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Great Lakes Credit Union has everything you need to help manage your money and plan for the future.
Fresh Checking
Get Back on Track with Flexible, No-Fee Checking
Turn your banking history around with a checking account that’s designed to give you a fresh start. Enjoy a wide range of benefits that make banking easy and convenient. Open an account today to take control of your financial future.
Second-Chance Checking Accounts Near Chicago, IL
At Great Lakes Credit Union, we understand that life happens. If you've been denied a regular checking account due to overdrafts or other banking issues, our Fresh Checking, certified by BankOn®, is designed to give you a second chance. It can help you rebuild your financial history while providing many of the same benefits as our Free Checking account. Open a Fresh Checking account today to start building a solid financial foundation.
Reboot Your Banking with These Great Benefits
No Fees
Keep more of your hard-earned money instead of watching monthly fees slowly drain your bank account.
No Minimum Monthly Balance Requirement
Stop worrying about avoiding minimum balance fees.
Get Started with a $25 Initial Deposit
A low initial deposit requirement lets you start rebuilding your banking history right away.
Debit Card Transactions
Conveniently use your debit card for everyday purchases.
A Clear Path to Better Banking
If your banking history has hit a few speed bumps along the way, our Fresh Checking can help you turn things around. It offers many of the same features as our Free Checking, and you may qualify to upgrade your account after a period of responsible account management. Getting started is quick and easy — it only takes a few minutes to fill out our short application.
Additional Features of Our Second-Chance Checking Accounts
CheckArmor® Fraud Protection by Vericast
Your account is safeguarded against suspicious activity with real-time monitoring.
Mobile & Online Banking
Manage your account online from the comfort of home or on the go with your mobile device.
Mobile Check Deposit
Save trips to a branch and deposit checks with your mobile device anywhere, anytime.
Receive Your Paycheck One Day Early1
You may get paid one day early, depending on when your employer submits direct deposits.
Access to Over 5,600 Branches
Conveniently do your banking while traveling with Shared Branching and enjoy access to nearly 30,000 ATM locations.
Peace of Mind
Accounts are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) for up to $250,000.
Open Your Checking Account in 3 Easy Steps!
Step1
Apply Online
Complete our short online application or drop by a local branch to get started.
Step2
Select a Checking Account
Select the GLCU checking account you want to open and then review and submit your application.
Step3
Account Approval
Your new checking account may be approved in as little as one day.2
Why Choose Great Lakes Credit Union?
Great Lakes Credit Union is a member-owned nonprofit organization that is sharply focused on serving the needs of our members. We offer better rates and lower fees than other financial institutions because we don't have to worry about earning profits for investors.
In addition to our flexible checking accounts, we also offer a full range of banking products. We can help with your mortgage, vehicle loan, short- and long-term savings, and other financial needs. Partner with us today to take advantage of the many benefits of credit union membership.
“I am a member of Great Lakes Credit Union for 36 years. I love it! The folks working there are the best when it comes to customer service. They try their hardest to make sure you are always served in the best way!”
Credit Union Second-Chance Checking Account FAQ
What is a second chance checking account?
A second chance checking account is designed to help you build or rebuild your financial history. You may qualify for a second chance checking account if you have been denied a regular checking account due to repeated overdrafts, an account closure, or other reasons. Second-chance checking accounts have many of the same benefits as regular checking accounts.
Can I rebuild credit with a second-chance checking account?
A second-chance checking account may help you indirectly improve your credit. While the account itself may not directly impact your credit score, regularly monitoring your checking account can provide insights into your spending and saving habits, which may help you make better financial decisions. A secured credit card is a strategy you can use to positively affect your credit scores. With a secured credit card, you deposit the amount of the credit limit you want with your bank or credit union. If you want a $500 credit limit, for example, you will deposit $500. After demonstrating a good payment history for 1-2 years, your credit accounts may improve, which may help you qualify for a regular credit card account. It’s also a good idea to periodically check your credit report for errors. If you find any errors, you may be able to have them removed.
Can I upgrade from a second-chance checking account to a standard checking account?
Yes, you may qualify for GLCU’s interest-bearing Free Checking after a period of positive financial history.
Can I make debit card purchases with a second-chance checking account?
Yes, you will receive a debit card that you can use for your everyday purchases.
Can I access online and mobile banking with a second-chance checking account?
Yes, you can easily manage your account online from the comfort of your home or with your mobile device while you are on the go.
Do I need to maintain a certain minimum balance to rebuild my banking history?
There are no minimum balance requirements for Fresh Checking. You can improve your banking history by maintaining a positive balance and avoiding overdrafts.
More Ways We Can Serve Your Banking Needs
Free High-Yield Checking Account
Enjoy the best of both worlds! With one account, you can have the flexibility of a checking account while also earning a competitive APY* on your balance.
High-Interest Savings Account
Grow your savings faster with a competitive APY* and access your funds when you need them.
Holiday Savings
Save for the holidays throughout the year instead of waiting until the last minute. Save for gifts, events, and other holiday needs.
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