Checking Account Deals

How long does it take to get out of any system for bouncing checks or having checking accounts closed?

It has been 7 years since I had a checking account, and when I was in college I had 3 or 4 accounts closed, due to insuffecient funds and bouncing checks. I have taken classes on checking accounts and am ready to have an account again, so I can build credit with a bank and buy a home one day. Does anyone know what banks check when you go to open an account and how long any poor information is kept in the systems they look at. Thanks!

Public Comments

1. This type of information will be on your credit report for seven years at the most so you should be fine. Many banks will not run a full credit report to query this type of information on a routine basis, and should understand that we all make mistakes and that you are now ready for the financial responsibility of a bank account. Good Luck!
2. Have you checked out any Credit Unions? They tend to offer more personal service and not always look at past banking troubles. I had trouble many years ago after a divorce and I have had no trouble with my CU. I have four accounts with two different Credit Unions. They are much more pleasant to work with, as a general rule! Good luck!
3. If you still owe money on these accounts they can still be reported. If you have disputed these accounts, that can prolong their duration, simply because the agencies reset the reporting date after investigating a dispute. If you have no negative accounts on ChequeSytsems and are concerned that you still can't get an account because of your credit, try going to Washington Mutual (if they're in your state). They check Cheque Systems but do not check your credit.