Chime is a popular fintech company that offers banking services without monthly fees. One of the benefits of using Chime is the ability to deposit cash and load your Chime debit card in several ways. Some options are completely free, while others may involve retailer-imposed fees.
This guide covers the different ways you can load your Chime account and when you can expect to pay nothing.
Chime Debit Card Basics
Chime provides a Chime Checking Account that comes with a Chime Visa® Debit Card. You can also open a Chime Savings Account, which earns interest and supports automatic savings tools.
While Chime isn’t a bank, its services are backed by The Bancorp Bank and Stride Bank, N.A., which are both FDIC-insured.
Read our full Chime review here.
Direct Deposit: Always Free
The simplest way to load your Chime account is by setting up direct deposit. Whether from your employer, government benefits, or other payments, money can be sent straight to your Chime account at no cost.
To set this up, provide your Chime routing and account numbers (found in the Chime app). Direct deposits usually arrive up to two days earlier than traditional banks.
Bank Transfers for Free Chime Debit Card Loading
You can link an external bank account and transfer funds into Chime through the app. Bank transfers are free but may take up to five business days. Limits can apply depending on your account history.
Mobile Check Deposit
If you receive paper checks, you can deposit them directly through the Chime app. This service is free, though check clearing may take up to five business days.
Some customers also have access to Ingo Money, a third-party service that allows faster check deposits for a fee. If you choose the slower option (usually 10 days), the service may be free.
Chime Deposit Partners
Chime partners with 75,000+ retail stores nationwide for cash deposits through Green Dot’s network.
- Free option: Walgreens and Duane Reade let you deposit cash at the register with no fee.
- Other retailers (Walmart, CVS, 7-Eleven, etc.): These locations support cash deposits, but they may charge a fee (often around $3–$5), which is set by the retailer, not Chime.
Limits:
- Up to 3 deposits every 24 hours
- Up to $1,000 per day
- Up to $10,000 per month
Cash deposits usually appear in your account within minutes but can take up to two hours in some cases.
Ingo Money and Third-Party Check Services
Chime’s mobile app lets you deposit checks directly at no cost, though it can take a few business days to clear. If you need funds faster, you may see the option to use Ingo Money, a third-party service that allows “money in minutes” for a fee. Choosing the slower 10-day option may avoid fees. Availability and limits depend on your account and check type.
Third-Party Transfer Options
Some users link Chime to services like PayPal or Venmo to move funds. While this can work if your Chime account is added as a linked bank, these transfers are not officially promoted by Chime and may involve delays or fees.
Western Union and MoneyGram transfers are also possible but usually come with fees and slower processing times. These are best used as backup options.
Tips for Avoiding Fees While Loading Your Chime Debit Card
To maximize the benefits of your Chime account and minimize fees, consider the following tips:
- Use direct deposit, bank transfers, and mobile check deposit whenever possible — all are free.
- Deposit cash only at Walgreens or Duane Reade to avoid retailer fees.
- Plan ahead so you don’t have to rely on costly money transfer services.
Bottom Line
Chime offers multiple ways to load your account, but only a few are completely free. Direct deposit, external bank transfers, mobile check deposit, and cash deposits at Walgreens or Duane Reade won’t cost you anything.
If you choose other retailers or services, expect possible fees and different processing times. By sticking to the free options, you can keep your Chime account funded without giving up part of your balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do deposits take?
Deposit times depend on the method you use. Direct deposits often arrive up to two days earlier than traditional banks, making them the fastest way to receive funds. Bank transfers from external accounts generally take three to five business days.
Mobile check deposits may take up to five business days to clear. Cash deposits at retail partners usually appear within minutes, though in some cases it can take up to two hours.
Can I deposit at ATMs?
No, Chime does not allow cash deposits at ATMs. If you want to add cash to your account, you’ll need to visit a retail partner such as Walgreens, Duane Reade, or another store in Chime’s deposit network.
Are there limits on deposits?
Yes, Chime places limits on how much cash you can deposit to help prevent fraud. You can typically deposit up to $1,000 per day and no more than $10,000 per month in cash. Direct deposit amounts are not capped by Chime, so payroll and government benefits are not subject to those limits.
