E*TRADE $300 Checking Account Bonus (2026) - Review & Requirements
What Counts as Direct Deposit
Based on community data points and bank terms. Employer payroll is always the safest method. "Mixed" means some users report success but it is not guaranteed.
Overview
E*TRADE's $300 Max-Rate Checking bonus requires two direct deposits of $1,500+ each within 90 days. The $15/month fee (waivable with $5,000 balance) is a consideration, but the bonus itself is straightforward. Good for people already in the Morgan Stanley/E*TRADE ecosystem or those with larger paychecks.
Who This Checking Bonus Is Best For
Higher earners with $1,500+ per-deposit paychecks who want to add E*TRADE to their bonus rotation. Also good for people who already use E*TRADE for investing and want to consolidate banking.
How to Maximize This Bonus
Use promo code CHECKING25 when opening. Fund within 30 days, then route two direct deposits of at least $1,500 each within 90 days. If you're paid biweekly at $1,500+, you'll qualify within one month. Keep a $5,000 balance to waive the $15/month fee, or plan to close after the 120-day holding period. The bonus posts around day 120.
Pros
Cons
How This Compares to Other Bonuses
E*TRADE's $300 for $3,000 total DD (two $1,500 deposits) compares to Capital One ($300 for $1,000 total DD) and PSECU ($300 for $1,000 total DD). The per-deposit requirement is significantly higher. Unless you're specifically interested in E*TRADE's banking features, Capital One offers a simpler path to the same $300.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CHECKING25 promo code?
CHECKING25 is E*TRADE's promo code for the $300 checking bonus. Enter it during account opening to qualify.
Does E*TRADE do a hard pull?
Reports are mixed. A ChexSystems inquiry is typical, but whether it's a hard or soft credit pull isn't consistently documented. Your credit score is unlikely to be significantly affected.
How do I waive the monthly fee?
Maintain a $5,000 average monthly balance in your Max-Rate Checking account. If you can't maintain this, plan to close the account after the 120-day holding period.
Related Bonus Reviews
Full Requirements
Use promo code CHECKING25, fund within 30 days, and receive at least two qualifying direct deposits of $1,500+ each within 90 days.
Fees
$15 monthly fee waived with $5,000 average monthly balance.
ChexSystems & Credit Pull
Historically Chex inquiry is reported; pull type (hard/soft) not explicitly stated.
Eligibility
Cannot have had E*TRADE Checking or Max-Rate Checking in past 12 months; one checking promo at a time.
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Bonus offers, requirements, and fees are determined by each financial institution and may change at any time. Always verify the current terms directly with the bank before applying. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.