Yes. Even though opening a checking account is easier than applying for a credit card—you can still be denied by the bank. This is usually because of negative actions found on your ChexSystems or Early Warning Services report. These reporting agencies help banks assess a prospective customer’s banking history. Unpaid bank fees and bounced checks can land you on the ChexSystems or Early Warning Services blacklist. The more blemishes on your report, the less chance you have of being approved for a new account.