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Best Bank Bonuses and Promotions for January 2026 (up to $3,000)

  1. Ruth Sarreal Author Avatar
  2. Tony Armstrong Author Avatar
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Ruth SarrealRuth Sarreal
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Tony ArmstrongTony Armstrong
Last updated on January 6, 2026
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Last updated on January 6, 2026
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Bank promotions generally consist of cash bonuses when you open a new checking or savings account. These are one-time perks. To qualify, you’ll likely have to set up direct deposit with the bank and keep the account open for at least a few months. In 2026, checking account bonus offers could land you between $100 and $3,000.

The best bank promotions today are checking account bonuses:

  • Chase Secure Banking℠: $125 bonus with no minimum direct deposit required.

  • Chase Total Checking®: $400 bonus with $1,000 minimum direct deposit required.

  • TD Complete Checking: $200 bonus with $500 minimum direct deposit required.

We’ve rounded up additional excellent checking account bonuses and savings account promotions below. Check out the details on these offers to determine the best fit.

  • Summary of best bank promotions and bonuses

    Best checking account bonus offers

    Consider the best checking account bonuses from large national banks as well as online banks.

    • Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking®: Up to $500 bonus offer

    • BMO checking: $400 bonus offer*

    • Capital One 360 Checking: $250 bonus offer

    • Chase Private Client Checking℠: Up to $3,000 bonus offer

    • Chase Secure Banking℠: $125 bonus offer

    • Chase Total Checking®: $400 bonus offer

    • Chime® Checking Account: Up to $350 bonus offer

    • Citi checking with direct deposit: $325 bonus offer

    • E*TRADE Max-Rate Checking: $300 bonus offer

    • KeyBank Key Smart Checking: $300 bonus offer

    • TD Bank checking: Up to $300 bonus offer

    • U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking: Up to $450 bonus offer (only available in select states/regions)

    • Wells Fargo Everyday Checking: $325 bonus offer

    Best bank bonus for business checking

    See our pick for the best business checking account bonus.

    • Chase business checking: Up to $500 bonus offer

    Best bank bonuses for checking and savings

    Choose from a couple combination checking-and-savings account bonuses.

    • PNC Bank Virtual Wallet with Performance Select: Up to $400 bonus offer

    • SoFi Checking and Savings: Up to $300 bonus offer

    Best bank bonuses for savings

    The top savings account bonuses offer cash rewards on top of competitive APYs.

    • Alliant Credit Union The Ultimate Opportunity Savings: $100 bonus offer

    • E*TRADE Premium Savings: Up to $2,000 bonus offer

    • TD Bank savings: $200 bonus offer (only available in select states/regions)

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BankDetails
U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking

U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking

Member FDIC
Bonus$450Requirements to qualify
APYN/A
NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
2026 Best Checking Account
Chime® Checking Account

Chime® Checking Account

BonusUp to $350Requirements to qualify
APYN/A
Wells Fargo Everyday Checking Account

Wells Fargo Everyday Checking Account

at Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
Member FDIC
Bonus$325Requirements to qualify
APYN/A
Capital One 360 Checking

Capital One 360 Checking

Member FDIC
Bonus$250Earn up to $250 with 360 Checking. Terms Apply.
APY0.10%With $0 min. balance for APY
BMO Smart Advantage Checking

BMO Smart Advantage Checking

Member FDIC
Bonus$400*Requirements to qualify
APYN/A
NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
2026 Best Bank
SoFi Checking and Savings

SoFi Checking and Savings

at SoFi Bank, N.A.
Member FDIC
Bonus$50 or $300Earn $50 or $300 with eligible direct deposit. Terms apply.
APY1.00%With $0 min. balance for APY
Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking®

Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking®

at Bank of America, N.A.
Member FDIC
BonusUp to $500Click ‘Learn More’ for details
APYN/A
E*TRADE Premium Savings

E*TRADE Premium Savings

at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association
Member FDIC
Bonus$2,000Requirements to qualify
APY3.50%With $0 min. balance for APY
NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
2026 Best Bank for Branch Access
Chase Total Checking®

Chase Total Checking®

Member FDIC
Bonus$400Requirements to qualify
APYN/A
PNC Virtual Wallet® with Performance Select - Spend

PNC Virtual Wallet® with Performance Select - Spend

Member FDIC
Bonus$400Requirements to qualify
APY0.01%With $2,000 min. balance for APY
E*TRADE Max-Rate Checking

E*TRADE Max-Rate Checking

at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association
Member FDIC
Bonus$300Requirements to qualify
APY2.00%
Chase Business Complete Banking®

Chase Business Complete Banking®

Member FDIC
Bonus$500Requirements to qualify
APYN/A
Chase Private Client Checking℠

Chase Private Client Checking℠

Bonus$3,000Requirements to qualify
APY0.01%With $0 min. balance for APY
Chase Secure Banking℠

Chase Secure Banking℠

Bonus$125Requirements to qualify
APYN/A
Citi® Regular Checking Account

Citi® Regular Checking Account

Bonus$325Requirements to qualify
APYN/A
KeyBank Key Smart Checking

KeyBank Key Smart Checking

Bonus$300Requirements to qualify
APYN/A
NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
2026 Best Credit Union
Alliant Credit Union Ultimate Opportunity Savings Account

