How do I register?
Registration is a two-part process. First, consumers must order their ChexSystems Report and upon receipt of report contact an educator to enroll in a class. To order your ChexSystems report call 1.800.428.9623 or visit www.consumerdebit.com.

What is ChexSystems?
A consumer reporting agency that collects information from member institutions and provides a report to those with a "permissible purpose," most often financial institutions opening a checking or savings account. Reports include previous banking histories, monies owed and forced account closures. It’s estimated that 90% of banks use ChexSystems to assess risk when considering new account applications.

How long is the class?
Students should reserve six hours to complete Get Checking activities. However, depending on class size and other variables, classes may be shorter. For your convenience, GCIC offers a diverse mix of classes days, evenings and weekends.

How much does it cost?
Fees for individuals are $40 per person or $60 per couple. Payments may be made in the form of Cash or Money Order only. Money Orders can be made payable to: Get Checking Michigan. A couple is defined as a married couple or 2 persons in the same household. Proof of household residence will be required on photo ID to receive couple rate.

Why do I have to pay a fee for the class?
Fees cover the class instruction, class materials and administrative fees associated with operating the program.

What do I bring to class?
When you arrive, you will be asked to provide 3 items: a photo ID, Chex Systems report and payment. Consumers without all three items will not be allowed to participate in the current sessions and will be scheduled for the next class. To facilitate an environment conducive to learning, children are not allowed in class. Please make appropriate arrangements.

Can I bring the print out from the bank or financial institution?
No. You must order your ChexSystems report to attend the class. The report will arrive by US mail within 3-7 business days. After you receive your report, you may contact an Educator to pre-register to attend a class.

My report did not come within 7 business days, what do I do?
If your report does not arrive within 7 business days, it may be due to a problem verifying your address. If you have moved or provided incorrect information, you may experience a delay in receiving your ChexSystems report. If you have not received your ChexSystems report within 10 business days, please email Chiquita Board at Chiquita_board@efunds.com for assistance in obtaining your report.

What financial institutions participate with GCIC? What kind of account will I receive?
Currently, GCIC partners with seven financial institutions throughout the Metro Atlanta area. The participating institutions are Best Bank, BOND Community Federal Credit Union, Citizens Trust, Decatur First, SunTrust, Wachovia (DeKalb location only), and Washington Mutual. All consumers who successfully complete the class requirements are eligible for a full service account. The financial institutions reserve the right to limit certain activities on your account based on your previous checking history.

Do I have to pay my former banking debts prior to taking the class?
No, you are allowed to take the class and graduation certificates are valid for one year if you need additional time to repay your former bank debts. It is strongly recommended to make full restitution before taking your certificate to participating banks. While some banks will require you to pay off the amount owed before opening your account and some will allow you to work out a payment plan. Each financial institution reserves the right to determine the best solution for your re-entry to banking.

When do I get my certificate?
Certificates are issued at the end of the class session for consumers who successfully complete the course.

What is considered fraud and can I attend a workshop?
Get Checking has approximately 16 codes that educators decipher as fraud. If you are unsure about the disposition on your report, please contact an educator and discuss. Unfortunately, the program does not reprieve fraud and if there’s evidence of fraud reported to ChexSystems from a former bank, the consumer cannot attend the program. It is extremely important to dispute inaccurate information and maintain an accurate account of your banking histories on ChexSystems.