 TITLE: What Is Second Chance Banking? CONTENT: What You Can Do After Being Denied for a Checking Account\n---------------------------------------------------------\nIf you've misused a bank account in the past or have been a victim of an error or fraud, you may have a hard time opening another account. Some potential misdeeds include bouncing checks, leaving an overdraft balance unpaid, abusing a debit card or ATM, or applying for too many accounts in a short period.\nIf you are denied for any of these reasons, the bank or credit union is required to tell you why. Once you have this information, the first step is to get a copy of your ChexSystems report. By law, you can get a free copy of your report at least once every 12 months, plus anytime you've been denied a checking account for reasons listed on your report.\nYou can get a copy of your report by:\n*   Requesting one through the ChexSystems website\n*   Calling (800) 428-9623\n*   Downloading and mailing a request form to Chex Systems Inc., Attn: Consumer Relations, 7805 Hudson Road, Suite 100, Woodbury, MN 55125\n*   Downloading and faxing a request form to (602) 659-2197\nWhen ChexSystems receives your request, you'll get a copy of your report in the mail within five business days.\nOnce you have it, look through the report to spot potential errors or fraud. If you find instances of either, you can dispute them directly with ChexSystems. Then focus on addressing other potential problems.\nFor example, if you were denied an account for not paying back an overdraft balance, pay it off as quickly as possible, either in full or at a discount if you can negotiate it. After you've done this, you can request that the collection agency or bank remove the negative item from your report.\nKeep in mind, though, there are some things you can't remove from a ChexSystems report. If that's the case with yours, the negative item will typically fall off the report naturally after five years. END