Alliant Credit Union Ultimate Opportunity Savings Account

Bonus$100Requirements to qualify
APY3.10%With $100 min. balance for APY
Bank/institutionNerdWallet rating BonusAPYLearn more
U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking

U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking

Learn moreon partner's site
at U.S. Bank, Member FDIC
3.5/5
Best for Checking account bonus with flexible deposit requirement tiers
$450
Requirements to qualify
N/A
Learn moreon partner's site
at U.S. Bank, Member FDIC
NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
2026 Best Checking Account
Chime® Checking Account

Chime® Checking Account

5.0/5
Best for Checking account bonus from a nonbank fintech company
Up to $350
Requirements to qualify
N/A
Wells Fargo Everyday Checking Account

Wells Fargo Everyday Checking Account

Learn moreon partner's site
at Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC
3.8/5
Best for Checking account bonus for a medium-sized deposit at a large bank
$325
Requirements to qualify
N/A
Learn moreon partner's site
at Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC
Capital One 360 Checking

Capital One 360 Checking

Learn moreon partner's site
at Capital One, Member FDIC
5.0/5
Best for Checking account bonus from an online-only bank
$250
Earn up to $250 with 360 Checking. Terms Apply.
0.10%
With $0 min. balance for APY
Learn moreon partner's site
at Capital One, Member FDIC
BMO Smart Advantage Checking

BMO Smart Advantage Checking

Learn moreon partner's site
at BMO Bank N.A., Member FDIC
4.8/5
Best for Checking account bonus from a Midwest-based bank
$400*
Requirements to qualify
N/A
Learn moreon partner's site
at BMO Bank N.A., Member FDIC
NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
2026 Best Bank
SoFi Checking and Savings

SoFi Checking and Savings

Learn moreon partner's site
at SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC
4.8/5
Best for Combination rewards-checking-and-savings account bonus
$50 or $300
Earn $50 or $300 with eligible direct deposit. Terms apply.
1.00%
With $0 min. balance for APY
Learn moreon partner's site
at SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC
Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking®

Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking®

Learn moreon partner's site
at Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC
3.8/5
Up to $500
Click ‘Learn More’ for details
N/A
Learn moreon partner's site
at Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC
E*TRADE Premium Savings

E*TRADE Premium Savings

Learn moreon partner's site
at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC
4.5/5
Best for Savings account bonus with many tiers
$2,000
Requirements to qualify
3.50%
With $0 min. balance for APY
Learn moreon partner's site
at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC
NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
2026 Best Bank for Branch Access
Chase Total Checking®

Chase Total Checking®

Learn moreon partner's site
at Chase, Member FDIC
3.6/5
Best for Overall checking account bonus
$400
Requirements to qualify
N/A
Learn moreon partner's site
at Chase, Member FDIC
PNC Virtual Wallet® with Performance Select - Spend

PNC Virtual Wallet® with Performance Select - Spend

Learn moreon partner's site
at PNC, Member FDIC
3.0/5
Best for Combination checking-and-savings account bonus with flexible deposit requirement tiers
$400
Requirements to qualify
0.01%
With $2,000 min. balance for APY
Learn moreon partner's site
at PNC, Member FDIC
E*TRADE Max-Rate Checking

E*TRADE Max-Rate Checking

Learn moreon partner's site
at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC
3.6/5
Best for Checking bonus for an account with a strong APY
$300
Requirements to qualify
2.00%
Learn moreon partner's site
at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC
Chase Business Complete Banking®

Chase Business Complete Banking®

Learn moreon partner's site
at Chase, Member FDIC
4.5/5
Best for Checking account bonus for business owners
$500
Requirements to qualify
N/A
Learn moreon partner's site
at Chase, Member FDIC
Chase Private Client Checking℠

Chase Private Client Checking℠

2.9/5
Best for Checking account bonus for maintaining a large balance
$3,000
Requirements to qualify
0.01%
With $0 min. balance for APY
Chase Secure Banking℠

Chase Secure Banking℠

3.5/5
Best for Checking account bonus with no minimum deposit requirement
$125
Requirements to qualify
N/A
Citi® Regular Checking Account

Citi® Regular Checking Account

3.7/5
Best for Checking account bonus with a variety of deposit types accepted
$325
Requirements to qualify
N/A
KeyBank Key Smart Checking

KeyBank Key Smart Checking

5.0/5
Best for Checking account bonus for an account with no monthly fee
$300
Requirements to qualify
N/A
NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
2026 Best Credit Union
Alliant Credit Union Ultimate Opportunity Savings Account

Alliant Credit Union Ultimate Opportunity Savings Account

4.4/5
Best for Savings account bonus that helps build good financial habits
$100
Requirements to qualify
3.10%
With $100 min. balance for APY
  • Our pick for

    Checking account bonus with flexible deposit requirement tiers

    • U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at U.S. Bank, Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      3.5/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at U.S. Bank, Member FDIC

      APY

      N/A

      Bonus

      $450

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $12.00

      Multiple ways to waive monthly fee

      Overdraft star rating

      Not yet rated

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking is a streamlined checking account, and this bank bonus is a fair reward for opening a new account and meeting the requirements.

      What you'll get: Up to $450.

      Expiration: 01/28/2026.

