You cannot send money directly to someone who does not have a Chime account using Chime's app or website
Chime's built-in money transfer features—Chime Pay and peer-to-peer transfers—only work between Chime users. If the person you want to send money to does not have a Chime account, you will need to use a different method entirely. Your options depend on whether you have their bank details, whether they need the money quickly, and whether they have access to other payment apps.
The most direct routes are a traditional bank transfer (if you know their account and routing number), a third-party app that both of you can access, or cash withdrawal followed by in-person payment. Each has different timelines and requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Chime's peer-to-peer transfer feature only works between Chime account holders, so you cannot use it to send money to someone without a Chime account.
- You can initiate an ACH transfer from your Chime account to another person's bank account if you have their account number and routing number.
- Third-party apps like PayPal, Venmo, Square Cash, and Google Pay can send money to non-Chime users if both of you have those apps or linked bank accounts.
- Withdrawing cash from a Chime ATM and paying the person directly is the fastest option if you are in the same location.
- Wire transfers through your Chime account are possible but cost money and are slower than ACH transfers for most domestic payments.
Sending money via ACH transfer from your Chime account
An ACH transfer (Automated Clearing House) moves money from your Chime account to another bank account. This works as long as you have the recipient's account number and routing number. You initiate it through your Chime app or online banking portal, and the money typically arrives in one to three business days.
To set this up, open your Chime app, go to the transfer or send money section, and select the option to transfer to an external bank account. You will enter the recipient's name, their bank's routing number, their account number, and the amount. Chime will usually verify the account with a small test deposit before the full transfer goes through. There is no fee for ACH transfers from Chime.
The main limitation is timing: ACH transfers are not instant. If the person needs money today, this will not work. Also, you need their banking information, which some people are uncomfortable sharing. If they do not know their routing number, they can find it on a check, call their bank, or look it up on their bank's website.
Using a third-party payment app both of you can access
Apps like PayPal, Venmo, Square Cash, and Google Pay let you send money to someone without requiring them to have a Chime account. What matters is whether they have the same app you do, or whether they have a linked bank account or debit card.
PayPal is the most flexible: you can send money to someone's email address or phone number, and they can receive it without a PayPal account by linking a bank account or debit card. Venmo requires both people to have the Venmo app, but transfers are instant and free between users. Square Cash and Google Pay work similarly—both people need the app, and transfers are usually instant.
The catch is that the recipient needs to set up an account in whichever app you choose, even if they do not plan to use it regularly. If they already use one of these apps, that is your fastest route. If they do not, you are asking them to download and set up a new app just to receive money from you once, which some people will not do.
Withdrawing cash and paying in person
If you are in the same location as the person you want to pay, the simplest option is to withdraw cash from your Chime account and hand it to them. Chime offers fee-free ATM withdrawals at over 60,000 ATMs nationwide through the MoneyPass, Allpoint, and CO-OP networks. You can find a nearby ATM in the Chime app.
This is instant, requires no account on their end, and leaves no digital trail. The downside is that it only works if you can meet in person, and you lose the record of the transaction that digital payments provide. If you need proof you paid them, this method does not give you that.
Wire transfers for larger amounts or urgent payments
Chime allows outgoing wire transfers, which are faster than ACH but cost money and require the recipient's full banking information. A wire transfer typically arrives the same business day or next business day, depending on the time you send it and the receiving bank's processing speed.
Wire transfer fees through Chime vary; check your account or contact Chime support for the current fee. Wire transfers are usually reserved for larger amounts or time-sensitive payments because of the cost. You will need the recipient's bank name, account number, routing number, and full name to send a wire.
The risk with wire transfers is that they are difficult to reverse if you send money to the wrong account. Make sure you have the correct information before you initiate the transfer.
What to do if the person refuses to share their bank details
Some people are uncomfortable giving out their account and routing numbers, even to someone they trust. In that case, your options narrow: you can ask them to set up a PayPal, Venmo, Square Cash, or Google Pay account (whichever they prefer), or you can withdraw cash and pay them in person.
If they are unwilling to do either, you cannot send them money digitally without their banking information or a shared payment app. At that point, cash is the only option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send money to someone's email address using Chime?
No. Chime's transfer features require either a Chime account (for peer-to-peer transfers) or a bank account number and routing number (for ACH transfers). You cannot send money to an email address through Chime. PayPal does allow email-based transfers, so that is an alternative if the recipient has a PayPal account.
How long does an ACH transfer from Chime take?
One to three business days, depending on the receiving bank. Transfers initiated on a weekend or holiday will not process until the next business day. If you need money to arrive faster, withdraw cash or use an instant payment app like Venmo or Square Cash.
Is there a limit to how much I can send?
Chime sets daily and monthly limits on transfers, but the exact amounts vary by account type and history. Check your Chime app or contact support to see your current limits. ACH transfers typically have higher limits than peer-to-peer transfers.
What if I send money to the wrong account by mistake?
ACH transfers can sometimes be reversed if you contact Chime and the receiving bank quickly, but there is no may provide. Wire transfers are nearly impossible to reverse. Always double-check the account number and routing number before you send money.
Can the person I send money to use it right away?
It depends on the method. Cash and instant payment apps (Venmo, Square Cash) are available immediately. ACH transfers take one to three business days. Wire transfers usually arrive the same or next business day.