Review
Updated
Fact Checked
Nathan Alderman
Bank bonuses can help make checking and savings accounts more appealing to customers, and they can be worth several hundred dollars. But they're usually only available for a short time, and they have strict eligibility criteria. These usually include opening a new account and depositing a certain amount of funds in the first few months.
Whether you're looking for banks with immediate sign up bonuses, savings account promotions, or the best checking account offers, you're in the right place. Read on for our favorite bank sign up bonuses and details on how these bonuses work.
From the author: Robin Hartill, CFP
My favorite bonus this week: The SoFi Checking and Savings bonus of $250 is icing on the cake when you open one of these feature-packed accounts. It pays a high APY, doesn’t charge monthly fees, and offers early access to direct deposits. While it’s not the biggest bonus on our list, the account perks pick up the slack where the bonus falls short.
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Ratings Methodology
Rates as
of Nov 28, 2023
| Offer | APY | Minimum to Earn APY | Next Steps | |||||||||
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Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.75 out of 5 stars.
4.75/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor
Rating image, 4.75 out of 5 stars.
4.75/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor |
APY:
up to 4.60%
Rate info
You can earn the maximum APY by having Direct Deposit (no minimum amount required) or by making $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits every 30 days. See SoFi Checking and Savings rate sheet at: https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
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Minimum To Earn APY:
$0
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Member FDIC.
Rating image, 3.00 out of 5 stars.
3.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor
Rating image, 3.00 out of 5 stars.
3.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor |
APY:
N/A
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Minimum To Earn APY:
N/A
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APY:
0.00%
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Minimum To Earn APY:
—
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Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor |
APY:
0.10%
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Minimum To Earn APY:
$1
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APY:
0.01%-0.03%
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Minimum To Earn APY:
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Member FDIC.
Rating image, 3.50 out of 5 stars.
3.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor
Rating image, 3.50 out of 5 stars.
3.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor |
APY:
0.01%
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Minimum To Earn APY:
$50,000
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TD Convenience Checking?
Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor |
APY:
N/A
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Minimum To Earn APY:
—
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Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor |
APY:
N/A
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Minimum To Earn APY:
—
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Member FDIC.
Rating image, 3.75 out of 5 stars.
3.75/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor
Rating image, 3.75 out of 5 stars.
3.75/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
= Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair = Poor |
APY:
3.10%
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Minimum To Earn APY:
—
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The best bank promotions for December 2023 by account type
Best checking account bonuses
- SoFi Checking and Savings: Up to $250 bonus
- Axos Bank Rewards Checking: $300 bonus
- Chase Total Checking?: $200 bonus
- Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking: $200 bonus
- BMO Smart Advantage Checking: Up to $400 bonus
- Capital One 360 Checking: $350 bonus
- PNC Virtual Wallet: Up to $400 bonus
- TD Bank Beyond Checking: $300 bonus
- TD Convenience Checking?: $200 bonus
- Wells Fargo Everyday Checking: $300 bonus
Best savings account bonuses
A closer look at the best checking account promotions
Here's a look at some of the best bank promotions available on checking accounts right now.
SoFi Checking and Savings: Up to $250 bonus
How you earn it: New SoFi Checking and Savings customers will earn a cash bonus for setting up direct deposits to their account. The size of the bonus depends on how much you receive in direct deposits during a 25-day evaluation period that begins on the day your first direct deposit arrives in your account. You'll receive:
- $50 if you receive anywhere from $1,000 to $4,999 in direct deposits
- $250 if you receive $5,000 or more in direct deposits
When you'll get it: After the 25-day evaluation period is up, SoFi will deposit the appropriate bonus in your account within seven business days if you qualify.
Member FDIC.
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Rates as
of Nov 28, 2023
SoFi Checking and Savings
Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.75 out of 5 stars.
4.75/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Rating image, 4.75 out of 5 stars.
4.75/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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New customers can earn up to a $250 bonus with qualifying direct deposits!
