Special Notes
I asked if they use chexsystems and this was the reply: We use a type of credit report that assesses checking account history.
Email from Bank:
You should know that, even if you've had difficulty maintaining a positive checking balance in the past, Alternatives still offers a Fresh Start account:
The Fresh Start account is available for members who do not qualify for our regular account due to prior difficulties maintaining a positive balance. We understand that there may be unforeseen circumstances causing financial hardship. In keeping with Alternatives mission to provide access to transactional services and serve the underserved, we think everyone deserves a second chance. This account offers the opportunity of a Fresh Start.
With a Fresh Start account, rules governing your account are as follows:
$ Checks deposited will be subject to "exception" holds under our check hold policy (see below).
$ If the “Fresh Start" account overdraws during the six month period, it may be
closed immediately or the exception hold period may be extended.
$ Alternatives VISA Debit Card is not available for the first 3 months of the Fresh Start
period. After three months of maintaining a problem-free account, you may apply for the
Debit Card.
Check Hold Policy
The following will be immediately available:
$ Cash
$ Money Orders
$ Government checks
$ Alternatives FCU checks
$ Electronic deposits
$ Bank checks and certified checks
$ Checks that we have designated available immediately: Cornell, Ithaca City Schools,
TC3, TST BOCES, Tompkins County, and the City of Ithaca.
For all other deposits, the full amount of the deposit will be subject to a 5 business day hold for local items, and an 7 business day hold for non-local items.
Please note: This means to cash a personal check, you must deposit the check and wait for it to clear. You have the option of taking that check to the bank on which it is written to get immediate cash.
Business days are Monday through Friday and do not include Saturday, Sunday, and legal holidays. Deposits after 2 PM Friday and on Saturday are considered made Monday (unless Monday is a legal holiday).
Sorry, if the Fresh Start account is closed due to overdrafts, you may not have another checking account with Alternatives Federal Credit Union. Only one Fresh Start account allowed per member.
Types of Accounts Offered:
Personal checking, savings and business accounts
Learn more about
Alternatives Federal Credit Union