Chime does not offer joint accounts, so you cannot open a single Chime checking account in both names
Chime's checking accounts are individual accounts only. Each person needs their own Chime account with their own Social Security number, routing number, and account number. If you and another person want to use Chime, you each open separate accounts.
This is different from some traditional banks, which let two people hold one account together and both make withdrawals, deposits, and transfers. Chime's structure means you cannot share a single account or give another person full access to your account the way you could with a joint account at a credit union or regional bank.
Key Takeaways
- Chime accounts are individual only—each person must open their own account with their own Social Security number.
- You cannot add a second person's name to an existing Chime account or create a joint account with shared access.
- If you need to move money between two Chime accounts, you can use Chime's peer-to-peer transfer feature or link both accounts to an external bank.
- Parents opening accounts for minors should use Chime's SpotMe feature or a separate teen account if available in their state, not a joint account.
- If you need true joint account features like shared access and both names on the account, a traditional bank or credit union is a better fit than Chime.
Why Chime does not offer joint accounts
Chime is a fintech bank, meaning it operates online and through mobile apps rather than physical branches. Its account structure is built around individual identity verification and single-person accounts. When you open a Chime account, Chime verifies your identity, links your Social Security number, and issues you a debit card in your name only.
Joint accounts require a different legal and operational setup—both account holders must be verified, both names appear on statements and the debit card, and both people have equal rights to the money. Chime has chosen not to build this infrastructure. If you need a true joint account, you will need to use a different bank.
How to transfer money between two Chime accounts
If you and another person both have Chime accounts and need to move money between them, you have two main options.
The first is peer-to-peer transfer within Chime. If both people have Chime accounts, you can send money directly from one account to the other using the Chime app. You enter the recipient's phone number or email address associated with their Chime account, and the transfer arrives within minutes. There is no fee for this transfer.
The second is to link both Chime accounts to an external bank account. If you both have access to a joint account at another bank, you can each link that account to your individual Chime accounts. Then either person can transfer money from their Chime account to the shared external account, or vice versa. This takes one to three business days and may have fees depending on the external bank.
What to do if you need shared access to money
If your goal is to share money with another person—for example, a spouse or partner—without opening separate accounts, Chime is not the right tool. You would need a bank that offers joint accounts, such as a credit union, regional bank, or national bank like Chase, Bank of America, or Wells Fargo.
If you are trying to manage money for a minor, Chime offers SpotMe, which lets you set spending limits and controls on a teen's card. However, this is not a joint account; it is a parent-controlled account for a young person. Some states also allow Chime to issue teen accounts, though rules vary by location.
If you are trying to share access to an account for business purposes—such as a small business checking account—Chime does not offer business accounts at all. You would need to use a bank that serves small businesses.
How to open two separate Chime accounts
If you and another person each want a Chime account, the process is straightforward. Each person downloads the Chime app or visits Chime's website, provides their name, date of birth, Social Security number, and a valid government ID (driver's license or passport). Chime verifies the information, usually within minutes.
Once verified, each person receives a routing number and account number for their individual account. Chime will mail a debit card to each person at their address. You can set up direct deposit to either account, and each person can use their own card to make purchases or withdraw cash at ATMs in the Chime network.
Each account is completely separate. Money in one account does not appear in the other, and each person sees only their own transactions in the app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give someone else access to my Chime account?
No. Chime accounts are individual and cannot be shared. You cannot add another person as an authorized user or give them your login credentials. If you need someone else to access money, you must transfer it to them using peer-to-peer transfer or have them open their own account.
Can a parent and child have a joint Chime account?
No. Chime does not offer joint accounts for any combination of people, including parents and children. Parents can open a SpotMe account for a teen with spending controls, but this is not a joint account—only the parent can see and manage the account.
What if I want to combine money with someone else?
You would need to open a joint account at a traditional bank or credit union. Chime does not support this. If you both have Chime accounts, you can transfer money between them, but the accounts remain separate and in individual names.
Can I add a beneficiary or emergency contact to my Chime account?
Chime allows you to add emergency contacts in your account settings, but this does not give them access to your money while you are alive. An emergency contact is used only if Chime needs to reach someone about your account. For actual access to your money, you would need a joint account or a power of attorney, neither of which Chime supports.
What happens if I die—can my spouse access my Chime account?
No. Chime accounts are individual and do not transfer automatically to a spouse or beneficiary. Your spouse would need to work with Chime's customer service and provide a death certificate and proof of their relationship. Even then, Chime may not grant access. For accounts you want to pass to someone, a traditional bank with beneficiary options is more suitable.