Easiest Unsecured Credit Cards to Get for Bad Credit

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Key takeaways

Everyone can access unsecured credit cards, even with bad credit or a limited credit history.
The best unsecured cards offer features like credit reporting and autopay to help you build credit with responsible use.
Unsecured cards for bad credit will have higher interest rates and additional fees than cards for good to excellent scores.

When you have bad credit, your options for credit cards will be very limited. The easiest cards to get will be secured cards. The problem with secured cards is the cash deposit. Not everyone can part with a couple of hundred dollars for a few months. That’s why unsecured credit cards for bad credit are popular.

These cards give applicants with less-than-perfect scores a chance to access credit and potentially earn rewards. Use them responsibly and you’ll see your score improve.

In this article, we’ll review the different types of unsecured credit cards for bad credit and what you should consider.

5 Types of easy unsecured credit cards
How does an unsecured credit card work?
How to choose the best unsecured credit cards for beginners
Is there a limit on an unsecured credit card?
How to make the most of unsecured credit cards for bad credit
Can I get an unsecured credit card with a 500 credit score?
Can a secured credit card become unsecured?
How can I get approved for a credit card with bad credit?
Bottom line

5 Types of easy unsecured credit cards

The majority of unsecured credit cards have strict requirements. Financial institutions usually accept applicants whose scores are 690 and higher. When your credit score isn’t up to par, you won’t have as many choices, but you’re not out of options.

Here are five types of unsecured cards designed to meet the needs of those with less-than-perfect scores.

Credit cards for fair credit

Unsecured credit cards for fair credit are made for applicants whose scores fall between 580 and 669 on the FICO scale. They often have higher interest rates than cards for good to excellent credit. The credit limit will also be lower. Expect to receive an initial limit of $500 to $1,000. Some cards offer credit limits up to $2,000 and automatically consider limit increases with responsible use. The exact limit depends on your credit history, income, and debt-to-income ratio (DTI).

If you have a 600 credit score, you will likely get a card with cashback rewards and may be able to avoid paying an annual fee. The rewards rate will be modest, but at least you’re earning extra.

Credit cards for bad credit

When you have bad credit, anything below 580 on the FICO scale, secured cards will be more accessible. That said, unsecured credit cards are available for those with less-than-perfect scores. While these cards do not require an upfront deposit, they have drawbacks. Expect to pay an annual fee and an APR close to 35.99%. Many issuers will also charge a monthly fee and even a fee to open the card.

Some issuers will approve a $500 credit card limit with no deposit. A $500 limit is a decent place to start. Other issuers may only give you $300, or you may be lucky and receive a $750 credit limit. Your credit score, income, and DTI all play a role. Most issuers will do regular reviews for credit line increases. Pay your bill on time every month and keep your utilization low to be eligible.

Credit cards for no credit

Everyone starts off with no credit. Having no credit or a limited credit file means you do not have many entries on your credit report. The easiest way to fix this is to get a credit card.

The best credit cards for no credit will not charge an annual fee and will give cashback rewards. Look for cards that report to all three credit bureaus, have low APRs, and conduct account reviews to boost your limit.

Several fintech startups offer no credit check credit cards with no deposit. These alternative cards use your bank activity to determine eligibility instead of pulling your credit. They can be a low-cost way to build up your credit file.

Credit cards that accept bankruptcies

Getting a credit card after bankruptcy can be a good move. Use the card responsibly by paying it off in full each month, and it can help your credit score recover. You will have to wait for your bankruptcy to be discharged by the court before you can apply.

Once you’re eligible, look for unsecured credit cards with lenient requirements. You may see ads for guaranteed approval unsecured credit cards for bad credit that promise fast access, but be cautious. True approval is rarely guaranteed without a review. Many of these cards will have high interest rates and excessive fees.

If you can, prequalify before you apply. Prequalifying lets you gauge your chances of approval without affecting your score. The issuer will only do a soft inquiry, which does not go on your credit report. You can then compare potential offers and apply for the best one.

Credit cards to rebuild credit

The best credit cards to build credit will report your activity to all three major credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Reporting is essential since it is the only way for the card to impact your score. They will also let you view your credit score for free each month to see your progress.

To build credit, look for cards that help you pay on time with autopay options or payment reminders. Ideally, the card will come with a high credit limit. A high limit makes it easier to maintain a low credit utilization rate. At the very least, the issuer should conduct automatic account reviews every six months to determine your eligibility for a limit increase.

Regardless of the card, responsible use, including on-time payments and keeping balances low, is key for building or rebuilding credit.

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How does an unsecured credit card work?

Unsecured cards are credit cards with no deposit. They give you a revolving line of credit you can borrow against without putting down cash upfront. Approval is based instead on your creditworthiness and other financial factors.

Each billing cycle, you can spend up to your credit limit. Your issuer sets your credit limit by assessing your score, income, DTI, and other factors. As you make purchases, your available credit decreases. Repay the balance and reset your available credit.

At the end of each billing cycle, the card issuer will send you a statement showing your balance, minimum payment, and the due date. Pay the balance in full by the due date. You typically have a grace period of 21 to 25 days to pay your bill. When the grace period ends, you will accrue interest on the remaining balance.

