4Front Credit Union's $400 Welcome Gift: A West Michigan Exclusive

Hey there, West Michigan! If you've been thinking about switching banks or opening a new checking account, there's a local credit union with a pretty sweet deal on the table. 4Front Credit Union is offering a $400 welcome bonus that's specifically for folks in the Holland, Zeeland, and Muskegon areas. It's not just a quick sign-up bonus either—this offer comes with a checking account that keeps rewarding you long after that initial $400 hits your savings. Let's break down what makes this offer stand out and whether it's the right fit for your banking needs.

How to Pocket That $400

The process is straightforward but requires some patience. First, you'll need to open a new Straight4ward Rewards checking account either online or at one of 4Front's West Michigan branches. Make sure to use the promo code 4FRONT400 when you apply.

Once your account is open, you'll need to meet the monthly criteria for three consecutive months. The credit union doesn't specify exactly what those criteria are on their main offer page, so you'll want to ask about the specific requirements when you open your account or check the full terms.

If you successfully meet the requirements for all three months, your $400 bonus will be deposited into your prime share savings account on the first business day of the fourth month. That means you're looking at about a 90-day wait from account opening to bonus payment.

The Real Value: Beyond the Sign-Up Bonus

What I really like about this offer is that it's not just a one-and-done deal. The Straight4ward Rewards checking account comes with ongoing rewards that can add up to $600 each year. That's essentially paying you to use your checking account for everyday banking.

The account also offers 24/7 digital banking with the option for in-person support at their local branches. For people who still appreciate face-to-face banking but want modern digital tools, this could be a great balance.

There's also a savings component—the bonus gets deposited into a prime share savings account that currently earns 4.08% APY on balances up to $15,000. While that rate has been in effect since October 2022 and could change, it's still a competitive return for a savings account tied to your checking.

Important Fine Print to Consider

Before you get too excited, there are some important restrictions to understand. This offer is strictly for new members in West Michigan—if you're already a 4Front member, you're not eligible. The same goes if you've closed an account with them in the last three months or received any payout from them in the last 36 months.

The geographic restriction is real: you must open and maintain the account at their Zeeland, Holland, or Muskegon branches. This isn't a nationwide online offer.

Also, remember that the bonus will be reported as interest income on IRS Form 1099-INT, so you'll need to include it when you file your taxes. It's not a huge amount, but it's something to keep in mind for tax planning.

• Employees of 4Front Credit Union are not eligible
• Offer cannot be combined with other promotions
• Account must remain open, active, and in good standing
• 4Front can change or withdraw the offer at any time

Is This Offer Right for You?

If you live in West Michigan and were already considering switching to a local credit union, this $400 bonus makes the move even more attractive. The ongoing rewards program adds long-term value that many national bank bonuses don't offer.

However, if you're someone who moves frequently or doesn't plan to stay in the area, the geographic restriction might be a dealbreaker. Also, if you need immediate cash from a bonus, the three-month waiting period might not work for you—some bank bonuses pay out within weeks.

The best candidates for this offer are West Michigan residents who want to build a relationship with a local financial institution and appreciate both digital convenience and in-person service. The combination of the sign-up bonus, ongoing rewards, and competitive savings rate creates a compelling package for the right person.

Bottom Line

• This is a geographically restricted offer perfect for West Michigan residents seeking local banking with rewards.
• The $400 bonus requires meeting monthly criteria for three months before payout in the fourth month.
• Ongoing rewards of up to $600/year make this more valuable than one-time bonus offers.
• Check the specific monthly requirements before opening to ensure you can meet them consistently.

Common Questions