You’re looking around for a new checking account and think you’ve found the perfect one. It has all the features you need, including a $300 cash bonus just for signing up. But there’s one caveat — you can only get the bonus if you enroll in monthly direct deposits, which your employer doesn’t offer. Queue bank promotions without direct deposit requirements!
Most bank bonuses have a few qualifying requirements. For example, you may have to maintain a minimum balance requirement or average daily balance. You may also have to satisfy a minimum deposit threshold upon account opening.
Many banks also require that you link direct deposit to your account to get the sign-up bonus, which can be problematic if you work for a company that doesn’t support it.
Maybe you’re between jobs, are self-employed, or your employer pays you by check or in cash. These are all valid reasons why you might not be able to set up direct deposits with your bank.
Keep in mind that some of these accounts are available nationwide, while others might only be offered in the states in which the bank operates physical branches.
Best Bank Bonuses Without Direct Deposit Requirements – December 2023
Here are the 25 current best bank bonuses that don’t require a direct deposit:
- J.P. Morgan: up to $700 + $100 BankBonus Exclusive bonus
- Citi®: up to $2000 bonus
- U.S. Bank: up to $800 bonus
- Discover: up to $200 bonus
- Axos: up to $400 bonus
- Upgrade: $200 bonus
- NorthOne: $30 bonus
- Found: $20 bonus
- Acorns: $400 bonus
- Baselane: $300 bonus
- Revolut: 3 free months bonus
- Capital One: up to $1500 bonus
- BMO: up to $600 bonus
- Fidelity: $100 bonus
- First National Bank of Pennsylvania: up to $1000 bonus
- CIBC: up to $500 bonus
- Huntington: $800 bonus
- Redstone Federal Credit Union: $600 bonus
- M1: up to $10000 bonus
- M&T: $350 bonus
- PenFed: up to $750 bonus
- Bank of America: $200 bonus
- East Cambridge Savings Bank: up to $475 bonus
- Partner Colorado Credit Union: $100 bonus
- BMI FCU: $200 bonus
1. J.P. Morgan Wealth Management
As a perk to our subscribers, BankBonus.com has partnered with J.P. Morgan to bring you an exclusive, easy-to-earn offer: $100 just for signing up for a new Self-Directed Investing account.
This is in addition to the up to $700 bonus that J.P. Morgan is offering new customers (the highest offer that we've seen to-date!).
That means if you open your new account through this exclusive BankBonus.com deal, you'll earn $100 from us and still have the opportunity to earn up to an additional $700 from J.P. Morgan – for a grand total of up to $800!
To take advantage of this nationwide offer, you'll first need to request a personalized offer link and then use that when opening your free account.
Assuming your account remains open for at least 90 days, we'll send you a $100 reward, which you can redeem instantly for a virtual VISA or gift card to your choice of more than 200 retailers.
Remember, that reward is in addition to J.P. Morgan's welcome offer...
Which, they've made even more accessible this time around by introducing a lower tier at $5,000, down from the previous $25,000 entry point!
So, what are you waiting for? Request your code now!
Self-Directed Investing - up to $700 + $100 BankBonus Exclusive bonus
Expires: December 31, 2023
The Self-Directed Investing signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $700 + $100 BankBonus Exclusive bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Enter your email address to subscribe to exclusive BankBonus.com offers, including this one.
- A link with a unique code attached will be sent to you via email.
- Open a new J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing account using the link with your unique code.
- Keep your account open for at least 90 days.
- Exclusive BankBonus.com $100 reward will be delivered by email within 15 days of meeting requirements, in the form of a digital reward that you can redeem instantly for a virtual VISA or gift card to your choice of more than 200 retailers.
- To earn up to an additional $700 from J.P. Morgan, fund your new account within 45 days of account opening with qualifying new money; $5,000 - $24,999 = $50 bonus; $25,000 - $99,999 = $150 bonus; $100,000 - $249,999 = $325 bonus; $250,000+ = $700 bonus. Please note: INVESTMENT AND INSURANCE PRODUCTS ARE: NOT A DEPOSIT • NOT FDIC INSURED • NO BANK GUARANTEE • MAY LOSE VALUE
- Your bonus amount will be determined on day 45.
- Maintain your new funds for 90 days (losses due to trading or market fluctuation will not be taken into account).
- Funding bonus will be received from J.P. Morgan within 15 days.
Get your code now to earn the exclusive $700 + $100 BankBonus Exclusive bonus
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2. Citi®
Citi® is offering up to a $2,000 cash bonus when you open a new Citi Priority Relationship Tier account with activities. Like most Citi promotions, this is a tiered offer based on the amount you're able to deposit and maintain in your new checking account.
