Banking
How to Tell Whether a Bank Bonus Is Worth It
A requirements-first way to compare headline value with fees, effort, timing, and locked-up cash.
OfferRadar EditorialUpdated Jul 14, 20266 min read
01
Calculate the usable value
Start with the amount you could realistically qualify for—not the largest advertised tier.
- ✓Subtract unavoidable monthly fees
- ✓Account for required balances
- ✓Estimate opportunity cost
- ✓Do not count uncertain referral value
02
Price the requirements
Direct deposit changes, new-money rules, debit transactions, and holding periods all carry friction.
- ✓List every deadline
- ✓Confirm what counts as a qualifying deposit
- ✓Check early closure terms
- ✓Plan how you will verify completion
03
Make a go/no-go decision
Compare the likely net value with the time and risk involved, then verify the live provider terms.
- ✓Proceed only if eligibility is clear
- ✓Keep copies of terms
- ✓Set calendar reminders
- ✓Walk away when rules are ambiguous