APY
up to 4.60%
Rate info
You can earn the maximum APY by having Direct Deposit (no minimum amount required) or by making $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits every 30 days. See SoFi Checking and Savings rate sheet at: https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
Min. To Earn APY
$0
- Competitive APY on both Savings and Checking
- No account fees
- Welcome bonus up to $250 (direct deposit required)
- Early access to direct deposits
- Tools to help you track savings goals
- Unlimited transfers and withdrawals
- ATM access
- FDIC insured (up to $2M with opt-in to SoFi Insured Deposit Program)
- Combo account only; no stand-alone savings or checking
- Maximum Savings APY requires direct deposit
- Overdraft protection requires monthly direct deposit minimum
- No branch access; online only
For those who plan to set up direct deposit with their new account, we think?SoFi Checking and Savings?is hard to beat. Not only does this savings account offer a strong APY, but the linked checking account earns above-average, too — which is a rare perk. Plus, there’s the opportunity for an up to $250 bonus and a long list of extra account features. Frankly, it’s the kind of combo that could make it worthwhile to switch banking relationships.
You can earn the maximum APY either by making direct deposits into checking or savings, or by depositing $5,000 or more every 30 days. Learn more.
How you qualify: This offer is available to new and existing SoFi Checking and Savings customers who don't have a history of direct deposits to their account. Existing SoFi members who have already set up direct deposits do not qualify for this promotion.
Where to open an account: You can open a SoFi Checking and Savings account on SoFi's website.
Monthly fees: The SoFi Checking and Savings account doesn't charge monthly maintenance fees.
Offer expires: This offer ends Dec. 31, 2023.
Apply for a SoFi Checking and Savings account
Axos Bank Rewards Checking: $300 bonus
What you get: $300
How you earn it: Apply for a new Axos Bank Rewards Checking account by Dec. 31 using promo code “AXOS300.” You’ll need to fund the account within 30 days and have at least $5,000 in qualifying direct deposits for seven consecutive months. You’ll also need to maintain an average minimum daily balance of at least $7,000 for the first seven calendar months your account is open, including the month in which your account was opened.
When you’ll get it: You’ll earn $50 per month up to six times for each month you meet the requirements during the first seven billing cycles. You’ll receive the $50 payments within 10 days of the end of each bonus cycle.
Member FDIC.
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Rates as
of Nov 28, 2023
2023 Award Winner
Axos Bank Rewards Checking
Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.25 out of 5 stars.
4.25/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Rating image, 4.25 out of 5 stars.
4.25/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Use code AXOS300 and apply by December 31st, 2023 to earn a $300 bonus (see details when you click 'Open Account')
APY
0.40% (up to 3.30%)
Rate info
To earn the full APY, account holders must do all of the following: Receive monthly direct deposits totaling more than $1,500; make 10 transactions a month with your Axos debit card, or sign up for Axos's Personal Finance Manager; maintain an average daily balance of $2,500 per month in an Axos Invest Self Directed Trading Account; and use your Rewards Checking account to make your full monthly Axos Bank consumer mortgage, personal, or auto loan payment.
Min. To Earn APY
Monthly direct deposits totaling at least $1,500
- High checking account APY
- Unlimited ATM fee reimbursements
- No monthly maintenance, NSF, or overdraft fees
- No monthly balance requirements
- Cash back checking option
- ATM card for high-yield savings account
- Must meet certain requirements to earn the highest interest tier
- Higher savings and CD APYs available at other financial institutions
- No physical branches
A solid checking account with an APY that far outpaces the competition. The fact that it also has no maintenance fees and no overdraft or NSF fees are the cherries on top.
Use promo code?AXOS300?and apply by December 31st, to earn up to a $300 bonus!
To be eligible to earn all or a portion of the cash incentive as part of the "AXOS300" $300 promotion, an Axos Bank Rewards Checking account that includes the promotional code "AXOS300" must be opened between November 1, 2023, at 12:00 am PST and December 31, 2023, at 11:59 pm PST. Axos Bank reserves the right to limit each primary account holder to one (1) checking account promotional offer per year, and customers who have held primary ownership of an Axos Bank or Axos Bank for Nationwide checking account at any time in the past 12 months may be disqualified from the "AXOS300" offer. Promotional terms and conditions are subject to change or removal without notice. Bonus cash may be taxable and reported on IRS Form 1099-MISC. Consult your tax advisor. After meeting the initial requirements mentioned above, the amount of cash bonus earned will depend on meeting the additional requirements outlined below:
To earn up to a $300 bonus, you must be approved for your new Axos Bank Rewards Checking account, fund it within 30 days of account opening, and have qualifying direct deposits that total at least $5,000.00 each calendar month during the first seven (7) calendar months your account is open as well as maintain a minimum average daily balance of $7,000. The minimum balance must be achieved and maintained through the first seven (7) calendar months your account is open including the month in which your account was opened. A cash bonus of up to $300 can be earned in the following manner during the first seven (7) statement cycles. A statement cycle is a calendar month consisting of the days your account was open during that month. A maximum of six (6) payouts of $50 for each calendar month that the Rewards Checking account is receiving the direct deposit and maintain a minimum average daily balance of $7,000 can be earned during the seven (7) statement cycles, and the bonus will be deposited into your Axos Bank Rewards Checking account within 10 business days following the end of the statement cycle in which the direct deposit requirement was met. Your Axos Bank Rewards Checking account must be open and in good standing at the time the bonus is paid to be eligible to receive the bonus, and your Axos Bank Rewards Checking account must remain open for 210 days, or an early closure fee of up to $300 may apply, equal to the amount of the total bonus earned up to $300.