Citi recently added a lower tier to this bonus, making it easier for more people to participate. However, some of the middle tier requirements have increased. All told, the bonus amount ranges from $200 for depositing $10,000, up to the full $2,000 for depositing $300,000.
Depending on when you deposit the cash (it needs to be there by the 20th day), the bonus represents an effective rate of roughly 4-11% on your savings. The $200 offer nets you the best effective rate, but every offer is significantly more than what you can find on most savings accounts. So if you have the cash, this is a great way to put it to work, risk-free.
It's important to note that this offer is available in most, but not all states.
Citi Priority Relationship Tier - up to $2000 bonus
Expires: January 9, 2024
The Citi Priority Relationship Tier signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $2000 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new Citi Priority Relationship Tier using the link below and enroll in the offer the same day.
- Within 20 days, deposit $10,000 into your new account to earn $200, $30,000 to earn $500, $75,000 to earn $1,000, $200,000 to earn $1,500 or $300,000+ to earn $2,000.
- Maintain that balance for 60 days or more after the 21st day that the account was opened.
- Bonus will be credited to your open, eligible account within 30 calendar days after completing the requirements.
- New to Relationship Tier customers can choose their relationship tier.
Apply now for a Citi Priority Relationship Tier to earn the $2000 bonus
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3. U.S. Bank
U.S. Bank is offering up to a $800 welcome bonus when you open and fund a new, eligible business checking account. This is a tiered bonus where you can earn more if you're able to deposit more. To earn the full $800 just deposit $25,000 in new money and maintain that balance for at least 60 days. This offer has increased since the last time it was offered to reward businesses with higher balances, so now might be a great time to jump on it if you've been considering U.S. Bank for your business banking needs.
Business Checking - up to $800 bonus
Expires: January 8, 2024
The Business Checking signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance, and optionally, make purchases using the account's card and set up bill pay in order to earn the $800 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new Silver, Gold or Platinum Business Checking Package from U.S. Bank online with the promo code Q3AFL23 and complete qualifying activities. Member FDIC.
- To earn $350 bonus: Deposit $5,000 in new money within 30 days of account opening and maintain for 60 days after account opening.
- To earn $800 bonus: Deposit $25,000 in new money within 30 days of account opening and maintain for 60 days after account opening.
- Bonus will be deposited into your new U.S. Bank business checking account within 45 days of meeting all requirements.
- Subject to certain terms and limitations.
Apply now to earn the $800 bonus from U.S. Bank
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4. Discover Bank
Discover – one of our top picks for online banks – is currently offering up to $200 for opening your first Online Savings account. You'll need to deposit $25,000 to earn the full amount, but $15,000 only results in a loss of $50.
One perk to this bonus is that Discover doesn't have a requirement for how long you need to keep the cash in the account; however, with interest rates soaring, it makes a great place to stash some cash. Doesn't get much easier than that!
Online Savings Account - up to $200 bonus
Expires: December 14, 2023
The Online Savings Account signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $200 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for your first Discover Online Savings Account, online, in the Discover App or by phone using promo code BB923.
- Within 30 days, post a deposit of $15,000 to earn $150 or $25,000 to earn $200.
- Bonus will be credited to your account within 60 days of qualifying for the bonus.
- See Advertiser Website for Full Details
Apply now to earn the $200 bonus from Discover
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5. Axos Bank
Available nationwide with the ability to open online, Axos is offering a $400 welcome bonus when you open a new Basic Business checking account and maintain a minimum balance. You'll also need to use your debit card to qualify. This is double their previous offer (and quadruple one before that!) so now might be a good time to jump on it.
Wanna get an interest-bearing account instead? They're also running this promotion on their Business Interest Checking account.
Basic Business Checking - up to $400 bonus
Expires: December 31, 2023
The Basic Business Checking signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance, make purchases using the account's card and set up bill pay in order to earn the $400 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new Basic Business Checking account from Axos Bank with promo code NEW400.
- During the first 5 statement cycles, earn $75 for each statement cycle the average daily balance is $25,000 - $49,999.99, up to $300 total OR earn $100 for each statement cycle the average daily balance is at least $50,000, up to $400 total.
- In addition, you'll need to complete 10 purchases of at least $3 with your Small Business Checking Visa® Debit Card and have BillPay setup on your account.
- Bonus will be deposited into your new account within 10 business days of your statement cycle date.
Apply now to earn the $400 bonus from Axos
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6. Upgrade
Upgrade is offering a $200 welcome bonus when you open a new Rewards Checking Plus account and make 3 debit card transactions.
To qualify for this promotion, you'll first need to sign up for any Upgrade Card (for example, the Triple Cash Card), which is a blend of a credit card / line of credit. Then, you'll need to open a free Rewards Checking Plus account. Finally, you'll need to make just 3 purchases using your new debit card.
