Best Checking Accounts with Cash Bonuses for New Customers

Everyone loves free money, and banks know it! That’s why many financial institutions offer cash bonuses to entice new customers to open checking accounts. Whether you’re looking for a new primary account or just want to take advantage of an easy sign-up perk, these promotions can be a great way to earn some extra cash.

How Checking Account Bonuses Work

Banks offer cash bonuses to attract new customers, but there are typically a few requirements you’ll need to meet. Here’s how these offers usually work:

1. Open a new checking account – Most banks require you to be a new customer.
2. Meet a deposit requirement – You may need to deposit a certain amount within a specified period.
3. Set up direct deposit – Many banks require one or more direct deposits within a timeframe.
4. Maintain the account for a period – Some banks require you to keep the account open for a few months.

Now, let’s look at some of the best checking accounts offering cash bonuses in 2025!

Best Checking Accounts With Cash Bonuses

Bank	Bonus Amount	Minimum Deposit	Direct Deposit Required?	Time to Qualify
Chase Total Checking®	$300	$0	Yes ($500+)	90 days
Wells Fargo Everyday Checking	$325	$1,000	Yes ($1,000+)	90 days
Citibank Basic Banking	Up to $700	$5,000	Yes	60 days
Bank of America Advantage Banking	$200	$2,000	Yes ($2,000+)	90 days
SoFi Checking & Savings	Up to $300	$5,000	Yes ($5,000+)	30 days

1. Chase Total Checking® – $300 Bonus

Chase is one of the most well-known banks in the country, and its checking account bonus is a popular offer. The $300 cash bonus is relatively easy to earn compared to other promotions, as it doesn’t require a high deposit amount. Plus, Chase has a massive network of ATMs and physical branches, making it a convenient choice if you prefer in-person banking. However, this account does come with a $12 monthly fee unless you meet one of the waiver requirements, such as maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit.

To earn the $300 bonus, you must:

• Open an account online or in-branch.
• Set up a direct deposit of at least $500 within 90 days.
• Keep the account open for at least six months.

2. Wells Fargo Everyday Checking – $325 Bonus

Wells Fargo offers one of the highest bonuses available for a standard checking account, making it a great option for those looking to maximize their earnings. This bonus is slightly more difficult to qualify for compared to Chase, as it requires a direct deposit of $1,000 or more. However, Wells Fargo has an extensive network of branches, which makes it a convenient choice for those who prefer in-person banking services.

To earn the $325 bonus, you must:

• Open a new account with a minimum $25 deposit.
• Set up direct deposits totaling $1,000 within 90 days.
• Keep the account open for at least 90 days.

3. Citibank Basic Banking – Up to $700 Bonus

Citibank currently offers one of the biggest cash bonuses on the market, with the potential to earn up to $700. This promotion is a tiered offer, meaning the amount you receive depends on how much you deposit and maintain in the account. If you have extra cash sitting in another account, transferring it to Citibank for a couple of months could be a simple way to take advantage of this lucrative deal. However, the high deposit requirement might not be ideal for those looking for a low-commitment bonus.

To qualify for the bonus:

• Deposit at least $5,000 within 20 days and maintain it for 60 days to get $200.
• Deposit $15,000+ for a $500 bonus.
• Deposit $30,000+ for the full $700 bonus.

4. Bank of America Advantage Banking – $200 Bonus

Bank of America’s checking account bonus is another solid option, though it does require a larger direct deposit amount than some of the other offers. One of the main benefits of this account is the flexibility—Bank of America offers different tiers based on your needs, so you can choose the option that best fits your banking habits. Keep in mind that this account does have monthly maintenance fees, but they can typically be waived if you meet balance or deposit requirements.

To earn the $200 bonus, you must:

• Open an account and deposit at least $2,000 in direct deposits within 90 days.

5. SoFi Checking & Savings – Up to $300 Bonus

SoFi is a top choice for those who prefer online banking, and their checking and savings account combination offers a competitive cash bonus. Unlike traditional banks, SoFi provides higher interest rates on savings, no account fees, and cashback rewards. This offer is particularly attractive if you’re willing to move your direct deposits to SoFi, as the highest bonus requires a $5,000 deposit.

To qualify for the bonus:

• Set up a direct deposit of at least $1,000 to earn $50.
• Deposit $5,000+ in direct deposits to earn $300.

Tips to Maximize Your Checking Account Bonus

Want to get the most out of these promotions? Taking advantage of bank bonuses isn’t just about signing up—you’ll want to be strategic to ensure you meet all the requirements without getting hit with fees or unnecessary hassles. The best approach is to carefully read the terms and conditions, plan your deposits in advance, and make sure you’re not tying up too much money in an account that doesn’t serve your long-term needs. If you play it smart, these bonuses can be an easy way to make extra cash with minimal effort. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Read the Fine Print

Some banks have hidden conditions, like requiring you to keep the account open for a set period. Closing the account too soon could mean losing the bonus.

2. Stack Bonuses If Possible

If you’re comfortable managing multiple accounts, you can open more than one at different banks and earn multiple bonuses. Just make sure you can meet the deposit requirements!

3. Avoid Monthly Fees

Many of these accounts come with monthly maintenance fees. Look for ways to waive them, like setting up direct deposit or maintaining a minimum balance.

4. Plan Direct Deposits in Advance

If a bank requires direct deposits, make sure you can actually set them up. Payroll deposits from your employer are the safest bet, but some banks accept transfers from other accounts as well.

Is a Checking Account Bonus Worth It?

Getting free money sounds great, but there are a few things to consider before jumping in. While these bonuses can be an easy way to make extra cash, they often come with specific requirements that may not align with your usual banking habits. Some promotions require high deposits, long holding periods, or direct deposits from an employer, which might not be feasible for everyone. Additionally, frequent account openings and closures could affect your banking history, making it harder to qualify for future promotions. Before signing up, make sure the bonus is worth the effort and that you won’t lose money on fees or other restrictions. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:

✅ Pros:

• Quick and easy way to earn extra cash.
• No investment risk—just follow the bank’s rules.
• Many banks offer fee waivers, so you can avoid costs.

❌ Cons:

• Some bonuses require high deposits.
• You may need to keep the account open longer than you’d like.
• If you frequently open and close accounts, it could impact your banking history.

If you can meet the requirements without extra hassle, a checking account bonus is an easy way to earn some extra money!

Final Thoughts

Bank promotions change often, so it’s always good to check for new offers. Whether you’re looking for a high cash bonus or just an easy account to manage, there’s likely a checking account that fits your needs. Just remember to avoid unnecessary fees and make sure you meet all the requirements to claim your reward.

Current Best Bonus Offer: Up to $700 from Citibank!

Ready to cash in? Choose a bank, follow the steps, and enjoy your bonus!

Sources

BankRate – Regularly updates a list of the best checking account bonuses.

NerdWallet – Provides detailed comparisons of banking offers, fees, and requirements.

Doctor of Credit – One of the most comprehensive sources for bank bonus tracking.

Forbes Advisor – Features rankings and insights on the best bank promotions.

The Points Guy – Covers checking account bonuses, especially those tied to travel rewards.