Score $400 with Equity Bank's Gold Checking Bonus – Here's How

If you're in the Midwest and looking for a solid bank bonus, Equity Bank is offering a $400 cash incentive that's pretty straightforward. You'll need to open both a checking and a savings account, set up a direct deposit of at least $1,000, and use your new debit card within 45 days. The bonus is available in Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and possibly Nebraska (since they acquired Frontier Bank). The offer runs through March 31, 2026, but they've extended it before, so keep an eye out.

What You Need to Do to Get the $400

The process is pretty simple, but you have to hit all the marks. First, open a new checking account and a new savings account with Equity Bank. You can do this online or in a branch—just make sure to use the promo code "MATCH" (or "BLOOM" if you're applying after the initial deadline).

Within 45 days of opening, you need to have at least $1,000 in qualifying direct deposits hit your checking account. That could be your paycheck, a government benefit, or a pension—anything that's an electronic deposit from an employer or agency. Then, activate your debit card and use it at least once within that same 45-day window.

Once you've done all that, the $400 bonus should show up in your checking account about 45 days after you open the accounts. Just remember to keep both accounts in good standing until the bonus posts.

• Open a new checking and savings account (use code MATCH or BLOOM)
• Receive $1,000+ in qualifying direct deposits within 45 days
• Activate and use your Equity Bank debit card within 45 days
• Bonus posts approximately 45 days after account opening

A Few Things to Watch Out For

This offer is for new customers only—so if you've had an Equity Bank or Frontier Bank account in the last 180 days, you won't qualify. Also, it's one bonus per household, so don't try to double-dip with a spouse or roommate.

The bonus is considered taxable income, so you'll get a 1099-INT form for the $400. And while there's no monthly fee on the Simply Free Checking account, you'll need to put at least $100 in to open it. If you fund with a credit card, you can put up to $2,500, but check if your card treats it as a cash advance or purchase.

One nice thing: there's no early account termination fee, so you can close the accounts after the bonus posts without penalty. Just make sure you've met all the requirements first.

• Must be a new customer (no Equity/Frontier account in last 180 days)
• One bonus per household
• Bonus is taxable (1099-INT issued)
• Minimum $100 opening deposit required
• No early account termination fee

Bottom Line

• Open both checking and savings accounts with promo code MATCH or BLOOM
• Set up $1,000 in direct deposits within 45 days
• Use your debit card within 45 days
• Bonus deposits about 45 days later—no monthly fees and no early termination penalty

Common Questions