What's more? If you choose The Triple Cash Rewards Visa card you'll earn 3% on purchases in Home, Auto, and Health categories and 1% on all other purchases. There are no annual fees, no late fees, and no foreign transaction fees.
All in all, this is an easy bonus to earn.
Overall, it's rare to find a cash offer this high that does not require a direct deposit, minimum balance, or a monthly fee. Check it out!
Rewards Checking Plus - $200 bonus
Expires: Limited Time
The Rewards Checking Plus signup offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the $200 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for any Upgrade Card (including The Triple Cash Rewards Card which is linked below).
- Within 60 days, open and fund a new Rewards Checking Plus account.
- Within the same 60 days, make 3 purchases using your debit card.
- The bonus will be applied to your Rewards Checking Plus account as a one-time payout credit within 60 days after meeting the conditions.
Apply now to earn the $200 bonus from Upgrade
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7. NorthOne
Like other neobanks, NorthOne seeks to leverage tech to disrupt the business banking status quo. While most business accounts from the big-brand banks have transaction limits that force you to upgrade to premium accounts as your company grows (read: higher monthly fees), NorthOne charges a flat $10 per month and then no additional fees for ACH payments, deposits, transfers, purchases, or app integrations.
Currently, they're running a business checking account promotion exclusive to BankBonus.com readers: 3-months FREE to try their Business Banking account.
There's no catch and no additional requirements – just sign up using our link, fund your account with any amount and your first two monthly fees will be waived.
Business Banking - $30 bonus
Expires: Limited Time
The Business Banking signup offer requires you to complete the following in order to earn the $30 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Sign up using our link below.
- Fund your account with any amount.
- Your first three monthly fees will be waived.
Apply now to earn the $30 bonus from NorthOne
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8. Found
Found is a relatively new business banking fintech that's offering a lot for free to small businesses.
There are no required monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, easily connect apps like Quickbooks and Stripe, unlimited transactions, free built-in expense tracking and tax tools, free ACH transfers and more. Should you require more advanced features like photo receipt capture, you can opt in to their paid subscription service called Found Plus.
On top of that, they're offering new customers $20 when you complete some minor spend requirements. This isn't a large bonus, but it's a very intuitive business fintech for small businesses to manage their activities and spending.
Note: you won't see mention of the $20 bonus on their website until after you setup your Found account.
Business Banking - $20 bonus
Expires: Limited Time
The Business Banking signup offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the $20 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new Found account using the link below.
- Within 30 days, complete $100 in spend with your new Found business debit Mastercard®.
Apply now to earn the $20 bonus from Found
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9. Acorns
Every week, Acorns reintroduces its referral bonus, which gives you cash for referring friends to the FinTech. This week, Acorns is offering a $400 bonus when you refer 2 friends who open a new Invest account and make their first investment. It's a decent "average reward per person" deal and super easy if you know people.
You don't need to already have an Acorns account to qualify, either.
Just sign up for one using the link below, make an initial deposit of at least $5, and you'll have instant access to your unique referral link, which you can then pass along to your friends. In your account, you'll be able to see the number of pending and successful referrals so that you can keep track of your progress to the bonus.
This offer will also automatically stack with their regular $20 bonus offered to BankBonus.com users, for additional earnings.
Acorns Invest [Referral Program] - $400 bonus
Expires: December 9, 2023
The Acorns Invest [Referral Program] signup offer requires you to complete the following in order to earn the $400 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- If you do not already have an Acorns Invest account, create one using the link below and make an initial deposit of at least $5 and earn a $20 bonus.
- Refer 2 friends using your personal referral link during the promo period, and ensure they make their first investment by Dec 23, 2023.
- Referees must maintain their account in good standing for at least 30 days from the last day of the Qualification Period.
- Bonus(es) will be deposited within 30 days of promotional period ending.
Apply now to earn the $400 bonus from Acorns
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10. Baselane
Available nationwide, Baselane is a banking platform for landlords to help them manage rent collection, taxes, banking, insurance and more! Through June, Baselane is offering a $300 welcome bonus when you open a new account and collect at least 2 rent payments. There's also a minimum deposit requirement, but it's small.
Baselane Banking - $300 bonus
Expires: Limited Time
The Baselane Banking signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $300 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new Baselane account using the link below.
- Within 30 days, deposit at least $500 into a Baselane banking account and maintain that average balance for 60 days.
- Within 90 days, make five qualifying transactions with your Baselane Banking debit card.
- Finally, within 90 days, collect at least two $500 rent payments with Baselane’s Rent Collections tool.
