45 Banks That Offer Early Direct Deposit

Banking

Waiting for payday to come isn’t easy, especially when you’re paid biweekly and have bills to pay. However, you can get paid early by banking with a bank that offers early direct deposit.

Instead of holding your paycheck for two days, the bank deposits it directly into your account as soon as they receive it from your employer. This means the money arrives in your account sooner, and you get your paycheck early, so you can pay bills and even invest that money.

Top 15 Banks With Early Direct Deposit

Want to access your funds two to three days sooner? Discover the 15 best banks that offer early direct deposit here, plus more options below:

1. Upgrade

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  • No minimum deposit
  • No monthly fees or overdraft fees
  • Maximize rewards with direct deposits and get paid up to 2 days early
  • Up to 2% cash back on purchases

The Upgrade Rewards Checking Plus account has no monthly fees, no ATM fees, and no transfer fees. Plus, customers who set up monthly direct deposits of $1,000 or more get up to 2% cash back on everyday debit card purchases.

If you use an out-of-network ATM, Upgrade will give you a rebate on up to five ATM fees per month if you meet certain conditions.

Upgrade is a financial technology company, not a bank. Premier Savings accounts are provided by Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. Your funds are FDIC-insured up to $250,000.

2. Chime

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  • No monthly service fees or foreign transaction fees
  • No minimum opening deposit
  • Use your Chime Visa debit card at 60,000 fee-free1 ATMs
  • Get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit2
  • Chime Savings Account offers 2.00%3 APY

Chime® stands out for its rich set of features, including its signature early direct deposit. You can get your paycheck up to two days early when you set up direct deposit. This process is made simple with a pre-filled direct deposit form sent to your email upon account opening.

In addition to early pay access, Chime offers a free Visa debit card with no monthly, overdraft, and foreign transaction fees.

Their automatic savings feature and high-yield savings account make growing your funds effortless. For those tight financial moments, Chime’s SpotMe lets you overdraw without penalty.

Accessibility is also a perk. Chime provides fee-free use of over 60,000 ATMs and the option to deposit cash at 75,000 retail locations.

3. SoFi

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  • Up to $300 sign-up bonus with direct deposit
  • No minimum opening deposit
  • Earn up to 4.60% APY
  • Over 55,000 fee-free ATMs
  • Early pay with direct deposit

SoFi is a leading digital banking platform that offers a Checking and Savings account packed with several user-friendly amenities.

With SoFi, customers enjoy a banking experience devoid of overdraft charges, minimum balance requirements, or monthly fees.

SoFi also grants its customers access to a vast network of over 55,000 ATMs within the Allpoint® Network. You can also get your paycheck up to two days ahead with direct deposit.

An exceptional highlight of SoFi’s Checking and Savings account is its competitive APYs. Account holders can enjoy a solid 4.60% APY on savings balances and a 0.50% APY on checking account balances, with no minimum direct deposit amount to qualify for this rate.

Additionally, SoFi debit cardholders stand a chance to earn up to 15% cash back at local businesses, presenting an extra perk for availing of their banking services.

Currently, for a limited period, SoFi is also offering a bonus of up to $300 for new account holders who set up qualifying direct deposits, making it an even more attractive banking option.

4. Current

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  • Build credit and earn points with every swipe
  • Over 40,000 fee-free ATMs
  • No monthly fees
  • Get paid up to two days early with direct deposit

Current is one of the fastest-growing mobile banking solutions in the U.S., with over one million members. However, Current is a financial technology company, not a bank.

With a Current account, you can build your credit just by using your debit card for everyday transactions. The best part? There’s no need for loans or credit checks.

Another key attraction of Current is its competitive 4.00% APY on savings. This rate, substantially higher than what’s offered by many conventional banks, could provide a meaningful boost to your savings growth.

With an online checking account from Current, you can earn up to 15x points and cashback when you use your Visa debit card at participating merchants. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group, which is FDIC-insured.

