How to Move Money into Chime®

Key takeaways

• You can move money into Chime by setting up direct deposit through your employer or benefits portal.

• Other options include instant transfers, bank transfers, mobile check deposit, and cash deposits.

• Cash deposits are fee-free at Walgreens and Duane Reade retail locations. (see disclosure 1) ¹

Whether you just joined or you're still exploring the app, you might wonder how to move money into Chime. You have several options, from direct deposit to a cash deposit at a nearby store. Here's how each one works.

How do you add money to Chime?

You can add money to your Chime account in five main ways: 

• Set up direct deposit

• Make an instant transfer from a linked debit card

• Transfer from another financial institution

• Deposit a check in the app

• Deposit cash at a retail partner

Direct deposit and instant transfers typically move the fastest. Instant transfers from a linked debit card usually arrive within minutes, and you can get paid up to two days early with direct deposit. (see disclosure 2) ²

Cash deposits are fee-free at Walgreens and Duane Reade. Other retail partners may charge a fee, and you can add cash at more than 90,000 retail locations nationwide. (see disclosure 1) ¹

Here's how the main methods compare:

How do I set up direct deposit?

Direct deposit is an easy way to fund your account and unlock more features. You can start the process in the Chime app by going to Move Money, then Set up direct deposit.

There are three main ways to set up direct deposit:

• Via the Chime app. Search for your employer, payroll provider, or unemployment agency in the app. Tap Find employer to see if yours is supported.

• Through your employer or benefits portal. Log in to your payroll provider or government portal, enter your Chime account details, and choose how much of your pay to deposit.

• With a completed form. Tap Get completed form, and we'll email you a filled-out direct deposit form as a PDF. Send it to your manager or HR department, and you’re should be set.

You can find a full walkthrough in our guide to setting up direct deposit with Chime.

Benefits of setting up direct deposit with Chime

Direct deposit is a simple way to get paid, and it unlocks more of what the Chime app offers, such as:

• Get paid early: You can get paid up to two days early with direct deposit.

• SpotMe^®: Starting at $20 and up to $200 or more in fee-free overdraft on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals. (see disclosure 3) ³

• Automatic savings: Set aside a portion of each deposit without thinking about it. (see disclosure 4) ⁴

You can access other features too, whether or not you set up direct deposit:

• Chime Card^™: Build your credit history with everyday purchases and on-time payments.

• Round Ups: Round up your purchases and move the change into your Chime Savings account to boost your balance.

• Mobile check deposit: Deposit eligible checks right in the Chime app. (see disclosure 5) ⁵

More ways to move money into Chime

Not eligible for or interested in direct deposit? No problem. Here are other ways to add money to your account.

1. Make an instant transfer

Link an external debit card to your account, then open the Move Money menu to start an instant transfer.

Transfers from a linked debit card usually reach your Chime Checking Account within minutes, though network timing can cause delays.

2. Transfer from another account in the Chime app

Here's how to transfer money to your Chime account from another financial institution:

1. Log in to the Chime app and tap Transfers under Move Money.

2. Enter the username and password for your other financial institution. Your personal information stays encrypted.

3. Transfer your money. You'll generally have access to the funds within a few business days.

3. Transfer from another account's app or website

You can also move money from another financial institution through its own app or website. These bank transfers use the ACH network, which moves money electronically between financial institutions. Here's how:

1. Log in to your previous financial institution's website or app.

2. Look for a menu item like transfer funds or add external account.

3. Add your Chime Checking Account number and routing number. You'll find both under Profile, then Account details in the app.

4. Watch for the money in your Chime Checking Account within a few business days, depending on your financial institution’s timing.

4. Deposit cash

You can add cash to your account at Walgreens and Duane Reade locations fee-free. Cash deposits typically post to your Chime Checking Account soon after the retailer accepts your cash.

Here's how to deposit cash:

• Log in to the app, tap Move, and select Deposit cash.

• Tap See locations near me to find the nearest retail location.

• Hand the cashier your cash and have them scan your barcode or swipe your Chime Visa^® Debit Card.

5. Deposit a check with your phone

Eligible members can deposit checks right in the app. Open Chime, tap Move Money, then Mobile Check Deposit, endorse the check, and photograph the front and back.

Availability depends on factors like your account history and direct deposit activity, and funds are typically available within five business days.

Chime cash deposit limits and fees

Chime sets limits on how much cash you can add, and fees depend on where you deposit cash. Here's what to know before you go:

• Deposits are fee-free at Walgreens and Duane Reade, and other retail partners may charge a fee.

• You can make up to five cash deposits per day, up to $3,000 per day and up to $10,000 per month.

Check the in-app Cash Map for retailer-specific fees and limits before you head out.

Welcome to Chime

However you choose to move money into your account, we're glad you're here. Wherever you are in your money journey, we're here to help you unlock your financial progress.

Ready to put your savings to work? Find out how to grow your money faster.