Tired of being denied credit?

Check out 10 tips to get your application approved!

How to choose the best unsecured credit card

Choosing the right unsecured credit cards for bad credit involves several considerations:

Check your credit score: It’s essential to know your credit score before applying for any card, especially unsecured ones. This three-digit number gives lenders a quick, objective assessment of how risky a borrower you are. It is critical in determining whether you qualify for a card and the terms you receive. Knowing where you stand can help you target the right cards.

Find cards that fit your score: Only apply for cards that accept applicants in your score range. If you have a 300 credit score, you should only apply for cards that accept applicants with bad credit. Bad credit is generally considered any score under 690.

Assess interest rate: Look for credit cards with APRs below 30%. Investopedia found that cards for bad, poor, or no credit have an average APR of 26.62%.

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Consider fees: Unsecured credit cards can be expensive. Many issuers charge high annual fees, monthly fees, and even a fee to open the card. Look for cards with low or no fees to minimize costs.

Read the fine print: Check the terms and conditions for hidden fees or charges. Understanding the penalty rates, interest rates, and conditions for rewards or benefits is crucial.

Credit limit and potential for increase: Many unsecured cards for bad credit will come with a low initial limit but offer increases with responsible use.

Evaluate credit building features: Prioritize cards that report your credit activity to all three credit bureaus, give you a free monthly score, and offer autopay.

Potential rewards: Some beginner cards offer modest cash back rates, which can be a nice bonus. Consider if the rewards align with your spending habits.

Need a bigger credit line?

Check out credit cards with $1,000 limit – unsecured options too!

Is there a limit on an unsecured credit card?

All unsecured cards come with a credit limit, which is the maximum amount you can charge to the card. Limits on unsecured cards vary widely based on your creditworthiness and the lender’s policies.

For those with poor scores, the initial limit will likely be low. While you will start off with a modest amount of credit, many issuers offer opportunities to increase your limit. They may automatically review your account every six months and raise your limit if you’ve consistently paid on time. You can also request a limit increase if you’ve received a raise at work or seen your score improve.

How to make the most of unsecured credit cards for bad credit

Subprime unsecured cards can be valuable for rebuilding your score when used responsibly. Here are some tips to make the most of these cards:

Timely payments: Always pay your bill on time. Late payments can significantly damage your score. Set up autopay or put reminders in your calendar to avoid missing due dates.
Keep balances low: Aim to keep your utilization ratio below 30%, though lower is better. If your limit is $500, keep your balance under $150. Low balances show that you are not overly reliant on lenders.
Pay your bill in full: Paying off the entire balance each month avoids interest charges and helps keep your credit utilization low.
Monitor your credit: Regularly check your credit report for errors and track your score. Many financial institutions offer free score monitoring tools to help you stay informed about your status.
Use responsibly: Treat your card like a debit card. Only charge what you can afford to pay off each month to avoid accumulating debt and paying high interest rates.
Upgrade when possible: As your score improves, consider asking for a limit increase or upgrading to a card with better terms and rewards. This can further boost your score and provide additional benefits.

By following these strategies, you can effectively use second chance credit cards with no security deposit to improve your financial health.

Check out more tips and tricks on MoneyFor!

Can I get an unsecured credit card with a 500 credit score?

Obtaining an unsecured card with a 500 credit score is challenging but not impossible. A 500 score is considered poor by both the FICO and Vantage scoring models. With a score that low, you will need to focus your search on companies specializing in cards for bad credit. Here’s what you should look for:

Specialized cards: Look for unsecured cards specifically designed for consumers with poor credit. There’s no point in applying for a card you do not qualify for.

Pre-qualification: Many issuers let you prequalify with only a soft credit check without affecting your score. Use prequalification tools to gauge your chances of approval and identify cards you’re likely to be approved for.

Credit unions: Consider joining a credit union. These member-owned, non-profit financial institutions often have more lenient lending criteria. You may have an easier time getting unsecured credit cards for a 500 credit score with better terms.

Local bank: Banks often favor existing customers. Your banking history gives them insights into how you manage accounts and make payments. A strong banking history may offset negative credit information and make you a more attractive applicant. Besides approval, it can potentially lead to better interest rates, lower fees, or other perks.

Build and improve: If you’re initially denied, don’t get discouraged. Focus on improving your score by paying down debt, making timely payments, and reducing your utilization ratio. Over time, these actions will boost your score and increase your chances of approval.

Want to know more about credit card approval times?

Learn how long it takes to get approved for a credit card.

Can a secured credit card become unsecured?

A secured card can potentially become unsecured over time. It all depends on the issuer and how you use the card. The first thing you need to do is consistently demonstrate responsible financial behavior. This includes making on-time payments, keeping your utilization low, and managing any other debts you may have. As you use your card responsibly, you’ll build a positive credit history and your score will improve.

The next part depends on your issuer’s policies. Some card issuers have policies that automatically review your account after a set period, typically 6 to 12 months. If your score has improved, they may offer to convert your secured card to an unsecured card. If your issuer does not automatically review your account, you can proactively request an upgrade. Contact your card issuer’s customer service to inquire about the possibility of transitioning to an unsecured card.

