Unless someone on this forum writes a response that changes my mind, I will no longer consider an application listing chime as their bank.

I require bank statements be attached to the application, I write on the application instructions that a screenshot of online banking is not a statement and won’t be considered.

Then I get frantic messages that no statements are available with chime. I have spent some time trying to accommodate the applicants, by requiring solid proof of income, expenses, rent payments in lieu of bank statements. I have yet to approve such applicant.

I have done a bit of research and found that Chime markets to people desiring to build credit, they promote their low fees.

I ask you, should chime be an automatic DQ?

First, I'll note that Chime isn't a bank -- even they make this very clear. They are a "financial technology company." So, you could just say to applicants "Sorry, but Chime is not a bank and therefore does not meet our requirements."

But, yeah, they tend to be for people who can't get a normal bank account or have other financial issues. I'm sure there are SOME exceptions, but not many. :)

-John...

One of my rooming house guests gets paid via Chime for Doordash stuff. I think Family Dollar pays that way as well.

I require that they have a regular bank account. I use Clearnow for rent collection and while they can debit from prepaid cards it’s easier to set up with a regular checking or savings account.

We started out in the late 80's as a "mom & pop" 1 or 2 rentals. As the years have passed, we've accumulated quite a few more rentals. When I came here in 2004 after our 1st eviction, I learned that I was doing a LOT wrong. (our attorney provided us with a lease that "he could defend", I upped the deposit, started doing better background checks, etc)

Our units are well maintained but are not A or B, most have central A/C, and I would consider C+. However, we have had a lot of people with not so great credit over the years that did pay us very well. One of my last tenants to come onboard has a state job, but he told me he uses Chime. It came up when we discussed my switching over to Zelle during Covid. He said he'd give the money to his daughter that banks with BOA & she'd pay us. She has. They've never been late yet.

So, I don't let something like that stop me from renting to a person that I think will be a good tenant.