5. GO2bank

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  • Early direct deposit delivers a paycheck up to 2 days early
  • Access to over 19,000 ATMs
  • 4.50% APY on savings up to $5,000
  • Overdraft protection up to $200

GO2bank is a neobank created by Green Dot, a fintech company. The bank offers a checking account with separate savings subaccounts called vaults.

There is no minimum balance required to open an account. Additionally, the bank offers an attractive 4.50% APY on savings accounts on savings up to $5,000.

With 90,000 retail locations for cash deposits and 55,000 ATMs, GO2bank provides convenient access to money.

Direct deposit users can get their paycheck up to two days early, while government benefits recipients can get theirs up to four days early.

Opt-in and eligible direct deposits can receive overdraft protection up to $200. For those interested in building credit, the GO2bank Secured Visa Credit Card can be a useful tool. The card is easily applied for after eligible direct deposit.

Finally, GO2bank’s monthly fee is waived whenever you receive a direct deposit in the previous monthly statement period. If not, the fee is just $5 per month.

6. Chase

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  • $100 bonus after 10 purchases in 60 days
  • Over 16,000 ATMs
  • $4.95 monthly service fee
  • Get paid up to two business days sooner with early direct deposit

Chase Bank is a well-known player in the U.S. banking scene and now offers a secure and hassle-free checking account called Chase Secure Banking. This account comes with numerous advantages, including no credit checks, no ChexSystems, and no overdraft fees.

For those who value convenience, this account also provides access to over 16,000 ATMs, online bill pay, and even complimentary money orders and cashier’s checks.

And for those who prefer in-person banking, Chase’s vast network of branches – boasting 4,700 locations across the country – is a major plus.

With a Chase Secure Banking account, you’ll also receive a $100 cash bonus if you use your debit card for ten purchases within 60 days.

Getting started is quick and straightforward. Approval is immediate, and your card will arrive in no time. There is a small monthly fee of $4.95, but there’s no minimum deposit required.

7. Axos Bank

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  • $100 sign-up bonus (Use code RC100)
  • No monthly maintenance fees or overdraft fees
  • Unlimited domestic ATM fee reimbursements
  • Get early direct deposits and tax refunds up to 2 days early
  • No credit check

Axos Bank’s Essential Checking Account is an attractive option for individuals seeking comprehensive banking solutions. Catering to both personal and business needs, the bank offers a remarkable 3.30% APY high-yield checking account.

Customers can enjoy a stress-free banking experience with no monthly maintenance fee and no minimum balance requirement. Additionally, Axos Bank provides unlimited ATM fee reimbursements.

To further enhance the banking experience, the Essential Checking Account features Direct Deposit Express, granting early access to all direct deposits, including monthly government benefits and tax refunds, providing customers with greater financial flexibility.

8. Dave

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  • No overdraft or minimum deposit fees
  • Over 40,000 MoneyPass® ATMs
  • Up to 15% cash back via Dave Rewards
  • Access ExtraCash™ advances up to $500 instantly

Dave’s Spending account, accessible via their mobile app, eliminates overdraft and minimum deposit concerns.

Users can instantly utilize their digital Dave Debit Mastercard® with Apple Pay® or Google Pay™, with a physical card option available. All funds are FDIC-insured up to $250K with Evolve Bank & Trust.

Dave offers 40,000+ MoneyPass® ATMs and up to two days early payday via Direct Deposit. Their Round Up feature aids in savings by rounding up purchases.

The Dave Debit Mastercard® entitles users to earn up to 15% cash back. Depositing is simplified with options like ACH, Apple Pay®, Google Pay™, or in-store deposits at outlets like CVS and Walgreens.

For unforeseen expenses, Dave’s ExtraCash™ provides advances up to $500, ensuring financial flexibility.

9. Cash App

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  • Send, spend, and receive money for free
  • Buy, sell, send, and receive Bitcoin with ease
  • Invest in stocks, suitable for both novices and experienced investors
  • Exclusive discounts with Cash App Pay and Cash Card

Cash App is a multi-faceted financial platform that offers users the ability to manage and grow their finances effortlessly.