      How to get it: Open a new U.S. Bank Smartly® Checking account at the promo page and complete qualifying activities. Earn a bonus of up to $450 when you complete the following within 90 days of account opening: Enroll in online banking or the U.S. Bank Mobile App and make two or more direct deposits totaling $2,000 to $4,999.99 to earn $250 or totaling $5,000 to $7,999.99 to earn $350, or at least $8,000 to earn $450. You must fund your new account with a minimum deposit of $25 within 30 days of opening.

      Where to open: Online, in a branch or by phone.

      Who can qualify: U.S. Bank says: “Offer may not be available if you are an existing U.S. Bank customer or live outside of the U.S. Bank footprint.”

      When you’ll get it: Get the checking account bonus within 30 days after you have met the requirements.

      Monthly fee: Monthly fee can be waived; see bank site for details.

  • Our pick for

    Checking account bonus from a nonbank fintech company

    • NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
      2026 Best Checking Account
      NerdWallet rating
      5.0/5

      APY

      N/A

      Bonus

      Up to $350

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $0

      Overdraft star rating

      5.0/5

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This bonus rewards you over three consecutive months for making a relatively small direct deposit each month.

      What you'll get: Up to $350.

      Expiration: Ongoing.

      How to get it: Open a new Chime Checking Account and receive a qualifying direct deposit of at least $200 in your new account within 30 days of opening to earn $100. Do the same in the next calendar month to earn another $100. Do it again for the third consecutive month and earn an additional $150 for a total of $350. See promo page for more details.

      Where to open: Online.

      Who can qualify: People who haven’t previously opened a Chime Checking Account.

      When you’ll get it: The bonus will be credited to your account within seven business days of meeting the requirements.

      Monthly fee: $0.

  • Our pick for

    Checking account bonus for a medium-sized deposit at a large bank

    • Wells Fargo Everyday Checking Account
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      3.8/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC

      APY

      N/A

      Bonus

      $325

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $15.00

      Visit the offer webpage for ways to avoid the monthly service fee

      Overdraft star rating

      4.0/5

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This bonus offer is a good option if you want a checking account at one of the largest banks in the U.S. The checking account bonus is generous compared with the deposit requirement, especially when stacked against similar offers on our list.

      What you'll get: $325.

      Expiration: 04/14/2026.

      How to get it: Open a new Wells Fargo Everyday Checking account through the promotional page or in a branch with a bonus offer code emailed to you from that page. (The minimum deposit to open is $25.) Then receive at least $1,000 in qualifying direct deposits into the account within 90 days of opening it. Throughout this time, your account must remain open with a balance greater than $0.

      Where to open: Online or in a branch.

      Who can qualify: You must not currently have a Wells Fargo consumer checking account or have received a bonus for opening one within the last 12 months or you are a Wells Fargo employee.

      When you'll get it: You'll receive your bonus within 30 days of completing the 90-day qualification period.

      Monthly fee: Can be waived; see bank site for details.

  • Our pick for

    Checking account bonus from an online-only bank

    • Capital One 360 Checking
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Capital One, Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      5.0/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Capital One, Member FDIC

      APY

      0.10%

      With $0 min. balance for APY

      Bonus

      $250

      Earn up to $250 with 360 Checking. Terms Apply.

      Monthly fee

      $0

      Overdraft star rating

      5.0/5

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This is a good bonus for an excellent checking account. It has reasonable direct deposit requirements — if you make the minimum deposit, you’ll earn 25% of that amount in free cash.

      What you’ll get: $250.

      Expira​​tion: Ongoing; subject to change without notice.

      How to get it: Open a new 360 Checking account on the promotion page with promo code CHECKING250 and receive at least two direct deposits of at least $500 each within 75 days of opening the account.

      Where to open: Online.

      Who can qualify: You must not have had a 360 Checking, Simply Checking or Total Control Checking account at Capital One on or after January 1, 2022. Your account must be in good standing to receive the bonus.

      When you'll get it: Within 135 days of opening the account.

      Monthly fee: $0.

  • Our pick for

    Checking account bonus from a Midwest-based bank

    • BMO Smart Advantage Checking
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at BMO Bank N.A., Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      4.8/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at BMO Bank N.A., Member FDIC

      APY

      N/A

      Bonus

      $400*

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $0

      Overdraft star rating

      4.7/5

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      You can earn this bonus with one of two checking accounts at the bank — a regular checking account or one that doesn’t allow overdrafts.

      What you’ll get: $400.

      Expira​​tion: 01/28/2026.

      How to get it: Open a BMO Smart Advantage™ Checking or Smart Money™ Checking account on the promotion page, by phone or at a branch (using the promo code emailed to you from the bank website) and receive a total of at least $4,000 in qualifying direct deposits within 90 days of opening the account. Opening either account and meeting the criteria will earn you $400.

      Where to open: Online, by phone or at a branch.

      Who can qualify: You must not have had a BMO personal checking account within the past 12 months. You cannot receive a checking account bonus more than once.

      When you'll get it: About 100 days after opening the account.

      Monthly fee: Can be waived; see bank site for details.

      *Conditions apply. Accounts are subject to approval and available in the U.S. by BMO Bank N.A., Member FDIC.

