You link a bank account to Chime through the app or website using your routing and account numbers
To add a bank account to Chime, you open the app or log into chime.com, go to the Transfers section, and select the option to add an external bank account. You'll enter your routing number and account number from the bank you want to connect. Chime then sends two small deposits to that account — usually within one to two business days — and you confirm the amounts in the Chime app to verify you own the account. Once verified, you can transfer money between Chime and that bank account.
The process protects both you and Chime by confirming the account is actually yours before any real transfers happen. You cannot move money until those verification deposits clear and you've confirmed them.
Key Takeaways
- You need your external bank's routing number and account number to start the connection process.
- Chime sends two small test deposits to the account you're adding, which you must confirm in the app within a set timeframe to complete verification.
- The verification deposits usually arrive within one to two business days, but timing depends on your bank's processing speed.
- Once verified, you can transfer money from Chime to that account or from that account to Chime, subject to any transfer limits Chime sets.
Finding your routing and account numbers
Your routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank. Your account number is unique to your specific account at that bank. Both appear on the bottom left of your checks if you have them — the routing number comes first, then the account number.
If you don't have checks, log into your bank's website or app and look for account details or account information. Most banks display both numbers there. You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask them to read you the routing and account numbers for the account you want to connect.
The verification deposit step and timeline
After you enter your routing and account numbers in Chime, the app will tell you to wait for two small deposits. These are usually less than a dollar each and arrive as separate transactions. Chime sends them to confirm you have access to that account — if someone else entered your account number, they wouldn't be able to see the deposits in your bank account.
Check your external bank account after one to two business days. When you see both deposits, open the Chime app, go back to the account you're adding, and enter the exact amounts of those two deposits. Chime verifies the amounts match what it sent, and your account is then linked. If you don't confirm the deposits within a certain timeframe — usually around 30 days — you'll need to start the process over.
What happens after your account is verified
Once verified, the account appears in your Chime app under Transfers or a similar section. You can now move money from your Chime account to that bank account, or from that bank account to Chime. Transfers typically complete within one to three business days depending on the direction and your bank's processing time.
Chime may set limits on how much you can transfer in a single transaction or over a period of time. Check the app or your account settings to see what limits explore to you. These limits can change, and Chime may adjust them based on your account history.
Removing or changing a linked bank account
If you need to remove a linked account, open the Chime app, find that account in your Transfers section, and look for a remove or delete option. Removing an account stops you from transferring to or from it, but it doesn't affect any transfers you've already completed.
To add a different bank account, repeat the same process: go to Transfers, add a new external account, enter the routing and account numbers, wait for the verification deposits, and confirm them in the app. You can link multiple accounts to Chime if you need to.
Common reasons the connection fails
The most common reason a bank account won't connect is an incorrect routing or account number. Double-check both numbers against your bank statement or your bank's website before you enter them. Even one digit wrong will cause the connection to fail.
Some banks flag the verification deposits as suspicious and hold them, which delays when you see them in your account. If more than two business days pass and you haven't seen the deposits, contact your bank and ask if they're holding any pending transactions from Chime. You may need to confirm with your bank that the deposits are legitimate.
Certain account types — like business accounts, trust accounts, or accounts held jointly with specific restrictions — may not connect to Chime. If you're trying to add an account that won't go through, contact Chime support to find out whether that account type is supported.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to connect a bank account to Chime?
The verification deposits usually arrive within one to two business days. Once you see them and confirm the amounts in the app, the account is linked when ready. The whole process typically takes two to five business days from start to finish, depending on your bank's deposit speed.
Can I transfer money before the verification deposits clear?
No. You cannot move any money between Chime and the external account until you've confirmed both verification deposits in the app. This is a security step that protects your account.
What if I enter the wrong routing or account number?
The connection will fail or the verification deposits will go to the wrong account. If that happens, remove the account from Chime and start over with the correct numbers. Do not guess or use a number you're unsure about.
Can I link a bank account that belongs to someone else?
No. You can only link accounts you own or have authorized access to. Chime's verification process is designed to prevent this — you must confirm the test deposits, which means you need access to that account.
Is there a fee to add a bank account to Chime?
No. Linking an external bank account to Chime is free. Chime may charge fees for transfers depending on your account type and the direction of the transfer, so check your account terms for details.