How to close your Chime checking account
You can close your Chime checking account by calling Chime customer service at 1-844-244-6363, logging into the Chime app and requesting closure through the support menu, or sending a written request to Chime's mailing address. Chime does not charge a fee to close the account. The process typically takes a few business days, though any pending transactions may take longer to settle. You should withdraw or transfer any remaining balance before closing, and confirm that no automatic payments or direct deposits are still linked to the account.
Before you initiate closure, check your account for any outstanding transactions, scheduled transfers, or recurring payments. If you have a Chime debit card, it will stop working once the account closes. If you receive regular paychecks or government benefits via direct deposit to Chime, you will need to update your banking information with your employer or the relevant agency before closing the account.
Key Takeaways
- Call Chime at 1-844-244-6363 or use the app's support menu to request account closure; there is no fee.
- Withdraw or transfer your remaining balance to another bank account before closing.
- Update direct deposit information with your employer or benefits provider if you receive regular deposits to Chime.
- Cancel any automatic bill payments or recurring transfers linked to the account before closure.
- Your Chime debit card will stop working immediately after closure.
Withdraw your money before closing
Any funds remaining in your Chime account must be moved before or during the closure process. You can withdraw cash at an ATM using your Chime debit card, transfer money to another bank account via ACH transfer within the Chime app, or request a check from Chime (though this takes longer). If you have a small balance, the fastest option is usually an ATM withdrawal.
If you initiate closure and still have money in the account, Chime will not close it until the balance is zero or you have arranged for the funds to be sent to you. Do not assume the account will close automatically with money still inside.
Stop automatic payments and direct deposits
Before closing, log into the Chime app and review your transaction history for any recurring charges, automatic bill payments, or scheduled transfers. Cancel each one individually through the app or by contacting the merchant or service provider directly. If you miss a recurring payment, it may attempt to process after closure and be rejected, which could result in a late fee from the merchant.
If you receive a paycheck or government benefits (Social Security, unemployment, tax refunds) via direct deposit to Chime, contact your employer's payroll department or the relevant government agency to update your banking information. Provide them with your new bank account details at least one pay cycle before your account closes. Failing to do this can delay your next deposit by one or more pay periods.
Close the account through the app or by phone
The fastest way to close your account is through the Chime mobile app. Open the app, go to the Help or Support section (usually found in the menu or settings), select "Close Account" or "Account Closure," and follow the prompts. The app will ask you to confirm your request and may ask why you are closing the account, but this is optional information.
If you prefer to close by phone, call Chime customer service at 1-844-244-6363. Have your account number and the phone number associated with your account ready. A representative will verify your identity, confirm that you want to close the account, and process the closure. The call typically takes 5 to 10 minutes.
You can also send a written request to Chime by mail, though this is slower. Include your full name, account number, and a statement that you want to close the account. Send it to Chime's mailing address, which you can find on the back of your debit card or in the app's Help section. Written closure requests may take two to three weeks to process.
What happens after closure
Once Chime confirms your account is closed, your debit card will stop working immediately. Any pending transactions that have not yet settled may still post to the account for a few days after closure. If a transaction posts after closure and your account has a zero balance, the transaction will be rejected and you may see a negative balance temporarily. Chime will not charge overdraft fees for this, but the merchant may charge you a returned-payment fee.
You will not receive a formal confirmation letter from Chime, but you can verify closure by attempting to log into the app—it will show that the account no longer exists. Keep records of any final transactions or transfers for your own records, especially if you were receiving regular deposits or making automatic payments.
If you want to reopen your account
Chime allows you to reopen a closed account within a certain window, though the exact timeframe is not publicly specified. If you close your account and then change your mind within a few weeks, contact Chime customer service to ask whether reopening is still possible. After a longer period, you may need to open a new account instead, which is treated as a new application.
If you are closing because of a problem with the account or service, contact Chime support first to see whether the issue can be resolved. Common reasons for closure—such as unexpected fees, difficulty with transfers, or card problems—are often fixable without closing the account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chime charge a fee to close my account?
No. Chime does not charge any fee to close a checking account. There are no early closure penalties or hidden charges. If you are being charged a fee, contact Chime customer service to clarify.
What happens to my Chime debit card when I close the account?
Your Chime debit card will stop working immediately after the account closes. You do not need to physically destroy it, but you should not attempt to use it. If you have a Chime savings account linked to the same login, that account will remain open unless you close it separately.
How long does it take to close a Chime account?
Closure through the app or phone typically takes a few business days. Written requests by mail may take two to three weeks. Any pending transactions may continue to settle for a few days after closure is initiated.
Can I close my account if I have a negative balance?
You should bring your balance to zero before closing. If you have a negative balance due to overdraft fees or rejected transactions, contact Chime to discuss payment options. Some accounts cannot be closed until the negative balance is resolved.
What if I forgot to update my direct deposit before closing?
Contact your employer or benefits provider immediately with your new banking information. Your next deposit will be rejected if it is sent to the closed Chime account, and you may experience a delay of one or more pay periods. The funds are typically returned to the sender, who can reissue the deposit once you provide correct account details.