How bank account bonuses work
A bank bonus is conditional on opening the eligible account and completing its requirements. Separate the reward from deposits, fees, and the time your funds are committed.
Read the promotion before applying
Check the account name, promotion code, opening window, prior-customer exclusions, and eligible location. The account’s ordinary fee terms and the bonus terms are both relevant. Keep a copy of the promotion you use.
Complete the qualifying activity
A campaign may require a defined direct deposit, minimum balance, debit activity, or several actions. Track the exact amounts and dates. An ordinary transfer should not be assumed to meet a direct-deposit requirement.
Keep the account compliant
Read the payout period and any retention conditions. Include fees in your estimate and confirm what happens if the account closes early. Do not use the pending bonus as money available for immediate expenses.
Illustration: a $200 bonus with $30 in unavoidable fees leaves $170 before tax. A $1,000 balance requirement ties up money but is not itself a $1,000 expense.
Explore saved examples
Catalogue examples, not verified current payout promises. Confirm the reward and full conditions in your account.
Keep exploring
Before you commit
Eligible account and promotion
Check the account name, promotion code, opening window, prior-customer exclusions, and eligible location. The account’s ordinary fee terms and the bonus terms are both relevant. Keep a copy of the promotion you use.
Qualifying activity documented
A campaign may require a defined direct deposit, minimum balance, debit activity, or several actions. Track the exact amounts and dates. An ordinary transfer should not be assumed to meet a direct-deposit requirement.
Fees and retention period known
Read the payout period and any retention conditions. Include fees in your estimate and confirm what happens if the account closes early. Do not use the pending bonus as money available for immediate expenses.
Sources and terms: TopCashback explanation · Rakuten tracking guidance · CFPB bank account guidance. Advertiser-specific conditions take precedence.