Turned down for regular checking? We can help.

We believe that making financial mistakes should never disqualify a person from accessing core banking services. That’s why we created Aspire Checking.1 It gives those who have made past mistakes a second chance to achieve financial wellness.
 
When consumers apply for a checking account, banks and credit unions turn to ChexSystems®, a consumer reporting agency, to review applicants’ backgrounds to determine such items as unpaid fees, involuntary account closures, and fraudulent activity on past checking accounts.
 
While a blemish on your CheckSystem® record will prevent you from opening a checking account at most financial institutions, CU SoCal can offer you a second chance with Aspire Checking. To qualify, the amount you owe on a past checking account cannot exceed $1,000 nor be caused by fraud.

Get a second chance–and great features– with Aspire Checking:

  • Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) fee does not apply.                  
  • Overdraft Transfer fee does not apply.
  • Courtesy Pay fee for cumulative transactions up to $100 does not apply.
  • Monthly paper statement fees are waived.
  • Monthly fees are a $5 flat fee.
  • Remote Deposit Capture (RDC) will be limited to deposits of $1,000 max/day; $2,500 deposits max/month.

Apply for an Aspire Checking Account.

  1. Apply for a Rewards or Classic Checking Account using our online application button. Criteria for checking accounts differ at each financial institution. Even though you may have been turned down for a checking account in the past, you may actually qualify for a regular (Rewards or Classic) checking account at CU SoCal.

  2. If you do not pass our ChexSystems® criteria but DO qualify for Aspire Checking, we will reach out to you directly to complete the application process.

  3. Apply today and let’s get you into a checking account at CU SoCal!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Aspire Checking

Aspire Checking is now BankOn Certified.

Bank On Certification is a recognition from the Cities for Financial Empowerment (CFE) Fund, indicating that a financial institution meets specific criteria to provide safe and affordable financial services.

In order to earn BankOn certification, CU SoCal adjusted Aspire Checking to further benefit those looking to improve their financial wellbeing. As a result, associated Aspire Checking fees have been reduced or removed entirely. Aspire accountholder now enjoy expanded branch access and online resources.  

This checking account option is a way of earning a fresh start or second chance for individuals who do not qualify for other checking account options:
  • Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) fee do not apply.                  
  • Overdraft Transfer fee do not apply.
  • Courtesy Pay fee for transactions of $100 or less do not apply.
  • Monthly paper statement fee is waived.
  • Monthly fees will become $5 flat fee and not increase to $15 if monthly qualifications are not met.
  • Remote Deposit Capture (RDC) fees do not apply.
  • Aspire Checking will no longer automatically convert to Rewards Checking after 13 months. Aspire Checking accountholders may apply for a regular (Classic or Rewards) checking account at any time. (Note: Successfully qualifying for Classic or Rewards Checking will result in the establishment of a new Membership account.)
Aspire Checking is designed for those who are unable to qualify for CU SoCal Classic or Rewards Checking, or those who are unable to qualify for checking accounts at other financial institutions. If you feel this applies to you, Aspire Checking may be a good option.

1.    Apply for a Rewards or Classic Checking Account using our online application button. Criteria for checking accounts differ at each financial institution. Even though you may have been turned down for a checking account in the past, you may actually qualify for a regular (Rewards or Classic) checking account at CU SoCal.

2.    If you do not pass our ChexSystems® criteria but DO qualify for Aspire Checking, we will reach out to you directly to complete the application process.

3.    Apply on CUSoCal.org or at your nearest CU SoCal branch.

If you wish to convert your Aspire Checking Account to a regular checking account (Classic or Rewards), you will need to apply for the desired account. If approved, a new Membership will be established.
 
Note, there is no waiting period for Aspire Checking Members to apply for Rewards or Classic Checking. You may apply at any time to see if you qualify.
Yes. Your Aspire Checking Account will now feature Online Banking, Courtesy Pay, and Remote Deposit Capture. There is no additional steps needed to activate these additional benefits. Simply continue using your Aspire Checking Account as you have.
The BankOn certification change to Aspire Checking will take effect February 1, 2024.

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Building Better Lives™

Credit Union of Southern California (CU SoCal) is a leading financial institution empowering those who live, work, worship, or attend school in Orange County, Los Angeles County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County to reach their goals and build strong financial futures. CU SoCal provides access to convenient money management services and offers competitive rates and flexible terms on auto loans, mortgages, and VISA credit cards—turning wishing and waiting into achieving and doing.

 

562.698.8326 | 866 CU SoCal Se Habla Español

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