696 Credit Score: Is It Good or Bad?

A 696 credit score falls squarely into the category of good credit. According to data from Experian, the national average credit score for Americans is 715, placing it firmly in the good range. This score unlocks advantageous interest rates, better loan terms, and a wider selection of credit opportunities.

Lenders are generally inclined to approve those with a 696 credit score, interpreting it as a sign of consistent, on-time bill payments. This article delves into the significance of a 696 credit score in the context of loan and credit card applications and discusses actionable steps for elevating your score even further. By maintaining responsible credit habits, you can gradually improve your score, opening up even more financial opportunities.

What kind of credit score is 696?

Your credit score is the main way lenders determine how much of a risk you pose as a borrower or in simpler terms, your reliability in repaying loans. A score between 670 and 739 falls into the good category, signaling to lenders that you are a dependable borrower, which translates to low risk. 21% of Americans have a score in this range. A good score is typically sufficient for securing approval from most lending institutions. If your score lies within this spectrum, expect to be considered for loans and credit cards with more favorable interest rates and terms.

A credit score of 696, while solid, is not categorized as very good or exceptional. With a score of 696, you are seen as a relatively safe bet by lenders, but the most advantageous interest rates and loan terms are likely still out of reach. This score level indicates that while you are generally reliable, there may be a history of occasional late payments, defaults, or a limited credit history. Consequently, lenders may be more cautious when evaluating your application compared to those with higher credit scores. Maintaining or improving your credit score can open doors to better financial opportunities and more favorable loan conditions.

Can I get a credit card with a 696 credit score?

Certainly, having a credit score of 696 opens up a plethora of credit card options for you. With this score, credit card companies see you as a trustworthy borrower. This increases your likelihood of securing cards that come with more favorable conditions and enticing benefits, including cash back, travel incentives, or zero-interest introductory periods.

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Here are some types of credit cards you can consider:

Cash Back Cards: Cash back credit cards reward you with a percentage of your spending back as cash. Typically, they offer 1-2% cash back on general purchases and higher percentages on specific categories like groceries, gas, or dining. For instance, a card might offer 3% cash back on dining and 1% on everything else. These cards are ideal for those seeking straightforward rewards that can be easily redeemed for statement credits, checks, or direct deposits into your bank account, making them a convenient and flexible choice for maximizing everyday spending.

Travel Cards: Travel credit cards provide rewards in the form of points or miles that can be redeemed for travel-related expenses, such as flights, hotel stays, and car rentals. They often come with additional perks like travel insurance, airport lounge access, and no foreign transaction fees. For example, a travel card might offer two miles per dollar spent on travel and dining and one mile per dollar on all other purchases. These cards are perfect for frequent travelers looking to maximize their travel experiences and save on costs, making travel more affordable and enjoyable.

Balance Transfer Cards: Balance transfer credit cards are designed to help you manage existing debt by offering a low or 0% introductory interest rate on balance transfers for a certain period, typically 12 to 18 months. This significantly reduces the interest you pay on your debt, allowing you to pay it off more quickly. These cards are an excellent choice if you have high-interest debt and need time to pay it down without accumulating additional interest, providing a financial breather and a structured path to becoming debt-free.

Brand-Specific Rewards Cards: Brand-specific rewards cards offer perks and incentives tailored to a particular brand, retailer, or service provider. These cards typically provide higher rewards rates for purchases made directly with the brand and may include benefits such as exclusive discounts, early access to sales, or special financing options. For example, a retail store credit card might offer 5% back on store purchases and 1% on other transactions. Brand-specific rewards cards are ideal for loyal customers who frequently shop with a particular brand, allowing them to maximize their savings and enjoy exclusive benefits.

With a good credit score, you will have your choice of cards, including rewards cards. That said, the most premium credit card deals, featuring the richest rewards and the highest level of perks, necessitate having a credit score in the very good to excellent range. Use your credit card responsibly and you'll be able to raise your credit rating and reach those top-tier cards.

Can I get a personal loan with a 696 credit score?

A 696 credit score boosts your likelihood of qualifying for personal loans with attractive interest rates and beneficial terms. This score categorizes you as a moderate-risk borrower in the eyes of lenders, thus simplifying the loan acquisition process. Individual lenders will offer varying rates and terms but your score affords you the leverage to explore and negotiate for the best possible deals. Always compare offers to make sure you get the best one for you.

