If you can't get a checking account due to bad credit then look around for a smaller bank. Some banks don't even check credit scores if the bank is small enough.
I went to a small bank that is family run and they didn't even check my credit score when giving me a loan.
The family owned and ran banks may be rare but if you look hard enough you may be able to find one.
Another option is getting a prepaid debit card that you can setup direct deposit through. Bluebird walmart debit card is a good prepaid debit card without fees and you can even write checks through them.