Comprehensive Guide: How to Delete Chime Account?
Online banking has revolutionized how we handle our finances, and the Chime app is a leading example of this innovation.
However, there might come a time when you decide to delete your Chime account.
Whether it’s due to a negative balance or you’re transitioning to another online banking platform, the process can be a bit overwhelming.
This guide will take you step-by-step through deleting your Chime account without any hassles.
Also read: Does Klarna Accept Chime?
The Prerequisites for Closing a Chime Account
Before you proceed with deleting your account, there are several considerations to keep in mind.
Settling Your Negative Balance
If you’ve utilized the SpotMe feature on the Chime app and have a negative balance, you’ll need to resolve this before you can successfully delete your account.
Financial institutions, including Chime, typically don’t allow account closures when a debt is owed. To handle this, you can contact Chime Support at 1-844-244-6363 or email them at [email protected].
They can assist you in setting up a payment plan to clear your negative balance.
Transferring Remaining Balance
Before you hit the “delete” button, ensure you transfer any remaining funds to an external account.
This is crucial because retrieving these funds can be a drawn-out process once your account is closed.
If you neglect to transfer your balance before closing, Chime will mail a check to your registered address. This process can take several business days, so transferring your funds beforehand is best.
Also read: BRICS: Indian Refiners Ditch US Dollar, Pay Chinese Yuan For Oil Trade
Updating Your Mailing Address
Before you close your account, verify that the mailing address on your Chime account is up to date.
This is because after your account is closed, Chime will mail any future tax documents or checks.
You can update your address on the Chime app under the settings section.
Redirecting Direct Deposits and Automated Payments
If you have set up a direct deposit to your Chime account or have any automated payments, redirect these to another account.
If these transactions continue after your account is closed, they may get stuck in the closed account, causing unnecessary complications.
Accessing Important Documents
Once your account is closed, you won’t be able to access any statements or documents related to your account.
If you think you’ll need these documents in the future, consider saving them in a secure location or printing them out before you close your account.
The Process of Deleting Chime Account
Now that you’ve completed the prerequisites let’s dive into deleting your Chime account.
Log into the Chime App
Accessing your account is the first step in deleting it. Open the Chime app on your device and enter your login credentials. If you’ve added an extra layer of security with a PIN, enter it.
Navigate to the Settings
Once you’re logged in, click on the settings button in the upper left-hand corner of the screen. A gear icon typically represents the settings button.
Edit Personal Details
In the settings section, click on ‘Personal Info’. This section allows you to modify your details and allows you to close your account.
Close Your Account
Scroll down to the bottom of the ‘Personal Info’ page. You will find an option in red text that says ‘Close my account’. Click on this option to proceed with account deletion.
Confirm Account Closure
To ensure you’re not closing your account accidentally, Chime requires you to send a message to their customer support confirming your intent to delete your account.
You’ll also need to enter the last four digits of your social security number.
Await Your Funds (If Any)
If any remaining funds are in your account, Chime will mail a check to your registered address. This process usually takes 30 business days.
Impact on Credit Score
A common question among Chime users is whether closing their accounts will negatively impact their credit scores.
However, closing a Chime account, as with any other bank account, does not affect your credit score.
It doesn’t improve your score or harm it in any way. Your credit score might take a hit only when you close a credit card account.
Unused Chime Accounts
If you have a Chime account you don’t use, you might wonder if it’s best to close it.
Since Chime is a free and secure platform, there’s no harm in keeping your account open.
However, if you’re concerned about unauthorized withdrawals from your inactive account, it’s best to close it.
Account Closure by Chime
There can be instances where Chime closes your account without your knowledge.
This usually happens if they suspect fraudulent activity or inadvertently close the wrong account.
If Chime closes your account containing funds, they will mail a check to your registered address within 30 days.
Alternatives to Chime
If you’re looking for alternatives after closing your Chime account, numerous digital banking platforms in the U.S. offer great benefits.
You might consider exploring options like Ally Bank, Varo Bank, and Simple Bank.
Final Thoughts
Closing your Chime account might seem daunting at first, but it can be relatively straightforward once you understand the step-by-step process and prerequisite actions.
Whether you’re transitioning to another online banking platform or want to delete your account due to inactivity, this comprehensive guide will easily provide all the information you need to close your Chime account.