Here are the different types of personal loans and where you can get them:

Types of Personal Loans

Secured Loans: Secured loans require collateral, such as a car or a house, to back the loan. Because the lender can claim your collateral if you default, these loans often come with lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans. They are suitable for individuals who have valuable assets and are seeking lower rates or larger loan amounts. This type of loan provides lenders with added security, making it easier for borrowers with substantial assets to access favorable terms and higher loan amounts.

Installment Loans: Installment loans are repaid over a set period in fixed monthly payments, making them ideal for large expenses like home renovations or consolidating high-interest debt. They offer the stability of a predictable payment schedule, simplifying budgeting and financial planning. Borrowers know exactly how much they must pay each month, reducing financial uncertainty. This predictability makes installment loans a practical choice for managing significant financial commitments while maintaining control over monthly expenses.

Cash Advance Apps: Cash advance apps allow you to borrow small amounts of money against your next paycheck, making them a convenient short-term solution for emergency expenses. These apps typically offer smaller amounts of up to $500 without requiring a credit check, providing quick access to funds when needed most. You simply link your bank account to the app and it will determine how much you can borrow. Some apps require direct deposit or to see your timesheet as well. The fees are usually minimal but can add up. There is typically a flat fee per advance, subscription fee, or optional tip. Most apps also charge a fast funding fee in case you need the cash instantly. While cash advance apps can be helpful in urgent situations, relying on them frequently is not a good idea.

Where to Get Personal Loans

Banks: Traditional banks offer personal loans with competitive interest rates, especially for those with good credit scores like 696. They provide both secured and unsecured loan options, catering to various financial needs. While banks typically offer favorable terms for qualified borrowers, they often have stricter qualification criteria and longer approval processes compared to other lenders. This thorough vetting process ensures that borrowers meet their standards, which can result in more favorable loan conditions and added financial security for both the lender and the borrower.

Credit Unions: Credit unions are member-owned financial institutions that often offer lower interest rates and more personalized service than banks. They are typically more flexible with their lending criteria, making them a favorable option for individuals with a 696 credit score. Additionally, credit unions frequently provide educational resources and financial counseling to help members manage their finances effectively. This member-centric approach, combined with competitive rates and supportive services, makes credit unions a valuable resource for those seeking financial products and guidance.

Online Lenders: Online lenders provide a quick and convenient way to apply for personal loans, often featuring a streamlined application process and faster approval times. Catering to a wide range of credit profiles, they offer competitive rates and terms that can rival traditional lenders. These platforms often utilize innovative underwriting methods to assess creditworthiness, considering factors beyond just your credit score. This approach allows more individuals to qualify for loans, making online lenders an accessible and efficient option for securing personal financing.

Understanding Loan Rejection and Improvement

Not all lenders may be willing to extend a loan to you, as some have strict criteria, preferring scores significantly higher within the 696 spectrum. If you’re rejected, you're entitled to request an adverse action notice, which compels lenders to provide the reasons for denial and the credit data used in their decision-making process. This information can be crucial in understanding and addressing the specific factors affecting your creditworthiness.

If your score is the issue, take comfort in knowing that you're already making strides towards enhancing it. By consistently paying your bills on time, reducing your debt levels, and monitoring your credit report for errors, you can gradually improve your credit score. Engaging in responsible credit practices will not only enhance your ability to secure loans but also ensure better financial health in the long run.

A 696 credit score opens up numerous possibilities for obtaining personal loans with favorable terms. Understanding the different types of loans and where to obtain them can help you make informed financial decisions and take advantage of the opportunities your credit score affords you.

Take your 696 credit score with a grain of salt

Good credit does not have a one-size-fits-all definition across the lending industry. Different lenders have varying score requirements and place different levels of importance on credit scores. Your credit score represents just a fraction of the overall criteria. Many lenders are inclined to assess the entirety of your financial situation, including job stability, income, and the debts you currently carry.

While reaching a 696 credit score is noteworthy, it's vital to remain proactive in managing your finances. Credit scores can easily change for better or worse. Maintaining a good credit score requires ongoing attention to several factors, such as making timely payments, keeping credit card balances low, and avoiding new debt accumulation. Additionally, regularly monitoring your credit report for errors or inaccuracies is crucial, as even minor discrepancies can impact your score.

