You can close a Chime checking account through the app, by phone, or by visiting a partner location—the process takes minutes and your remaining balance gets sent to you
Closing a Chime checking account is straightforward. You initiate the closure through the Chime mobile app, by calling Chime customer service, or by visiting a Walgreens or CVS pharmacy (Chime's partner locations). Chime will freeze your account when ready, cancel your debit card, and mail any remaining balance to your address on file within 5 to 7 business days. You do not need to visit a physical bank branch.
The timing matters if you have pending transactions. Chime processes closures the same day you request them, but any deposits or payments already in motion will still post to your account after closure. You should wait for those to clear before closing, or be prepared to receive a check for the remaining balance after they do.
Key Takeaways
- You can close your account through the Chime app, by calling 1-844-244-6363, or in person at Walgreens or CVS without visiting a bank.
- Your debit card stops working when ready, but pending transactions will still post and your remaining balance will be mailed to you.
- There is no fee to close a Chime account, and you do not need to maintain a minimum balance or wait period.
- If you have direct deposits set up, you should update your employer or benefits provider with a new account number before closing.
Closing through the Chime app
Open the Chime app and tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner. Select "Settings," then scroll down to "Account" and tap "Close Account." Chime will show you your current balance and ask you to confirm the closure. Once you confirm, the account closes when ready and your debit card is deactivated.
The app will display a confirmation number. Take a screenshot or write it down. If you have a balance remaining, Chime will mail a check to the address on file within 5 to 7 business days. If your address has changed recently, update it in Settings before closing.
Closing by phone
Call Chime customer service at 1-844-244-6363. A representative will verify your identity by asking for your Social Security number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your debit card. Once verified, they will process the closure and provide you with a confirmation number.
Phone closure takes about 5 to 10 minutes. The representative will confirm your mailing address before ending the call. If you have questions about pending transactions or your balance, this is the time to ask—the representative can see your full transaction history and answer questions about timing.
Closing in person at Walgreens or CVS
Chime operates through a network of Walgreens and CVS locations. You can visit any of these pharmacies and ask to speak with the Chime representative or the person who handles Chime services. Bring a valid ID and your debit card. The representative will verify your identity and process the closure on the spot.
In-person closure is useful if you want to withdraw your remaining balance in cash when ready rather than wait for a mailed check. Not every Walgreens or CVS location has a Chime representative on duty, so call ahead or check the Chime app to find a location near you that offers this service.
What happens to pending transactions and direct deposits
Transactions that have already been authorized but not yet posted will still go through after your account closes. For example, if you swiped your debit card at a gas pump and the charge is pending, that charge will post even though your account is closed. Your remaining balance will reflect these charges when Chime mails your check.
If you receive direct deposits—paychecks, benefits, tax refunds—you must update your employer or benefits provider with a new account number before closing Chime. Deposits sent to a closed account will be returned to the sender, and you will have to contact them to resubmit with correct banking information. This can delay payments by weeks.
Timing and what to expect after closure
Your account closes the same day you request it. Your debit card stops working when ready and cannot be reactivated. Any remaining balance is mailed as a check to your address on file within 5 to 7 business days. If you do not receive the check within 10 business days, contact Chime customer service with your confirmation number and they will investigate.
You can still log into the Chime app for 30 days after closure to view your transaction history, but you cannot make any transfers or payments. After 30 days, the app will no longer display your account information.
Reasons you might not be able to close when ready
Chime will not close your account if you have an outstanding balance—meaning you owe Chime money rather than the other way around. This happens rarely but can occur if a transaction posted after your balance went negative and Chime covered the overdraft. You must bring your account to zero or positive before closure is allowed.
If you have an active dispute or fraud claim, Chime may delay closure until the investigation is complete. Contact customer service to check the status of any open cases before attempting to close.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I lose my transaction history after I close my account?
No. You can view your full transaction history in the Chime app for 30 days after closure. After that, contact Chime customer service with your confirmation number and they can provide a statement of your account activity. Keep your confirmation number in a safe place.
What if I close my account and then need to reopen it?
You can open a new Chime account at any time, but it will be a separate account with a new account number and routing number. You cannot reactivate a closed account. If you closed because of a temporary issue, consider pausing your card instead—Chime allows you to freeze your card temporarily without closing the account.
Can I close my account if I have a negative balance?
No. You must bring your account to zero or positive before Chime will process a closure. If you owe money, contact customer service to discuss a payment plan or other options.
How long does it take to receive my check after closing?
Chime mails checks within 5 to 7 business days. Delivery time depends on your location and the postal service. If you do not receive it within 10 business days, contact Chime with your confirmation number and they will issue a replacement or investigate the delay.
What happens to my routing and account number after I close?
Your account number and routing number become inactive when ready. Do not give these numbers to anyone after closure. If you set up automatic payments or transfers using these numbers, they will fail. Update any recurring payments with your new bank's information before closing Chime.