  • Our pick for

    Combination rewards-checking-and-savings account bonus

    • NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
      2026 Best Bank
      SoFi Checking and Savings
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      4.8/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC

      APY

      1.00%

      With $0 min. balance for APY

      Bonus

      $50 or $300

      Earn $50 or $300 with eligible direct deposit. Terms apply.

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This offer is our top pick for a sign-up bonus for a combined checking and savings account.

      If you’re looking for a combination checking-and-savings account, this bonus is a standout. It offers a couple different tiers to earn a cash bonus of either $50 or $300 (the bonus amount differs based on the amount you direct deposit). In addition to a solid cash bonus offering, the savings account pays a competitive interest rate — much higher than what’s offered by other savings accounts on our list — when you meet requirements.

      What you'll get: $50 or $300.

      Expiration: 01/31/2026.

      How to get it: Open a new SoFi Checking and Savings account on the offer page. Make at least one eligible direct deposit before the promotion expiration date. Deposit $1,000 to $4,999.99 to earn a $50 bonus; deposit $5,000 or more to earn a $300 bonus.

      Where to open: Online.

      Who can qualify: Customers who open a new SoFi Checking and Savings account.

      When you’ll get it: Within seven business days after the 25-day Direct Deposit Bonus Period following the receipt of the first qualifying direct deposit.

      Monthly fee: $0.

    • Bank of America Advantage Plus Banking®
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      3.8/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC

      APY

      N/A

      Bonus

      Up to $500

      Click ‘Learn More’ for details

      Monthly fee

      $12.00

      Overdraft star rating

      4.5/5

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This bonus offer is unique as it rewards you for opening (and direct depositing into) your choice of eligible checking account at one of the largest banks in the U.S. You can choose to try and earn the cash bonus with one of three different accounts. This bank bonus is smaller and takes longer to be paid compared with other offers on our list, but requirements are straightforward.

      What you'll get: Up to $500 cash offer.

      Expiration: 01/31/2026.

      How to get it: Open a new eligible Bank of America Advantage Banking checking account through the Bank of America promotional page. Meet deposit requirements, including receiving Qualifying Direct Deposits* totaling $2,000 or more within 90 days of opening the eligible account. To earn $100 receive a total of at least $2,000, to earn $300 receive a total of at least $5,000 and to earn $500 receive a total of $10,0000 or more. Note that Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking® for Family Banking accounts are not eligible for the offer). Your checking account must be open and in good standing to receive the bonus. Additional terms and conditions apply. See offer page for more details. Bank of America says: “*A Qualifying Direct Deposit is a direct deposit of regular monthly income – such as your salary, pension or Social Security benefits, which are made by your employer or other payer – using account and routing numbers that you provide to them.”

      Where to open: Online only.

      Who can qualify: This is an online-only offer for new checking account customers only. Bank of America says: “You are not eligible for this offer if you were an owner or co-owner of a Bank of America personal checking account within the last twelve (12) months.”

      When you’ll get it: Bank of America says: “Once all requirements are met, Bank of America will attempt to pay bonus within 60 days.”

      Monthly maintenance fee: Can be waived; see bank site for details.

      » Learn more: Get more details on the checking account bonus offer from Bank of America

  • Our pick for

    Savings account bonus with many tiers

    • E*TRADE Premium Savings
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      4.5/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC

      APY

      3.50%

      With $0 min. balance for APY

      Bonus

      $2,000

      Requirements to qualify

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      Customers receive a bonus offer in exchange for large savings deposits.

      What you'll get: $300, $750, $1,000, $1,500 or $2,000.

      Expiration: 02/28/2026.

      How to get it: Open a new account by 02/28/2026 and enter code SAVE26 when opening the account at the promotion page. There’s no minimum deposit required to open, but you must fund the account within 30 days of opening. Deposit $20,000 to $49,999.99 to earn $300, $50,000 to $74,999.99 to earn $750, $75,000 to $99,999.99 to earn $1,000, $100,000 to $199,999.99 to earn $1,500, or at least $200,000 to earn $2,000. Maintain your balance for at least 45 days after the first 30 days.

      Where to open: Online.

      Who can qualify: Customers who are not enrolled in other E*TRADE offers and have not received more than two previous Premium Savings Account offers.

      When you’ll get it: The bonus will be credited to your account 90 days after the account was

      opened, assuming it is in good standing and requirements were met.

      Monthly fee: $0.

  • Our pick for

    Overall checking account bonus

    • NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
      2026 Best Bank for Branch Access
      Chase Total Checking®
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Chase, Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      3.6/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Chase, Member FDIC

      APY

      N/A

      Bonus

      $400

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $15.00

      Overdraft star rating

      4.0/5

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This Chase offer is our top pick for checking account bonus because of how accessible it is: It doesn’t require a huge deposit and it allows up to three months to meet the direct deposit requirement.

      The Total Checking bank bonus is one of the best checking account bonus offers available. Compared with similar offers on our list, you’ll get a large bonus compared with the direct deposit requirement. You can earn the Total Checking account bonus by meeting a minimum direct deposit requirement within 90 days.

      What you'll get: $400.

      Expiration: 04/15/2026.

      How to get it: Open a Chase Total Checking® account online or in person using a coupon emailed to you through the promotional page. You must make at least $1,000 in direct deposits into the account within 90 days of opening the account.

