Score a $300 Bonus with Marathon Bank's Select NOW Checking (WI Residents Only)

If you're a Wisconsin resident looking for a solid bank bonus, Marathon Bank is offering a $300 cash bonus for new customers who open a Select NOW Checking account. This isn't just any checking account—it's an interest-earning account that pays tiered interest on your balance. But there are a few hoops to jump through, so let's break it down.

What You Need to Do to Get the $300

The process is straightforward, but you have to follow each step carefully. First, you'll need to open a new Select NOW Checking account at one of Marathon Bank's five Wisconsin branches or online. You'll need to deposit at least $500 to open the account.

Then, within 60 days of opening, set up a recurring direct deposit from your employer, a retirement fund, or a government agency. Person-to-person payments, wire transfers, or transfers from other accounts you own don't count. Also, you must maintain a minimum daily balance of $2,000 or more throughout that period.

The bank will review your account after the first two statement cycles. If you meet all the requirements, they'll deposit the $300 bonus into your account within 30 days after that evaluation period ends. Just remember—you have to keep the account open for at least 12 months after the bonus is paid, or you might have to give it back.

• Open a Select NOW Checking account with $500 minimum deposit.
• Set up a qualifying recurring ACH direct deposit (employer, retirement, government).
• Maintain a $2,000 minimum daily balance.
• Complete all steps within the first 2 statement cycles (about 60 days).
• Keep the account open for 12 months after bonus payment.

A Few Things to Watch Out For

This bonus is only for Wisconsin residents, so if you live elsewhere, you're out of luck. Also, if you've had a Marathon Bank account in the past 12 months, you won't qualify. The bank also excludes employees and limits one bonus per customer.

The monthly maintenance fee is $500 if you don't keep at least $500 in the account. That's easy to avoid if you maintain the $2,000 balance for the bonus anyway, but it's worth noting. And of course, the bonus is taxable—you'll get a 1099-INT from the bank, so plan for that come tax time.

One more thing: the bank's official terms say the offer runs from October 1 to October 31, 2025. So if you're reading this after that window, the deal may have expired. Always check the latest terms on their site before you apply.

Bottom Line

• Open a Select NOW Checking account with $500.
• Set up a qualifying direct deposit and keep $2,000 balance.
• Bonus lands within 30 days after 2 statement cycles.
• Keep account open for 12 months to avoid clawback.
• Offer available only to Wisconsin residents through 10/31/25.

Common Questions