Once your secured card becomes unsecured, your security deposit is typically refunded. You will have to close your account in good standing, not owe any money, to get it back fully. Otherwise, your issuer may keep part of your deposit.

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How can I get approved for a credit card with bad credit?

Getting approved for a card with a poor rating is possible, but it will be more challenging. The first step is to consider improving your credit first. The higher your score, the better your chance of approval:

Review your credit report: Request your credit report from annualcreditreport.com. You are entitled to one free copy from each major credit bureau once a year. Check it for errors or inaccuracies and dispute any incorrect information you find. Getting an inaccurate missed payment off your report can immediately boost your score.

Reduce outstanding debt: Pay down existing debts to lower your utilization ratio to under 30%. A high utilization rate can drag down your score.

Get credit for other bills: Add other monthly payments to your credit reports. Reporting rent, utilities, phone bills, subscriptions, etc, will help you establish a positive payment history. You must enroll with a rent reporting company, but it can be worth it.

Start with a secured card: If you’re having difficulty getting approved for an unsecured card, consider a secured card. Secured cards require a refundable deposit, which acts as collateral and makes approval easier. Some fintech companies offer alternative cards that use your bank account as collateral. You get easier access to credit without putting down a deposit.

Become an authorized user: Being an authorized user gives you access to credit without applying. Ask a friend or family member with good credit if they can add you to their account. Your score will benefit from their positive credit history and you can use the card. Becoming an authorized user is an easy way to build credit so that you can apply on your own in the future.

Consider a store card: Store credit cards are easier to be approved for with bad credit and often have rewards or discounts for shopping at the issuing store. The drawback is that they are expensive. Most come with high interest rates, fees, and low limits. They are also closed-loop cards that you can only use at the issuing retailer or a sister franchise.

By following these steps and managing your card responsibly, you can enhance your chances of approval and rebuild your credit effectively.

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the easiest unsecured card to get?

The easiest unsecured card to get will be one that has a very low score requirement. Look for cards that accept applicants with no credit or a 300 rating.

2. Can I get an unsecured credit card with no credit?

You can get an unsecured credit card with limited to no credit history. Look for issuers that accept applicants with no credit and charge reasonable fees.

3. Is it possible to get an unsecured credit card with bad credit?

You can get an unsecured card even with a bad rating. Many financial institutions offer products specifically designed for individuals with lower scores. These cards often have higher interest rates and extra fees to offset the risk to the creditor.

Bottom line

The best credit card for you aligns with your financial habits and goals. The card should be affordable and have reasonable fees. If it has rewards, you should be able to earn them for spending that you already do. Remember that carrying a balance and accruing interest will likely negate any rewards you earned.

If an unsecured card seems too risky or expensive, consider a secured card as a viable alternative. These cards require a deposit that serves as your limit. The deposit reduces the risk to the issuer, often resulting in lower fees and interest rates. A lot of fintech companies are now offering alternative cards secured by your bank account so that you’re not tying up your money in a deposit.

Whether you choose an unsecured or secured card, always make payments on time and maintain a low usage rate. Responsibly managing your finances will lead to a higher credit score over time. As your score increases, so do your chances of securing a premium rewards card.

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. 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. 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. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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.

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. 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.

20. 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.

21. 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.

22. 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.

23. 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.

24. 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.

25. 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.

26. 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.

27. 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.

28. 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.

29. 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.

30. 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.

31. 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.

32. 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.

33. 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.

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

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

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

37. 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.

38. 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.

39. 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.

40. 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.

41. MyPay is only offered in select states

42. To be eligible for MyPay, you must receive qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account as set forth in the MyPay Agreement. A qualifying direct deposit is a deposit from an employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, government benefits payer, or other permitted source of income by Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) or Original Credit Transaction (“OCT”). Your MyPay Credit Limit and Maximum Available Advance may change at any time. MyPay is a line of credit and available limits are based on estimated income and risk-based criteria. Eligible members may be offered a $20 – $500 Credit Limit per pay period. Your Credit Limit and Maximum Available Advance will be displayed to you within the Chime app. MyPay is currently only available to eligible Chime members in certain states. Other restrictions may apply.

43. Not affiliated with Empower Annuity Insurance Company of America (www.empower.com). Not everyone will qualify. Offers range from $10-$300 for first-time customers; $10-$400 for all others. Offers are based on our eligibility requirements and can go up with on-time payments. In Feb 2025, the average offer was $95 for first-time customers; $187 for all others. Instant delivery is optional—see fees in Empower’s Terms. Empower offers a 14-day trial for first-time customers followed by an auto-recurring $8/month subscription fee. Cancel anytime.

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Elise Banham

Elise Banham is a financial writer at Moneyfor, specializing in credit building, budgeting, and personal loans. She joined the team in 2020 after writing for outlets including The Seattle Times, MarketWatch, and Bankrate. Earlier in her career, she worked as a content strategist for a San Francisco-based fintech startup.

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Easiest Unsecured Credit Cards to Get

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