Are you ready to unlock a fantastic $400 bonus just by opening a new checking account? Truist Bank is offering an enticing promotion for new customers, and with a bit of careful planning, you can easily qualify for this generous reward. Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to make sure you get every penny!
How Do I Get the $400 Checking Bonus at Truist? A Step-by-Step Guide
Securing a bank bonus like Truist's $400 offer requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of the terms and conditions. While the specific offer details can vary and are subject to change, the general steps to qualify for a Truist checking bonus typically revolve around opening a new account and fulfilling specific direct deposit and/or debit card transaction requirements.
This guide is based on common Truist checking bonus requirements and publicly available information as of June 2025. Always verify the latest offer details directly on the Truist website or by speaking with a Truist representative before opening an account.
Step 1: Discover the Current Truist Offer and Eligibility
Before you do anything else, you need to confirm that the $400 checking bonus is currently active and that you meet the initial eligibility criteria. Bank promotions change frequently, so this is a crucial first step.
Sub-heading: Verifying the Promotion
- Visit the official Truist Bank website. Look for a "Promotions," "Offers," or "New Accounts" section.
- Specifically search for "Truist One Checking $400 bonus" or similar personal checking account offers.
- Pay close attention to the expiration date of the offer. This is extremely important! You'll need to complete all requirements before this date.
Sub-heading: Checking Your Eligibility
Truist, like most banks, has specific rules about who can qualify for a bonus. Generally, these include:
- New Customer Status: Most personal checking bonuses are for new Truist personal checking account clients. This usually means you cannot currently have a Truist personal checking account, or have closed one within a specified period (e.g., 90, 180 days, or even a year) prior to the promotion start date. If you've had a Truist personal checking account recently, you might not be eligible.
- Age and Residency: You must typically be at least 18 years old and a U.S. resident with a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), such as a Social Security Number (SSN).
- Geographic Restrictions: While Truist operates in many states, some promotions might be limited to specific regions. Double-check if your mailing address falls within the eligible states (e.g., AL, AR, FL, GA, IN, KY, MD, MS, NC, NJ, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV, or DC).
Step 2: Choose the Right Account and Apply
Based on current promotions, the $400 bonus is most frequently tied to the Truist One Checking account.
Sub-heading: Understanding the Truist One Checking Account
The Truist One Checking account often comes with benefits such as:
- No overdraft fees.
- A "Balance Buffer" feature (for eligible clients with qualifying direct deposits).
- Different benefit levels based on your combined monthly average balance with Truist.
Sub-heading: The Application Process
You typically have two main ways to open the account and apply for the bonus:
-
Online Application (Recommended):
- Click directly through the promotional offer link on the Truist website. This often helps ensure the correct promo code is automatically applied to your application.
- During the online application, look for a field to enter a promo code. If you don't see it, or if the offer isn't explicitly mentioned, stop and revisit the promotional page to ensure you're on the correct path. The promo code is critical for bonus eligibility. For example, a past code was "TRUIST400DC24," but this will vary by offer.
- Be prepared to provide your personal information, including your SSN, government-issued ID (like a driver's license), and possibly employment details.
-
In-Branch Application:
- If you prefer a face-to-face experience, visit a Truist branch.
- Crucially, bring the promo code with you and explicitly tell the banker you want to open the account with the $400 checking bonus promotion. Make sure they apply the correct code to your application. Do not assume they are aware of all current promotions or will apply it automatically.
Sub-heading: Minimum Opening Deposit
The Truist One Checking account generally requires a minimum opening deposit, often as low as $50. Make sure you fund the account with at least this amount when you open it.
Step 3: Fulfill the Direct Deposit Requirements
This is almost always the most important step to secure your bonus. Truist's $400 bonus typically requires qualifying direct deposits.
Sub-heading: Understanding "Qualifying Direct Deposits"
- What counts: Qualifying direct deposits usually include electronic deposits of your payroll, pension, government benefits (like Social Security), or other regular income from an employer or government entity.
- What does not count: Transfers from another bank account you own, internal transfers between Truist accounts, Zelle transactions, and peer-to-peer payments (like from Venmo or PayPal) generally do not qualify as direct deposits for bonus purposes.
- The Amount and Timeframe:
- For the $400 bonus, a common requirement is to receive two or more qualifying direct deposits totaling $1,000 or more within a specific timeframe, often 120 days of account opening.
- Alternatively, some past offers required a single direct deposit of $500 or more within 90 days. Always confirm the exact amount and timeframe for your specific offer.
Sub-heading: Setting Up Your Direct Deposit
- Contact your employer's HR or payroll department and provide them with your new Truist checking account number and routing number.
- Specify the amount you want direct deposited. To meet the $1,000 threshold (or whatever the specific offer requires), ensure enough of your paycheck (or other income) is routed to your new Truist account.