      Where to open: The checking account can be opened online or at a Chase branch (find a location near you).

      Who can qualify: New Chase checking account customers. You must not have had a Chase checking account within the last 90 days or had one closed with a negative balance within the last three years. In addition, you may receive only one new checking account opening bonus every two years from the last enrollment date, and you’re limited to one bonus per account.

      When you’ll get it: The checking account bonus will be deposited into your account within 15 days after your first direct deposit.

      Monthly fee: Can be waived; see bank site for details.

      » Learn more: Get more details about Chase checking account bonuses

  • Our pick for

    Combination checking-and-savings account bonus with flexible deposit requirement tiers

    • PNC Virtual Wallet® with Performance Select - Spend
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at PNC, Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      3.0/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at PNC, Member FDIC

      APY

      0.01%

      With $2,000 min. balance for APY

      Bonus

      $400

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $25.00

      With options to waive

      Overdraft star rating

      Not yet rated

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This bonus stands out for rewarding you if you set up a direct deposit as low as $500 — a much lower deposit requirement than that of other offers on our list. A tiered bonus is available, so if you meet the significantly larger minimum deposit requirement, you can earn $400.

      What you'll get: $100 or $400.

      Expiration: 02/26/2026.

      How to get it: Open a Virtual Wallet or Virtual Wallet with Performance Select account on the offer page and receive a total of at least $500 or $5,000 in qualifying direct deposits, respectively, within 60 days of opening the account. Opening a Virtual Wallet account and meeting the criteria will earn you $100 while opening a Virtual Wallet with Performance Select account and meeting the criteria will earn you $400.

      Where to open: Online.

      Who can qualify: Anyone who does not currently have a PNC checking account, and has not closed a PNC account within the past 12 months or received a PNC promotional payment within the last 24 months. Availability may vary by your location; you can check your eligibility on the website.

      When you’ll get it: The bonus will be credited to your account, which must be open, within 60-90 days after you’ve met the requirements.

      Monthly fee: Can be waived; see bank site for details.

  • Our pick for

    Checking bonus for an account with a strong APY

    • E*TRADE Max-Rate Checking
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      3.6/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Morgan Stanley Private Bank, National Association, Member FDIC

      APY

      2.00%

      Bonus

      $300

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $15.00

      Waived with average monthly balance of $5,000

      Overdraft star rating

      4.5/5

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      Customers receive a good bonus offer in exchange for what should be manageable deposits for most people.

      What you'll get: $300.

      Expiration: 03/31/2026.

      How to get it: Enter code CHECKING25 when opening the account. Once the account is open, you'll need to receive two direct deposits of at least $1,500 each within 90 days of opening. The offer is also available for the standard checking account.

      Where to open: Online.

      Who can qualify: People who haven’t had either checking account in the last 12 months.

      When you’ll get it: The bonus will be credited to your account about 120 days after the account was opened, assuming it is in good standing and requirements were met.

      Monthly fee: Can be waived; see bank site for details.

  • Our pick for

    Checking account bonus for business owners

    • Chase Business Complete Banking®
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Chase, Member FDIC
      NerdWallet rating
      4.5/5
      Learn moreon partner's site
      at Chase, Member FDIC

      APY

      N/A

      Bonus

      $500

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $15.00

      Waived with $2,000 minimum balance

      Overdraft star rating

      Not yet rated

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This bonus is a good option if you need to open a business checking account at a major bank and can meet the minimum deposit and balance requirements, plus complete a handful of transactions. This is the only business account on our list, and it’s a standout because it consistently offers a bonus and comes from one of the largest banks. To compare, see our list of the best business account promotions.

      What you'll get: Up to $500.

      Expiration: 05/14/2026.

      How to get it: Open a new Business Complete Checking℠ account online or at a branch, using the offer code emailed to you from the promotional page. Then within 30 days, deposit at least $2,000 in new money to earn $300 or $10,000 in new money to earn $500, maintain the new money balance for 60 days and complete five qualifying transactions — such as debit card purchases, QuickAccept℠ deposits, QuickDeposits℠ and ACH or wire transfers — within 90 days.

      Where to open: Online or in person at a Chase branch (location near you).

      Who can qualify: Anyone who has not received a bonus related to a new Chase business checking account opening in the last two years. Only one bonus is allowed per account. Other restrictions apply.

      When you’ll get it: The bonus will be deposited into your new account within 15 days of completing all the requirements.

      Monthly fee: Can be waived; see bank site for details.

  • Our pick for

    Checking account bonus for maintaining a large balance

    • NerdWallet rating
      2.9/5

      APY

      0.01%

      With $0 min. balance for APY

      Bonus

      $3,000

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $35.00

      $0 with qualifying activities

      Overdraft star rating

      Not yet rated

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This checking account bonus offers the chance to earn thousands of dollars if you’re able to deposit a large amount of money. But note that if you are aiming for the largest bonus tier, you’ll have to deposit more than what standard federal insurance covers, so you’ll have to strategize to protect all of your money.

      What you'll get: $1,000, $2,000 or $3,000.

      Expiration: 04/15/2026.

