Some people like going to the bank. They can meet with their favorite teller, exchange pleasantries, and feel like they’ve accomplished an important errand.
Of course, that also comes with hunting for parking, standing in line, and missing your favorite daytime television shows.
So why not open a checking or savings account right from the convenience of your home?
No, you don’t have to have your banker stop by, so put the cookies and lemonade away.
You can actually just open a new bank account right from your computer—and get rewarded for it.
That’s right, banks are handing out free money to open checking accounts online.
Why are banks doing this?
Well, it certainly helps them trim down on operating expenses. More and more about banking has switched to remote services that can be accessed over the phone, online, or through an app on your phone.
Banks also want to have a relationship with clients that goes beyond the brick and mortar location. And that means online interaction.
From major institutions like Wells Fargo and Bank of America to more regional and local varieties, banks are interested in paying you to open an account online.
How it works
If you’re opening an account, you will have to provide some verifying information, just like you would need to do in person. You’ll need your Social Security number, and perhaps some sort of ID handy (like a driver’s license). You’ll also need to fill in basic info like your address.
Once that’s all done, you’ll need to fund the account. Some banks will request account and routing numbers from another institution, so that initial funds can be transferred.
In return for this relatively painless process, banks are handing out hundreds of dollars just for opening an account online.
In some cases, you’ll have to meet a few other requirements, like using your debit card a certain number of times, or depositing a certain amount in the account every month, before getting your reward.
Consider checking out some of the amazing offers that banks are offering right now. You might be surprised by the great bonuses you could qualify for.
