Operated through alliances with a pair of FDIC-insured banks, this firm delivers two main deposit options.
Overview of Chime
Without a single brick-and-mortar outlet in sight, Chime stakes its claim as a fully online financial service, tailor-made for those who are content handling their banking exclusively via the internet. Although its lineup is slim with just a savings and checking account, both accounts have the perks of zero fees and no charges for opening.
Highlights
- Round-the-clock customer support accessible through phone or instant messaging.
- No hoops to jump through in the form of minimum balance thresholds for both savings and checking.
- Access to a vast network exceeding 60,000 ATM locations without any withdrawal fees nationwide.
- A well-crafted mobile application praised by users on both iOS and Android platforms.
Drawbacks
- Entirely branchless, all transactions must be conducted digitally.
- No offerings like money market accounts or CDs to diversify savings.
- Top-tier savings interest rates and some digital perks require Chime+ membership.
Chime Checking Account Deep Dive
Forget about minimum balances or monthly charges—the checking account here invites users without strings attached. Equipped with a Visa debit card and nonstop mobile access through Chime’s celebrated app, it brings conveniences like paycheck access up to two days ahead of time into the fold. Additionally, cardholders can withdraw money at over 50,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide.
Chime’s overdraft safety net, SpotMe, cushions debit card transactions that exceed available funds. Qualification depends on receiving at least $200 in qualifying direct deposits in the past 34 days. Initially, overdrafts up to $20 are covered, with the potential to stretch as high as $200 based on your financial behavior. Should overdrafts overshoot your permitted limit, or if SpotMe isn’t activated, the transaction simply won’t go through no fees charged. However, unlocking SpotMe hinges on attaining Chime+ status by meeting the deposit requirement.
Advantages of the Checking Account
- No minimum balance or maintenance fees to fret over.
- Withdrawal access at 50,000+ fee-free ATMs and cash deposits at Walgreens locations.
- Zero overdraft fees courtesy of SpotMe.
- FDIC coverage ensured through Chime’s banking partners.
- Cash deposits accepted at over 85,000 retail spots, including Walmart and 7-Eleven.
Limitations to Keep in Mind
- SpotMe coverage starts modestly at $20 per overdraft event.
- Only individuals with Chime+ status can tap into SpotMe benefits.
- Using an out-of-network ATM will cost you a $2.50 fee.
Exploring Chime Savings
Chime’s savings account flaunts a high-yield element, though it shines brightest only if you’re part of the Chime+ club, achieved by maintaining $200 in qualifying deposits in the checking account within the last 34 days. If you’re scouting for superior interest rates, other digital banks often outpace Chime’s baseline yield.
Much like its checking sibling, the savings account boasts zero monthly fees and lacks any minimum balance barriers, making it effortlessly approachable for just about anyone.
Pros of the Savings Account
- Absolutely no monthly fees or minimum deposits required.
- FDIC insurance safeguards deposits up to legal limits.
Cons Revealed
- Top savings interest and additional digital functions stay behind a paywall labeled Chime+.
- Competing online banks often offer superior APYs without extra conditions.
Behind the Scenes: About Chime
Powered by The Bancorp Bank and Stride Bank—each FDIC insured with coverage up to $250,000 per depositor per account category—Chime extends beyond deposit accounts by offering a Credit Builder card accepted wherever Visa is welcomed.
Support is at your fingertips via live chat, phone, or email, with live chat and phone services running non-stop every day, accessible through the much-acclaimed mobile app.
A fitting choice for digital enthusiasts wary of fees and minimums, Chime’s absence of physical locations is balanced by an intuitive app experience. It’s an appealing, fuss-free banking option for those prioritizing a mobile-first approach, although unlocking all perks requires upgrading to Chime+ status.
How We Assessed Chime
Bankrate’s extensive roster of financial institution reviews is continuously refreshed to help you navigate the sea of choices. Our editorial crew meticulously examines deposit products—like savings, checking, CDs, and MMAs—while scoring them based on interest yields, fees, balance minimums, and accessibility of funds. Each feature is weighted by significance to account holders, resulting in a comprehensive rating for every account.
Quick Stats
| FDIC Insurance Limit | $250,000 per depositor, per account type |
| ATM Network | 60,000+ fee-free ATMs nationwide |
| Cash Deposit Locations | 85,000+ sites including Walmart, 7-Eleven, Walgreens |
| SpotMe Overdraft Limit | From $20 up to $200, Chime+ required |