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How does Chime SpotMe cash advance work?

How does Chime SpotMe cash advance work?

By Editorial Team
Last Updated: Nov 13, 2025

Chime SpotMe is Chime’s fee-free overdraft feature. Once you’ve received at least $200 in qualifying direct deposits over a 34-day period and your checking account is in good standing, you can toggle SpotMe on in the app. Your starting limit is usually $20 and can climb to $200 or more as you use it. If a debit-card purchase or ATM withdrawal pushes your balance below zero, Chime automatically spot-covers the shortfall up to your limit. The next time money hits your account, Chime repays itself first, bringing your balance back above zero with no overdraft fees, interest, or required tips. It’s strictly for debit transactions and cash withdrawals—there’s no separate loan, no credit check, and no traditional payday-loan costs.

How to get a Chime SpotMe cash advance: step-by-step

Need fee-free overdraft from Chime? Follow these steps:

  1. Update app: Install the latest Chime version on your phone.
  2. Activate card: Make sure your Chime Debit or Credit Builder card is active.
  3. Direct deposit: Receive at least one qualifying paycheck of $200 or more.
  4. Check eligibility: In Settings, open SpotMe to confirm you qualify.
  5. Enroll: Toggle “Overdraw fee-free” and accept the terms.
  6. Know limit: Review the SpotMe cap (up to $200).
  7. Withdraw cash: At an ATM, take out an amount within that limit even if your balance is lower.
  8. Repay automatically: Your next qualifying deposit clears the negative balance with no overdraft fee.

Table of contents

How to get a Chime SpotMe cash advance: step-by-stepAdvance amounts, fees and repayment termsHow long does Chime SpotMe cash advance take?What do Chime SpotMe users say about funding speed?

Advance amounts, fees and repayment terms

Advertised advance amounts
$20 - $200
Monthly fee
Free
Time to get cash
Instant

How long does Chime SpotMe cash advance take?

SpotMe doesn’t send you a separate deposit—once you’ve met the $200-a-month direct-deposit requirement and turn it on, it works in real time. If a debit-card purchase or ATM withdrawal would take your Chime balance below zero, Chime simply covers the difference on the spot (up to your current limit, which can rise from $20 to $200+). There’s no expedite fee and no waiting; the transaction is approved instantly, just like a normal card swipe.

What do Chime SpotMe users say about funding speed?

Out of roughly 30 November 2025 reviews we read, 20-plus talk about how fast money shows up. Here’s the gist:

  • Early pay: Lots of folks say direct deposits hit 2–3 days sooner than with their old bank, calling it a lifesaver between paychecks.
  • Instant SpotMe: Overdraft coverage kicks in on the spot at checkout; limits vary from about $20 to $120 (a few cite $200).
  • 24/7 access: Several highlight “fastest” or “quick” service, noting that transfers and P2P sends land right away.
  • Occasional hold: One reviewer grumbled about a five-day mobile-check hold, but we saw no wider pattern of slow funding.
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