If you’ve been searching for a chime business account, you’re not alone. Many freelancers, side hustlers, and small business owners are drawn to Chime’s low fees and easy-to-use platform—but there’s a lot of confusion about whether it truly supports business banking. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, explore the facts, and uncover the best alternatives available in 2025.
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What Is a Chime Business Account?
Many entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners have asked the question: what is a Chime business account and does it even exist? The answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no.
Chime is a popular financial technology company known for offering personal banking services through its partner banks. It provides features like no monthly fees, early direct deposit, and a user-friendly mobile app. However, as of 2025, Chime does not officially offer a business account.
That means if you’re looking for a dedicated Chime business account for your LLC, S-corp, or sole proprietorship, you won’t find a product labeled specifically for business use. Instead, Chime only offers personal checking and savings accounts, which some users have attempted to use for business purposes—though this comes with important caveats.
While Chime’s simplicity, lack of fees, and tech-forward approach make it attractive, its services are not designed to support the operational or compliance needs of a registered business. There’s no support for multiple authorized users, no invoicing features, and no business-specific documentation that many entrepreneurs need when dealing with vendors or taxes.
In short, a Chime business account isn’t a real offering from the company, but the term is frequently searched due to Chime’s popularity among the self-employed and side hustlers. In the next sections, we’ll dig deeper into why this matters and what alternatives exist for those seeking business-friendly banking options.
Does Chime Offer Business Accounts in 2025?
As of 2025, Chime does not offer a business account. While the term chime business account is commonly searched online, the company has yet to launch a dedicated product for business banking.
Chime is a financial technology company that provides personal banking services through its banking partners, The Bancorp Bank and Stride Bank. These services are designed for individual use and do not include features tailored for business owners. There are no options for business check writing, multi-user access, business invoicing, or tools to manage business expenses.
This can be confusing for many people, especially freelancers and small business owners who use their personal Chime account to manage business-related funds. Although it’s possible to receive payments and make purchases using a personal Chime account, doing so does not make it a true business account.
In fact, using a personal account for business purposes may violate Chime’s terms of service. This could result in account restrictions or closure, especially if the account is flagged for unusual activity or high transaction volumes commonly associated with business use.
In short, if you are specifically looking for a chime business account in 2025, it’s important to know that such a product does not currently exist. Business owners should consider alternatives that are built to handle the specific needs of managing business finances.
Why So Many People Search for “Chime Business Account”?
The phrase chime business account continues to gain popularity in online searches, even though Chime doesn’t officially offer a business account. So why are so many people looking for it?
One of the main reasons is that Chime has become a go-to option for individuals looking for simple, fee-free banking. Its easy sign-up process, early direct deposit feature, and intuitive mobile app have made it especially appealing to freelancers, gig workers, and small business owners who prefer digital banking over traditional banks.
Many people assume that because Chime is so widely used for personal banking, there must be a business version available. Some are actively searching for a chime business account hoping to avoid the fees and paperwork that often come with traditional business banking.
Another factor is the rise of side hustles. More people are earning income through platforms like Uber, Etsy, and Upwork. These users often look for convenient ways to separate their personal and business finances without opening a traditional business account. Chime seems like an ideal choice at first glance, which leads to high search interest.
Finally, social media and forums like Reddit have contributed to the confusion. Many users talk about using Chime for business purposes, which gives the impression that Chime offers or supports business banking. In reality, these are personal accounts being used in ways that Chime does not officially support.
In short, the growing number of searches for chime business account comes from a mix of Chime’s popularity, the rise of digital entrepreneurship, and the need for accessible financial tools for non-traditional workers.
Is It Legal to Use a Chime Personal Account for Business?
Many freelancers and small business owners wonder if it’s legal to use a Chime personal account for business purposes. While there is no specific law that stops someone from using a personal bank account for business, doing so can lead to problems—especially when the account is not designed for business use.
Chime does not currently offer a dedicated chime business account, and its personal accounts are meant strictly for individual use. According to Chime’s terms and conditions, using a personal account to run a business or manage business-related transactions may go against their policies.
If Chime detects business-like activity on a personal account, such as high volumes of payments or transactions that appear to be from clients or customers, the account could be flagged or even restricted. In some cases, Chime may request additional information or close the account altogether.