A direct deposit is an electronic deposit of your paycheck or government benefits, such as Social Security, Disability etc. Other deposits (i.e., online banking transfers, ATM and mobile check deposits, etc.) or person-to-person payments are not considered a direct deposit.
A statement cycle is defined as a period of time that starts on the first day of the calendar month and ends on the last day of the calendar month.
How to qualify: The offer is only available to customers who haven’t received a checking account bonus or been the primary owner of an Axos Bank checking account within the past 12 months. You’ll also need to keep the account open for at least 210 days to avoid an early closure fee of up to $300.
Where to open an account: Open the account on Axos Bank’s website.
Monthly fees: The Axos Bank Rewards Checking account doesn’t charge monthly fees.
Offer expires: This offer is good through December 31, 2023.
Apply for an Axos Bank Rewards Checking account
Chase Total Checking?: $200 bonus
What you get: $200
How you earn it: New Chase customers can earn a $200 bonus by opening a Chase Total Checking? account and making direct deposits totaling at least $500 in the first 90 days.
When you'll get it: You'll receive the bonus as a deposit to your checking account within 15 days of meeting the requirements.
Member FDIC.
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Chase Total Checking?
Member FDIC.
Rating image, 3.50 out of 5 stars.
3.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Rating image, 3.50 out of 5 stars.
3.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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- More than 15,000 ATMs and 4,700 physical locations
- Wide range of financial products
- User-friendly online and mobile banking tools
- No minimum deposit to open
- Chase Overdraft Assist
- Low APYs on savings accounts and CDs
- $12 monthly maintenance fee waived only with qualifying activity
- New Chase checking customers enjoy a $200 bonus when you open a Chase Total Checking??account?with qualifying activities
- Access to more than?15,000?Chase ATMs and more than 4,700 branches
- Chase Mobile? app - Manage your accounts, deposit checks, transfer money and more -- all from your device.
- JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC
- Open your account online now
- Available online nationwide except in Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. For branch locations, visit locator.chase.com.
- Chase Overdraft Assist? – no overdraft?fees?if you're overdrawn by $50 or less at the end of the business day or if you're overdrawn by more than $50 and bring your account balance to overdrawn by $50 or less at the end of the next business day*?
*With Chase Overdraft Assist?, we won’t charge an Overdraft Fee if you’re overdrawn by $50 or less at the end of the business day OR if you’re overdrawn by more than $50 and you bring your account balance to overdrawn by $50 or less at the end of the next business day (you have until 11 PM ET (8 PM PT) to make a deposit or transfer). Chase Overdraft Assist does not require enrollment and comes with eligible Chase checking accounts.
How you qualify: You're eligible for this offer if you're a new Chase customer who hasn't had a Chase account in the past 90 days. If you've closed a Chase account with a negative balance in the past three years or you've received a bonus for opening a Chase checking account in the past two years, you won't qualify.
Where to open an account: You can open a Chase Total Checking? account online or request a coupon online by providing your email address that you can take to a Chase branch to open an account.
Monthly fee: The Chase Total Checking? account charges a monthly fee of $0 if certain conditions are met; otherwise, $12.
Offer expires: The offer is good through Jan. 24, 2024.
Apply for a Chase Total Checking? account
Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking: $200 bonus
What you get: $200
How you earn it: Open a new Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking account and receive at least $2,000 in qualifying direct deposits in the first 90 days. This welcome offer also applies to the SafeBalance? and Advantage Relationship accounts. Use the offer code TWA200CIS when you open the account.
