When times are financially tight, every dollar matters. Small financial opportunities can make a big difference—and bank account bonuses are one of those opportunities. By choosing the right bank account (or even a credit card) with a well-timed bonus, you could be making hundreds of extra dollars this year.

If you’re looking for a way to stretch your dollar further, or if you simply want to be more financially savvy, this article covers the best bonuses, cash-back rewards, and perks available in 2025. Let’s explore how to maximize these offers to give your wallet some breathing room.

What Are Bank Account Bonuses and Why Should You Care?

Bank account bonuses are promotional offers that banks use to attract new customers. Typically, they’ll promise you a set amount of money—sometimes up to $500—just for opening a new account and meeting a few requirements like depositing a certain amount or setting up direct deposit.

For anyone looking to make some extra cash without needing an extra job, bank account bonuses are a no-brainer. They’re:

• Low effort: It often takes less than 10 minutes to apply online.
• Risk-free: Unlike investments, there’s no losing your money—only gaining.
• Flexible: Offers range widely, so you can find a bonus that fits your needs.

You might be leaving free money on the table without even realizing it!

Credit Card Rewards as Another Way to Stretch Your Dollar

While bank account bonuses are great, don’t overlook the potential of credit card rewards. A thoughtfully chosen credit card can put cash back in your pocket on everyday purchases like groceries, gas, and dining out.

Types of credit card rewards include:

• Cash back: Get a percentage of your spending returned, typically between 1–5%.
• Travel points: Use points to cover flights, hotels, and even rental cars.
• Sign-up bonuses: Similar to bank bonuses, you can earn bonuses of $200+ by spending a set amount within the first few months.

For example, the Chase Freedom Flex offers rotating categories with 5% cash back, and the American Express Blue Cash Preferred gives 6% back on groceries and streaming services. Credit cards can be another tool to help your finances go further when used responsibly.

The Biggest Bank Account Bonuses in 2025

Here are some of the most lucrative bank account bonuses available right now. These accounts offer serious cash rewards and benefits, helping you make extra money or offset monthly expenses.

1. Chase Total Checking – $300 Bonus

One of the most popular offers on the market, Chase Total Checking makes it easy to unlock $300:

• Requirements: Open an account and set up direct deposit within 90 days.
• Minimum deposit: $0 to open.
• Why it’s great: Chase boasts one of the largest ATM networks and offers an easy-to-use mobile app.

2. Bank of America Advantage Banking – $200 Bonus

Bank of America is offering $200 for opening a new Advantage Banking account:

• Requirements: Receive at least $2,000 in direct deposits within the first 90 days.
• Minimum deposit: $100.
• Why it’s great: Bank of America has robust customer service and financial tools for tracking expenses.

3. Citi Priority Checking – Up to $2,000 Bonus

Looking for a massive bonus? Citi Priority Checking offers up to $2,000, but it’s a tiered system:

• Requirements: Deposit and maintain a qualifying balance for 60 days.
• $10,000 = $200 bonus
• $30,000 = $500 bonus
• $300,000 = $2,000 bonus
• Minimum deposit: $0, but the bonus depends on deposits.
• Why it’s great: Citi offers global access and top-tier benefits for high-value accounts.

4. PNC Virtual Wallet – $400 Bonus

PNC gives new customers up to $400 for opening a Virtual Wallet account:

• Requirements:
• $2,000 in direct deposits for a $200 bonus.
• $5,000 in direct deposits for the full $400.
• Minimum deposit: $0 for the basic tier.
• Why it’s great: PNC’s online tools are excellent for budgeting and money management.

5. Wells Fargo Everyday Checking – $300 Bonus

Wells Fargo keeps things simple with this $300 bonus:

• Requirements: Open an account and receive $1,000 in direct deposits within 90 days.
• Minimum deposit: $25.
• Why it’s great: Wells Fargo offers convenience with over 4,900 branches across the U.S.

6. Capital One 360 Performance Savings – $1,000 Bonus

This high-yield savings account offers new users up to $1,000:

• Requirements:
• Deposit $10,000 for a $100 bonus.
• Deposit $100,000 for the full $1,000 bonus.
• Why it’s great: No monthly fees and competitive interest rates.

Honorable Mention – Regional and Online Banks

Don’t forget to check out regional or smaller online banks, which often feature great bonuses. For instance, Ally Bank or Discover often have compelling offers with minimal requirements.

How to Maximize These Bonuses

Getting the most value out of bank and credit card bonuses involves strategy:

1. Choose wisely. Avoid opening too many accounts. Focus on the ones with the best terms for your financial situation.
2. Read the fine print. Make sure you understand requirements like minimum deposits, monthly fees, or direct deposit rules before applying.
3. Automate your deposits. Setting up direct deposits ensures you don’t miss out on the bonus.
4. Track your accounts. Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to monitor when promotional periods end and when fees might kick in.
5. Stay organized. Meet the bonus requirements but keep track of withdrawal limits, closing dates, and when to stop paying fees.

Start Earning Today

Bank and credit card bonuses are like a gift you didn’t ask for but definitely want—free money, better deals, and exclusive perks. Whether you’re looking for a savings boost, better rewards on daily purchases, or banking perks like higher interest rates, there are plenty of opportunities out there.

Your Next Step:

Start by picking one or two offers that fit your needs. Then, complete the application process (which is often as quick as clicking a button!). From there, you’ll be well on your way to having extra cash in your pocket.

Maximizing the resources—and bonuses—available to you is one simple way to make financial challenges more manageable.

NOTE: These are the current offers available at publishing time, and please note that these are subject to change.