No annual fee, no interest, no minimum deposit — the only truly free credit-building card.
SC
By Sarah Chen, AFC® Certified
No fees · No interest
Our verdict
Should you get this card? Yes — if you are willing to open a Chime checking account. The Chime Credit Builder is the only credit-building card with zero fees and zero interest. There is no annual fee, no APR, and no minimum deposit. The catch is that you must be a Chime member, which means using Chime as your bank. For anyone comfortable with a digital bank, this is one of the best credit-building tools available.
The Chime Credit Builder works differently from traditional secured cards. Instead of a deposit that sits locked in a savings account, you move money from your Chime checking account into your Credit Builder account. That amount becomes your spending limit.
At the end of each billing period, Chime automatically pays your full balance from your Credit Builder funds. This means you cannot carry a balance — and therefore cannot pay interest. Your on-time payment is reported to all three bureaus every month.
Example: Move $300 into your Credit Builder account. Spend $150 during the month. At month end, Chime pays the $150 automatically. Your $300 is still available for next month. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion all see a perfect on-time payment.
Chime Credit Builder pros and cons
Pros
Completely free — no fees, no interest ever
No minimum deposit or spending limit requirement
No credit check to apply
Cannot accidentally carry a balance or pay interest
Reports to all three bureaus monthly
Visa accepted everywhere
Cons
Requires a Chime checking account
No upgrade path to a traditional credit card
No rewards program
Spending limit tied to how much you move in — not a true revolving credit line
Chime is a fintech, not a traditional bank
Frequently asked questions
Does Chime Credit Builder require a deposit?+
The Chime Credit Builder does not require a traditional security deposit. Instead, you move money from your Chime checking account into your Credit Builder account, and that amount becomes your spending limit. There is no minimum — you can start with any amount.
Does Chime Credit Builder charge interest?+
No. The Chime Credit Builder charges no interest because your balance is paid automatically from your Credit Builder account each month. You cannot carry a balance, so there is no APR.
How much does Chime Credit Builder cost?+
The Chime Credit Builder has no annual fee, no interest, no minimum deposit, and no monthly fee. It is completely free. The only requirement is an active Chime checking account, which is also free.
How long does it take for Chime Credit Builder to improve your score?+
Most Chime Credit Builder members see score improvements within 2 to 3 months of consistent use. Chime reports that members see an average increase of 30 points within 8 months. Results vary based on your starting score and overall credit profile.
Advertiser disclosure: ApprovedCard.guide may earn a commission when you apply through our links. Card terms verified May 2026.