In addition to violating Chime’s policies, using a personal account for business can create issues with bookkeeping, taxes, and legal liability. It becomes harder to separate personal and business expenses, which can lead to problems during tax season or in case of an audit.
For sole proprietors just starting out, using a personal account may seem like a convenient option. But for long-term growth and financial protection, it’s better to open an account that is specifically designed for business use. Since a true chime business account doesn’t exist, exploring other online banks that offer business accounts is a smarter move.
Best Alternatives to a Chime Business Account
Since there is no official chime business account, many business owners and freelancers look for alternatives that offer similar benefits with features designed specifically for business use.
There are several online banking platforms that provide modern, low-fee business checking accounts. These options are ideal for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and freelancers who want digital convenience without sacrificing essential business tools.
1. Bluevine
Bluevine is one of the top alternatives to a chime business account. It offers a free business checking account with no monthly fees, unlimited transactions, and the ability to earn interest on your balance. Bluevine also provides features like bill pay, mobile check deposit, and integrations with accounting tools.
2. Novo
Novo is designed specifically for small business owners and digital entrepreneurs. It offers a user-friendly mobile experience, free ACH transfers, and no minimum balance requirements. Novo also connects with tools like Stripe, Shopify, and QuickBooks, making it a solid choice for online businesses.
3. Mercury
Mercury is ideal for tech startups and e-commerce businesses. It offers a sleek platform with built-in expense tracking, virtual cards, and international payments. There are no monthly fees or transaction fees, and the application process is completely online.
4. Relay Financial
Relay is another great option, especially for teams. It allows you to create multiple accounts under one business, assign user permissions, and issue up to 50 debit cards. It also integrates with popular accounting software, making financial management much easier.
5. Lili
Lili is built for freelancers and sole proprietors. It combines banking with tools like automatic tax saving and expense tracking. While it doesn’t have every feature a larger business might need, it’s a simple and useful option for individuals running solo operations.
Each of these platforms provides key features that a real chime business account would likely include if it existed—such as low fees, mobile banking, and tools to manage business finances. Choosing the right one depends on the size and needs of your business.
For a more detailed breakdown of current business banking options, Forbes has published a helpful guide on the best business bank accounts in 2024 that compares features, fees, and tools across top providers.
Best Chime Alternatives for LLCs and Freelancers
LLCs and freelancers need more than just a personal bank account—they need tools that support invoicing, expense tracking, and tax readiness. Since there is no official chime business account, it’s important to explore banking options that are designed specifically for small business needs.
Here are some of the best alternatives for LLCs and freelancers in 2025:
Bluevine
Bluevine is a strong option for LLCs because it offers free business checking with no monthly fees and a high interest rate on balances. It supports check writing, wire transfers, and integrates with accounting tools, which are essential for small business operations.
Novo
Novo is an excellent fit for freelancers and solo entrepreneurs. It has a simple interface, fast application process, and supports connections to platforms like PayPal, Stripe, and QuickBooks. With no hidden fees and a focus on digital business, Novo is a top pick for those managing everything on their own.
Lili
Lili is ideal for freelancers looking for a mix of banking and financial management. It includes automatic expense categorization, tax tools, and a tax savings account. Lili is designed to simplify the life of a freelancer without overwhelming them with business banking features they don’t need.
NorthOne
NorthOne provides a business checking account with powerful budgeting tools. It allows users to create sub-accounts, which is great for setting aside money for taxes, payroll, or marketing. It also offers integrations with accounting and payment platforms.
Found
Found is another freelancer-focused bank that combines banking and bookkeeping in one app. It tracks expenses automatically, estimates taxes, and allows users to send invoices directly from the platform. It’s a great fit for independent workers who want everything in one place.
While the chime business account does not exist, these alternatives provide real solutions for LLCs and freelancers who want modern, easy-to-use financial tools. Choosing the right one depends on whether you value interest earnings, bookkeeping features, or integrations with other business tools.
How to Choose the Right Online Business Bank Account
When searching for the right online business bank account, there are a few key factors to consider—especially if you were hoping for something like a chime business account. Since that specific option doesn’t exist, knowing what to look for in an alternative can help you make a smarter decision.
