697 Credit Score: Is It Good or Bad?

Holding a credit score of 697 positions you comfortably within the range of good credit. According to Experian, the average American holds a credit score of 715, well within the good range. With a score of 697, you stand to benefit from improved interest rates, more appealing loan conditions, and a broader array of lending options.

Applicants boasting a score of 697 are typically seen favorably by lenders, as it suggests a reliable history of timely bill payments and responsible credit usage. This favorable perception can make it easier to secure loans and credit cards with better terms. In the following sections, we'll explore the implications of having a 697 credit score, the benefits it can bring, and effective strategies for enhancing your credit score even further.

What kind of credit score is 697?

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 697, while solid, is not categorized as very good or exceptional. With a score of 697, 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 697 credit score?

Absolutely, possessing a credit score of 697 significantly boosts your chances of qualifying for a diverse selection of credit cards. This score signals to credit card issuers that you're a financially stable applicant. You will likely be eligible for credit cards that offer appealing rewards such as cash rebates, travel points, or introductory offers of 0% APR.

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Credit cards are broken down into various types. A few rewards cards you can choose from include:

Cash Back Cards: Cash back credit cards offer a percentage of your purchases back as cash rewards, making them ideal for everyday spending and providing significant savings over time. Typically, these cards offer higher rewards rates for specific categories such as groceries, gas, or dining. For example, a card might offer 3% cash back on groceries and 1% on all other purchases. This type of card is perfect for those who want to maximize their regular spending by earning rewards turning everyday purchases into savings or additional spending power.

Travel Cards: Travel credit cards offer points or miles that can be redeemed for travel-related expenses such as flights, hotels, and car rentals. These cards often come with additional perks like no foreign transaction fees, travel insurance, and access to airport lounges, enhancing the travel experience. Travel cards are particularly beneficial for frequent travelers who want to maximize their travel rewards and enjoy premium benefits. For instance, a travel card might offer 2x points on travel purchases and 1x points on other purchases, making it an excellent choice for those looking to make the most of their travel spending.

Balance Transfer Cards: Balance transfer credit cards allow you to transfer existing high-interest debt to a new card with a lower or 0% introductory APR for a specified period, typically ranging from 6 to 18 months. This can significantly reduce your interest payments and help you pay off debt faster. Balance transfer cards are ideal for individuals looking to consolidate debt and save on interest. However, it’s crucial to pay off the balance before the introductory period ends to avoid reverting to high interest rates, which can negate the benefits of the transfer.

Brand-Specific Rewards Cards: Brand-specific rewards cards offer perks and incentives tied to a particular brand or retailer. These cards provide benefits such as discounts, exclusive offers, and reward points that can be redeemed for brand-specific products or services. For example, a retail store card might offer 5% off all purchases made at the store, or a hotel-branded card might provide free nights or room upgrades. Brand-specific rewards cards are ideal for loyal customers who frequently shop or utilize services from a particular brand, allowing them to maximize their savings and enjoy special privileges.

With a credit score of 697, you have various credit card options to choose from. Each card type offers unique benefits tailored to different spending habits and financial goals. By selecting the right card and using it responsibly, you can maximize your rewards and take advantage of favorable terms to enhance your financial well-being.

Can I get a personal loan with a 697 credit score?

A 697 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 697. 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 697 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 697 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 697 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 697 credit score with a grain of salt

There is no universal definition of good credit, as lenders have varying score requirements and criteria. What one lender considers acceptable may differ from another, and the weight they assign to your credit score can vary. While your credit score is a significant factor, it's only one piece of the puzzle. Many lenders look beyond the score to assess your overall financial picture, including job status, income, and existing debts.

Achieving a 697 credit score is commendable, reflecting a solid financial foundation. However, it's crucial not to become complacent. Credit scores fluctuate based on your financial activities and decisions. For instance, late payments, high credit utilization, or new credit inquiries can negatively impact your score. Therefore, it's essential to continue practicing good financial habits, such as paying bills on time, keeping credit card balances low, and avoiding unnecessary credit inquiries.

Aiming to improve your credit score even further can open doors to more favorable financial products, including lower interest rates on loans and premium credit cards with better rewards. Regularly monitoring your credit report for errors and staying informed about your credit standing can help you maintain and improve your score. Remember, a higher credit score not only enhances your borrowing power but also signifies financial stability to potential lenders.

How can I make my good credit score great?

A 697 credit score places you comfortably outside the realm of poor credit, yet there's room for improvement. Achieving a flawless credit score involves no magic recipe; you just have to continue to show responsible credit behavior. It will take time. In fact, the majority of people with an 800 score have had accounts open for over a decade. So take heart, with a little effort and consistent behavior you too can get an exceptional score.

Before we go over some strategies to get to a perfect score, let's review how credit scores are calculated. Credit scoring models consider the following five factors:

Payment history - 35%
Credit utilization rate - 30%
Length of credit history - 15%
Mix of credit accounts - 10%
New inquiries - 10%

Now, here are some principles to help you improve your score:

Reduce Credit Utilization: Aim to use a maximum of 30% of your credit limit, though aiming for 10% is preferable. Individuals with FICO scores above 800 typically utilize just 5.7% of their credit. To achieve this, reduce your debt, request higher credit limits, and pay off your balances in full. Maintaining low credit utilization demonstrates to lenders that you are not overly reliant on credit and can manage your finances effectively.

Timely Bill Payments: The cornerstone of building a solid credit score is paying bills on time, every time. The impact of a late payment varies by how late it is and how recently it occurred. Recent payments over 30 days late can significantly lower your score. Notably, 95% of consumers with FICO scores over 800 have never missed a bill payment. Setting up automatic payments or reminders can help ensure you never miss a due date.

Credit Length: The age of your credit accounts contributes to your score. A longer credit history offers a comprehensive view of your financial habits, giving lenders more to go on. Patience is key here, as the average consumer with an exceptional credit score boasts an account history of over a decade. Avoid closing old accounts to maintain the length of your credit history.

Keep Old Accounts Open: While closing old credit accounts might seem like a good idea, it can harm your score by increasing your utilization ratio and reducing the average age of your accounts. An exception exists for accounts with hefty fees. Keeping old accounts open helps to demonstrate a long and stable credit history.

Cautious Credit Applications: Apply for new credit only as needed since each application temporarily dings your score. Newly opened accounts also lower the overall age of your credit history. Be strategic about applying for new credit and only do so when it is necessary or part of a long-term plan to improve your credit mix.

Credit Diversification: Having a variety of credit types, including credit cards and personal loans, can positively affect your score. It shows lenders that you can handle different types of credit responsibly. However, only take on new debt when you need to, and ensure you can manage it effectively.

Regular Credit Monitoring: Regularly monitoring your credit report for inaccuracies can help you catch and dispute errors that might negatively impact your score. It can also help you detect identity theft. Get your credit reports once a year from annualcreditreport.com and see what you find. Ensuring your credit report is accurate is essential for maintaining and improving your credit score.

Credit building is a marathon, not a sprint. With your score already at 697, maintaining responsible financial habits will only further your progress. Consistently applying these principles will help you achieve and maintain an excellent credit score, unlocking superior financial offerings and ensuring greater financial stability.

Next steps for your 697 credit score

Achieving a 697 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.

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This content is general in nature and is provided for informational purposes only. MoneyFor is not a financial advisor and does not offer financial planning services. This content may contain references to products and services offered through MoneyFor marketplace.

697 Credit Score: Is It Good or Bad?

What kind of credit score is 697?

Can I get a credit card with a 697 credit score?