While it isn’t a bank in itself, Cash App collaborates with trusted banking partners to provide a seamless banking experience, without the usual fees.

For those into cryptocurrency, Cash App stands as a straightforward platform to buy, sell, and manage Bitcoin, with services furnished by Block, Inc. This versatility extends to the stock market too.

With Cash App Investing LLC, even those new to investing can easily get started and create a portfolio. And for every purchase, the Cash Card ensures users receive exclusive discounts, optimizing their daily spending.

Added perks include receiving your paycheck up to two days earlier when you opt for direct deposit. Furthermore, when you direct deposit a minimum of $300 each month, any incurred fees are promptly reimbursed.

Globetrotters can withdraw from any ATM worldwide and enjoy full fee reimbursements when using in-network ATMs.

10. Albert

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  • Advance up to $250
  • Over 55,000 ATMs
  • Get your paycheck up to two days early
  • No credit check

Albert is an innovative fintech banking platform that offers an easy account opening process, with no minimum deposit requirement. By signing up for a new cash account and setting up direct deposit, users can earn a generous $150 bonus.

In addition to this lucrative incentive, Albert also provides a free Mastercard debit card that rewards users with cashback for every transaction. For any financial inquiries, users can turn to the “Ask a Genius” feature on the Albert app, which is available 24/7.

As a Genius subscriber, users can also enjoy the convenience of receiving their paychecks up to two days early by setting up direct deposit, with no minimum direct deposit amount. With access to over 55,000 ATMs, you’ll never be charged to withdraw cash.

Moreover, Albert has no monthly fee or minimum balance requirement, and all funds are fully insured up to $250,000 through federally backed FDIC protection.

11. Navy Federal Credit Union

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  • Direct deposit with early access
  • ATM fee rebates up to $240 per year
  • No monthly service fee
  • Free personalized checks

Founded in 1933 by seven Navy employees, the NFCU offers access to their paycheck one business day early with a Navy FCU Active Duty Checking account.

You are eligible for NFCU membership if you are a service member in any branch of the armed forces, a family member, or a Department of Defense civilian.

Early pay with direct deposit are delivered bi-weekly, and they’re detailed in the military posting calendar.

Navy Federal Credit Union uses MyPay for direct deposit. The Active Duty Checking account is available for active or retired service members who are stateside or deployed.

12. Capital One 360 Checking

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  • No monthly fees or minimum requirements
  • 24/7 banking with top-rated mobile app and card lock feature
  • Over 70,000 ATMs in convenient shopping locations
  • Get your paycheck up to two days early

Capital One 360’s Checking Account is designed for those who value simplicity merged with innovation. Its top-rated mobile app ensures that whether you’re on the go or at home, your banking needs are addressed 24/7.

Misplacing a debit card isn’t a hassle anymore; with the intuitive card lock feature, you can secure your card with just a tap.

Additionally, having fee-free access to over 70,000 ATMs, strategically located in your favorite shopping spots, means cash withdrawals are always convenient.

But what truly sets Capital One 360 apart is its commitment to delivering services that resonate with the modern individual’s needs.

The early paycheck option, for instance, allows users to access their hard-earned money up to two days sooner with no minimum direct deposit amount.

Moreover, the platform’s seamless integration with tools like Zelle® and its user-friendly bill pay system showcases Capital One 360’s dedication to making banking effortless and efficient for everyone.

13. Varo

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  • No monthly service fee
  • Manage your money through your iOS or Android device
  • Over 55,000 ATMs
  • No foreign transaction fees or transfer fees
  • No overdraft fees with Varo Advance

Varo is an online bank founded in 2015. They provide banking and checking accounts with no monthly fees.

Signing up for a Varo bank account is a breeze, as the entire process can be completed online without the need to visit a regional branch.

One of the appealing benefits of this account is the ability to receive your paycheck and tax refund up to two days early. You can also earn 5.00% APY on savings up to $5,000.

Additionally, you can deposit cash at over 90,000 locations and access more than 55,000 ATMs for withdrawals.

