The fastest way to move money out of Chime

You can transfer money from Chime to another bank account using Chime's built-in transfer feature, which takes one to two business days. The process is straightforward: log into the Chime app or website, select "Transfer Money," choose the destination bank account, enter the amount, and confirm. Chime does not charge a fee for transfers to external accounts.

If you need the money faster, you can use your Chime debit card to withdraw cash at any ATM that accepts Visa (most do), then deposit it into your other bank account in person. This works immediately but requires a physical trip. For very large amounts or if you prefer not to use the app, you can also request a check from Chime, though this takes longer.

Key Takeaways

  • Chime transfers to external bank accounts take one to two business days and cost nothing.
  • You must add your destination bank account to Chime first by providing the routing number and account number.
  • ATM cash withdrawal is instant but limited to your daily withdrawal limit, which varies by account type.
  • Transfers initiated on weekends or holidays process on the next business day.
  • If a transfer fails, Chime will notify you in the app and the money returns to your Chime account within one to two business days.

How to add a bank account for transfers

Before you can send money to another bank, you need to add that account to Chime. Open the Chime app, tap "Money" or "Transfers," then select "Add Bank Account." You will need the routing number and account number from the bank you want to transfer to. These appear on a check, or you can call the bank's customer service line to ask.

Chime will verify the account by sending two small test deposits (usually under $1 each) to the account within one to two business days. Once those deposits arrive, you return to the Chime app, confirm the amounts, and the account is active. Only then can you transfer money to it. This verification step happens once per account.

Sending the transfer

Once your destination account is verified, transfers are quick. In the Chime app, go to "Transfer Money," select the bank account you want to send to, enter the dollar amount, and review the details. Chime shows you the expected arrival date before you confirm. Tap "Confirm" and the transfer begins immediately.

The money leaves your Chime account right away, but it does not arrive at the other bank until one to two business days later. If you transfer on a Friday after business hours, the money typically arrives on Monday. Chime sends a notification to your phone when the transfer is sent and again when it arrives at the destination bank.

Daily and monthly transfer limits

Chime's transfer limits depend on your account type. Chime Checking accounts can transfer up to $10,000 per day and $25,000 per month to external banks. Chime Savings accounts have lower limits. These are Chime's internal limits, separate from any limits your destination bank may have.

If you hit your daily limit, you can initiate another transfer the next day. If you need to move more than $25,000 in a month, you can split the transfer across two months, or contact Chime support to discuss your options. Limits reset on the first day of each calendar month.

What to do if a transfer fails or takes too long

Transfers occasionally fail if the account number or routing number is wrong, or if the destination bank rejects the transfer for another reason. Chime notifies you in the app when this happens and returns the money to your Chime account within one to two business days. Check the notification for the reason, correct the account details, and try again.

If a transfer has not arrived after three business days, log into the Chime app and check the transfer history to confirm the status. If it shows "completed" on Chime's end but has not reached the other bank, contact that bank's customer service with the transfer date and amount. Provide them with Chime's confirmation number, which appears in the app. If Chime's app shows the transfer is still "pending" after three business days, contact Chime support through the app.

Using ATM withdrawal as an alternative

If you need cash immediately or prefer not to use the app, withdraw money from your Chime account at any ATM that accepts Visa. Chime does not charge ATM fees at most networks, though some ATMs may charge their own fee. The withdrawal is instant and the money is in your hands right away.

Your daily ATM withdrawal limit is typically $500 to $1,000 depending on your account type, though Chime may adjust this based on your account history. Once you have the cash, you can deposit it into your other bank account at a branch or ATM. This method works well for smaller amounts but is not practical for large transfers.

Requesting a check from Chime

Chime can mail you a check drawn on your Chime account, which you can then deposit into another bank. Request a check through the Chime app under "Transfer Money" or contact Chime support. The check is mailed to your address on file and typically arrives within five to seven business days. Once you receive it, deposit it at your other bank using mobile deposit or in person.

This method is slower than a direct transfer and requires you to handle a physical check, but it works if you prefer not to use the app or if your destination bank is not set up in Chime's system for some reason. There is no fee for requesting a check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer money from Chime to a credit card?

No. Chime transfers only work to checking and savings accounts at other banks. You cannot transfer directly to a credit card. If you need to pay a credit card, transfer the money to your checking account first, then pay the credit card from there using that bank's bill pay or the credit card company's website.

What happens if I enter the wrong account number?

Chime will attempt the transfer to the account number you provided. If the number does not match an account at that bank, the transfer fails and the money returns to your Chime account within one to two business days. Always double-check the routing and account numbers before confirming a transfer.

Do I pay taxes on money I transfer to another bank?

No. Transferring your own money between your own accounts is not a taxable event. Taxes only apply to income, interest, or other earnings. A transfer is simply moving money you already own from one place to another.

Can I cancel a transfer after I send it?

If the transfer is still "pending" in the app, you may be able to cancel it by contacting Chime support immediately. Once the transfer shows "completed," it cannot be stopped. Contact Chime through the app as soon as you realize the mistake.

Why is my transfer taking longer than two business days?

Delays can happen if the destination bank is processing slowly, if the transfer was initiated on a weekend or holiday, or if there is an issue with the account number. Check your transfer history in the Chime app to see the status. If it shows "completed" but has not arrived after three business days, contact the destination bank with the transfer details and Chime's confirmation number.