Many banks replace Chexsystems with EWS

What can be worse than chexsystems? Early Warning Services (EWS) is a growing credit reporting agency that banks are starting to switch to. Some banks like USAA Bank who never used chexsystems at all, are also now using EWS. EWS also signed a multi-year contract with eFunds Corp (chexsystems) in April 2007. Because of this many that are reported to chexsystems will also be reported to EWS. So far it seems that if a bank or credit union uses EWS, they will not make any exception for those that have been reported. These banks and credit unions include some popular ones such as Fifth Third Bank, Regions Bank, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Washington Mutual, BB&T, Arizona Federal Credit Union, Compass Bank, Chase and there are many others. In my opinion, if you have been reported to EWS, don't bother applying to a bank that uses it. Chances are the account will be closed even if it is opened at all.

Those wishing to obtain consumer report information should contact their Consumer Call Center at 800-325-7775. When you request a report from chexsystems, ews, or telecheck, avoid giving them any information that is not absolutely necessary. For example: if they ask where you work and for the address, phone etc,. I would not give them the number. Tell them you are currently unemployed. If they ask for current checking account information, simply say you have none. Do not volunteer any information