When you’ll get it: After you’ve met all the requirements, Bank of America will attempt to deposit your bonus to your new checking account within 60 days.
Member FDIC.
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Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking
Member FDIC.
Rating image, 3.00 out of 5 stars.
3.00/5
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3.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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- Balance Connect? for overdraft protection
- Total Security Protection? and fraud monitoring
- Wide-range of financial products
- Bank of America Online and Mobile Security Guarantee
- Low APYs on savings accounts and CDs
- $100 minimum opening deposit
- $12 monthly maintenance fee waived only with qualifying activity
Bank of America is the second-largest bank in terms of assets and has over 3,800 branches and 16,000 ATMs. Bank of America has a wide variety of financial products and tools, including being able to set custom alerts and savings goals. Bank of America also offers BankAmeriDeals where you can get cash back offers on shopping, dining, streaming and more. Its robust app includes Life Plan, an easy way to set and track short- and long-term financial goals and get personalized advice.
However, rates are low, and there is a $100 minimum required to open an account. The $12 monthly maintenance fee can be waived with qualifying activity. Bank of America offers an Online & Mobile Security Guarantee where you are never liable for unauthorized purchases or transactions -- as long as they’re reported promptly.
How you qualify: The offer is only available to customers who haven’t owned or co-owned a Bank of America personal checking account in the past 12 months.
Where to open the account: The offer is only available online when you use offer code TWA200CIS.
Monthly fee: Monthly fees are $12 for the Advantage Plus account, and $25 for the Advantage Relationship account, but each can be waived in certain situations. The monthly fee is $4.95 for the SafeBalance?, but it’s waived for students younger than 25 or if the account holder is younger than 18.
Offer expires: To qualify, you must open the account by Jan. 31, 2024.
BMO Smart Advantage Checking: Up to $400 bonus
What you get: Up to $400
How you earn it: You can earn a bonus of $400 when you open a BMO Smart Advantage Checking account and have at least $4,000 in qualifying direct deposits in the first 120 days.
When you'll get it: The cash bonus will be deposited to your checking account approximately 130 days after you open the account.
Member FDIC.
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BMO Smart Advantage Checking
Member FDIC.
- Generous relationship benefits
- High APYs on long-term CDs
- Strong suite of other banking products
- Low APYs on savings and CDs
- Negative customer service reviews
How you qualify: To qualify, you'll need to submit all account documents and your opening deposit by Dec. 8. The offer isn't available to existing BMO customers or those who have closed a BMO checking account in the past 12 months.
Where to open an account: Open your account online, at a branch, or by calling 800-546-6101.
Monthly fees: There's no monthly fee for the BMO Smart Advantage Checking account. The BMO Smart Money Checking account has a $5, waived for customers under 25. The BMO Relationship Checking account has a $25 monthly fee that's waived if you maintain a minimum daily balance of $10,000 in your checking account or a monthly combined bonus of $25,000 across your accounts.
Offer expires: The offer is good through Dec. 8, 2023.
Capital One 360 Checking: $350 bonus
What you get: $350
How you earn it: Open a Capital One 360 Checking account using promo code BONUS350, then make at least two qualifying direct deposits of at least $250 each within 75 days of opening the account.
When you'll get it: The bonus will be deposited into your account approximately 60 days after you've met all requirements.
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Capital One 360 Checking
Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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4.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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- Variety of accounts
- Robust digital platform and app
- Great customer service
- Higher APY available at other financial institutions
Capital One boasts a top-rated mobile app and has over 70,000 fee-free Capital One, MoneyPass, and Allpoint ATM locations. For those looking for face-to-face interaction, Capital One has over 450 locations and 50 Capital One Cafes, where customers can bank, get a cup of coffee, and ask for advice from a certified money coach. However the APY is lower than other online banks.
How you qualify: You'll only be eligible for the bonus if you haven't had a Capital One 360 Checking, Simply Checking, Total Control Checking or Capital One MONEY Teen Checking Account as a primary or secondary account holder since Jan. 1, 2021.
Where to open an account: You can open an account online or at a Capital One location.
Monthly fees: The account has no monthly fees or minimums.
Offer expires: The offer is good through Jan. 9, 2024.