1. Business-Friendly Features
Make sure the account is built for business use. This includes the ability to send invoices, categorize expenses, integrate with accounting software, and separate personal from business finances.
2. Low or No Fees
One of the reasons the idea of a chime business account is so appealing is because Chime is known for having no monthly fees. When choosing a business bank, look for one that offers similar benefits—no maintenance fees, no minimum balance, and free ACH transfers.
3. Mobile Access and Ease of Use
Digital entrepreneurs and freelancers need access to their finances on the go. Choose a banking service with a strong mobile app and intuitive dashboard. Features like mobile check deposit, real-time transaction alerts, and easy money transfers are a must.
4. Customer Support
Business owners often deal with time-sensitive transactions. A reliable support team that’s available through chat, email, or phone can make a big difference when issues come up.
5. Scalability and Integrations
As your business grows, your banking needs may change. Pick a bank that supports integrations with tools like QuickBooks, Shopify, or Stripe. Also, consider whether the bank offers services like lending, credit cards, or multiple user access for teams.
6. Compliance and Documentation
Look for an account that provides proper documentation, including monthly statements, business account agreements, and tax-ready reports. These are essential for filing taxes and managing finances responsibly.
While many people are drawn to the idea of a chime business account because of Chime’s simplicity and digital-first approach, the best alternative is one that offers those same benefits along with true business banking support.
Can You Use Chime for Side Hustles or Gig Work?
Many people working side hustles or gig jobs wonder if they can use their Chime account to receive payments and manage income. While it is technically possible, it’s important to understand the limitations, especially when comparing it to a real chime business account—which does not currently exist.
Chime accounts are personal checking accounts. They are commonly used by gig workers who get paid through platforms like Uber, DoorDash, Instacart, and Fiverr. Since Chime supports direct deposit and has no monthly fees, it seems like a convenient option for managing side income.
However, using Chime for side hustles is not the same as using a dedicated business account. You won’t have access to features like expense tracking, invoicing, or business reporting. This can make it harder to manage taxes or apply for business loans down the line.
It’s also worth noting that Chime’s terms of service are designed for personal use. While occasional business-related transactions might not raise red flags, using a personal account as your main business account could result in account reviews or restrictions.
If you’re just starting out and managing occasional freelance or gig payments, a Chime account may work in the short term. But as your income grows, it’s a good idea to consider switching to a business account built for your needs—especially since a true chime business account isn’t available.
Top Reasons Business Owners Want to Bank with Chime
Even though there is no official chime business account, many business owners are still interested in banking with Chime. The reasons are simple—Chime offers convenience, transparency, and a mobile-first experience that appeals to modern entrepreneurs.
1. No Monthly Fees
One of the biggest draws to Chime is the lack of maintenance or service fees. Traditional business bank accounts often charge monthly fees unless certain conditions are met. Many small business owners look for ways to cut costs, and a fee-free account sounds ideal.
2. Early Direct Deposit
Chime offers early direct deposit, allowing users to access their money up to two days faster. For business owners managing cash flow, getting paid sooner can help cover expenses and avoid delays in operations.
3. Easy Mobile Banking
Chime’s mobile app is one of the best in the fintech space. It provides real-time alerts, mobile check deposit, and a clean interface that makes managing money simple. This appeals to entrepreneurs who prefer to manage their finances on the go.
4. Quick Sign-Up Process
Opening an account with Chime is fast and doesn’t require visiting a bank branch. This digital-first experience saves time, especially for freelancers or side hustlers who want to get started immediately.
5. Trust in the Brand
Chime has built a reputation as a reliable and user-friendly banking platform. For individuals just beginning their business journey, the brand’s popularity gives a sense of confidence—even if the account is not officially made for business.
If you’re exploring mobile-first banks similar to Chime, check out our full comparison of SoFi vs Ally to see how they measure up in terms of features, fees, and flexibility.
Although Chime lacks a dedicated chime business account, many entrepreneurs still consider using it because of its modern approach and hassle-free banking. However, it’s important to remember that Chime is not built to handle all the needs of a growing business, and using it for business purposes may come with limitations.
