Just tips:
BMO is offering a $400 cash bonus* when you open a new personal checking account and set up direct deposit. If you can send $4,000 in qualifying direct deposits in 90 days, that’s $400 in your pocket — and depending on the account you choose, no monthly fee and no minimum balance to maintain.
Bank account bonuses are one of the most straightforward ways to earn extra cash, and BMO’s current offering is easier to hit than most. Open a BMO Smart Money Checking, BMO Smart Advantage Checking or BMO Relationship Checking account by September 8, 2026 and you can earn $400* just by redirecting your direct deposit.
The requirement is $4,000 in qualifying cumulative direct deposits within 90 days of opening. That sounds like a lot, but cumulative is the key word. You do not need a single deposit of $4,000. Two months of pay from a job paying about $24,000 a year cleared that hurdle. For anyone with a regular employer paycheck or recurring ACH transfer, this is realistic without changing your financial habits at all.
Here’s how actually get $400.
- Open an account before September 8, 2026. You need a minimum of $25 to open, and there is no ongoing balance requirement after that.
- Update your direct deposit with your employer to switch to your new BMO account. Most payroll systems process this in one pay cycle; do it within the first week or two so you have the full 90 day window working for you.
- Track your running total. BMO counts all qualified direct deposits cumulatively, so a mix of payroll or government benefits can all count toward the $4,000 threshold.
Once you hit it, you’re done. There is no need to wait the full 90 days. The friction here is minimal: a form with your HR or payroll department and a temporary redirection of your paycheck. For $400, this is a straight trade. And the account is worth keeping – all three checking options include fee-free transactions at more than 40,000 Allpoint® network ATMs nationwide, plus access to BMO Digital Banking** to pay bills, transfer money and manage your account from anywhere.
*Conditions apply and other offers may be available. Accounts are subject to approval and are offered in the United States by BMO Bank NA Member FDIC
** Message and data charges may apply. Contact your mobile operator for details.
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