      How to get it: Open a new Chase Private Client Checking℠ account (or upgrade your existing Chase personal checking account) using the offer code emailed to you from the promotional page. Then transfer at least $150,000 in new money or securities to eligible personal checking, savings and/or J.P. Morgan Wealth Management accounts within 45 days after enrollment, and keep the money in the accounts for at least 90 days after offer enrollment. Deposit at least $150,000 to earn $1,000, $250,000 to earn $2,000 or $500,000 to earn $3,000.

      Where to open: At a branch or by phone.

      Who can qualify: Customers who meet with a Private Client Banker to open or upgrade to a Chase Private Client Checking℠ account. You may receive only one new Chase Private Client Checking℠ new money bonus or savings promotional rate offer in the 12 months from the last offer enrollment date. You are only allowed to receive one bonus per account.

      When you’ll get it: The bonus will be deposited into your new checking account within 40 days of completing all the requirements.

      Monthly fee: Can be waived; see bank site for details.

      Disclosures:

      J.P. Morgan Wealth Management is a business of JPMorgan Chase & Co., which offers investment products and services through J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (JPMS), a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC. Insurance products are made available through Chase Insurance Agency, Inc. (CIA), a licensed insurance agency, doing business as Chase Insurance Agency Services, Inc. in Florida. Certain custody and other services are provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (JPMCB). JPMS, CIA and JPMCB are affiliated companies under the common control of JPMorgan Chase & Co. Products not available in all states.

      INVESTMENT AND INSURANCE PRODUCTS: • NOT A DEPOSIT • NOT FDIC INSURED • NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY • NO BANK GUARANTEE • MAY LOSE VALUE

  • Our pick for

    Checking account bonus with no minimum deposit requirement

    • NerdWallet rating
      3.5/5

      APY

      N/A

      Bonus

      $125

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $4.95

      Waived with direct deposit

      Overdraft star rating

      Not yet rated

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      The bonus isn’t as big as some others on this list, but this bank promotion could be a good option if you don’t want to meet a direct deposit requirement to earn a cash reward. Unlike most bank bonus offers on this list, the Chase Secure Banking bonus doesn’t require direct deposit. Instead, you’ll need to meet a minimum number of qualifying transactions such as debit card purchases and Zelle transfers, but you’ll have 60 days to meet the requirement.

      What you'll get: $125.

      Expiration: 03/27/2026.

      How to get it: Open a Chase Secure Banking℠ account online or in person using a coupon emailed to you through the promotional page. You must complete 10 qualifying transactions within 60 days of opening the account.

      Where to open: The checking account can be opened online or at a Chase branch (find a location near you).

      Who can qualify: New Chase checking customers. You must not have had a Chase checking account within the last 90 days or had one closed with a negative balance in the last three years. In addition, you may receive only one new checking account opening bonus every two years from the last enrollment date, and you’re limited to one bonus per account.

      When you’ll get it: The bonus will be deposited into your account within 15 days after the 10 qualifying transactions have posted.

      Monthly fee: Can be waived; see bank site for details.

  • Our pick for

    Checking account bonus with a variety of deposit types accepted

    • NerdWallet rating
      3.7/5

      APY

      N/A

      Bonus

      $325

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $15.00

      Waived with direct deposit

      Overdraft star rating

      Not yet rated

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This offer allows you to choose a checking account that works best for you — from basic (with no minimum balance requirement) to different levels of premium. You can earn cash by having direct deposits that meet a minimum requirement. Compared with similar offers that made our list, this checking account bonus is a fair offer — other offers require a much higher total deposit that Zelle deposits don’t count toward.

      What you'll get: $325.

      Expiration: 04/13/2026.

      How to get it: Open a new eligible Citi checking account and enroll in the offer at the Citibank bonus page or in the Citi mobile app or with a bank representative over the phone or at a branch. Then make a minimum of two Enhanced Direct Deposits, including Automated Clearing House (ACH) payments, deposits made using Zelle, and digital payments made using ACH via PayPal, Venmo or other payment service providers. The deposits must total at least $3,000 and be made within 90 days of opening the account.

      Where to open: Open the new account and enroll in the offer online at the Citi bonus page or in the Citi mobile app.

      Who can qualify: You must not have had a checking account with Citibank for the last 365 days to take advantage of the offer. You must also be at least 18 years old and provide a valid Form W-9 or Form W-8BEN. Your account must not be subject to backup withholding. ​​ When you’ll get it: You’ll receive the bonus between the 90th and 120th day after account opening.

      Monthly fee: See bank site for details.

      » Learn more: Get more details about Citi checking account bonuses

  • Our pick for

    Checking account bonus for an account with no monthly fee

    • NerdWallet rating
      5.0/5

      APY

      N/A

      Bonus

      $300

      Requirements to qualify

      Monthly fee

      $0

      Overdraft star rating

      Not yet rated

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This KeyBank bonus offer is a good reward for opening a competitive checking account. If you can meet the direct deposit minimum just once within the first couple months, you’ll earn the cash reward.

      What you'll get: $300.

      Expiration: 02/06/2026.

      How to get it: Open a Key Smart Checking account online promotional page with a deposit of at least $10. Within the first 90 days of opening the account, make a total of $2,000 or more in eligible direct deposits. Your account must be open and in good standing in order to receive the bonus.

      Where to open: The checking account can be opened online.

