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What to do if you are on ChexSystems
Anthony Dazhan
Prepaid101
With the current economy crisis, many Americans are finding it difficult to pay their bills and balance their checkbooks, resulting in more and more people being added to ChexSystems. ChexSystems is a verification service, used by banks, that keeps records of people who have a history of abusing their checking account, usually from fraud or excessive overdrafts. The problem with having your name on ChexSystems is that most banks will deny your application when trying to open a checking or savings account. Without a bank account, it can be very difficult to handle personal finances.
Once people are added to ChexSystems, they can remain there for up to five years. For the people on ChexSystems looking to take back control of their finances, they can either wait to fall off ChexSystems, use an checking account alternative, or work to get themselves removed from ChexSystems.
Since five years is a long time to wait, the quickest way to regain control of your finances is to use one of two alternatives to traditional checking accounts: Second Chance Checking and Prepaid Debit Cards.
If you feel more secure using a bank, then consider a second chance checking account. These are special checking accounts with limits offered to people on ChexSystems. Second chance checking accounts may have more restrictions than traditional accounts, like not being able to write checks, but they can allow you to enjoy most of the basic functions of having a checking account. Although these accounts can come in handy, people are becoming increasing frustrated with the banking industry, especially after the recent bankruptcy of some well known banks. That why the second alternative is becoming favorable among the two.
The second banking alternative for people on ChexSystems is a prepaid debit card. Many people have turned to prepaid debit cards because they are not part of the banking industry, meaning there is less restrictions and more options. Prepaid debit cards function just like a checking account; money that is deposited into a prepaid account can be withdrawn or spent using the prepaid card. With prepaid debit cards you can do many of the same things you can with a checking account, even write checks. Unlike a second chance checking account, prepaid debit cards are easier to find. Card comparison sites allow you to compare prepaid debit cards, allowing you access to numerous card offers. However, if these two alternatives aren't enough and the thing you really desire is to have your name removed from ChexSystems, instead of waiting for it to fall off, you can always dispute the information they have about you.
The first step to disputing a ChexSystems is to find out what information about you is on file, you can do this by ordering a copy of your ChexSystems report online. Many websites offer this service and by law you are allowed one inquiry each year. Once you have a copy of your ChexSystems report, make sure the information is accurate. If there is a dispute you already solved, or false information, gather documentation to prove your case and send it to ChexSystems. If ChexSystems is unable to verify the dispute in which you are contesting, they are required to remove it from their database.
Being on ChexSystems can create a big dilemma if you are trying to get your finances under control. Having a checking account or credit card is essential nowadays. Whether it's for paying your bills, buying groceries or withdrawing cash, it is important to not give up if you find yourself on ChexSystems, there, are solutions available. If you cannot remove yourself from ChexSystems, consider one of the two alternative options mentioned. They can really help to get you back where you need to be. In control!
Article submitted Thursday, October 30, 2008
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