You cannot link a traditional checking account directly to Chime

Chime is a financial technology company that issues its own debit card and checking account — it is not a service that connects to accounts you already have at other banks. If you have a checking account at Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or any other traditional bank, you cannot link it to Chime the way you might link two accounts at the same bank.

What you can do instead is move money between your Chime account and another bank account using external transfers. This is different from linking: you are sending money from one place to another, rather than combining accounts or giving Chime access to manage your existing checking account.

Key Takeaways

  • Chime is a standalone bank account, not a tool that connects to your existing checking account at another bank.
  • You can transfer money between your Chime account and another bank account using ACH transfers, which usually take one to three business days.
  • Chime can receive direct deposits from your employer, which is often faster than manual transfers.
  • Some Chime users keep both a Chime account and a traditional bank account for different purposes, rather than replacing one with the other.

How to move money between Chime and another bank account

If you want to transfer money from your Chime account to a checking account elsewhere, or from another bank into Chime, you use what is called an ACH transfer. ACH stands for Automated Clearing House — it is the system banks use to move money electronically between different institutions.

To set up an ACH transfer, you will need the routing number and account number of the bank account you are transferring to or from. You enter this information in the Chime app or website, and Chime will send the money on a schedule you choose. Most ACH transfers take one to three business days to complete, though some banks process them faster.

Chime does not charge a fee for outgoing ACH transfers. The bank you are transferring to may charge a fee for receiving money, but most do not.

Using direct deposit instead of transfers

If you receive a paycheck, the fastest way to get money into your Chime account is through direct deposit. This means your employer sends your paycheck directly to your Chime account instead of to another bank or as a paper check.

To set up direct deposit, you give your employer your Chime routing number and account number. You can find both in the Chime app under account settings. Direct deposits usually arrive the same day your employer sends them, or within one business day — much faster than an ACH transfer.

If you are already receiving direct deposit at another bank and want to switch to Chime, you will need to update your banking information with your employer's payroll department. Some employers let you do this online; others require a form.

Why someone might use both Chime and another bank account

Some people keep a Chime account and a traditional bank account at the same time, for different reasons. You might use Chime for everyday spending because it offers features like early direct deposit or no overdraft fees, while keeping a savings account at a traditional bank because it pays higher interest on money you are not spending right away.

Others use Chime as their main account but keep a backup account at a traditional bank in case they need to visit a physical branch or prefer to speak with someone in person. Chime does not have physical branches — all customer service happens through the app, phone, or email.

Having two accounts also gives you a safety net: if one account has a problem or is frozen for any reason, you still have access to money in the other account while you sort it out.

What happens if you close your other bank account

If you decide to move all your banking to Chime and close your account at another bank, you will need to update any automatic payments or direct deposits that were going to that account. This includes your paycheck, automatic bill payments, subscription services, and any other money coming in or going out regularly.

Before you close the old account, give yourself time to make sure everything has switched over. Set up direct deposit to Chime first, wait for one or two paychecks to arrive, and then update any automatic payments. Only close the old account once you are certain nothing is still trying to use it.

If you forget to update something and a payment tries to go to the closed account, it will be rejected and you may face a late fee or missed payment. Checking your old account for a few weeks after closing it can catch these mistakes.

Moving large amounts of money to or from Chime

ACH transfers have limits on how much you can send at once. Chime's limits vary depending on your account history and how long you have been a customer, but they typically range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per transfer. If you need to move a large amount, you may need to split it into multiple transfers over several days.

If you need to move a very large amount quickly — such as a down payment on a house or a major purchase — you might use a wire transfer instead. Wire transfers move money faster than ACH but usually cost money and require you to go through your traditional bank rather than Chime. Contact Chime customer service to ask whether they can receive wire transfers and what information you will need to provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Chime card at an ATM that is not Chime's?

Yes. Chime offers access to a large network of ATMs where you can withdraw cash for free. You can find which ATMs are in the network through the Chime app. If you use an ATM outside the network, Chime may charge a fee, and the ATM operator may charge a fee as well.

If I transfer money from Chime to another bank, can I get it back quickly?

Yes, but it depends on the other bank. Once the money arrives at the other bank, you can transfer it back to Chime using an ACH transfer, which takes one to three business days. Some banks let you initiate transfers through their app; others require you to call or visit a branch.

Do I need a Social Security number to link accounts or set up transfers?

You need a Social Security number to open a Chime account in the first place. Once your account is open, you do not need to provide it again to set up transfers to other banks — you only need the routing and account numbers of the other account.

What if the ACH transfer fails?

If a transfer fails, Chime will usually tell you why through the app — common reasons include an incorrect account number, a closed account, or insufficient funds. You can correct the information and try again. The money will be returned to your Chime account within a few business days.