It's also beneficial to diversify your credit mix by having various types of credit accounts, such as credit cards, installment loans, and mortgages. This diversification can positively influence your credit score over time. Ultimately, while a 696 credit score positions you well within the "good" range, aiming even higher can qualify you for more advantageous financial options, such as lower interest rates, higher credit limits, and better loan terms. Keeping up the good work to preserve and improve your score will open up more opportunities and provide greater financial flexibility.

How can I make my good credit score great?

With a credit score of 696, you're beyond the poor credit category but still have a ways to go before you reach an exceptional score. There isn't a single strategy to boost your credit score, but there are specific actions you can take to improve your credit standing and make yourself more attractive to lenders.

First, let's review how credit scores are calculated. Credit scoring models consider the following five factors:

Payment history - 35%
Amount used - 30%
Length of credit history - 15%
Mix of credit types - 10%
New inquiries - 10%

Your initial step towards improving your credit should be to check your credit report. You can obtain a free report annually from annualcreditreport.com. Review it for any errors or discrepancies, which may be simple mistakes to dispute with the issuing bureau or indicators of identity theft. Next, identify any negative habits affecting your score. Understanding these habits allows you to make necessary changes to boost your credit standing.

Now, here are some essential principles to follow to elevate your score even further:

Lowering Utilization Rates: Strive to use less than 30% of your credit limit, though below 10% is ideal. Consumers with scores over 800 often use under 6% of their available credit. To achieve lower utilization rates, consider paying down your debt, requesting increased credit limits, and fully paying off your balances each month. These actions can help keep your credit usage low and improve your score.

On-time Payments: Paying your bills on time every time is critical to maintaining a healthy credit score. The severity of a late payment's impact on your score depends on how late the payment is and how recent it is. The vast majority of individuals with scores over 800 have a perfect payment record. Set up reminders or automatic payments to ensure you never miss a due date.

Age of Credit: The longevity of your credit history plays a significant role in your credit score. Older accounts demonstrate your seasoned use of credit, making you more attractive to lenders. While this factor requires time to develop, it's noteworthy that top scorers typically have credit histories averaging over 10 years. Keeping old accounts open and active can help maintain a longer average credit age.

Avoid Closing Old Accounts: Closing older accounts can hurt your score by increasing your utilization rate and reducing the length of your credit history. Unless an account carries substantial fees, it's generally better to keep it open to benefit your credit score. If an old account has a high annual fee or other significant costs, consider transferring the balance to a no-fee card before closing it.

Judicious Credit Applications: Limit new credit applications to when absolutely necessary. Each hard inquiry can impact your score for up to a year and reduce the average age of your credit accounts. Plan your credit applications carefully and avoid multiple applications within a short period.

Varied Credit Portfolio: While it’s wise to avoid unnecessary debt, having a diverse array of credit accounts can enhance your score. This might include a mix of credit cards, installment loans, and a mortgage. A varied credit portfolio shows lenders that you can handle different types of credit responsibly.

Building a strong credit profile is a gradual process. At a 696 score, you're already demonstrating good credit management. By continuing these practices—lowering your utilization rate, making on-time payments, maintaining a lengthy credit history, avoiding closing old accounts, being cautious with new credit applications, and maintaining a varied credit portfolio—your score is likely to climb even higher. Each step you take not only improves your credit score but also enhances your overall financial health and stability.

Next steps for your 696 credit score

Achieving a 696 credit score is commendable and reflects well on your financial habits, but you can still do more to improve your financial standing. A higher score will open doors to the finest financial products available, including loans and credit cards with the lowest interest rates and most attractive rewards. To start, thoroughly understand your current score by examining your credit reports for any areas that need improvement.

Begin by lowering your credit utilization rate. Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit, and ideally below 10%. Paying down balances and requesting higher credit limits can help achieve this. On-time payments are crucial, as they heavily influence your credit score. Set up automatic payments or reminders to ensure you never miss a due date.

Another factor is the age of your credit accounts. Avoid closing old accounts unless they carry significant fees, as their longevity positively impacts your score. Be cautious with new credit applications; too many hard inquiries can temporarily lower your score.

