You can close your Chime account online through the app or by contacting support, but you need to settle any outstanding balance first

Closing a Chime account is straightforward if your account is in good standing. You can initiate the closure through the Chime mobile app, or you can contact Chime customer support directly by phone or through the in-app messaging system. The process takes a few minutes, but Chime will not close the account if you have a negative balance or pending transactions that haven't cleared.

Before you close the account, make sure any direct deposits or automatic payments linked to it are redirected elsewhere. Once the account closes, Chime will deactivate your debit card, and you won't be able to access funds or make transactions through that account. If you have a positive balance remaining, Chime can transfer it to another bank account you provide, or you can withdraw it at an ATM before closing.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Chime account must have a zero or positive balance before Chime will close it—any negative balance must be paid first.
  • You can close the account through the Chime app by going to Settings, or by calling Chime support at the number on the back of your card.
  • Update any direct deposits, automatic bill payments, or recurring subscriptions before closing so they don't fail.
  • Chime will deactivate your debit card when ready upon closure, so withdraw or transfer any remaining balance beforehand.
  • If you have a positive balance, you can request a transfer to another bank account or withdraw the money at an ATM.

Close your account through the Chime app

Open the Chime app and log in with your credentials. Tap the profile icon or menu button (usually in the bottom right or top left, depending on your phone). Look for "Settings" or "Account Settings" and select it.

Scroll down to find "Close Account" or "Deactivate Account"—the exact wording varies slightly depending on your app version. Tap it. Chime will ask you to confirm that you want to close the account and may ask why you're leaving. Answer the confirmation prompt. The app will show you a message confirming the closure is complete or will tell you if there's an issue preventing closure (such as a negative balance).

Close your account by phone

Call the customer support number on the back of your Chime debit card. You can also find the support number in the app under "Help" or "Contact Us." Have your account information ready, including your full name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Tell the representative you want to close your account. They will verify your identity, check your account balance, and confirm there are no pending transactions. If everything is clear, they will process the closure over the phone. Ask the representative to confirm the closure in writing via email if you want documentation of the request.

Settle any negative balance before closing

If your account is overdrawn, Chime will not close it until the negative balance is paid. You can deposit money to cover the overdraft through direct deposit, a transfer from another bank account, or by visiting a participating retail location that accepts Chime deposits (such as Walgreens or CVS).

Once the balance reaches zero or positive, you can proceed with closing the account. If you're unsure of your current balance, log into the app or call support to check.

Redirect direct deposits and automatic payments first

Before you close the account, update any employer direct deposits, government benefits, or other recurring income to point to a different bank account. This usually takes one to two pay cycles to take effect, so do this before you close the account to avoid missing a deposit.

Similarly, cancel or update any automatic bill payments, subscription services, or recurring charges that are linked to your Chime card. If you close the account while these are still active, the payments will fail, which could result in late fees or service interruptions. Log into each service (utilities, streaming apps, insurance, etc.) and update the payment method.

Transfer or withdraw your remaining balance

If you have money left in your account, you have two options. You can withdraw cash at any ATM that accepts Chime cards (Chime is part of the MoneyPass and Allpoint networks, so you have access to thousands of ATMs). Alternatively, you can request that Chime transfer the remaining balance to another bank account you own.

To request a transfer, tell the support representative when you call to close the account, or mention it in the app closure process. Provide the routing number and account number of the bank account where you want the money sent. The transfer typically takes three to five business days.

What happens after you close your account

Once the closure is complete, your Chime debit card will be deactivated when ready. You will no longer be able to use it for purchases, ATM withdrawals, or any other transactions. Your account will no longer appear in the Chime app, and you will lose access to any features tied to the account, such as early direct deposit or savings features.

If you need to reopen a Chime account in the future, you can do so by downloading the app and signing up again. There is no waiting period or penalty for closing and reopening an account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I close my Chime account if I have a pending transaction?

Chime may not allow closure if a transaction is still processing. Wait for pending transactions to clear, then try closing again. If you're unsure whether transactions are pending, call support to check your account status before attempting closure.

What happens to my direct deposit if I close my account before updating it?

Your next direct deposit will fail because the account no longer exists. Contact your employer or benefits provider when ready to update your banking information to avoid missing a payment. They can usually process the change within one to two pay cycles.

Can I close my account if I have a negative balance?

No. You must pay off any overdraft or negative balance first. Deposit money through direct deposit, a bank transfer, or a retail deposit location, then close the account once the balance is zero or positive.

How long does it take to close a Chime account?

The closure itself is when ready when you confirm it through the app or phone. However, if you request a balance transfer to another bank account, that transfer takes three to five business days to complete.

Will closing my Chime account affect my credit score?

No. Closing a checking or savings account does not appear on your credit report and will not affect your credit score. Only credit accounts (credit cards, loans) impact your credit history.