Apply now to earn the $300 bonus from Baselane
Learn More:
11. Revolut
Now available in the United States with the ability to open online, Revolut is offering 3 free months of Revolut Premium (a savings of nearly $30) when you open any new Revolut account and complete a transaction with your card. That's it! This is a limited time offer when you sign up through BankBonus.com so you must act fast!
What's more? Once you signup you'll be eligible to refer friends. Recent referral promotions have gone as high as $100 each!
Standard Account - 3 free months bonus
Expires: Limited Time
The Standard Account signup offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the 3 free months bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new Revolut account using the link below.
- Once you have provided your phone number, you will be directed to the sign up flow for a Revolut Personal account and will be offered the Plan Trial.
- Before the end of the Limited Time Promotion Period, make one (1) qualifying transaction of at least $1.00 using your Revolut physical or virtual card.
Apply now to earn the 3 free months bonus from Revolut
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12. Capital One
Available nationwide and from a well-ranked bank, Capital One is offering up to $1,500 if you open a 360 Performance Savings account. This is a 3-tier bonus – the more you deposit, the more you can earn. This time around they've increased all tiers.
You'll need to make some sizable deposits, totaling at least $20,000, which will earn you $300. To get the full amount, you'll need to deposit $100,000.
Overall, if you're a new Capital One personal savings customer, this is a bonus with easy requirements if you have some cash and is worth taking advantage of.
360 Performance Savings - up to $1500 bonus
Expires: December 6, 2023
The 360 Performance Savings signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $1500 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new 360 Performance Savings account with promo code FALL23.
- Within 15 days of opening, deposit at least $20,000 to earn $300; $50,000 to earn $750; or $100,000+ to earn $1,500.
- Hold the money in your account for 90 days.
- Bonus will drop to your account within 60 days.
Apply now to earn the $1500 bonus from Capital One
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13. BMO
Available in select states within their footprint, BMO Harris is offering up to a $600 welcome bonus when you open a new business checking account and meet the minimum balance requirements. This is a tiered bonus, the higher the balance, the more you can earn. It's worth noting that this bonus is higher than a recent one offered for similar tiers.
What's more? You can earn an extra bonus up to $1,000 when you also open a new BMO Elite Business Money Market account with qualifying activities.
Business Checking - up to $600 bonus
Expires: December 8, 2023
The Business Checking signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $600 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new BMO Harris business account online or in branch using the link below.
- On day 120, have an average collected balance of at least $4,000 to be eligible to earn $400 OR at least $10,000 to be eligible to earn $600.
- Within the first 120 days, complete 10 qualifying transactions. (any combination of: ACH credits or debits, online bill payments, mobile deposits, wire transfers or debit card POS purchase transactions).
- Bonus will be deposited into the new checking account within 14 days of meeting the promotion requirements, approximately Day 130.
Apply now to earn the $600 bonus from BMO
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14. Fidelity Investments
Fidelity has launched a new app to help you improve your savings habits. To help get the word out, they are offering a $100 welcome bonus when download the app and deposit at least $50. Fidelity Bloom® is a free app and debit card, with two brokerage accounts: one for saving, one for spending. The Fidelity Bloom® app features two brokerage accounts which are not bank accounts and not FDIC insured. Instead, as brokerage accounts, your cash is covered by SIPC.
What's more? You can earn an annual 10% savings match from Fidelity® on up to $300 of deposits to your Save account, bringing your total bonus to $130
The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however some of the offers may have expired.
Fidelity Bloom® - $100 bonus
Expires: December 11, 2023
The Fidelity Bloom® signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $100 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new Fidelity Bloom® account using the link below and deposit at least $50.
- At the end of the initial 7 day qualification period, have a balance of at least $50 in the account.
- Bonus will be deposited within 10 calendar days after the qualification period.
- Terms apply.
Apply now to earn the $100 bonus from Fidelity
Learn More:
15. First National Bank of Pennsylvania
First National Bank of Pennsylvania is not known for offering a lot of bonuses; however, this time they've come out swinging with a $1,000 bonus offer for opening a new business account and meeting certain deposit requirements. One of the best things about this offer is it can be done online, unlike many business checking offers.
Compak Business Checking - up to $1000 bonus
Expires: December 15, 2023
The Compak Business Checking signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $1000 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new FNB Compak Business Checking or a Small Business Financial Solutions checking account with promocode SB100023SB.
- Within 30 days, deposit a minimum of $5,000 to $14,999.99 and maintain a minimum balance of $5,000 for 60 days (to earn $300) OR deposit $15,000 or greater and maintain a minimum balance of $15,000 for 60 days (to earn $600).
- Within 90 days, make 20 qualifying transactions (including but not limited to point-of-sale transactions that settle and post to your account within the 90-day period), earn $200.