Business Tools Chime Offers — and What It Lacks
Chime is a well-known option for personal banking, but when it comes to business tools, it has limitations. For those hoping to use a chime business account, it’s important to understand what Chime can and cannot do for managing business finances.
What Chime Offers
Chime provides a few features that some small business owners and freelancers find useful:
- Direct deposit support for receiving payments
- No monthly maintenance fees
- A well-designed mobile app with instant transaction alerts
- Mobile check deposit for physical checks
- Automatic savings features
These features are great for managing personal money or simple side hustle income. They’re also why people mistakenly assume that a chime business account exists or that a personal account can be used for business.
What Chime Lacks
Despite its strengths, Chime falls short when it comes to essential business banking tools:
- No support for multiple authorized users or team access
- No invoicing or payment request tools
- No business debit or credit card options
- No integration with bookkeeping software like QuickBooks or Xero
- No tools for separating personal and business expenses
- No business account statements for tax or legal purposes
These missing features make Chime unsuitable for formal business use. Business accounts typically need functions that support expense tracking, tax reporting, and business growth. Since Chime doesn’t provide those tools, using it in place of a real business account can lead to operational challenges.
While the idea of a chime business account may be appealing, the platform simply does not offer the functionality needed to fully support a business. Those who need more than the basics should consider switching to a bank built specifically for business use.
Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up a Business Bank Account
If you’re running a business, one of the first things you should do is open a business bank account. While many people search for a chime business account, the reality is that Chime does not currently offer one. Instead, here’s how to properly set up a real business account with a provider that supports your business needs.
1. Choose the Right Bank or Fintech Platform
Look for a bank that offers business-specific services like invoicing tools, expense tracking, and accounting integrations. Since a chime business account is not available, consider options like Bluevine, Novo, Relay, or Lili.
2. Register Your Business
Before opening a business account, you’ll need to officially register your business. This could be as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation depending on your structure. You’ll also need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.
3. Gather Required Documents
Each bank may have slightly different requirements, but most will ask for the following:
- Government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport)
- EIN or Social Security Number (for sole proprietors)
- Business formation documents (such as Articles of Organization)
- Business license or permits (if applicable)
4. Apply Online or In-Person
Many online banks allow you to open a business account entirely online in a few minutes. You’ll need to submit your documents and fill out a short application. Some traditional banks may require you to visit a branch.
5. Fund Your Account and Set Up Banking Tools
Once approved, deposit funds into the account and set up features such as online banking access, debit cards, payment tools, and accounting software integrations.
Opening a proper business bank account not only keeps your finances organized but also helps build business credibility and financial history. While a chime business account may sound appealing because of Chime’s simplicity, using an account built for business is a smarter move for long-term success.
How to Move from Chime to a Real Business Bank Account
If you’ve been using Chime to manage your business finances, you’re not alone. Many freelancers and small business owners start that way because Chime is simple and free. But since there is no official chime business account, transitioning to a proper business bank account is a smart and necessary step as your business grows.
1. Research the Right Business Account for Your Needs
Start by comparing business banking options. Look for features like no monthly fees, accounting integrations, multiple user access, and strong customer support. Some popular options include Bluevine, Novo, Mercury, and Relay.
2. Open Your New Business Account
Gather the necessary documentation such as your EIN, business formation documents, and government-issued ID. Complete the online application or visit a local branch, depending on the provider.
3. Notify Clients and Update Payment Details
Once your new business account is set up, update your bank information with clients, payment processors, and invoicing platforms. This ensures that all future business income is deposited into the correct account.
4. Transfer Existing Funds
Move your remaining balance from your Chime account to your new business account. You can usually do this through an external bank transfer or by using a mobile payment app linked to both accounts.
5. Switch Business Expenses to the New Account
To keep personal and business finances separate, make sure that all business-related subscriptions, purchases, and bills are now paid from your business account. This will make tax preparation and bookkeeping much easier.
6. Close or Limit Use of Your Chime Account for Business
If your Chime account was used only for business, consider closing it or using it strictly for personal transactions going forward. This helps you avoid confusion and potential issues with Chime’s terms of service.
Making the move from a personal Chime account to a real business bank account ensures you’re operating legally, professionally, and with tools that support your growth. Since a chime business account is not available, this transition is essential for taking your business to the next level.