These ATMs are conveniently located in well-known shopping destinations like Target, CVS, and Safeway, making banking seamless and convenient.

Lastly, Varo enables fast and free cash transactions with services like Zelle and Varo-to-Varo transfers, streamlining your financial management.

14. Ally Bank

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  • No monthly maintenance fees
  • Over 43,000 no-fee Allpoint® ATMs
  • No overdraft fees

Ally Bank’s Interest Checking account is a standout choice for those seeking a smooth banking experience with numerous perks.

With no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirement, it offers customers the flexibility and freedom they desire.

To get your paycheck up to two days early, there is no minimum direct deposit amount.

Additionally, Ally Bank boasts competitive rates on deposit accounts, including an impressive 0.25% APY on its checking accounts.

One of the most attractive features is their zero overdraft fees policy, which helps customers avoid unexpected costs. As part of Ally’s extensive suite of financial services, checking account holders also enjoy access to a network of over 43,000 no-fee Allpoint® ATMs.

Plus, Ally Bank is committed to keeping your expenses low by reimbursing up to $10 per statement cycle for fees incurred at other ATMs nationwide.

15. Revolut

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  • No monthly service fee
  • Earn up to 4.25% APY on savings
  • Over 55,000 ATMs
  • Commission-free stock trading

Revolut is an all-in-one app that simplifies your financial life by combining digital banking, currency exchange, investment tools, and budgeting features in a single user-friendly platform.

It streamlines money management and offers a seamless experience for those seeking modern, efficient financial solutions.

With the Revolut debit card, you can enjoy free access to over 55,000 ATMs and no-charge withdrawals from out-of-network ATMs up to $1,200 monthly. Additionally, you receive 10 international transfers per month without any fees.

You don’t have to wait for the physical card to arrive, as you can immediately use the digital card with Apple Pay or Google Pay.

The account offers cashback, discounts from leading brands, a savings account, and more perks. Furthermore, the FDIC insures your funds up to $250,000.

Other Banks with Early Direct Deposit to Consider

Here are 30 other checking accounts and prepaid debit cards with early direct deposit that didn’t make our top 15.

  • Ando Spending
  • Andrews Federal Credit Union
  • BlueBird Prepaid Visa
  • CARD.com Prepaid Visa
  • Citizens Bank
  • Consumers Credit Union
  • Credit Karma Money Spend
  • Dora Financial
  • Douugh Banking
  • EFCU Financial
  • Fifth Third Bank
  • First Service Credit Union
  • Freedom First Credit Union
  • Golden 1 Credit Union
  • GTE Financial
  • Huntington Bank
  • Kinecta Federal Credit Union
  • LendingClub
  • One Account
  • OneUnited Bank
  • Oxygen Account
  • PayPal
  • PenFed Credit Union
  • Porte Account
  • Regions Bank
  • Service Credit Union
  • Simmons Bank
  • USAA
  • Venmo
  • Wealthfront Cash Account

Where to Look for Early Direct Deposit Services

Early direct deposit is a sought-after feature for many people who prefer to receive their paycheck ahead of the standard schedule. Knowing which types of financial institutions offer this service can be crucial when selecting where to keep your money. Here are some types of institutions that typically offer early direct deposit:

  • Traditional banks: Many large, conventional banks offer early direct deposit as an extra feature for their premium or specialized checking accounts.
  • Online banks: Given that they operate without physical branches, online banks often provide more flexible services, including early direct deposit.
  • Credit unions: These member-owned institutions frequently offer better terms and services compared to traditional banks, including access to funds up to two days early for their members.
  • Neobanks: Neobanks are fintech companies that frequently offer early direct deposit as a feature. These digital-only banks sometimes partner with traditional banks to provide this service.
  • Prepaid card companies: Some prepaid card providers allow access to your paycheck up to two days early as a way to entice customers to reload their cards regularly. We’ve listed the best prepaid debit cards with reviews for your convenience.

How to Choose the Right Bank

When choosing the best bank with early direct deposit, be sure to consider factors like monthly and overdraft fees, and minimum balance requirements. Additionally, consider whether you prefer online banking or a bank with a local branch.

