How to Make Sure You Qualify for the Best Bank Account Sign-On Bonus
2 min read
Sign-on bonuses can be a big part of the appeal if you’re considering signing up for a new bank account. Many people look into these kinds of front-loaded benefits when choosing a new bank account, and that’s why the practice has become so widespread. However, if you want the best from your bank account, you need to make sure that you’re getting the best sign-on bonus as well. Here are four things you can do to make sure you’re getting the most out of your bonus.
1. Know the Requirements Up-Front
One of the first things you need to do is make sure you know all the requirements for your bank account sign-on bonus. Most of these are fairly simple. For example, the Chase Secure Banking bonus requires that you make 10 qualifying transactions within the first 60 days of having your account. These are the basics so that you can receive the bonus that you were promised when you first signed up.
2. Read All the Fine Print
Next, it’s a good idea to read the fine print in the terms and conditions. This fine print will often give you more insight into what is and isn’t allowed when you use the account and in order to receive your bonus. In the case of the Chase Secure Banking bonus, for example, “qualifying transactions” only covers certain ways of using your account, which means that some types of transactions you make won’t count. Check these “fine-print” elements before you actually sign up.
3. See How the Bonus Might Clash With Maintenance Fees
Many bank accounts, though not all, have maintenance fees that you may need to pay when you sign up for the bank account. These are typically monthly, compared to credit card fees, which are typically yearly. If you’re interested in getting the most out of your bonus, you want to make sure that the bonus is great when it stacks up to the monthly maintenance fee.
4. See What Long-Term Benefits the Bank Account Might Offer
A sign-on bonus is an important part of a bank account, but it’s a front-loaded benefit that you’ll only get one time. If you want the best benefits from a bank account, you want to look at general benefits. These benefits may include fee-free money orders and cashier’s checks, overdraft protection, and ATM access, among other things. Qualifying for the best long-term benefits requires that you choose your bank account wisely.
Conclusion
Bank account sign-on bonuses are a common way that accounts try to get you to sign up for their service over someone else’s. However, while they’re very common, they’re also all different, and it’s very important that you get the best sign-on bonus that will work for your specific needs. No matter what those needs are, there’s a bank account that will help you benefit as much as possible, and these four elements will allow you to do it.