      Who can qualify: KeyBank says: “Limit one account-opening gift per qualifying account. Limit one account opening gift per individual.” The bank also says: “Offer not available to individuals who were a primary account owner of a KeyBank personal checking account in the last 12 months.” Offer may not be available in all states.

      When you’ll get it: The checking account bonus will be deposited into your account within 60 days after you complete the requirements.

      Monthly fee: $0.

  • Our pick for

    Savings account bonus that helps build good financial habits

    • NerdWallet Best-Of Awards
      2026 Best Credit Union
      NerdWallet rating
      4.4/5

      APY

      3.10%

      With $100 min. balance for APY

      Bonus

      $100

      Requirements to qualify

      Our Take
      Why We Like It

      This new account sign-up bonus is a top pick for the savings category because it encourages building the good habit of saving on a regular basis.

      This bonus rewards you for building a savings habit; the savings account offers a strong interest rate and the credit union is easy to join. Compared with other offers on our list, this offer requires a long commitment to increasing your balance, but the bonus amount is decent and the habit-building practice of saving every month might be even more valuable.

      What you'll get: $100.

      Expiration: 06/30/2026.

      How to get it: Open a new The Ultimate Opportunity Savings account online at the promotional page. Then transfer or deposit the first $100 within 30 days, make transfers or deposits totaling at least $100 or more each month for the next 11 consecutive months, and keep an average daily balance of at least $100. To receive the bonus, at the end of the 12-month period your account must be open with a balance of at least $1,200.

      Where to open: Online.

      Who can qualify: New Alliant Credit Union members only. People who have closed an Alliant savings account within 180 days, existing members and joint owners on Alliant savings accounts are not eligible.

      When you’ll get it: The bonus will be credited to your account within four weeks of meeting the requirements.

      Monthly fee: $0.

Why trust NerdWallet

Strict editorial guidelines to ensure fairness and accuracy in our coverage to help you choose the financial accounts that work best for you. See our criteria for evaluating banks and credit unions.

Around 100 financial institutions surveyed by our team of experts.

More than 50 data points considered for each bank, credit union and banking technology firm (or neobank) to be eligible for our roundups. For this bank promotions roundup, more than a dozen data points were considered per offer.

More information about bank bonuses, checking account bonuses, and savings account bonuses

Here's the most important thing to consider:

The best bank bonus is one that rewards you for using a bank account to manage your money in a way that works for you. The account should have the features that matter most to you. That may be a high APY, a large network of branches or ATMs, or low or no fees.

What does the Fed rate announcement mean for bank account bonuses?

In December, the Federal Reserve announced that it would again lower the federal funds rate. That's the rate which commercial banks use to borrow and lend money to one another.

This was the third time in 2025 that the rate changed. The Fed also lowered the rate three times in late 2024 after increasing the rate four times in 2023 and seven times in 2022.

The changes haven’t directly affected bank bonuses, but it could still be a good time to open a new bank account in case savings account interest rates fall. So you could take advantage of both a bank bonus and current APYs in a new savings account.

Are bank account bonuses worth it?

Bank promotions can be worth the effort if the reward is substantial enough and the requirements aren't difficult to meet. It's important to understand the full details before signing up for a new account to earn a bank bonus. That includes what fees might be incurred and how long you might have to wait for the bonus to be paid.

If earning a bank sign-up bonus requires depositing more than $250,000 (which is the standard amount that’s insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.), you’ll need to employ certain strategies to make sure that all your money — including funds over $250,000 — is protected.

More Nerdy Perspective

"A cash bonus is appealing, but many checking accounts don’t earn interest, so you could miss out on thousands of dollars (much more than the maximum bonus) — which you could earn by putting that money in a high-yield savings account instead. What's more, earning the highest bonus amount offered on this list requires at least $500,000. Depositing more than $250,000 would put you over Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. coverage limits, so you’d need to consider a strategy to protect all your money."

Ruth Sarreal's profile picture
Ruth Sarreal

» Prefer an account that offers rewards beyond a sign-up bonus? Check out our favorite rewards checking accounts

What do the best bank bonuses have in common?

The best bank promotions offer a significant cash bonus in exchange for signing up for a new account with no fees or easily avoided fees. The best bank bonuses for you are ones that have requirements you're comfortable with, including the amount of time you'll have to keep your money in the account to earn the bonus.

Are bank bonuses taxable?

If you’ve earned a cash bonus for opening a new bank account, it's usually taxable. You are responsible for covering any tax liability. Learn more about taxes on bank bonuses.

» Churning through accounts to get bonuses? Find out whether closing a bank account hurts your credit

Should I have more than one checking or savings account?

It can be helpful to have multiple bank accounts. Just be sure you can meet the requirements and minimums in order to avoid fees.

The number of checking and/or savings accounts you should have will depend on a few factors. Married or partnered people might each want to have their own accounts in addition to one or more shared accounts. You might want to consider having accounts at different financial institutions for different purposes — such as having an account with a bank that works well for international travel if you’re frequently abroad, or with the bank that handles your mortgage or other loans for more seamless payment transfers. (Learn the pros and cons of keeping multiple bank accounts at different banks.)

» Looking for the right place to keep your savings? Check out NerdWallet's picks for the best savings accounts

Why don’t you feature other bank account bonuses?

