Chime Prime Launches, Offering Up to 5% Back in Select Categories
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Managing Editor The financial technology company Chime is rolling out Chime Prime, a third membership tier with the richest incentives of the bunch, including elevated rewards rates for Chime Card™ holders. To qualify, your Chime account must receive at least $3,000 in direct deposits each month. A Chime spokesperson said Chime Prime will be available to all Chime members by spring 2026.
Chime Prime benefits include all of those from the Chime and Chime Plus membership tiers, as well as the following:
- 5% cash back in one category of your choice when you use the Chime Card™ as your payment method. Cash back is capped at $1,500 in monthly spending, or $75 in cash-back rewards. Eligible categories include grocery stores, gas, restaurants, monthly bills, taxi and rideshare, and travel.
- A free Priority Pass membership that includes two Priority Pass lounge visits per year.
- 3.75% APY on money held in a Chime savings account.
Note that your Chime membership tier is dependent on the amount of direct deposits made into your Chime account each month, which can create a sense of whiplash for people with inconsistent income. If your direct deposit amounts change, you could be bumped down to Chime or Chime Plus.
Earning rewards with Chime Prime
To earn the 5% rate as a Chime Prime member, you must select a cash-back category within the Chime app. If you don’t make a selection, you won’t earn any bonus rewards. Bonus categories may be changed every month.
Before making a selection, be aware of what purchases count for each category. Chime defines restaurants as dine-in, takeout, drive-through and delivery. Monthly bill includes internet, cable, cell phones and utilities, but not insurance. Flights, hotels and car rentals count as travel.
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