- Enroll in Online Banking within 90 days of account opening to earn another $200.
Apply now to earn the $1000 bonus from First National Bank of Pennsylvania
Learn More:
16. CIBC Bank USA
CIBC is upping it's game by offering a bonus on its Agility Savings account. This online-only account already comes with a high yield (5.01% APY as of the time this article was written), but now they've sweetened the deal with the opportunity to earn up to $500 in bonus cash.
This is a tiered bonus, the more new money you can deposit, the more you can earn. With that said, the minimum threshold is $25,000 so it's not super easy unless you have extra chunk of cash lying around.
Agility Savings - up to $500 bonus
Expires: December 19, 2023
The Agility Savings signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $500 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new or have an existing Agility Savings account.
- Increase the balance during the promo period as follows: $25,000 - $49,999, earn $250; $50,000+, earn $500.
- Maintain at least these balance tiers until March 18, 2024.
- Bonus will be deposited no later than May 17, 2024.
Apply now to earn the $500 bonus from CIBC
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17. Huntington National Bank
Huntington is offering a couple of welcome bonuses to customers opening new personal checking accounts. This promotion offers $800 for a $25,000 deposit into their premium Platinum Perks Checking account.
They're also running a similar deal for new Perks Checking accountholders, which is their middle-tier personal checking product. That one offers $400 for a direct deposit, in case you don't have the cash to meet this promotion's terms.
Platinum Perks Checking - $800 bonus
Expires: December 22, 2023
The Platinum Perks Checking signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $800 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new Huntington Platinum Perks Checking account using the link below.
- Within 90 days, make deposits totaling $25,000.
- Keep your account open for 90 days.
- Bonus will be deposited to your new account within 14 days of meeting the requirements.
Apply now to earn the $800 bonus from Huntington
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18. Redstone Federal Credit Union
Redstone Federal Credit Union is offering members a $600 bonus for opening their first personal checking account. It's a solid offer considering the requirements: just make ten purchases using your debit card and log into their online banking portal.
The account can be opened online or at your local branch using the NEW600 promo code. If you opt to open it in-person, they will also waive the $25 opening deposit requirement.
Like all credit union bonuses, you'll of course also need to qualify to become a member (or be an existing member who doesn't already have a checking account).
Personal Checking - $600 bonus
Expires: December 23, 2023
The Personal Checking signup offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the $600 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new personal checking account using the promo code NEW600.
- Within 60 days, make (10) debit card purchases.
- Within the same 60 days, log in to RFCU's online banking at least once.
- Bonus will be credited to your checking account within 150 days of account opening.
Apply now to earn the $600 bonus from Redstone Federal Credit Union
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19. M1 Finance
If you already have funds invested on another platform, you can earn big when you transfer funds to an M1 Finance account.
Right now, you can earn a bonus of up to $10,000 for making the switch. This is one of the largest bonus they've offered to date! This time around they've halved the minimum to qualify ($50K).
All you have to do is open a new account that matches the type you’re transferring from, upload some documents, and you’ll be in line for the bonus.
The total bonus that you get depends on the amount of your transfer:
- $50,000 – $249,999.99: $250
- $250,000 – $499,999.99: $1,000
- $500,000 – $999,999.99: $2,000
- $1,000,000 – $1,999,999.99: $4,000
- $2,000,000+: $10,000
What's more, if you're a new M1 Invest customer, you can stack this bonus with their new account bonus, which offers $75-$500.
M1 Invest [ACATS Transfer] - up to $10000 bonus
Expires: December 25, 2023
The M1 Invest [ACATS Transfer] signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $10000 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new M1 Invest account that matches the account type you have at another brokerage.
- Within 60 days, submit a transfer request from your current brokerage(s). The size of your bonus will depend on the total account value: $50,000 to earn $250; $250,000 to earn $1,000; $500,000 to earn $2,000; $1M to earn $4,000; $2M+ to earn $10,000.
- Bonus will be credited to your account on September 30, 2024.
Apply now to earn the $10000 bonus from M1
Learn More:
20. M&T Bank
M&T is offering $350 if you open one of their premium checking accounts and maintain a minimum balance through November.
Be sure to enter your zipcode on the linked offer page, which will auto apply the appropriate promo code if you're within a targeted zipcode. Many readers have tried to apply the promo to an outside zip, and while the system allows you to move forward, you'll be "surprised" with no bonus payout when that time comes.
MyChoice Premium - $350 bonus
Expires: December 28, 2023
The MyChoice Premium signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $350 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new M&T MyChoice Premium Checking account online at the link below or in-branch using the promocode
- Maintain an average daily balance of at least $10,000 for January 2024 and February 2024.
- Bonus will be credit to your account by 03/31/2024.