Real User Experiences: Using Chime for Business
While there is no official chime business account, many individuals have used their personal Chime accounts for business-related transactions. Their experiences vary, and reading real stories can help others understand the risks and limitations of using Chime for business purposes.
Freelancers and Gig Workers
Some freelancers use Chime to receive payments from platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or DoorDash. These users often praise the ease of use, early direct deposit, and lack of fees. For solo workers with simple income streams, Chime can serve as a temporary solution.
Online Sellers and Side Hustlers
People selling on Etsy, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace have also used Chime to collect payments. While some find it convenient, others run into problems when trying to separate personal and business expenses. Lack of features like invoicing, multiple cards, or reporting tools makes financial management more difficult over time.
Issues Reported by Users
There are also complaints shared on Reddit, Trustpilot, and other forums. Some users report having their accounts frozen or flagged when transaction activity appeared too business-like. This is likely due to Chime’s terms of service, which are meant for personal use only. Without a true chime business account, these users risk account restrictions if their usage is considered outside of policy.
Lessons Learned
Many users admit they initially used Chime out of convenience but later switched to a business account with another provider. The lack of business features and risk of violating Chime’s policies were common reasons for making the change.
In the end, real user experiences show that while Chime can work in the short term for managing side income, it is not a long-term solution for serious business needs. Since there is no real chime business account, moving to a proper business banking service is often the better choice.
Chime vs Competitors: Business Banking Showdown
Even though a true chime business account doesn’t exist, many people still compare Chime to other business banking services. To help you decide what’s best for your needs, here’s a comparison between Chime and a few of its top fintech competitors that do offer real business accounts.
Chime
Chime offers personal banking services, including checking and savings accounts with no monthly fees, early direct deposit, and a user-friendly mobile app. However, it lacks essential business features like invoicing, expense tracking, accounting integrations, and business documentation.
Bluevine
Bluevine is a leading business bank alternative. It offers free business checking with no monthly fees, the ability to earn interest, and full support for business features like bill pay and accounting software integration. It’s a strong option for LLCs, freelancers, and small teams.
Novo
Novo is tailored for small business owners and entrepreneurs. It has no hidden fees, and supports integrations with platforms like Stripe, Shopify, and QuickBooks. Unlike Chime, Novo is designed specifically for business use, offering tools that help manage growth and cash flow.
Relay
Relay is built for small business teams. It allows multiple users, offers detailed transaction permissions, and supports budgeting with sub-accounts. It’s a great option for businesses that want to scale and need more control over spending and financial planning.
Lili
Lili is focused on freelancers and solo entrepreneurs. It includes expense tracking, automatic tax tools, and a tax savings account. While not as advanced as Bluevine or Relay, Lili is a much better fit for business use than trying to adapt a personal Chime account.
Final Comparison
While Chime is simple and fee-free, it’s not designed for business operations. Competitors like Bluevine, Novo, Relay, and Lili offer actual business checking accounts with features that support growth, compliance, and financial organization. For anyone searching for a chime business account, these options are far better suited for long-term business use.
Final Verdict: Should You Open a Chime Business Account?
After reviewing the facts, the answer is simple: you can’t open a true chime business account—because Chime does not offer one as of 2025. While many freelancers and side hustlers use Chime’s personal accounts to manage business income, it’s not designed or supported for official business use.
Chime is a great tool for personal banking. It offers features like early direct deposit, no monthly fees, and a user-friendly mobile app. But when it comes to business banking, it lacks essential features like invoicing, multi-user access, tax tools, and business account statements.
If you’re a freelancer just getting started and only need a way to receive payments, Chime might work in the short term. However, as your business grows—or if you’re operating under an LLC or corporation—it’s important to switch to a bank that offers real business accounts.
Banks like Bluevine, Novo, Relay, and Lili provide business-friendly features with the same low-cost, digital-first convenience that made Chime so popular. These platforms are better choices for managing business finances legally, efficiently, and professionally.
So while the idea of a chime business account may sound appealing, the smarter move is choosing a solution built specifically for business. It will save you time, reduce risk, and support your growth far better than a personal account ever could.