- Don't wait until the last minute! It can take one or two pay cycles for direct deposits to go into effect.
Step 4: Meet Any Additional Requirements (if applicable)
While direct deposits are the primary requirement, some Truist offers have included additional activities.
Sub-heading: Debit Card Purchases
Some past promotions have required a certain number of qualifying debit card purchases.
- For example, an offer might state you need to make 15 qualifying debit card purchases within 90 days of account opening.
- These purchases typically exclude ATM withdrawals, balance inquiries, and Zelle transactions. Regular everyday purchases (online or in-store) using your Truist debit card usually count.
Step 5: Maintain Account Status
Once you've met all the requirements, it's crucial to keep your account in good standing until the bonus is paid out.
- Keep the account open: Do not close the account until the $400 bonus has been successfully deposited.
- Maintain a positive balance: Ensure your account balance does not drop to $0.00 or a negative value. A minimum of $0.01 is usually sufficient to maintain eligibility.
- Good Standing: Avoid any fraudulent activity or excessive overdrafts.
Step 6: Receive Your Bonus!
Truist typically deposits the bonus directly into your new checking account within a few weeks (often within 4 weeks) after you have met and verified all the qualification requirements.
- Keep an eye on your account statements or online banking for the bonus deposit.
- If the bonus doesn't appear within the stated timeframe after you believe you've met all conditions, contact Truist customer service to inquire about its status.
Important Considerations:
- Promo Code Accuracy: Always double-check that the correct promo code is applied when opening the account. This is the most common reason people miss out on bonuses.
- Documentation: Keep records of your application, the offer terms, and confirmation of your direct deposits.
- Taxes: Bank bonuses are generally considered taxable income and may be reported to the IRS on Form 1099-INT. You are responsible for any applicable taxes.
- Monthly Maintenance Fees: Be aware of any monthly maintenance fees associated with the Truist One Checking account and how to waive them. Common waiver requirements include:
- Making $500 or more in total qualifying direct deposits per statement cycle.
- Maintaining a total combined ledger balance of $500 or more in Truist related accounts.
- Having a related Truist personal credit card, mortgage, or consumer loan.
- Being a student or under a certain age (e.g., 25) or over a certain age (e.g., 62).
By following these steps carefully, you'll be well on your way to enjoying that $400 bonus from Truist!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check if I'm eligible for the Truist $400 checking bonus?
You can check eligibility by reviewing the specific terms and conditions on the official Truist promotional page for the offer. Key criteria usually include being a new personal checking customer, meeting age and residency requirements, and not having closed a Truist checking account recently.
How to find the current promo code for the Truist $400 bonus?
The promo code is typically displayed directly on the Truist website's promotional offer page. When applying online, clicking through the offer link often auto-applies the code. If applying in-branch, you'll need to provide the code to the representative.
How to set up a qualifying direct deposit for the Truist bonus?
Contact your employer's HR or payroll department and provide them with your new Truist checking account and routing numbers. Ensure your direct deposit meets the minimum amount requirement (e.g., $1,000 total) within the specified timeframe (e.g., 120 days).
How to track my progress towards the Truist checking bonus requirements?
While Truist doesn't usually have a dedicated bonus tracker, you can monitor your direct deposits and debit card transactions through your online banking statements. Keep a personal record of dates and amounts to ensure you meet all conditions.
How to know when the Truist $400 bonus will be deposited?
Truist typically deposits the bonus into your new checking account within 4 weeks after all qualification requirements have been met and verified. Check your account statements or online banking regularly for the deposit.
How to avoid monthly maintenance fees on the Truist One Checking account?
Monthly maintenance fees for the Truist One Checking account can often be waived by meeting criteria such as maintaining a minimum combined balance, having qualifying direct deposits, or holding other Truist products like a credit card or loan. Specifics are detailed in the account's fee schedule.
How to handle taxes on the Truist checking bonus?
Bank bonuses are generally considered taxable income by the IRS. Truist will likely issue you a Form 1099-INT for the bonus amount, and you will need to report this on your income tax return. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
How to ensure my debit card purchases qualify for the bonus (if required)?
Qualifying debit card purchases usually include everyday purchases made with your physical debit card or through digital wallets. ATM withdrawals, Zelle transfers, and certain other transactions typically do not count. Check the specific offer terms for exclusions.
How to contact Truist customer service about my bonus status?
You can contact Truist customer service by phone (the number is usually on their website or your statements) or by visiting a local branch if you have questions about your bonus eligibility or status after fulfilling the requirements.
How to confirm the $400 bonus is still available in June 2025?
Always verify the current promotional offers directly on the official Truist Bank website. Promotions are time-sensitive and can change, so checking their website is the most reliable way to confirm availability and terms for June 2025 or any given period.