The Real Bank Behind Your Chime Account: Everything You Need to Know
Ever wondered, "What is Chime's bank name?" It's a common question, and one that has a slightly nuanced answer! While you interact with Chime for your daily banking needs, Chime itself is a financial technology (FinTech) company, not a traditional bank. This means they partner with established, FDIC-insured banks to provide the actual banking services and hold your funds securely.
So, when you're setting up direct deposit, linking to Zelle, or just curious about where your money is officially held, here's the breakdown of Chime's banking partners:
Chime's Official Partner Banks
Chime primarily works with two FDIC-insured banks to provide banking services:
The Bancorp Bank, N.A.
Stride Bank, N.A.
When you open a Chime Spending Account, your funds are held by one of these two institutions. The specific bank associated with your individual Chime account will be indicated on your official Chime documents. This partnership ensures that your money is protected by FDIC insurance up to the standard maximum deposit insurance amount.
Why Does Chime Use Partner Banks?
This model allows Chime to focus on developing innovative, user-friendly mobile banking features and a fee-free experience, while their partner banks handle the traditional regulatory and financial infrastructure. It's a collaboration that aims to offer the best of both worlds: modern convenience and traditional security.
Finding Your Specific Bank Name and Details
For tasks like setting up direct deposit, you'll need the correct bank name, routing number, and your account number. Chime makes this easy to find:
In the Chime App:
Tap on "Move Money."
Select "Set up Direct Deposit."
Tap "Get Completed Form."
This pre-filled form will clearly show you which partner bank (The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.) holds your account, along with the necessary routing and account numbers for your Chime direct deposit. The bank name will be located near the top of this form.
On Your Debit Card: The issuing bank partner can often be found on the back of your Chime Visa® Debit Card.
Essential Information for Direct Deposit and Beyond
When providing details for Chime direct deposit, make sure to use the exact bank name shown on your completed form. Do not simply use "Chime" as the bank name for official direct deposit purposes, as it is a FinTech company and not the chartered bank holding your funds.
Here are the addresses for Chime's partner banks, which you might need for specific direct deposit or other official forms:
Stride Bank, N.A.: 324 W Broadway Ave, Enid, OK 73701
The Bancorp Bank, N.A.: 345 N. Reid Place, Suite 700, Sioux Falls, SD 57103
Important Note for Zelle, Cash App, and Other Services:
Zelle: When linking your Chime account to Zelle, you typically search for and select "Chime" as your financial institution directly within the Zelle app. Zelle works by linking your phone number or email to your account, so you generally won't need to manually enter the partner bank name.
Cash App / Fanduel / Plaid: Similarly, for other financial apps like Cash App or when using services like Plaid to connect your Chime account, you will usually search for "Chime." These platforms integrate with Chime's system, which then interfaces with the underlying partner banks. You won't typically be asked for the specific partner bank's name in these instances.
In summary, while Chime provides the user-facing app and features, your money is securely held and managed by either The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A. Always refer to your Chime app's direct deposit form for the most accurate and personalized details for your account.