Chime is a financial technology company (fintech) based in San Francisco that offers fee-free mobile banking services through partnerships with two national banks, The Bancorp Bank and Stride Bank, both FDIC members

. Founded in 2012 by Chris Britt and Ryan King, Chime provides online checking and savings accounts, a Chime-branded Visa debit card, early direct deposit access (up to two days early), fee-free overdraft up to $200 for eligible customers, and automatic savings features

. Although Chime provides banking services, it is not a bank itself; it operates as a neo-bank or fintech company that delivers its services via mobile app and website, relying on its partner banks to hold customer deposits and provide FDIC insurance coverage

. Chime does not charge monthly fees, overdraft fees, or require minimum balances, making it popular especially among younger, tech-savvy users

. Chime earns revenue primarily by collecting a portion of the interchange fees from merchants when customers use its debit card

. It has grown rapidly, serving millions of customers and offering modern, convenient banking without traditional bank branches or fees

. In summary, Chime is a fintech company that offers digital banking services with no fees, early paycheck access, and tools to help users save and build credit, but it is not a traditional bank itself