Banks are paying big cash bonuses in early 2026 to attract new customers. Right now, the best bank account bonuses range from $300 to $1,000, simply for opening a new checking or business account and meeting a few basic requirements.
For everyday Americans, these bonuses can be an easy way to earn extra money—especially if you’re already planning to change banks or open a new account for direct deposit or business use.
Below, we break down the best bank account bonuses available in January 2026, explain how they work in plain English, and help you decide which offers are worth your time.
Quick Snapshot: Top Bank Bonuses Right Now
Here are some of the strongest offers currently available:
-
Chase Total Checking – $400
-
SoFi Checking & Savings – $50 or $300
-
Huntington Perks Checking – $400
-
Truist One Checking – $400
-
Wells Fargo Everyday Checking – $325
-
TD Bank Beyond Checking – $300
-
PNC Virtual Wallet (Performance Select) – $400
-
Chase Business Complete Checking – up to $500
-
U.S. Bank Business Essentials Checking – $400
-
Huntington Unlimited Plus Business Checking – $1,000
Most of these bonuses are tied to direct deposits or maintaining a minimum balance for a set period.
Best Personal Checking Account Bonuses
Chase Total Checking – $400
Chase currently offers one of the easiest large bonuses to earn.
How it works:
Open a new Chase Total Checking account and receive at least $1,000 in direct deposits within 90 days. Once the requirements are met, Chase deposits the $400 bonus directly into your account.
Why it’s appealing:
This bonus is ideal if you already receive a paycheck or government benefits by direct deposit.
Good to know:
You won’t qualify if you’ve had a Chase checking account recently or received a Chase checking bonus in the last two years.
SoFi Checking and Savings – $50 or $300
SoFi’s bonus depends on how much money you direct deposit.
-
Deposit $1,000 → earn $50
-
Deposit $5,000 → earn $300
Why it’s appealing:
SoFi has no monthly fees and offers both checking and savings in one place.
Real-life example:
If you move your paycheck to SoFi and earn $2,500 a month, you’ll likely qualify for the $50 tier without changing your spending habits.
Huntington Perks Checking – $400
Huntington offers a solid bonus with a relatively low deposit requirement.
How it works:
Receive $500 or more in direct deposits within 90 days, then keep the account open. The $400 bonus arrives shortly after.
Best for:
Residents in the Midwest and nearby states where Huntington operates.
Truist One Checking – $400
Truist’s bonus requires a little more effort but offers a strong payout.
Requirements include:
-
At least $2,000 in total direct deposits
-
20 debit card purchases within 120 days
Who this is best for:
People who regularly use their debit card and don’t mind meeting transaction requirements.
Wells Fargo Everyday Checking – $325
Wells Fargo’s offer is straightforward.
How it works:
Open an account and receive $1,000 in direct deposits within 90 days.
Important detail:
Transfers from apps like Venmo or Zelle don’t count—only employer or government deposits qualify.
TD Bank Beyond Checking – $300
TD Bank requires higher deposits but offers a reliable bonus.
Key requirement:
At least $2,500 in qualifying direct deposits within 60 days, with each deposit being $250 or more.
Downside:
You must wait several months before the bonus is paid.
PNC Virtual Wallet (Performance Select) – $400
PNC’s bonus is competitive but comes with a higher deposit threshold.
Requirement:
Receive $5,000 in qualifying direct deposits within 60 days.
Best for:
Higher-income earners or those consolidating multiple income sources.
Best Business Bank Account Bonuses
Chase Business Complete Checking – Up to $500
This bonus is available to small business owners, freelancers, and sole proprietors.
How it works:
Deposit $2,000 to earn $300, or $10,000 to earn $500. You must also keep the balance and complete a few basic transactions.
Good fit for:
Side hustles, online sellers, and self-employed workers.
U.S. Bank Business Essentials Checking – $400
U.S. Bank offers a solid bonus with moderate requirements.
Key steps include:
-
Deposit $5,000 in new money
-
Maintain that balance for 60 days
-
Complete six qualifying transactions
Huntington Unlimited Plus Business Checking – $1,000
This is the largest bonus currently available.
What’s required:
-
Deposit $20,000
-
Maintain the balance for at least 60 days
Who should consider this:
Established businesses with consistent cash flow that can afford to park money temporarily.
How Bank Bonuses Actually Work (Beginner-Friendly Explanation)
Think of a bank bonus like a welcome gift. Banks want your deposits, so they pay you for bringing your money—and staying for a bit.
Most bonuses follow the same basic steps:
-
Open a new account through a promotion
-
Deposit money (often via direct deposit)
-
Keep the account open and in good standing
-
Wait for the bonus to be paid
If you miss a step or withdraw funds too early, the bonus usually disappears.
Are Bank Bonuses Worth It?
For most people, yes—if you follow the rules carefully.
Example:
Earning $400 for switching direct deposit is the equivalent of getting paid hundreds of dollars for about 30 minutes of setup time.
Just watch out for:
-
Monthly fees
-
Minimum balance requirements
-
Tax reporting (bonuses are taxable income)
Final Thoughts
Bank account bonuses in January 2026 are some of the most generous we’ve seen in years. Whether you’re opening a personal checking account or a business account, there are real opportunities to earn hundreds—or even $1,000—just for moving your money.
If you already have steady income or business cash flow, these bonuses can be one of the easiest ways to boost your finances without changing your spending habits.