Apply now to earn the $350 bonus from M&T
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21. Pentagon Federal Credit Union
Available nationwide, PenFed is offering up to a $750 welcome bonus when you open a new Premium Online Savings account and deposit new money. The amount you'll depends on how much money you deposit. They are offering $150 for each $10,000 deposited, up to $50,000 ($750 total). This is the first time we've seen this bonus from PenFed, so now is a good time to jump on it.
Premium Online Savings - up to $750 bonus
Expires: December 30, 2023
The Premium Online Savings signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $750 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new PenFed Premium Online Savings.
- By December 30, make new money deposits – For every $10,000 deposited, you'll earn $150, up to a max of $750 bonus.
- Maintain the account funded until April 30, 2024.
- Bonus will be deposited within 60 days of completing the requirements
Apply now to earn the $750 bonus from PenFed
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22. Bank of America
If you're a business owner in the market for a new checking account, be sure to check out this offer from Bank of America.
They're offering a $200 cash bonus when you open a new Bank of America® Business Advantage Banking account and maintain qualifying deposits. See offers page more details.
To qualify, you can choose between the Bank of America Business Advantage Relationship Banking or Business Advantage Fundamentals™ Banking accounts. Both have monthly fees that can be waived if minimum deposits amounts are met. See below for more details.. Then, you'll just need to deposit $5,000 into your new account. Pretty simple!
Bank of America® Business Advantage Banking - $200 bonus
Expires: December 31, 2023
The Bank of America® Business Advantage Banking signup offer requires you to deposit and maintain a minimum balance in order to earn the $200 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new Bank of America® Business Advantage Banking account.
- Within 30 days, make qualifying deposits of $5,000 or more in new money.
- For the next 60 days, maintain an average balance of $5,000.
- Bonus will be deposited directly into your Business Advantage Banking account within 60 days from the end of your qualifying period.
Apply now to earn the $200 bonus from Bank of America
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23. East Cambridge Savings Bank
East Cambridge Savings Bank is stepping up to the plate to offer businesses up to $475 when you open a new business checking account.
This is a tiered, two part bonus. The first part requires deposits (these don't necessarily need to be direct deposits) and has a balance requirement. For meeting this, you'll earn the lion's share of the bonus: $450 for $1k deposits and an average monthly balance of $3,500, or $300 for $500 deposits and a $2,000 average monthly balance.
The second part rewards you for point-of-sale transactions, but is capped at $25.
Overall, the terms are very reasonable. However, it will require you to go in branch to sign up.
East Cambridge Business Checking - up to $475 bonus
Expires: December 31, 2023
The East Cambridge Business Checking signup offer requires you to optionally, deposit and maintain a minimum balance and make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the $475 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new East Cambridge Business Checking account in-branch.
- Enroll in eStatements.
- In the following 3 statement cycles, make 5 deposits of $1,000 (deposits can be external, mobile, or in-person) AND maintain a monthly average balance of $3,500.00 to earn $450.
- In the same 3 statement cycles, earn $1 for each debit card purchase that's at least $150, up to $25 total.
- Bonus(es) will be deposited in the 4th statement cycle.
Apply now to earn the $475 bonus from East Cambridge Savings Bank
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24. Partner Colorado Credit Union
Available to members 18-26, Partner Colorado Credit Union is offering a $100 welcome bonus when you open a new Ascent Checking account. After opening the account, you just need to use it: qualifying activities include debit card purchases, online bill payments and ACH credits. It's a rare bonus for youth, so jump on it if you qualify.
Ascent Checking - $100 bonus
Expires: December 31, 2023
The Ascent Checking signup offer requires you to optionally, make purchases using the account's card and set up bill pay in order to earn the $100 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Join Partner Colorado CU and open a new Ascent checking account using the link below.
- Within 60 days, complete 10 qualifying transactions (debit card purchases, online bill payments, or ACH credits).
- Bonus will be deposited into your new checking account within 15 days of meeting the requirements.
Apply now to earn the $100 bonus from Partner Colorado Credit Union
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25. BMI Federal Credit Union
To finish out 2023, BMI Federal Credit Union is now offering new members $200 for opening a new personal checking account and using your debit card. In the past, we've seen welcome bonuses as high as $250, but also as low as $150 so this is still a pretty solid deal.
What's more? If you work at a preferred employer, you can receive an additional $100 on top of any promotion with promo code PEG100
Free Checking Account - $200 bonus
Expires: December 31, 2023
The Free Checking Account signup offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the $200 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Open a new checking account using the promo code NEWCHK23 and with a minimum $20 opening deposit.
- Sign up for eStatements.
- Within 90 days, make 30 debit card transactions of at least $5/each.
- Bonus will be credited within 10 days of meeting the requirements.