Lastly, maintain a varied credit portfolio, including different types of credit accounts, to show lenders you can manage various financial responsibilities. By consistently applying these strategies, you can elevate your score into the very good or excellent range, significantly enhancing your financial opportunities.

1. Paycheck Advance is For eligible customers only. Your actual available Paycheck Advance amount will be displayed to you in the mobile app and may change from time to time. Conditions and eligibility may vary and are subject to change at any time, at the sole discretion of Finco Advance LLC, which offers this optional feature. Finco Advance LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank. Expedited disbursement of your Paycheck Advance is an optional feature that is subject to an Instant Access Fee and may not be available to all users. Expedited disbursements may take up to an hour. For more information, please refer to Paycheck Advance Terms and Conditions.

2. Paycheck Advance is an earned wage access service and is not a loan or credit product.

3. Current is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. FDIC insurance up to $250,000 only covers the failure of an FDIC-insured bank. Certain conditions must be satisfied for pass-through deposit insurance coverage to apply. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and/or Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card, which may be issued by Choice Financial Group and/or Cross River Bank, and the Current Visa® secured charge card, which is issued by Cross River Bank, are all issued pursuant to licenses from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit or credit cards are accepted. A Current debit account is required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.

4. Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.

5. Debit card: Fees may apply, including out of network cash withdrawal fees, third-party fees, cash load fees, inactivity fees, account closure fees, international transaction fees, replacement card fees, express mail fees and escheatment fees. Build Card: Some fees may apply, including out of network ATM fees of $2.50 per transaction, late payment fees of 3% of any total due balance outstanding and past due for two or more billing cycles, foreign transaction fees of 3% of the full transaction amount (minimum $0.50), card replacement fees per card of $5 for regular delivery and $30 for expedited delivery, cash deposit fees of $3.50 per deposit, and third party processing fees.

6. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card is issued by Choice Financial Group pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. The Current Visa® secured charge card is issued by Cross River Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank. Current Individual Account required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.

7. Individual results may vary. Using your credit card responsibly may allow you to improve your credit score. Credit building depends on various factors, including your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, and other financial activities.

8. Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.

9. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Funds held in Savings Pods are FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at our partner bank Choice Financial Group, member FDIC.

10. Paycheck Advance is For eligible customers only. Your actual available Paycheck Advance amount will be displayed to you in the mobile app and may change from time to time. Conditions and eligibility may vary and are subject to change at any time, at the sole discretion of Finco Advance LLC, which offers this optional feature. Finco Advance LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank.

11. Expedited disbursement of your Paycheck Advance is an optional feature that is subject to an Instant Access Fee and may not be available to all users. Expedited disbursements may take up to an hour. For more information, please refer to Paycheck Advance Terms and Conditions.

12. Actual overdraft amount may vary and is subject to change at any time, at Current’s sole discretion. In order to qualify and enroll in the Fee-Free Overdraft feature, you must receive $500 or more in Eligible Direct Deposits into your Current Account over the preceding 35-day period and fulfill other requirements subject to Current’s discretion. Negative balances must be repaid within 60 days of the first Eligible Transaction that caused the negative balance. For more information, please refer to Fee-free Overdraft Terms and Conditions. Individual Current Accounts only.

13. For eligible customers only. You may earn Points in connection with your Build Card purchases at retailers whose merchant code is classified as: Dining (e.g., restaurants) and Groceries (e.g., supermarkets) and by completing other actions that Current designates as subject to the Current Points Program. The amount of Points granted for different actions as well as the purchase requirements necessary to earn Points will vary, and is subject to Current’s sole discretion. After qualifying, please allow 3-5 business days for points to post to your Current account. Points will expire 365 days after they settle. For more information (including specific eligibility criteria), please refer to the Current Points Terms and Condition.

14. Some fees may apply, including out of network ATM fees of $2.50 per transaction, late payment fees of 3% of any total due balance outstanding and past due for two or more billing cycles, foreign transaction fees of 3% of the full transaction amount (minimum $0.50), card replacement fees per card of $5 for regular delivery and $30 for expedited delivery, cash deposit fees of $3.50 per deposit, and third party processing fees.

