How to Get Free Money
Discover 5 deals available this month.
1.BMO Smart Advantage Checking or Smart Money Checking
Open a BMO Smart Advantage or Smart Money Checking account by January 28, 2026, and receive a $400 bonus after $4,000 in direct deposits within 90 days. The offer requires meeting the deposit threshold within the specified timeframe.
View Deal →This checking account bonus offers a substantial $400 reward for meeting direct deposit requirements, making it an appealing choice for those who can commit to large deposits quickly.
Pros:
- Earn a $400 bonus with $4,000 in direct deposits within 90 days
- Available through two account options: Smart Advantage Checking or Smart Money Checking
- Relatively generous bonus amount compared to some competitors
Cons:
- Requires a high direct deposit amount of $4,000 within 90 days
- Must open the account by January 28, 2026, limiting enrollment period
- No additional details on monthly fees or other account features provided
2.PNC Virtual Wallet
Open a PNC Virtual Wallet by 02/26/2026 and receive a $100 bonus after making $500 in direct deposits within 60 days. There is also a Performance Select option requiring $5,000 in deposits for a $400 bonus.
View Deal →PNC Virtual Wallet offers a straightforward bonus for modest deposit requirements, while the Performance Select tier rewards higher activity with a larger bonus. It's a flexible option for those who can meet its direct deposit thresholds.
Pros:
- Earn $100 bonus with $500 in direct deposits within 60 days
- Higher tier option available with $400 bonus for $5,000 in deposits
- Two bonus levels accommodate different deposit capacities
Cons:
- Bonus requires direct deposits to qualify within a short 60-day window
- Higher bonus tier demands significant deposit amount
- No details on monthly fees or additional account features included
3.PNC Virtual Wallet with Performance Select
Open a PNC Virtual Wallet with Performance Select by 02/26/2026 and receive a $400 bonus after $5,000 in direct deposits within 60 days. This offer requires a substantial deposit but rewards with a significant cash bonus.
View Deal →Offering a hefty $400 bonus, this account appeals to those who can meet the high direct deposit threshold quickly. It combines a strong incentive with a relatively short 60-day qualification period.
Pros:
- Earn a $400 bonus with $5,000 in direct deposits
- 60-day window to meet deposit requirements
- Higher bonus compared to standard PNC Virtual Wallet offers
Cons:
- Requires a large $5,000 minimum direct deposit
- Deadline to open is relatively soon (02/26/2026)
- May not be accessible for those with lower monthly deposits
4.Key Smart Checking
Open a Key Smart Checking account by 02/06/2026 and make $2,000 in direct deposits within 90 days to earn a $300 bonus. This offer requires meeting the deposit criteria within the specified timeframe.
View Deal →For those able to commit to $2,000 in direct deposits, this $300 bonus offer provides a solid incentive without overly stringent requirements. It balances a moderate deposit threshold with a rewarding cash incentive.
Pros:
- Offers a $300 bonus for meeting deposit requirements
- Requires $2,000 in direct deposits, which is moderate compared to other offers
- Generous 90-day window to meet deposit criteria
Cons:
- Bonus requires direct deposits within a limited 90-day timeframe
- No information on monthly fees or other benefits included
- Deadline to open the account is 02/06/2026, which is approaching quickly
5.SoFi Checking and Savings
Set up direct deposit with SoFi Checking and Savings in February 2026 to earn up to a $300 bonus. No additional fees or minimum balance requirements are mentioned.
View Deal →SoFi Checking and Savings offers a straightforward bonus opportunity for new direct deposit customers this February. It’s a simple way to earn extra cash without complex requirements.
Pros:
- Up to $300 bonus available with direct deposit setup
- No stated minimum balance requirements
- Integrated checking and savings accounts for convenience
Cons:
- Bonus details limited to direct deposit only
- No specific deposit amount or timeline disclosed
- No information on fees or additional perks in the research
Final Words
To maximize your free money opportunities this February, take time to compare checking account bonuses and direct deposit offers from top banks like BMO, PNC, Key, and SoFi. You can explore current deals to find the best fit for your financial goals and ensure you meet all requirements to claim your bonuses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Open a BMO Smart Advantage or Smart Money Checking account by January 28, 2026, and complete $4,000 in direct deposits within 90 days to qualify for the $400 bonus.
You must open the account by January 28, 2026, to be eligible for the $400 bonus after meeting the direct deposit requirement.
Yes, several banks offer bonuses including PNC Virtual Wallet with $100 or $400 bonuses depending on deposit amounts, Key Smart Checking with a $300 bonus, and SoFi Checking and Savings with up to $300 bonus.
Direct deposit requirements vary: BMO requires $4,000 within 90 days, PNC Virtual Wallet needs $500 or $5,000 within 60 days depending on the offer, and Key Smart Checking requires $2,000 within 90 days.
Yes, SoFi offers up to a $300 bonus for setting up direct deposit during February 2026.