You may find other banks and new account sign-up offers that are not featured on this page. Associated Bank, Fifth Third Bank, Huntington Bank and other financial institutions offer checking account bonuses and promotions but aren’t included in our roundup, for example. That’s because we curate a list that’s limited to what our experts think are the very best options for our readers. We don’t make recommendations for bank accounts that don’t earn fair or better ratings from us, no matter how big the bonus may be. And we don’t make recommendations for bonuses in amounts that wouldn’t be worth the effort.

Frequently asked questions about bank promotions and sign-up bonuses

Keep reading to find out answers to commonly asked questions about checking account bonuses and other bank promotions.

What bank gives you a bonus for opening an account?

Various banks and credit unions offer cash sign-up bonuses for opening a new account. You can find the best opportunities available by checking out our list of the best bank bonuses and promotions, updated monthly.

What bank gives you money for opening a checking account?

Banks that offer a checking account bonus to new account holders include Bank of America, BMO, Capital One, Chase, Chime (a nonbank), Citibank, E*TRADE, KeyBank, PNC Bank, SoFi Bank, N.A., TD Bank, U.S. Bank and Wells Fargo. See this page each month to find the best checking account promotions available.

$450 checking account bonus: What is it?

U.S. Bank previously offered a $450 checking bonus for opening a new account. Once the bank has a new account bonus on offer, this page will be updated with the details.

$500 bonus to open an account: What banks are paying?

Currently, this is the best bank bonus that pays $500 or more:

  • Chase Private Client checking account bonus.

$200 checking account bonus from Chase: How can you get it?

A previous bonus offered new checking customers the opportunity to earn a $200 Chase checking account bonus by opening a Chase Total Checking® account and meeting requirements. The bank now offers a Chase Total Checking® bonus of $400.

$3,000 checking account bonus offer at Chase Bank: What is it?

Chase Private Client Checking offers a bonus of up to $3,000 for opening a new account. Read the promotion details above to understand all the rules and requirements to earn the checking account bonus, including a super steep minimum transfer amount that may not be worthwhile.

Recap: Best bank bonuses and promotions

Financial institution

Bonus amount

Account type

Bank of America

Up to $500

Checking

BMO

$400

Checking

Capital One

$250

Checking

Chase

Up to $3,000

Checking

Chase

$125

Checking

Chase

$400

Checking

Chime

Up to $350

Checking

Citibank

$325

Checking

E*TRADE

$300

Checking

KeyBank

$300

Checking

TD Bank

Up to $300

Checking

U.S. Bank

Up to $450

Checking

Wells Fargo

$325

Checking

Chase

Up to $500

Business checking

PNC Bank

$400

Combined checking and savings

SoFi

Up to $300

Combined checking and savings

Alliant Credit Union

$100

Savings

E*TRADE

Up to $2,000

Savings

TD Bank

$200

Savings

The information related to Citi checking accounts has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer or provider of this product or service.

Last updated on January 6, 2026

Methodology

We took a close look at around 100 financial institutions and financial service providers, including the largest U.S. banks based on assets, internet search traffic and other factors; the nation’s largest credit unions, based on assets and membership; and other notable and/or emerging players in the industry. We rated them on criteria including annual percentage yields, minimum balances, fees, digital experience and more.

Financial institutions and providers surveyed are: Affirm, All America Bank, Alliant Credit Union, Ally Bank, Amalgamated Bank, American Express National Bank, Andrews Federal Credit Union, Associated Bank, Axos Bank, Bank of America, Bank5 Connect, Barclays, Bask Bank, BMO, BMO Alto, Boeing Employees Credit Union, Bread Savings®, BrioDirect, Capital One, CFG Bank, Charles Schwab Bank, Chase, Chime, CIBC U.S., CIT Bank, Citibank, Citizens, Citizens Bank, Climate First Bank, ConnectOne Bank, Connexus Credit Union, Consumers Credit Union, Current, Customers Bank, Discover® Bank, E*TRADE, EverBank, Fifth Third Bank, First Foundation, First Internet Bank, First Tech Federal Credit Union, FNBO Direct, Forbright Bank, FourLeaf Federal Credit Union, GO2bank, Golden 1 Credit Union, Hope Credit Union, HSBC Bank, Huntington Bank, Ivy Bank, KeyBank, Lake Michigan Credit Union, LendingClub Bank, Live Oak Bank, M&T Bank, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, My Banking Direct, NASA Federal Credit Union, Navy Federal Credit Union, NBKC, Newtek Bank, OMB Bank, OnePay, Openbank, Pentagon Federal Credit Union, PNC, Poppy Bank, Popular Direct, Quontic Bank, Regions Bank, Revolut, Salem Five Direct, Sallie Mae Bank, Santander Bank, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, Security Service Federal Credit Union, Securityplus Federal Credit Union, Self-Help Credit Union, Service Credit Union, SoFi, State Employees’ Credit Union of North Carolina, Synchrony Bank, TAB Bank, TD Bank, Truist Bank, U.S. Bank, UFB Direct, Upgrade, USAA Bank, Varo, Vio Bank, Wells Fargo, Western Alliance Bank and Zynlo Bank.

To recap our selections...

NerdWallet's Best Bank Bonuses and Promotions for January 2026 (up to $3,000)