Bank account bonuses are attracting attention across the United States as financial institutions compete for new customers. From checking accounts with direct deposit incentives to business accounts tied to balance requirements, current promotions offer opportunities to earn extra cash. Understanding how each offer works can make a noticeable difference when choosing where to bank.
BMO Smart Advantage Checking: Earn $400 With Direct Deposit
BMO Bank is offering a $400 bonus when you open either a BMO Smart Advantage™ Checking or Smart Money™ Checking account. To qualify, you must receive at least $4,000 in qualifying direct deposits within 90 days of opening the account. The promotion is scheduled to run through May 4, 2026, and accounts can be opened online, by phone, or at a branch using a promotional code.
Eligibility is limited to customers who have not had a BMO personal checking account within the past 12 months. You can only receive one checking account bonus. The bonus is typically deposited around 100 days after account opening. Monthly fees may apply, though they can be waived depending on account terms and balance requirements.
Chase Total Checking®: $400 With Accessible Requirements
Chase is currently promoting a $400 bonus for new Total Checking® customers. To qualify, you must open the account online or in person using a promotional coupon and receive at least $1,000 in direct deposits within 90 days. The offer runs through April 15, 2026, making it one of the longer-lasting national promotions available.
This bonus stands out because of its relatively modest direct deposit requirement compared to the payout. The reward is typically deposited within 15 days after the first qualifying direct deposit. Applicants must not have had a Chase checking account within the past 90 days or closed one with a negative balance in the last three years. Monthly fees apply but can be waived by meeting specific conditions.
Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking®: Tiered Bonus Up to $500
Bank of America is offering a tiered bonus of up to $500 for opening a new eligible Advantage Banking checking account online. The bonus depends on total qualifying direct deposits made within 90 days. Deposits of at least $2,000 earn $100, $5,000 earns $300, and $10,000 or more earns $500. The promotion is available through May 31, 2026.
The account must remain open and in good standing to receive the bonus, and eligibility is limited to customers who have not owned a Bank of America personal checking account within the last 12 months. The bank states that bonuses are typically paid within 60 days after meeting requirements. Monthly maintenance fees apply, though waiver options are available based on balance or qualifying activity.
SoFi Checking and Savings: Tiered Bonus Up to $300
SoFi is offering a tiered bonus of either $50 or $300 for customers who set up a qualifying direct deposit. To earn $50, at least $1,000 must be directly deposited within the first 25 days. To earn $300, at least $5,000 must be deposited within the same 25-day window. The promotion runs through March 30, 2026.
The bonus is open to new customers and existing SoFi members who have not yet set up direct deposit. Funds are typically credited within one week after the initial 25-day period if requirements are met. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. SoFi does not charge traditional monthly maintenance fees, which can make the overall offer appealing for those seeking fewer ongoing account costs.
Huntington Bank Unlimited Plus Business Checking: $1,000 Bonus
Huntington Bank is offering a substantial $1,000 bonus for opening a new Unlimited Plus Business Checking account. To qualify, you must deposit at least $20,000 in new money within 60 days and maintain that balance for an additional 60 days. The account must remain open for at least 90 days. The promotion is scheduled to run through June 16, 2026.
This offer is limited to residents in select states, including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and others within Huntington’s service area. Customers who have had a Huntington business checking account within the past six months are not eligible. The bonus is typically deposited within 14 days after meeting all qualifications. This promotion is geared toward business owners with available capital.
What to Consider Before Chasing a Bonus
Bank account bonuses can be rewarding, but careful review is important before opening a new account. Direct deposit requirements, minimum balance rules, and monthly fees can impact whether a promotion is truly beneficial. Some bonuses require significant deposits or maintaining funds for extended periods, which may limit flexibility for certain customers.
It’s also important to check eligibility rules and timing restrictions. Many banks limit how often you can earn a bonus or exclude previous account holders. Evaluating how long the account must remain open and whether fees are waived can help determine if the incentive fits your financial situation. When approached strategically, bank account bonuses can provide a meaningful boost while expanding your banking options.