Opening a TymeBank account and getting your TymeBank card has become one of the fastest ways to start banking in South Africa.
You complete everything online or at a self-service kiosk, without visiting a traditional branch.
This guide explains how the card works, what it costs, and how you can apply safely.
TymeBank Card: Chronology
TymeBank is a digital-only bank launched in South Africa in 2018, after receiving its banking licence from the South African Reserve Bank in 2017.
The bank uses a combination of a mobile app, internet banking, and self-service kiosks in retail chains instead of operating branch networks.
When you open an EveryDay account, you receive a Visa debit card linked to that transactional account.
TymeBank promotes this as a free bank account with no monthly account fee, where you only pay for the banking you use.
How It Works
The card can be printed instantly at a TymeBank kiosk in most Pick’n Pay, Boxer, and many TFG stores, usually in under five minutes.
The card works like a standard debit card: you use it for in-store and online purchases, ATM withdrawals, and card-based deposits.
TymeBank allows you to draw and deposit cash at tills in Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, Checkers, and Usave, and to withdraw at ATMs across South Africa.
Interest and Fees
TymeBank’s EveryDay account has no monthly account fee and follows a pay-as-you-use pricing model.
You pay transaction fees for services like ATM withdrawals, certain deposits and some value-added services.
Exact rand amounts can change, so you should always confirm the latest EveryDay Account fees table on TymeBank’s official website.
On everyday balances, the focus is on low fees rather than high interest.
For savings
TymeBank links your account to GoalSave, a separate savings tool.
GoalSave lets you open up to 10 savings goals from as little as R1 and offers progressive interest rates.
TymeBank’s own materials state that GoalSave can pay up to around 10% interest per year if you meet certain conditions.
Independent comparison sites in recent years confirm that TymeBank’s GoalSave is among the higher-yield savings options in South Africa.
How to Apply for a TymeBank Card
You can open a TymeBank account and get your card in two main ways.
Via the TymeBank app or online sign-up
Download the TymeBank app from your app store or start the registration process from the official sign-up page.
You need a South African ID number and an active South African cellphone number to receive one-time PINs (OTPs) and security messages.
Follow the prompts to enter your personal details, accept the terms, and complete digital verification.
At a TymeBank kiosk in partner stores
Visit a TymeBank kiosk in a participating Pick n Pay, Boxer, or TFG store. You provide your ID number, thumbprint, and cellphone number.
The kiosk connects to the Department of Home Affairs database to verify your identity.
Once your account is opened, the kiosk prints your personalised Visa debit card on the spot, ready for immediate use.
Once the account is active
Use the app for EFTs, payments, and GoalSave.
Collect or replace a card at selected kiosks if needed, noting that replacement cards may carry a fee.
Always make sure you are using official TymeBank channels (website, app or verified kiosks) and keep your PIN and OTPs private.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- No monthly account fee: The EveryDay account does not charge a fixed monthly administration fee, which helps lower your overall banking cost.
- Fast, branchless onboarding: You can open an account in under five minutes via the app or a kiosk, with no paper forms.
- Instant Visa debit card: Kiosks can print a personalised card immediately, so you can start using it right away for purchases and withdrawals.
- Strong retail network: You can use Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, Checkers, Usave and TFG tills for deposits and withdrawals, which is practical if you shop there often.
- Attractive savings option: GoalSave offers competitive interest rates, potentially up to about 10% per year when you meet bonus conditions, and allows flexible access compared to fixed deposits.
Cons
- Digital-first model: There are no traditional bank branches, which can be difficult if you prefer in-person banking or need help with complex issues.
- Changing fees and rates: While the structure aims to be low-cost, ATM and service fees, as well as interest rates, can change, so you must monitor TymeBank’s official schedules.
- Eligibility limited to South Africa: You need a South African ID and cellphone number, so non-residents or foreigners without local documentation cannot use the standard onboarding process.
- Card-only model for credit: The EveryDay card is a debit card; if you need a traditional revolving credit card, you must look at other TymeBank products or other banks.
Bank Contact Info and Address
TymeBank mobile app on Google Play and other app stores for account access and support.
For lost or stolen cards, TymeBank advises using its customer-care numbers or in-app options.
You should always verify contact details on the official website before calling or sending sensitive information.
Head office / registered address
Tyme Bank Limited 30 Jellicoe Avenue, Rosebank, 2196, Johannesburg, South Africa
Customer care phone numbers
0860 999 119 (main customer care line within South Africa)
+27 11 327 6244 (alternative contact number listed on the contact page)
Email addresses
General customer service: [email protected]
Fraud and whistleblowing line: [email protected]
Conclusion
TymeBank’s online application process makes it simple to open an account and get a TymeBank card within minutes.
You manage your money digitally while still being able to draw and deposit cash through major retail partners.
Before you apply, review the current fees and interest rates so you understand exactly how the card and linked savings tools fit your financial needs.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, product endorsement or a formal recommendation. Fees, interest rates, eligibility rules and contact details can change at any time, so you should always confirm the latest information directly with TymeBank through its official website, app or customer-care channels before making decisions.
