Does Chime Offer Credit Cards and How to Get One

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Chime offers credit cards, but only to a select group of users. They have a credit card product called SpotMe, which is more like a line of credit.

To qualify for a Chime credit card, you need to have a Chime Spending Account with direct deposit. This is a requirement, so make sure you have that set up first.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for a Chime credit card through the Chime mobile app or website.

Benefits

Having a Chime credit card can be super beneficial for your financial health. Chime credit cards offer no foreign transaction fees, which means you can travel abroad without incurring extra charges on your purchases.

You can also earn cash back rewards with Chime credit cards, with rates ranging from 1-5% cash back on purchases. This can help you save money on your everyday expenses.

Chime credit cards have no annual fees, which is a major perk for those who want to avoid unnecessary expenses. This means you can use your credit card without breaking the bank.

Credit: youtube.com, How Does Chime Credit Builder Work? | Chime

Chime credit cards offer a credit builder feature, which allows you to build credit while making purchases. This can be especially helpful for those who are new to credit or rebuilding their credit after a setback.

With Chime credit cards, you can also get access to credit score monitoring, which can help you track your credit progress over time. This can be a valuable tool for staying on top of your financial health.

Requirements and Process

To get a Chime Credit Builder card, you'll need to open a Chime checking account. This is the foundation for the credit builder card's unique approach.

The credit builder card doesn't require a specific security deposit. Instead, the funds in your Chime checking account serve as the card's security.

To establish the card's spending limit, you'll need to transfer funds from your checking account to the credit builder card account.

Minimum Deposit Requirement

To apply for the Credit Builder card, you'll need to receive a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account.

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This deposit must come from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer through Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit or Original Credit Transaction (OCT).

Don't worry if you're not sure what these terms mean - just know that certain types of deposits won't qualify, such as bank-to-bank ACH deposits, Pay Anyone transfers, and mobile check deposits.

Once you've received your qualifying direct deposit, you can apply for the Credit Builder secured account and get a Visa credit card with no credit check or minimum deposit required.

It's worth noting that one-time direct deposits, like tax refunds, don't qualify as eligible direct deposits either.

How to Get

To get started, you'll need to meet the basic requirements outlined in the article. This typically involves having a valid passport, a completed visa application, and proof of sufficient funds for your trip.

The visa application process can be done online or in-person, depending on the country's requirements.

You'll need to submit your application at least 2 weeks prior to your trip, and some countries may have additional requirements such as a personal interview or medical examination.

Make sure to check the specific requirements for your destination, as they can vary greatly.

How it Works?

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Credit: pexels.com, Person using a credit card and pointing at laptop for online shopping activity.

To open a Chime Credit Builder card, you need to have a Chime checking account. This is a necessary step to establish the card's security.

The Chime checking account will serve as the security for the card, eliminating the need for a specified security deposit.

To set up the card's spending limit, you'll need to transfer funds from your Chime checking account to the credit builder card account. This is how the card's spending limit will be established.

Fees and Terms

Let's take a closer look at the fees and terms associated with the Chime Credit Builder Card.

No added interest is one of the benefits of this card, which means you won't be charged extra for borrowing money.

The Chime Credit Builder Card also comes with no annual fees, so you can use it without worrying about extra costs.

This card has a flexible approach to credit limits, with no strict credit limit to worry about.

Here are the key benefits at a glance:

  • No added interest
  • No annual fees
  • No strict credit limit

Reviews and Comparison

Credit: youtube.com, Chime Credit Builder vs. Other Credit Cards

The Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa Credit Card takes a straightforward approach to credit building with no fees or interest rates. This makes it a cost-effective option for those looking to build or improve their credit score.

It doesn't require a credit check for approval, allowing easier access for individuals regardless of their credit history. The card reports to all three major credit bureaus, aiding in the credit building process.

Here are the key features of the Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa Credit Card:

  • Regular APR: None
  • Deposit required: $0
  • Potential credit limit: up to $10,000 (equal to your Chime Checking Account balance)
  • Annual fee: $0
  • Rewards rate: None
  • Best for: Building and repairing credit with minimal financial commitments and a potential high credit limit based on your linked Chime Checking Account balance.

Welcome Bonus

The Chime Secured Card has a few notable features, but one thing it's lacking is a welcome bonus.

The Chime Secured Card does not have a welcome bonus.

If you're looking for a credit card with a sign-up reward, you might want to consider other options.

It's worth noting that some credit cards offer generous welcome bonuses to new cardholders, but the Chime Secured Card is not one of them.

The Visa Compares

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The Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa Credit Card is a straightforward option for credit building, with no fees or interest rates to worry about.

It's free to use, with no annual fee, and doesn't require a credit check for approval, making it a great choice for those with poor or no credit history.

One of the standout features of this card is its reporting to all three major credit bureaus, which can help you build credit over time.

Here's a comparison of the Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa Credit Card with another option:

This comparison shows that the Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa Credit Card has a higher potential credit limit and no annual fee, making it a great option for those looking to build credit with minimal financial commitments.

Cons

The Chime Secured Card has its downsides, and I'd like to highlight a few of them.

The available credit is determined solely by how much you deposit into your Chime Builder account. This means your credit line won't increase unless you add more funds to your account.

Credit: youtube.com, The FACTS about Chime Credit Builder

One of the notable cons is that there are no other credit line increases beyond what you deposit yourself. This can be a limitation for those who want to build credit without tying up a lot of their own money.

Chime Secured Card also doesn't offer any points or cash back earnings, which can be a drawback for those who use their credit cards for everyday purchases.

Alternatives and Conclusion

If you're considering the Chime Credit Builder card, it's essential to weigh its unique approach to credit building against alternative options.

Secured credit cards offering rewards, student credit cards, and credit-builder loans from credit unions are all viable alternatives to consider.

These alternatives can provide more flexibility in terms of rewards and incremental payments, but the Chime Credit Builder card's precise control over spending limits and reporting to major credit bureaus is a major advantage.

Ultimately, the Chime Credit Builder card's limitations in terms of rewards and incremental payments should be carefully considered in light of individual financial objectives and preferences.

Careful consideration and comparison with alternative options are crucial for making an informed decision about the Chime Credit Builder card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Chime have a real credit card?

Yes, Chime offers a secured credit card, the Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa Credit Card. This card is designed to help users build credit while earning rewards and enjoying no annual fee.

How much does Chime give you on a credit card?

Your Chime Credit Builder Secured Visa credit limit is equal to the amount you deposit, up to $10,000. You can adjust your credit limit anytime by transferring funds in or out of your Chime checking account.

Can I use my Chime credit card with no money?

No, you can't use your Chime credit card with no available credit. You need to have a balance in your secured account to make purchases

Vanessa Schmidt

Lead Writer

Vanessa Schmidt is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting informative and engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for research, she has established herself as a trusted voice in the world of personal finance. Her expertise has led to the creation of articles on a wide range of topics, including Wells Fargo credit card information, where she provides readers with valuable insights and practical advice.

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