If you're in Texas and looking for a straightforward bank bonus, First National Bank Texas is offering $300 just for opening a new Power Checking account and setting up direct deposits. It's a decent chunk of change for a few minutes of work, and the requirements are pretty manageable. Let's break down what you need to do, what to watch out for, and whether it's worth your time.
What You Need to Do to Get the $300
The process is pretty simple. You'll need to open a new Power Checking account online, and make sure the promo code MC300 is entered during the application. If it's not automatically prefilled, you'll want to type it in yourself.
Then, within the first 60 banking days after opening the account, you need to have at least $2,500 in qualifying direct deposits hit the account. That could be a single deposit or a combination of several. Just make sure they're ACH deposits, like payroll or government benefits.
Once you've met that requirement, the $300 bonus will be credited to your account at 120 banking days from the opening date, as long as your account is still open and in good standing at that time.
The Fine Print You Shouldn't Ignore
There are a few things to keep in mind. First, this offer is only for new customers who don't already have a checking account with First National Bank Texas. So if you've banked with them before, you're out of luck.
Also, the bonus will be reported to the IRS, so you'll owe taxes on it. And if you don't have a Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number, you won't qualify.
Make sure your account stays in good standing. If it goes negative or hits zero for a sustained period, you might not get the bonus. So keep a little buffer in there.
The offer is valid from July 15, 2026 to September 15, 2026, so you have a couple of months to get it done. But the bank reserves the right to change or cancel the offer at any time, so don't wait too long.
Avoiding the Monthly Fee
The Power Checking account has a $12 monthly maintenance fee, but you can easily avoid it. You just need to meet one of these conditions each month:
Keep a balance of at least $500 every day, or have $500 in total monthly deposits (though internal transfers and refunds don't count), or make 12 debit card purchases that show up as point-of-sale transactions (ATM withdrawals and person-to-person payments don't count), or be age 60 or older.
If you're already planning to set up direct deposits, that $2,500 will easily cover the $500 monthly deposit requirement. So the fee shouldn't be a problem for most people.
Is It Worth It?
For a $300 bonus, the requirements are pretty reasonable. You just need to switch your direct deposit or set up a new one, and wait a few months. The fact that they don't pull ChexSystems is a nice bonus if you've had issues with that in the past.
One thing to note: this is First National Bank Texas, not First National Bank of Texas. They're different institutions, so don't get them confused. The offer is specifically for First National Bank Texas, which is affiliated with First Convenience Bank.
Overall, this is a solid offer if you're in Texas and don't mind a little paperwork. Just make sure you read the terms carefully and keep your account in good standing to get the bonus.
Bottom Line
- Open a new Power Checking account online with promo code MC300.
- Set up at least $2,500 in direct deposits within 60 days.
- Keep the account open and in good standing until the bonus posts at day 120.
- Avoid the $12 monthly fee by meeting one of the waiver conditions.
- Offer ends September 15, 2026.
Common Questions
Can I get this bonus if I already have a checking account with First National Bank Texas?
No, this offer is only for new customers who do not have an existing checking account relationship with the bank.
What counts as a qualifying direct deposit?
Eligible ACH direct deposits, such as payroll, government benefits, or other automated deposits. Internal transfers, internet banking transfers, and refunds do not count.
Is there an early account termination fee if I close the account before the bonus posts?
The bank's fee schedule does not list an early account termination fee. However, you must keep the account open and in good standing until the bonus is credited at 120 banking days to receive it.
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