PNC Virtual Wallet: Up to $400 bonus
What you get: $100 to $400
How you earn it: New PNC Bank customers can earn between $100 and $400 by opening a PNC Virtual Wallet, depending on the PNC Virtual Wallet selected and the amount of direct deposits you make. You can earn:
- $100 when you choose a PNC Virtual Wallet and set up qualifying direct deposits of $500 or more.
- $200 when you choose a PNC Virtual Wallet with Performance Spend and set up qualifying direct deposits of $2,000 or more.
- $400 when you choose a PNC Virtual Wallet with Performance Select and set up qualifying direct deposits of $5,000 or more.
The offer is good through Jan. 2, 2024.
When you'll get it: You'll receive the bonus as a credit to your account within 60 to 90 days after you've met the requirements.
Member FDIC.
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PNC Virtual Wallet
Member FDIC.
- New account bonus
- Multiple accounts in one
- Full-feature mobile app
- Zelle compatible
- Monthly service fees
- Very low interest rates
If you're looking for an all-in-one budgeting and savings solution, PNC Virtual Wallet might work for you. The multiple accounts and digital tools offer a lot of options for managing your money. However, account types vary by location and not everyone will get competitive APYs.
How you qualify: The offer is available only to new PNC Bank customers who haven't had a PNC Bank within 90 days. You won't qualify if you've received a bonus from PNC Bank in the past 24 months.
Where to open an account: You can open an account online, or you can request a coupon online and bring it to a brick-and-mortar location to receive the bonus if you prefer opening the account in person.
Monthly fees: Monthly fees range from $7 to $25, depending on the account. Fees can be waived based on your average daily balance or the amount of qualifying direct deposits you make.
Offer expires: The offer is good through Jan. 2, 2024.
TD Bank Beyond Checking: $300 bonus
What you get: $300 bonus
How you earn it: Open a new TD Bank Beyond Checking account by Nov. 30, 2023, and have at least $2,500 in direct deposits within 60 days of account opening.
When you'll get it: Once you meet the qualifications, the bonus will be credited to your account within 180 days of opening the account.
Member FDIC.
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TD Bank Beyond Checking
Member FDIC.
Rating image, 3.50 out of 5 stars.
3.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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3.50/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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- Rate discounts and waived fees on other products
- Two overdraft fee reimbursements annually
- One free outgoing wire transfer per statement cycle
- Maintenance fee
The TD Bank Beyond Checking account has a lot of great features on its own, including overdraft and ATM fee reimbursements. But those who plan to do all their banking in one place will get the greatest value from this account. Just make sure you can avoid the monthly maintenance fee.
How you qualify: You qualify if you do not have an existing TD Bank Beyond Checking account and have not had one within the last 12 months. Customers who have received a prior personal checking account bonus with TD Bank at any time are also not eligible for this bonus.
Where to open an account: Like with most bank bonuses, you must open your TD Bank Beyond Checking account online if you want to earn this bonus.
Monthly fees: You'll pay $25 per month to own this account unless you do one of the following:
- Have $5,000 in monthly direct deposits
- Maintain at least a $2,500 daily minimum balance
- Have at least $25,000 in combined eligible TD Bank accounts
Offer expires: The offer expires Nov. 30, 2023.
TD Convenience Checking?: $200 bonus
What you get: $200 bonus
How you earn it: Open a new TD Convenience Checking? account by Nov. 30, 2023, and receive at least $500 in direct deposits to the account within 60 days of account opening.
When you'll get it: Once qualifications are met, the bonus will be credited to your account within 180 days of opening the account.
Member FDIC.
Show Best Offers Available in
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of Nov 28, 2023
TD Convenience Checking?
Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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4.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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- Access to physical locations
- Overdraft relief
- Home equity and personal loan rate discount
- No monthly maintenance fee if you're ages 17-23
- $100 minimum daily balance required to avoid $15 monthly fee
- Physical locations only on East Coast
- No interest
The TD Bank Convenience Checking Account offers a $200 bonus when you have $500 in qualifying direct deposits within 60 days. The bonus is for a limited time. There is no minimum opening deposit with the TD Convenience Checking; however, there is a minimum $100 daily balance requirement to avoid the $15 monthly maintenance fee. Students aged 17-23 do not have to pay the monthly maintenance fee. This account doesn't earn interest. TD offers account holders the TD Overdraft Relief, which comes with a grace period to fix an overdraft. Account holders also get a debit card and rate discounts on personal loans or home equity loans.