Apply now to earn the $200 bonus from BMI FCU
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Want to see even more new account offers?
Credit Card Bonuses Don’t Require Direct Deposit
In addition to bank promotions, another way to earn bonus cash without needing to set up direct deposit is to explore credit card offers.
These almost always require you to spend a certain amount using your new card, and you’re usually given a few months to meet that requirement.
One caveat: always compare the spending requirement to your normal budget. If you need to make unplanned purchases, the sign-up bonus isn’t worth it.
But if the bonus fits into your normal spending, or you time the offer for when you have big purchases planned, then these can be an awesome way to earn sign-up cash without the need for direct deposit.
Here are a few credit card offers to consider:
- The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: 120,000 bonus points
- Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card: $900 bonus
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: 75,000 bonus miles
- The Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card: 2% cashback on purchases
- Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card: 1.5% Cash Back
1. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a new cardmember offer that can see you earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $15,000 within the first three months on eligible purchases.
You also get a whole host of other annual perks including up to $400 back per year toward U.S. purchases with Dell Technologies, up to $150 back per year for select business subscription purchases with Adobe, a $200 airline fee credit and more! Enrollment required.
This is in addition to the lounge access and 5x points on airline and hotel purchases through amextravel.com. Terms Apply. Keep in mind, these perks come at a price, as there's a $695 annual fee.
Plus, use your Membership Rewards to Pay with Points for a first class or business class flight with any airline available through American Express Travel and you receive 35% of the points back. Or get 35% of the points back when you book a flight in any class with your pre-selected qualifying airline. *up to 1 million points back per calendar year.
The American Express Business Platinum Card comes with a hefty annual fee, but the luxury card is well worth it for businesses that travel frequently and spend big, with high rewards, credits, and elite hotel and lounge benefits. Terms Apply.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express - 120,000 bonus points
The The Business Platinum Card® from American Express offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the 120,000 bonus points. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for The Business Platinum Card® from American Express using the link below.
- Within 3 months, spend $15,000 using your new card.
- Bonus will be credited within 8-12 weeks of meeting the requirements in the form of Membership Rewards points.
Learn more about the The Business Platinum Card® from American Express 120,000 bonus points offer
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2. Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
In addition to the other card perks like cash back and no annual fee, Chase is offering a $900 bonus to new Ink Business Unlimited® cardholders.
The Ink Business Unlimited Card from Chase offers steady cashback across all categories, so you don’t have to worry about tracking bonus categories or spending caps. It’s a great option for earning modest rewards with a welcome bonus and a host of ongoing incentives for applicants.
Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card - $900 bonus
The Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the $900 bonus. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for a new Ink Business Unlimited® credit card using the link below.
- Within 3 months, spend $6,000 using your new card.
- Bonus will be credited within 6 to 8 weeks in the form of 90,000 points, which can be redeemed for $900 cash.
Learn more about the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card $900 bonus offer
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3. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card comes with a 75,000 mile welcome bonus. All you need to do to qualify is make $4,000 worth of purchases within three months of opening the account.
The card has a somewhat high annual fee; however, lower compared to other similar premium cards. Cardholders also enjoy perks such as $300 in statement credits for bookings through Capital One Travel, up to a $100 credit on Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® and access to select airport lounges.
If you’re looking for a travel card with generous bonus category rewards, travel credits, and bonuses, take a look at the Capital One Venture X Rewards Card. It's a happy medium for road warriors who spend enough to offset an annual fee but don't quite want to commit to an elite card.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card - 75,000 bonus miles
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the 75,000 bonus miles. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for a new Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card using the link below.
- Within 3 months, spend $4,000 using your new card.
- Bonus will be credited to your rewards balance within 2 billing cycles.
Learn more about the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card 75,000 bonus miles offer
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4. The Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card
Looking for a credit card with straightforward earning potential with no complicated categories to keep up with? The Bread Cashback Card earns 2% cashback on all purchases when you use your card. Earnings can be redeemed as a statement credit or direct deposit to your bank account.
This card does not come with a signup bonus; however, it has no annual fee and excellent rewards. If you like to travel, you can also use this card overseas with the worry of foreign transaction fees.
The Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card - 2% cashback on purchases
The The Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the 2% cashback on purchases. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Apply for The Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card.
- Earn 2% cash back on purchases when you use your Card.
Learn more about the The Bread Cashback™ American Express® Credit Card 2% cashback on purchases offer
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5. Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card
USAA offers a straightforward way to earn cash back rewards for members that signup for their Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card. There are no categories to keep track of and no limits on how much you can earn. Just a simple 1.5% cash back rewards which can be redeemed 24/7 online.
USAA products and services are open to current and former military and their spouses. Dependents and eligible former dependents of USAA members may join USAA.
Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card - 1.5% Cash Back
The Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card offer requires you to make purchases using the account's card in order to earn the 1.5% Cash Back. Full requirements to receive this bonus are:
- Be or become a member of USAA to apply.
- Signup for a Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card using the link below.
- Use the card for your everyday purchases.
Learn more about the Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card 1.5% Cash Back offer
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Want to see even more credit card bonuses?
Direct Deposit Requirement: What Counts?
While the above list only includes bank bonuses without a direct deposit requirement, you may be surprised to learn that other bank offers that do require a direct deposit may still be within your reach.
The crux is around what each bank considers to be a qualifying direct deposit.
Spoiler alert: it can vary.
So, what counts as a “qualifying” direct deposit?
It’s true, the bank does not see all deposits as equal.
Why not?
It gets to the heart of what the bank is trying to have you do by offering a bonus reward in exchange for opening a new account and setting up direct deposit: commit to the account and continue using it, long after you’ve met the bonus requirements.
So, to that end, a “qualifying direct deposit” is, strictly speaking, a reoccurring deposit made by your employer or the government (such as for social security benefits).
But, as we alluded earlier, this definition is not shared among all banks.
For example:
- Capital One 360: Transfers from brokerage accounts such as Fidelity, Schwab, and Ameritrade fulfill the direct deposit requirement.
- Bank of America: Transfers from prepaid debit cards such as Bluebird and Serve count as direct deposits.
- KeyBank: Transfers from PayPal will be coded as direct deposit.
- U.S. Bank: Transfers initiated from many online banks such as Ally, Discover, and USAA will fulfill the direct deposit requirement.
As always, look to the bonus terms and fine print to guide you. It will almost always clearly state what counts as direct deposit and what does not.
Learn More About Bank Bonuses and Their Requirements
Bank bonuses – particularly those that don’t even require direct deposit – are easy money.
However, it can be time-consuming trying to stay on top of offers that are constantly changing.
Plus, if you’re new to bank promotions, your head may spin for a bit trying to learn the nuances, requirements, and pitfalls.
Fortunately, we can help.
By entering your email address below, you’ll get instant access to:
- Why banks run these deals and how they make money
- How to meet the requirements
- Pitfalls to avoid
- Insider tips to maximize your earnings
- The newest offers available in your area
…basically everything you need to go from “I’m so confused!” to earning some of the easiest money you’ve ever made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bank of America offer bonuses?
Bank of America does offer some sign-up bonuses, but unfortunately, you can’t get your hands on them without signing up for a direct deposit.
This is common with bigger banks, so you can expect to run into the same problem with banks like T.D. Bank, PNC, or HSBC.
That said, bank promotions are fluid — meaning they come and go all the time. So just because one bank isn’t offering something that works for you now doesn’t mean that they won’t work in the future.
Do checking offers expire?
Yes. Any bank offer is usually tied to an expiration date. Promotions can last anywhere from months to years, but they are almost always held to a certain timeframe.
If you’re interested in taking advantage of an offer, be sure to look into the fine print and figure out how long you have to sign up.
As a general rule of thumb, if you need a new bank account and the sign-up bonus is appealing, don’t delay.
Why can’t I find a bank promotion without direct deposit requirements?
Usually, you have to dig through a bank’s website to find bonuses, but we launched BankBonus.com to make it easy to find the best bank bonuses in one place.
If you’re struggling to find a promotion that you read about online, it’s possible that it expired or that the bank pulled it. It happens all the time.
Take some time to search through this site and sign up for our newsletter so you can get alerts when new bonuses drop.
Can I qualify for a bonus with credit card funding?
It depends. Some banks allow you to open a bank with a credit card, but many don’t. If you go this route, make sure that your credit card issuer flags the deposit as a purchase and not as a cash advance so you can avoid unnecessary fees.
Also, keep in mind that a lot of banks don’t accept American Express or Discover for credit card funding, so you’ll probably have better luck with a Visa or MasterCard.
Are bank bonuses taxable?
Yes, the money you earn from a new account bonus – regardless of whether it requires direct deposit or not – will be reported to the IRS and taxed as income. Keep this in mind when you’re figuring out your total return on any given offer.
Are Bank Promotions without Direct Deposit Requirements For You?
Choosing the right bank account is an important step in your personal finance journey.
While a bonus offer should never be the main reason you sign up for an account, it doesn’t hurt to take advantage of one of them if the bank meets your other criteria.
The key is finding an FDIC-insured bank account that works best for you. You might also want overdraft protection and the ability to earn cash back on your purchases.
If you are like the millions of others that don’t have direct deposit, don’t worry. You still have a ton of options.
Take some time to shop around and think about what’s most important. The right bank promotions without direct deposit are out there for you.
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