Here’s a quick run down of the major factors to consider when choosing a bank for any purpose, including early direct deposit:

FDIC or NCUA Insurance

Verify that any bank or credit union is federally insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Administration. This confirms two things: first, that you’re working with a legitimate financial institution, and second, that your money would be insured up to $250,000 if the bank were to fail.

It’s unlikely that any legitimate bank or financial company will fail. However, this is more about determining whether you’re dealing with a trustworthy financial service provider.

Accounts & Services Offered

The majority of people will be looking for basic checking and savings accounts. However, there are many other types of bank accounts offered by both online banks and brick-and-mortar institutions. These include money market accounts, cash management accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), credit cards, and loans.

Depending on your financial needs, you might want to look for a bank that can provide all the accounts and services you’re looking for. This can be much easier than having to manage accounts with several providers.

Online vs. Traditional Bank

Many consumers still prefer to stick with traditional, in-person banking. No matter your preferences, it’s good to be aware that interest rates are much more competitive than those of traditional, national banks.

For example, online banking opens you up to APYs on high-yield savings accounts between 3% and 5%. The typical APY is 0.1% (and often less) at most brick-and-mortar banks.

The major trade-off is a different customer service experience, which for some might be a dealbreaker. With online banks, you’ll generally have to make do with your customer service over the phone, via email, or instant messaging chats.

Online and Mobile Banking Services

Having access to your checking account and banking services online is a necessity for most consumers today, regardless of whether your bank is traditional or digital. Online banks are convenient and remove the need to wait in line at the bank.

Whether it’s depositing checks, sending wire transfers, or paying bills, using a mobile app can save you a lot of time and stress.

Fees

Fees are an essential consideration when choosing a bank for any purpose. While traditional banks can run a long list of fees and penalties, online banks tend to minimize fees, sometimes significantly.

Many traditional bank accounts typically have overdraft fees, monthly fees, and a minimum direct deposit amount that can cost you if you fall below it. If you do have a traditional bank account, ask about how you can have certain fees waived.

Opening multiple bank accounts or keeping a certain amount in savings are some examples of things that can get monthly service fees waived.

Bank Reputation

Another thing to consider when choosing from banks with early direct deposit are reviews and reputation. You can search for reliable expert reviews online, as well as customer reviews, to let you know what to expect.

Decide what details are most important to you. Take some time to see how the banks you’re considering align with your needs before making any major decisions.

Summary

While most banks provide a similar array of financial products, what sets them apart are the unique features and specialized services they offer as extras. This is why it’s useful to review the various terms, fees, and services offered by any banks or credit unions that you’re looking at.

Consider what banking products and features are most valuable to you, and find a bank that offers products which align with your needs and financial habits. The bank or banks you choose to manage your money with is important.

Finding a bank that ticks all your boxes and minimizes your expenses can transform your perspective around money and make it easier for you to save and manage with ease.

The Pros and Cons of Early Direct Deposit

Below, we’ve provided a detailed look at both the pros and cons of early direct deposit. Use this to help you decide whether early direct deposit could work for you.

Pros

  • Helps cover bills and other expenses on time.
  • Can help prevent incurring overdraft fees on expenses made before payday.
  • Receive tax refunds and other government-issued checks faster.
  • Peace of mind.

Cons

  • If your bank or account type doesn’t allow for early direct deposit, you’ll have to open a whole new account. This can open you to more banking fees and a less streamlined financial situation overall.
  • Early direct deposits could negatively impact the practice of good savings and encourage poor spending habits as money is more readily available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is direct deposit?

Direct deposit is a feature that allows your employer to deposit your paycheck straight into your checking or savings account instead of giving you a paper check that you deposit yourself. This provides you with access to your money faster.

A regular direct deposit will usually take one to two business days to be fully processed and appear in your checking account after payment has been initiated. However, with early direct deposit, the payment will be available in an account much faster. Sometimes this can be up to two days quicker compared with a regular direct deposit.