How you qualify: As with many bank account bonuses, you qualify if you do not have an existing personal checking account with TD Bank. Customers who have closed a personal checking account within the last 12 months or who have received a previous TD Bank checking account bonus at any time are not eligible for this bonus.
Where to open an account: Open your TD Convenience Checking? account online to take advantage of this bonus.
Monthly fees: You can waive the $15 monthly fee by maintaining a minimum daily balance of $100 or more. The fee is also waived if you're between 17 and 23. This is the best bank bonus from TD Bank if you're just starting out financially.
Offer expires: The offer expires on Nov. 30, 2023.
Wells Fargo Everyday Checking: $300 bonus
What you get: $300 bonus
How you earn it: Open a new Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account from this page by Jan. 9, 2024 with a deposit of at least $25. Make direct deposits totaling $1,000 within 90 calendar days of opening the account. (Mobile deposits and transfers from other accounts don't count.)
When you'll get it: Once qualifications are met, the bonus will be credited to your account within 30 days.
Member FDIC.
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Wells Fargo Everyday Checking
Member FDIC.
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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4.00/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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- Large network of physical branches?
- Large network of free ATMs
- No minimum daily balance required
- Overdraft protection available
- Need to meet certain requirements to avoid $10 monthly fee
- $25 minimum opening deposit
- Does not earn interest
- Fee for out-of-network ATM withdrawals
Wells Fargo offers convenient banking solutions with a widespread network of approximately 4,700 branches and 12,000 ATMs. You can earn a generous $300 bonus by simply opening a new checking account with a minimum deposit of $25 and receive a total of $1,000 or more in qualifying direct deposits within 90 days of opening the account. To avoid the $10 monthly fee, you will need to do one of the following: receive $500 in direct deposits per month, maintain a minimum balance of $500, link your account to a Wells Fargo Campus ATM or Campus Debit Card, or be age 17-24.
How you qualify: Like with many bank account bonuses, you qualify if you do not have an existing personal checking account with Wells Fargo. Customers cannot have received a similar Wells Fargo consumer checking bonus within the last 12 months. Wells Fargo employees aren't eligible. The account must remain open for the entire 90 days, plus however long it takes for the bonus to be deposited, in order to collect the bonus.
Where to open an account: Use this special application page to either apply online, or get a code you can use when applying at your local branch.
Monthly fees: Wells Fargo Everyday Checking charges a $10 monthly fee, but you can get that waived with any one of the following:
- Maintaining a $500 minimum balance
- Having at least $500 in qualifying direct deposits in each fee period
- If the primary account holder is 17-24 years old
- If the account is linked to a Wells Fargo Campus ATM or Debit Card.
Offer expires: This offer is good through January 9, 2024.
A closer look at the best savings account promotions
These are some of the best savings account bonuses and offers available right now.
Alliant Credit Union Ultimate Opportunity Savings: $100 bonus
What you get: $100 bonus
How you earn it: You must open an Alliant Credit Union Ultimate Opportunity Savings account by Dec. 31, 2023, and deposit at least $100 per month for 12 consecutive months. The balance at the end of the year must be at least $1,200.
When you'll get it: It'll take up to four weeks to receive your bonus after completing all the qualifying activities.
Member FDIC.
Show Best Offers Available in
Rates as
of Nov 28, 2023
Alliant Credit Union Ultimate Opportunity Savings
Member FDIC.
Rating image, 3.75 out of 5 stars.
3.75/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Rating image, 3.75 out of 5 stars.
3.75/5
Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale.
5 stars equals Best.
4 stars equals Excellent.
3 stars equals Good.
2 stars equals Fair.
1 star equals Poor.
We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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- No monthly maintenance fees when you choose electronic statements
- Comes with an ATM card
- One of the largest fee-free ATM networks in the country?
- Anyone can become a member
- Can open up to 19 supplemental savings accounts
- Must maintain an average daily balance of $100 or more to earn interest?
- Requires credit union membership to open an account
- No physical locations
Alliant offers a more generous APY compared to most brick-and-mortar banks. It is also competitive with the best online banks and has one of the largest fee-free ATM networks in the country. With Alliant, you can open up to 19 supplemental savings accounts for free to track each of your savings goals. These accounts have the same high APY as your main savings account. If you don't meet the standard requirements for membership, you can still join Alliant by becoming a member of Foster Care to Success (FC2S). Although there is a $5 charge to join as a member, Alliant will cover the cost. To keep your savings account active, you only need a minimum balance of $5. But if you want to earn interest, you must maintain a daily average minimum balance of $100.
