Commerce Bank Checking Bonus: Up to $700 for New Customers (Targeted Offer)

If you've received a letter or email from Commerce Bank recently, you might be sitting on a chance to grab a nice cash bonus. They're running a targeted promotion that can put up to $700 in your pocket just for opening a new checking account and meeting a few requirements. Let's break down what you need to know.

How the Bonus Structure Works

Commerce Bank is giving you three paths to earn your bonus, and you can only pick one. The good news is you don't need to jump through hoops like maintaining a minimum balance for months. You have until March 9, 2026, to complete the requirements, and the bonus will hit your account on April 6, 2026.

Here are your options:

• Make 10 debit card purchases and keep a $300 balance — you'll get $300.
• Set up direct deposits totaling $3,000 to $4,999.99 — again, $300.
• Set up direct deposits of $5,000 or more — that's the full $700.

Important Details on Direct Deposits and Debit Card Purchases

If you go the debit card route, ATM withdrawals, pending transactions, and in-branch withdrawals don't count. Only actual purchases using your card will qualify. And you need to have at least $300 left in your account after all fees and charges are applied at the end of nightly processing.

For direct deposits, they must be recurring electronic deposits like your paycheck, pension, or government benefits. Person-to-person transfers like Zelle won't work. You can combine multiple direct deposits to hit the threshold, but they all need to post by March 9, 2026.

Watch Out for Monthly Fees

The first 60 days are fee-free, but after that, you'll want to avoid monthly service charges. For the CommerceInterest checking account, you can waive the $12 fee by having at least one $500 direct deposit or maintaining a $1,000 daily balance each statement cycle. The CommerceRelationship account has a $22 fee, which you can avoid with a $5,000 average daily balance in that account or $15,000 in combined Commerce deposits.

Also, keep in mind that the bonus is considered interest income and will be reported to the IRS. So set aside a little for taxes if needed.

Bottom Line

• This is a targeted offer — you must be invited via mail or email to qualify.
• You have three ways to earn: debit card purchases + balance, or direct deposits of $3k–$4,999.99, or $5k+ for the full $700.
• Complete all requirements by March 9, 2026; bonus paid April 6, 2026.
• Monthly fees start after 60 days, but are easy to waive with direct deposit or minimum balance.
• The bonus is taxable as interest income.

Common Questions