Fresh Start Account
If you've been denied a bank account in the past, Fresh Start* helps you get back into the banking system with a low, consistent monthly maintenance fee. Say goodbye to check cashing fees and high transaction fees so you can start saving and fast track your financial goals.
Get everything you need in one place
- Only $25 initial deposit to open
- $4 monthly maintenance fee
- Access to online and mobile banking
- Person-to-person payments
- No minimum balance requirements
- No extra debit card restrictions
- No overdraft or Nonsufficient funds fees
- After building a positive account history, upgrade to a traditional checking account
* Fresh Start account is available to individuals who are unable to open a traditional checking account due to a negative ChexSystems® report, if the account(s) reported to ChexSystems are not classified as fraud and have been paid in full. Customers must maintain their Fresh Start account in good standing. An account will be deemed "not in good standing" if any combination of two (2) or more ACH or debit card transactions are presented that would cause the account to become overdrawn if paid. If this occurs, the debit card may be deactivated, and WaFd Bank may deem the account must be closed. Customers who maintain their account in "good standing" will be eligible to access other products and services shortly after the 12-month anniversary of the account opening date. This account is excluded from any "new checking" promotion that may be occurring at the time of account opening.
Start Savings
With a higher interest rate than a traditional savings account, Start Savings is designed to help you save and earn more for doing it. To open, just have any WaFd Checking account (including Fresh Start) and start paying your future self.
- Only $25 initial deposit
- No minimum balance requirements
- No monthly service charge
- Variable blended rate (interest rate is different depending on how much money you have in the account)
What to Do If You Can't Open a Bank Account
Frustrated that you can't open a bank account? Learn why this happened and what you can do to open a Fresh Start account at WaFd Bank.
* Fresh Start account is available to individuals who are unable to open a traditional checking account due to a negative ChexSystems® report, if the account(s) reported to ChexSystems are not classified as fraud and have been paid in full. Customers must maintain their Fresh Start account in good standing. An account will be deemed "not in good standing" if any combination of two (2) or more ACH or debit card transactions are presented that would cause the account to become overdrawn if paid. If this occurs, the debit card may be deactivated, and WaFd Bank may deem the account must be closed. Customers who maintain their account in "good standing" will be eligible to access other products and services shortly after the 12-month anniversary of the account opening date. This account is excluded from any "new checking" promotion that may be occurring at the time of account opening.
BankOn Certified
WaFd Bank's Fresh Start Account is BankOn Certified.