TymeBank is a South African digital-only bank that offers low-cost everyday banking through its app, website and in-store kiosks.
If you want a basic account with a free debit card and low transaction fees, it is one of the main options in the market.
This guide explains the main benefits, compares the key TymeBank accounts, and shows you how to open an account and get your card step by step.
Benefits of Opening a TymeBank Account
TymeBank’s core product is the EveryDay Account, a transaction account with no monthly account fee.
You pay only for certain transactions, which makes it attractive if you want to reduce fixed banking costs.
Everyday card swipes, EFTs and debit orders are free, and you can do almost everything via the app or online banking.
Integrated GoalSave feature
Allows you to open multiple savings pockets linked to your account.
Interest rates start around 6–7% per year and can go up to around 10–11% per year if you keep your money invested for longer.
This makes TymeBank one of the more competitive savings options among low-fee accounts in South Africa.
Accessibility
You can open an account online or in the app in a few minutes using only a South African ID number and an active South African cellphone number.
For customers who prefer in-person support, TymeBank kiosks are available in many Pick’n Pay, Boxer and TFG stores nationwide.
There, you can open an account, print or collect a card and get assistance.
Comparison of TymeBank Accounts
TymeBank’s retail offering is built mainly around its EveryDay Account plus savings products that sit alongside it, especially GoalSave.
The table below compares the two main personal accounts/features you will use as an individual customer.
| TymeBank product | Main purpose | Monthly account fee | Interest / return (indicative) | Key features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EveryDay Account | Day-to-day transacting (salary, card payments, debit orders, EFTs) | R0 | Not marketed as a high-interest account | Zero monthly fee; free card swipes, free EFTs and external debit orders; cash withdrawals free at Pick n Pay & Boxer tills via TymeCode or card, with a fee at other ATMs. |
| GoalSave | Savings pockets linked to the EveryDay Account | R0 | Tiered interest; rates typically start around 6–7% and can reach about 10–11% per year depending on how long you save and your transaction behaviour (figures updated in recent TymeBank communications). | Create multiple named savings goals; no monthly fee; interest improves if you leave money in longer; designed as a flexible alternative to traditional savings accounts. |
Exact interest rates, qualifying rules and fee details can change over time.
TymeBank Card: Characteristics, Perks and Fees
When you open an EveryDay Account, you can get a TymeBank Visa debit card.
The card can be used for in-store purchases, online payments and ATM withdrawals, just like a standard debit card.
TymeBank has also rolled out contactless functionality through a partnership with IDEMIA, so newer cards support tap-to-pay transactions.
Card swipes at retailers and most everyday electronic transactions (such as EFTs and debit orders) are free on the EveryDay Account.
Cash Withdrawals
Withdrawing at any Pick’n Pay or Boxer till point using your TymeBank card or TymeCode is free.
Using other South African ATMs typically costs around R10 per R1,000 or part thereof, according to recent fee schedules.
Replacement cards and international withdrawals attract additional charges, so you should confirm the current amounts in the latest official fee table.
Smart Shopper Programme
If you shop at Pick’n Pay, TymeBank’s debit card can be linked with the retailer’s Smart Shopper programme, letting you earn loyalty points on eligible purchases.
For online and QR payments, TymeBank also offers a free virtual Visa card through the app, linked to your EveryDay Account.
This gives you an extra card number for secure digital spending without exposing your physical card details.
Steps to Open an Account and Get a Card
Opening a TymeBank account and getting your debit card is a mostly digital process, with the option to finish it at a kiosk.
1. Check basic requirements
To open an account, you generally need a valid South African ID number and a cellphone number that can receive One-Time PINs (OTPs).
Some TymeBank information also mentions a minimum age of 16 for certain store-linked accounts, which is a useful practical guideline.
2. Open the account via the app or online
You can start the process in two main ways:
- TymeBank app: Download the TymeBank app from your app store and follow the prompts to open a free EveryDay Account.
- Online registration: Use the registration website, which also guides you to download the app and complete a selfie-based biometric verification.
In both cases, you enter your ID number and cellphone number, answer verification questions and complete digital FICA checks.
Independent tests report that approval can be completed in about five minutes in straightforward cases, although this can vary.
3. Collect your physical Visa debit card
Once your account is open, you can collect your free Visa debit card at a TymeBank kiosk.
Kiosks are located in many Pick’n Pay, Boxer and TFG stores nationwide.
You typically log in using your ID number and an OTP sent to your cellphone, and follow the prompts to print or collect your card.
4. Activate and manage your card
If your card is not yet active, you may need to activate it before using it for online purchases.
TymeBank help pages indicate you can manage and change your card PIN at any kiosk by logging in and using the “My cards” menu, or via the app.
Always follow the latest on-screen instructions or help articles, as processes are updated over time.
Bank Contact Info and Address
Customer Care (South Africa): 0860 999 119.
Lost or stolen card line (South Africa): 0860 999 118.
International Customer Care: +27 11 327 6244 (and separate international lost card line as listed in TymeBank contact details).
Head office address: Floor 2, 30 Jellicoe Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa.
Conclusion
TymeBank offers a simple, low-fee banking option for comfortable managing money digitally and collecting their card at a retail kiosk.
With a free EveryDay Account and a Visa debit card that supports both in-store and online payments, it covers most everyday needs.
Before opening an account, you should still compare fees, interest rates and service quality with other banks.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is based on publicly available sources believed to be reliable at the time of writing. Fees, interest rates, eligibility rules and processes can change without notice, so you should always confirm the latest details directly with TymeBank or a qualified financial adviser before making banking decisions.
