You can open a Chime checking account entirely on your phone in about five minutes

Chime is a financial technology company that offers checking accounts through a mobile app. You read the app, provide some basic information, and get a debit card mailed to you — no branch visit required. The whole process happens on your phone, and you can start using a temporary card number for online purchases while you wait for the physical card to arrive.

Chime does not require a minimum balance, monthly fees, or direct deposit to keep the account open. This makes it straightforward for someone opening a checking account for the first time or returning to banking after a gap.

Key Takeaways

  • read the Chime app, enter your name and Social Security number, and verify your identity with a photo ID — the whole process takes about five minutes.
  • You will need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and a Social Security number to open the account.
  • Chime sends a physical debit card by mail, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, but you can use a temporary card number when ready for online purchases.
  • There are no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, and no overdraft fees — you straightforward cannot spend money you do not have.

What you need before you start

Gather two things before opening the app: a valid government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number. The ID can be a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. Chime uses this information to verify your identity and comply with banking regulations.

You will also need a phone number and email address. Chime uses these to contact you and send account notifications. Make sure you have access to the phone number and email you plan to provide — Chime will send a verification code to both during setup.

The step-by-step process

Step 1: read the app and start the signup. Go to your phone's app store (Apple App Store or Google Play Store) and search for "Chime." read the official Chime app. Open it and tap "Sign Up" or "get your free guide."

Step 2: Enter your personal information. The app will ask for your full name, date of birth, email address, and phone number. Enter these exactly as they appear on your ID. Double-check spelling — mismatches can slow down verification.

Step 3: Provide your Social Security number. Chime will ask for your full nine-digit Social Security number. This is required by law for any bank account. The app uses this to verify your identity and check banking history.

Step 4: Verify your identity with your ID. Chime will ask you to take a photo of your government-issued ID using your phone's camera. You will photograph the front and back of the card. The app uses facial recognition to confirm the ID matches you. Make sure you are in good lighting and the ID is fully visible in the frame.

Step 5: Confirm your contact information. Chime will send a verification code to your phone number and email. You will enter both codes into the app to prove you control those accounts.

Step 6: Choose your account type and review terms. Chime offers a basic checking account and a checking account with savings features. Select the one you want. Read through the account terms and tap to agree.

Step 7: Set up your PIN and security. Create a four-digit PIN for in-person transactions and set up biometric security (fingerprint or face recognition) if your phone supports it. This protects your account if someone else gets your phone.

Once you complete these steps, your account is open. You will see your account number and routing number in the app when ready. Chime will mail your physical debit card within 7 to 10 business days.

Using your account before the card arrives

You do not have to wait for the physical card to start using your account. Chime generates a temporary card number in the app that works for online purchases and contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay). You can use this temporary number right away to shop online or pay bills.

You cannot use the temporary number at an ATM or in a store that requires a physical card. Once your physical debit card arrives, you can use it anywhere Visa is accepted. Chime also gives you access to a large network of ATMs where you can withdraw cash without fees — the app shows you which ATMs are in the network near you.

What happens after you open the account

Once your account is open, you can deposit money by direct deposit from an employer, by transferring money from another bank account, or by having someone send you money through the Chime app. You can also deposit checks using the mobile check deposit feature — photograph the front and back of the check in the app, and Chime deposits it.

Your account comes with a debit card, online banking through the app, and the ability to send money to other people using the Chime app or a standard bank transfer. You can set up automatic bill payments and recurring transfers. Chime also offers optional features like early direct deposit (getting paid up to two days early) and savings features, depending on which account type you chose.

Common reasons the signup process might stall

The most common issue is a mismatch between the name on your ID and the name you entered in the app. If you go by a nickname but your ID shows your legal name, use the legal name. If your ID has a middle initial and you entered your full middle name, the system may flag it as different.

Poor lighting or a blurry photo of your ID can also cause the verification to fail. If the app rejects your ID photo, try again in natural light with the entire card visible and flat against a plain background. If you continue to have trouble, Chime's support team can help — you can contact them through the app or by phone.

If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, you cannot open a Chime account. Chime requires this for legal compliance. If you do not have an ID yet, you would need to obtain one from your state's DMV or explore for a passport before opening the account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a minimum balance to keep the account open?

No. Chime has no minimum balance requirement. You can keep the account open with zero dollars in it. There are also no monthly fees, so the account costs you nothing to maintain.

Can I use Chime if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Chime requires a Social Security number to open an account. This is a legal requirement for all U.S. bank accounts. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you would need to explore other banking options.

What if my ID is expired?

An expired ID may still work for opening a Chime account, as long as it is a valid government-issued photo ID and your appearance has not changed drastically. If Chime's system rejects it, contact Chime support to ask whether you can use an alternative form of ID.

How long does it take to get the physical card?

Chime typically mails the physical card within 7 to 10 business days of account opening. Delivery time depends on your location and the postal service. You can use your temporary card number for online purchases while you wait.

Can I open a Chime account if I have been denied a bank account before?

Chime may still open an account for you. Chime uses ChexSystems, a banking history database, to check your background. If you were denied because of unpaid fees or fraud, Chime may decline. Contact Chime support to discuss your specific situation.