Direct deposit
How to read direct deposit requirements.
A direct deposit requirement is usually the part of a bank bonus most likely to decide whether the offer is practical. Read the provider wording before opening the account.
1. Find the exact deposit definition
Most offers want payroll, pension, Social Security, or government benefits sent through ACH. Ordinary bank transfers, Zelle, Venmo, wires, mobile deposits, debit card credits, and trial deposits are commonly excluded.
2. Check the total and the count
Some bonuses require one deposit above a threshold. Others require multiple deposits, a cumulative total, or recurring deposits during a statement cycle. Record both the amount and the number of deposits required.
3. Track the deadline from account opening
Offer windows often start on the account opening date, not the first deposit date. If the 60th, 75th, or 90th day lands on a weekend or holiday, the provider may require deposits to post earlier.
4. Keep proof
Save the offer page, promo code, application date, employer direct deposit change date, deposit post dates, and payout date. If a deposit does not code correctly, clear records make support calls easier.
5. Avoid fee drift
Direct deposit can waive monthly fees on some accounts, but bonus qualification and fee waiver rules are separate. Confirm both sets of rules before assuming the account will remain free.