warning System report, now I can't open a bank account. What can I do?

A few years ago, I opened a bank account with Wells Fargo, but I had to leave the country unexpectedly due to an emergency. I left the account with a zero balance, but later found out they charged a $3 overdraft fee. I lost my phone and couldn’t return to the U.S. at that time, so I never knew about it.

Now that I’m moving back, I’ve been trying to open a new account online, but the only one I’ve been able to get is with Chime. I’d rather go with a traditional bank, but I’m not sure what my options are.

Would it help if I went to a Chase branch in person? Wells Fargo isn’t in the state where I’m moving, so that’s not an option. Also, is there any way to clear my banking record since they closed my account right after the overdraft?

I can’t speak for all banks, but some tend to be more flexible with in-person applications compared to online ones. The main reason is fraud prevention. If a bank can verify your documents in person, they might overlook smaller issues like a low-balance charge-off.

@Champ
That’s helpful. I’ll give it a try. Do you know which banks are more likely to approve me?

Jin said:
@Champ
That’s helpful. I’ll give it a try. Do you know which banks are more likely to approve me?

I’d look into credit unions in the area where you’re moving. They tend to be more lenient than big banks.

I’ve heard that Bank of America and Chase offer second-chance accounts for people with issues like this. You might want to check with them.

If you still owe them money, even if it’s just $3, I’d pay it back. That might help clear your record.