Early direct deposit can land you with your paycheck a day or two earlier than normal. It can also allow you to receive other kinds of payments quicker. This includes federal and state tax refunds, as well as Social Security or other government benefit payments.

How do I set up direct deposit with my employer?

Most employers provide you with a direct deposit form that is given to new employees at orientation. All you have to do is fill out with your account number and routing number and hand it in.

What is early direct deposit?

With direct deposit, your employer sends your salary to your bank ahead of the upcoming payday. Your bank then releases the direct deposit funds to your checking account on payday.

With early direct deposit, your bank gives you access to your funds before the regularly scheduled payday. Banks that offer this feature post the funds to the receiver’s checking account as soon as the bank gets the direct deposit files from the Federal Reserve.

When your company sends payroll to the bank, traditional bank accounts will wait until the date stipulated by the employer to send the payments to individual accounts.

Early direct deposit works by forgoing this waiting period, and trusts that the company has sent the correct information. This allows payment to be accessed as soon as the payroll is sent to the bank.

That traditional waiting period is beneficial to banks, however, which is why many big banks don’t allow early direct deposit. During this period, known as float, the bank will double-check your deposit before sending it into your bank account. When the bank double-checks your account, it earns double the interest.

Does direct deposit always come early?

Standard direct deposit doesn’t come early. Employers deposit the money into your checking account on payday. Early direct deposit can get you your money up to two days early. Government benefits and tax refunds may come even earlier than that.

Exactly when the money arrives depends on when payroll is processed. Holidays can also affect when your paycheck is deposited.

How can I get my direct deposit early?

Several banks, credit unions, prepaid debit cards, and apps offer early direct deposits. You can receive your paycheck early if you set up direct deposit with your employer and have one of these bank accounts.

How do banks process paychecks early?

While any bank is capable of getting you your paycheck early, most of them don’t because they make more money by retaining it. However, more and more banks are willing to advance the funds to you knowing that they will be reimbursed shortly after.

What time of day does direct deposit hit?

Direct deposit typically hits a bank account in the early morning hours, though the exact time can vary based on the financial institution and the origin of the deposit. Most banks and credit unions update accounts with direct deposits shortly after midnight, ensuring that customers have access to their funds at the start of the banking day.

Can I get a direct deposit on the weekend?

Almost all banks conduct business exclusively during business days. While you may find an exception to the rule, you are unlikely to get a direct deposit on the weekend.

Even an early direct deposit can sometimes be delayed by the weekend. Federal holidays can also result in a delay to all banking business, including direct deposit. Check with your employer if you’re ever uncertain about the arrival of your direct deposit in relation to holidays and weekends.

Does Bank of America, Chase, or Wells Fargo offer early pay?

Bank of America, and Wells Fargo currently do not offer early direct deposit as a standard feature of their accounts. These banks typically make direct deposits available to customers on the actual payday. However, Wells Fargo expects to offer this service soon.

Chase doesn’t offer it on most of their checking accounts, but they do with Chase Secure Banking.

Should I start using direct deposit to get my paycheck early?

Direct deposit can allow you to move away from paper checks, and streamline your banking experience. The majority of Americans today receive their salary via direct deposit. The first step is to check with your employer to see if it’s available to you.

If so, the process of setting up a direct deposit is pretty simple. You will need to supply your checking or savings account number and routing number to receive your salary in your account. You should be able to access all the information at your bank, whether online, via mobile app, or in person.

Final Word

The vast majority of employees today use a direct deposit account for their paychecks. It’s simply a quicker, more convenient and safer way of getting your salary into your bank account.

Many financial services providers can offer customers early direct deposit. With this service, you get your money faster than ever before, sometimes even two days before a typical direct deposit. This can alleviate a lot of stress when money is tight and bills are looming.

Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.

1. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply with Chime except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.

2. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. Chime generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.

3. The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is accurate as of May, 22, 2023. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.

Paige Cerulli
Meet the author

Paige Cerulli is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in publications like Business Insider and Bing. She lives in Massachusetts and enjoys playing the flute and horseback riding in her free time.