How you qualify: You qualify as long as you're not a current Alliant savings account holder and have not closed an Alliant savings account within the last 180 days.
Monthly fees: This account doesn't have any monthly fees as long as you choose eStatements.
Offer expires: This offer is good through December 31, 2023.
What should I look for when choosing a bank account with a bonus or offer?
Here's what you should look for when you're ready to open a bank account with a bonus offer:
- Valuable long-term features: A bank bonus is nice, but it's a one-time offer. Once you've earned it, you're stuck with the bank account. So it doesn't make sense to open an account for the bonus alone if it doesn't have the features that will help you manage your money long term.?The best bank deals will connect you with a bank you'll love for years to come. For example, if you're opening a savings account, look for a high yield savings account with a bonus -- that way, you'll earn interest for years after the bonus is gone.
- Ability to qualify: There's no sense in signing up for an account that offers one of the best bank bonus offers if you doubt your ability to meet the qualification requirements necessary to earn that bonus. Make sure you review all criteria necessary to earn the bonus first and note any deadlines so you don't accidentally disqualify yourself.
- Impressive bonus: All other factors being equal, you may as well go for the bank account that offers the largest bonus.
What rules apply to bank promotions?
To get a cash bonus when you open a checking or savings account, you normally need to open a new account with the bank and you must open the account during the promotional period. You might need to enter some type of promotional code or use a specific link when you sign up to claim the bonus.
Each bank offer will have its own criteria you must meet to earn the bonus. Usually, it involves depositing a certain amount of money into the account over the first few statement cycles, but some banks also require a certain number of transactions or a minimum balance over your first few statement cycles. If you're looking for a bank sign up bonus with no deposit required, make sure to double-check with the bank that you truly do not need to make a deposit in order to earn the bonus!
TIP
How can I maximize bank promotions and offers?
Do your research to determine which bank promos and offers provide the most money and are within your reach. Keeping more money in your accounts will open doors to better bank bonus offers. Also, investigate the monthly fees associated with the account before accepting any bank offers. If you can't waive these fees, they'll cut into your profits. The best bank offers are connected to fee-free accounts.
Why do banks have promotions?
Bank account bonuses and offers are a way for banks to attract new customers who may be on the fence about where to place their money. Banking is a competitive business, especially with the rise of online banks that offer low fees and high APYs, so bank offers can give a bank account that little bit of extra appeal.
Checking account bonuses are much more common than savings account offers. The main draw with savings accounts is the APY. Checking accounts often lack interest, which means a bonus can go a long way toward helping an account stand out. Savings account offers are more rare, but once in a while you'll see bank promos featuring savings accounts.
How to compare bank bonuses
Wondering how to decide which bank bonus is the best? Here's a few things we look at:
- Will you use this bank account long term? Does it have the features you need, like a debit card, low or no fees, or a sparkling APY? After the bank bonus is gone, it's just you and your checking or savings account...make sure it's a bank account you like!
- Can you qualify for the bonus? Most bank bonuses aren't available to everyone, and some are harder to earn than others. Find a bonus offer you know you can earn.
- How much is the bonus? In this case, bigger is better. But you probably already guessed that.
FAQs
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A bank bonus is a cash bonus that banks give to new customers who open checking or savings accounts and complete certain qualifying activities.
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The best bank bonuses and offers have strong long-term benefits (such as high APY or no maintenance fees) as well as significant value.
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Each bank account has its own qualification requirements so you must check each offer for specific details. Typically, you must sign up for a new account within a certain window and deposit a certain amount of funds within the first few statement cycles.
Our Banking Experts
Fact Checked
Nathan Alderman
Nathan Alderman has worked with The Motley Fool since 2005, making errors his arch-enemies in a variety of roles including a six-year stint as the dedicated fact-checker for The Motley Fool's premium newsletter services. As The Ascent's Compliance Lead, he makes sure that all the site's information is accurate and up to date, which ensures we always steer readers right and keeps various financial partners happy. A graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, Nathan spends his spare time volunteering for civic causes, writing and podcasting for fun, adoring his wife, and wrangling his two very large young children.
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