Activate Chime Card: 11 Questions Answered! (Full 2024 Guide!)

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When you sign up for a checking account with Chime, you will get a debit card with no monthly or maintenance fees.

Here is how to activate your Chime debit card via the Chime app, website, or phone.

What Do You Need to Activate Your Chime Card?

You need your Chime account and card information to activate your Chime debit card. During the activation process, you have to enter your card and CVV number on the Chime app or website or relay your information to the Chime representative if you activate via phone. 

Activating your Chime card will unlock useful features, including the ability to send physical checks, and initiate unlimited ACH bank transfers in and out of Chime.

Using the Chime App

Activating your Chime card using the Chime app is a convenient method. Follow these steps:

  1. Download and open the Chime app on your smartphone.
  2. Login into your Chime account with your registered email and password.
  3. Go to your settings.
  4. Select ‘Activate new card' under your new card details.
  5. Enter the CVV, the three-digit number on the back of your card next to the signature strip.
  6. Create your PIN and confirm it.
  7. A confirmation screen will appear once your card is activated.

Via the Chime Website

Although the Chime website does not provide a direct option to activate your debit card, you can still navigate to your account settings and verify your card information. To complete the activation, you may need to follow up with the phone activation method described below.

Phone Activation

Activating your Chime card via phone is a suitable alternative if you cannot access the Chime app or prefer to use phone support. Follow these steps:

  1. Call Chime's activation number at 1-844-244-6363.
  2. Dial the automated system and follow the prompted steps.
  3. Verify your identity by providing some personal information.
  4. Provide your card number and CVV to verify your card.
  5. Create a PIN and confirm it.

Upon completing these steps, your Chime Visa debit card will be activated and ready to use for various banking services.

Why Can't I Activate My Chime Card?

There might be various reasons why one cannot activate a Chime card. One common cause is errors in the information entered during the activation process. It is crucial to double-check the details, such as the card number, CVV, and personal identification information, to make sure they are accurate.

If the issue persists, it is advisable to contact the Chime support team at 1-844-244-6363 for assistance. They can help identify and resolve any setbacks that may have occurred during activation.

What Happens if You Don't Activate Your Chime Card?

Not activating a Chime card can result in potential inconveniences. The card will remain inactive and unusable for making transactions, accessing ATMs, or using features like mobile check deposits and Chime's SpotMe service. This may hinder one's ability to manage finances effectively and take advantage of Chime's features.

To activate a Chime card, follow these steps:

  • Open the Chime app and go to your settings.
  • Tap ‘Activate new card' under your new card.
  • Enter the CVV (the three-digit number on the back of the card, next to the signature strip).
  • Create and confirm your PIN.

A confirmation screen will appear once the card is activated. Alternatively, cardholders can also activate their Chime card by calling 1-844-244-6363 and following the prompts to verify their identity, card number, and set a PIN.

How to Activate a Chime Temporary Card: (Step-By-Step)

To activate a Chime temporary card, follow these simple steps:

  1. Download the Chime app on your smartphone from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
  2. Open the Chime app and log in to your account using your registered email address and password.
  3. Go to the “Settings” option within the app.
  4. Select “Chime Card” and then choose “Activate Card.”
  5. Enter the necessary card information, including the last four digits of your Chime Card number, and submit.
  6. Set your desired four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) for the card.
  7. Proceed with the activation process by clicking “Call Now” to receive a verification code via phone call.
  8. Enter the verification code and your 4-digit PIN, then tap “Done.”

Once you've completed these steps, your Chime temporary card will be successfully activated and ready for use.

Keep in mind that your temporary card will need to be replaced with a permanent Chime Visa® Debit Card once it arrives. Follow the same activation steps for the permanent card when it's received. Temporary cards have limitations, such as restricted access to certain features, so obtaining and activating the permanent card will give you full access to Chime's services.

How Long Does It Take to Receive Your Chime Card?

Upon opening a Chime account, customers can expect their Chime card to be delivered within 7-10 business days. The card is mailed via USPS First Class Mail and does not come with a tracking number. It is important to ensure that the mailing address provided during account setup is accurate to avoid any delays in card delivery.

Can You Activate Your Chime Card Before It Arrived?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to activate a Chime card before receiving it in the mail. Once the card has arrived, cardholders can easily activate it by following the instructions provided with the card. In most cases, this includes:

  • Logging into the Chime app and locating the card status widget that reads, “Your card was delivered.”
  • Tapping the ‘Activate' button or asking the Chatbot to “Activate my card.”
  • Contacting Chime's customer support at 1-844-244-6363 if problems occur during activation.

It is crucial to have the Chime card in hand and the holder's Social Security number available during the activation process. Remember, activating the card can only be done after its arrival.

How Do You Reset the Card Pin?

Resetting the PIN for a Chime Visa Debit Card is a straightforward process. Forgetting or losing a PIN is a common issue, and Chime understands the need for an easy solution. Follow these steps to reset your Chime card PIN:

  1. Call Chime's dedicated customer support number at 1-844-244-6363.
  2. Follow the automated prompts to reach the PIN reset option.
  3. Be prepared to provide your Chime Visa Debit Card information when prompted.

Once you complete these steps, your card PIN will be reset. Make sure to securely store your new PIN to avoid any future issues. Remember to never share your PIN with others to maintain security and protect your account.

It's essential to have a secure and reliable banking experience, and Chime offers various features to ensure its users' accounts remain protected. Resetting your card PIN when necessary is one of the ways to maintain your account's security and keep your finances safe.

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Article by
Max T.
Max is the founder of Knowledge Eager and has made it his mission to find and review the best online business courses. He has taken more than 20 online courses and runs a small portfolio of content websites.