15. Boost Bonuses are credited to your Savings Pods within 48 hours of enabling the Boost feature and on a daily basis thereafter, provided that the Savings Pod has accrued a Boost Bonus of at least $0.01. No minimum balance required. The Boost rate on Savings Pods is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed rate is effective as of August 1, 2023. Must have $0.01 in Savings Pods to earn a Boost rate of either 0.25% or 4.00% annually on the portion of balances up to $2000 per Savings Pod, up to $6000 total. The remaining balance earns 0.00%. To earn a Boost rate of 4.00%, the sum of your Eligible Payroll Deposits over a rolling 35-day period must be $500 or more, with at least one Eligible Payroll Deposit equalling a minimum of $200. For more information, please refer to Current Boost Terms and Conditions.

16. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Your money is FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at each of our partner banks, Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank, members FDIC.

17. Average value based on Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings in 2023 for stays of two nights. Benefits include daily breakfast for two, room upgrade upon arrival when available, $100 amenity, guaranteed 4PM late checkout, and noon check-in when available. Certain room categories not eligible for upgrade. $100 amenity varies by property. Actual value will vary based on property, room rate, upgrade availability, and use of benefits.

18. Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

19. The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

20. Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one- way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

21. Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

22. Coverage for a Stolen or damaged Eligible Cellular Wireless Telephone is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits of liability of this benefit. The maximum liability is $800, per claim, per Eligible Card Account. Each claim is subject to a $50 deductible. Coverage is limited to two (2) claims per Eligible Card Account per 12 month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

23. When an American Express® Card Member charges a Covered Purchase to an Eligible Card, Extended Warranty§ can provide up to one extra year added to the Original Manufacturer’s Warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your Card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

24. Purchase Protection is an embedded benefit of your Card Membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect Covered Purchases made on your Eligible Card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the Covered Purchase date. The coverage is limited to up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Coverage Limits Apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

25. Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC.

26. The secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Card is issued by Stride Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted.

27. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted.

28. The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of September 20, 2023. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.

29. There’s no fee for the Chime Savings Account. Cash withdrawal and Third-party fees may apply to Chime Checking Accounts. You must have a Chime Checking Account to open a Chime Savings Account.

30. To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.

31. Money added to Credit Builder will be held in a secured account as collateral for your Credit Builder Visa card, which means you can spend up to this amount on your card. This is money you can use to pay off your charges at the end of every month.

32. Based on a representative study conducted by Experian®, members who made their first purchase with Credit Builder between June 2020 and October 2020 observed an average FICO® Score 8 increase of 30 points after approximately 8 months. On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score.

33. On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Chime will report your activities to Transunion®, Experian®, and Equifax®. Impact on your credit may vary, as Credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations.

34. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.

35. SpotMe® on Debit is an optional, no fee overdraft service attached to your Chime Checking Account. To qualify for the SpotMe on Debit service, you must receive $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account each month and have activated your Visa debit card. Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account for up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially but may later be eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. The SpotMe on Debit limit will be displayed within the Chime mobile app and is subject to change at any time, at Chime’s sole discretion. Although Chime does not charge any overdraft fees for SpotMe on Debit, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe on Debit will not cover any non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. SpotMe on Debit Terms and Conditions.

36. Tipping or not tipping has no impact on your eligibility for SpotMe®.

37. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.

38. Save When I Get Paid automatically transfers 10% of your direct deposits of $500 or more from your Checking Account into your savings account.

39. Round Ups automatically round up debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and transfer the round up from your Chime Checking Account to your savings account.

40. Mobile Check Deposit eligibility is determined by Chime in its sole discretion and may be granted based on various factors including, but not limited to, a member’s direct deposit enrollment status.

41. Funds are automatically debited from your Checking Account and typically deposited into the recipient’s Checking Account within seconds. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed.

42. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed. Non-Chime members must use a valid debit card to claim funds.

* EarnIn is not available for Connecticut residents

Rachel Alulis

Rachel Alulis has been the lead editor for Moneyfor’s credit cards team since 2015 and for the financial rewards team since 2023. Before joining Moneyfor, Rachel worked at USA Today and the Des Moines Register. She then established a successful freelance writing and editing business specializing in personal finance. Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and an MBA.

Related scores

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696 Credit Score: Is It Good or Bad?

What kind of credit score is 696?

Can I get a credit card with a 696 credit score?