You can deposit cash into Chime, but not directly at an ATM or through the mail
Chime does not let you deposit cash directly into your account through their own ATM network or by mailing a check. Instead, you have three real options: use a third-party ATM network that Chime partners with, deposit cash at a retail location like Walmart or CVS, or transfer money from another bank account you control.
The fastest route for most people is a retail deposit at a participating store. Chime has partnered with MoneyLion and other networks to let you hand cash to a cashier, and the money lands in your account within minutes. The second option is to use an ATM that belongs to a network Chime works with—Allpoint and MoneyPass are the two main ones—though these ATMs accept deposits only at certain locations, not all of them.
If you do not have access to a retail deposit location or partner ATM, your third option is to deposit cash into a checking or savings account at another bank you own, then transfer that money to Chime using ACH or a wire transfer. This takes one to three business days but works from anywhere.
Key Takeaways
- Chime's retail deposit partners include Walmart, CVS, and other chains where you can hand cash to a cashier and see it in your account within minutes.
- Some Allpoint and MoneyPass ATMs accept cash deposits, but not every ATM in those networks does, so check the Chime app before you visit.
- If you deposit cash at another bank account you own, you can transfer it to Chime via ACH (one to three business days) or wire transfer (same day, with a fee).
- Retail deposits and ATM deposits have no fee, but wire transfers from another bank typically cost $15 to $30.
Retail cash deposits at partner stores
The easiest way to deposit cash is through Chime's retail deposit network. You walk into a Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, or other participating store, hand cash to the cashier, and the money appears in your Chime account within minutes—usually before you leave the store. There is no fee for this service.
To make a retail deposit, open the Chime app, tap the deposit option (usually labeled "Mobile Check Deposit" or "Deposit Cash"), and follow the prompts to generate a barcode or reference number. Show this to the cashier along with your cash. The cashier scans the barcode, takes your cash, and gives you a receipt. The transaction posts to your account almost immediately.
Not every Walmart or CVS location offers this service, so check the Chime app first to find a participating store near you. The app shows you which locations accept deposits and their hours. If you try to deposit at a store that does not participate, the cashier will tell you they cannot process it.
ATM deposits through partner networks
Chime works with ATM networks like Allpoint and MoneyPass, and some ATMs in these networks accept cash deposits. However, not every ATM in these networks has a deposit slot—many are withdrawal-only. Before you go to an ATM, use the Chime app to locate one that accepts deposits in your area.
To deposit cash at a partner ATM, insert your Chime debit card, select the deposit option, and follow the on-screen instructions. The ATM will accept your cash and credit it to your account. Like retail deposits, ATM deposits are free and usually post within minutes, though some may take up to one business day depending on the time of day and the ATM operator.
The main limitation is availability. Allpoint and MoneyPass have thousands of ATMs, but deposit-capable machines are less common than withdrawal-only ones. If you live in a rural area or a location with sparse ATM coverage, you may not have a deposit ATM nearby. In that case, a retail deposit or transfer from another bank is your better option.
Transferring cash from another bank account
If you have a checking or savings account at another bank, you can deposit cash there and then move the money to Chime. This method works anywhere but takes longer than retail or ATM deposits.
First, deposit your cash at your other bank using their ATM, teller, or mobile app (if they offer mobile deposit for cash). Once the cash is in that account, log into Chime and initiate an ACH transfer from the other bank to your Chime account. ACH transfers are free and typically take one to three business days. If you need the money faster, you can request a wire transfer instead, which usually arrives the same day but costs $15 to $30 depending on your bank.
This route is slower but useful if you do not have access to Chime's retail or ATM partners. It also works if you receive cash from a third party and want to move it into Chime without handling it yourself—you can deposit it at your other bank and let the transfer happen automatically.
What happens if you try to mail cash to Chime
Do not mail cash to Chime. Chime does not accept cash deposits by mail, and if you send cash through the postal service, it will not reach your account. Cash sent by mail is also at risk of being lost or stolen in transit, and you have no way to prove you sent it if it goes missing.
If you have already mailed cash to Chime and it has not arrived, contact Chime support immediately. They can tell you whether the mail was received and help you file a claim if needed. However, the postal service does not insure cash, so recovery is not may provide.
Timing and fees for each deposit method
| Deposit Method | Time to Post | Fee | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retail deposit (Walmart, CVS, etc.) | Minutes | None | During store hours at participating locations |
| ATM deposit (Allpoint, MoneyPass) | Minutes to 1 business day | None | At deposit-capable ATMs only |
| ACH transfer from another bank | 1–3 business days | None | Anytime, from any bank |
| Wire transfer from another bank | Same day | $15–$30 | Anytime, from banks that offer wire transfers |
Retail deposits are the fastest and most convenient for most people. ATM deposits are equally fast but less available. If you are not in a hurry, ACH transfers are free and work from anywhere. Wire transfers are the fastest option if you need the money the same day, but they cost money and require your other bank to support them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit cash at any Chime ATM?
No. Chime does not own ATMs—you use ATMs from partner networks like Allpoint and MoneyPass. Not all ATMs in these networks accept deposits; many are withdrawal-only. Use the Chime app to find a deposit-capable ATM near you before you go.
What if there are no retail deposit locations near me?
If Walmart, CVS, and other retail partners are not available in your area, use an ATM deposit if one is nearby, or transfer cash from another bank account you own. ACH transfers are free and take one to three business days.
Do I need to provide ID when I deposit cash at a retail location?
Most retail deposits do not require ID—you just show the barcode from the Chime app and hand over cash. However, some stores may ask for ID as part of their standard procedure. Bring your ID to be safe.
What is the maximum amount I can deposit at one time?
Chime and its retail partners do not publish a single maximum deposit limit. Limits vary by location and may depend on the store's policy or the amount of cash on hand. If you are depositing a large amount, call the store ahead or ask the cashier whether there is a limit.
If I deposit cash at a retail location, can I get a receipt?
Yes. The cashier will give you a receipt showing the amount deposited and the reference number. Keep this receipt until the transaction posts to your account, in case you need to dispute it or contact support.