FirstBank $300 Checking Bonus: A Straightforward Deal for TN, GA, AL Residents

If you live in Tennessee, Georgia, or Alabama and you're on the hunt for an easy checking bonus, FirstBank has a solid offer that's worth a closer look. They're giving new customers $300 just for opening a FirstRewards Checking account and meeting a few straightforward requirements. No complicated hoops, no hidden fees—just a clean, simple bonus that can pad your wallet without much hassle.

What You Need to Do to Snag the $300

FirstBank keeps things refreshingly simple. You don't need to jump through a dozen hoops or maintain a huge balance. Here's the three-step process:

First, open a new FirstRewards Checking account by September 15, 2026. You can do this online or at a local branch—just make sure you use the promo code WELCOME300 when you apply. You'll also need to get a FirstBank debit card as part of the account setup.

Next, you'll need to deposit at least $1,000 via direct deposit into the account. This has to post and settle during a single statement cycle, and you have until December 31, 2026, to make it happen. Payroll deposits, government benefits, or other ACH credits typically count—just check with FirstBank if you're unsure about a specific source.

Finally, on the last day of that statement cycle, your account balance must be $1,000 or more. That's it. Once those three conditions are met, FirstBank will automatically credit the $300 bonus to your account on the last business day of that cycle.

Why This Account Stands Out

Beyond the bonus, the FirstRewards Checking account has some nice perks that make it a keeper even after you've collected your $300. There's no monthly service charge as long as you opt for electronic statements—which is easy to set up. You also get unlimited ATM fee refunds, so using any ATM nationwide won't cost you a dime.

The account also pays interest. If you meet the monthly requirements (10 debit card purchases and one ACH transaction), you'll earn 1.51% APY on balances up to $25,000. That's a decent rate for a checking account, especially one with no minimum balance. Even if you don't meet the requirements, you still get a base rate of 0.01% APY.

Other features include free online banking, a mobile app with bill pay, unlimited check writing, and a free Visa debit card with customizable designs. It's a well-rounded package for everyday banking.

A Few Things to Watch Out For

Before you rush to apply, there are a couple of important details to keep in mind. First, you need to live near a FirstBank branch to open the account. The bank operates in Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina, but you'll need to be within a reasonable distance of a physical location. Out-of-state online applications aren't available for this offer.

Second, this bonus is for new customers only. If you currently have a FirstBank checking account, you're not eligible. However, if you've closed a checking account with them more than a year ago, you may qualify. Business accounts are also excluded.

Also, note that the bonus is considered taxable income. FirstBank will report it to the IRS on a 1099-MISC form, so set aside some of that $300 for tax time. And while there's no early termination fee, it's smart to keep the account open for at least a few months after the bonus posts to avoid any issues.

Is This Offer Worth Your Time?

Absolutely, if you're in the bank's footprint and can handle the direct deposit requirement. The $300 bonus is generous, the requirements are straightforward, and the account itself has no ongoing fees. Plus, the soft pull means your credit score won't take a hit. Just make sure you can meet the $1,000 direct deposit and the $1,000 end-of-cycle balance—both are very doable for most people with a regular paycheck.

Compared to other checking bonuses out there, this one ranks high for simplicity. No minimum balance to maintain, no monthly fees to dodge, and no early termination penalty. It's a clean, low-risk way to earn some extra cash.

Bottom Line

• Open a FirstRewards Checking by Sept 15, 2026, using promo code WELCOME300.
• Set up $1,000+ in direct deposits within a single statement cycle by Dec 31, 2026.
• Keep the account balance at $1,000+ on the last day of that cycle to trigger the $300 bonus.
• No monthly fees, no minimum balance, and unlimited ATM fee refunds make this a great everyday account.
• The bonus is taxable—plan accordingly.

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