If you run a business in California or Nevada and have some cash sitting around, Rize Credit Union has a pretty straightforward way to turn that into bonus money. They're offering cash incentives for opening new business checking accounts, with three different tiers depending on how much you can deposit. The deadlines are coming up soon though, so let's break down whether this makes sense for your situation.
Three Paths to Your Bonus
Rize structures this promotion around their three business checking products. You pick the account that matches your deposit capability, then follow the specific requirements for that tier.
Here's the breakdown: For the $300 reward, you'd need to open their basic business account, put in $2,000 within the first month, keep that average balance for 60 days, and make five transactions. The middle tier at $750 requires a $20,000 deposit and maintenance. The top $1,000 bonus needs $25,000 to get started.
- $300 Bonus: Deposit $2,000, maintain for 60 days, 5 transactions
- $750 Bonus: Deposit $20,000, maintain for 60 days, 5 transactions
- $1,000 Bonus: Deposit $25,000, maintain for 60 days, 5 transactions
The Fine Print That Matters
Like any bank offer, the requirements have some important details. First, you need to be a new business banking customer with Rize. If you've closed an account with them in the last 90 days, you won't qualify. The promotion runs from January through late February 2026, so you need to act soon.
Your five qualifying transactions can be debit card purchases or ACH credits—pretty standard stuff. They'll check your banking history through ChexSystems when you apply online. One bonus per business, based on your tax ID number. And yes, you'll need to join the credit union itself, which might mean meeting membership criteria like working for certain employers or joining a partner organization.
- Must open account by February 28, 2026
- One bonus per business (SSN or EIN)
- Account must stay open and in good standing
- Not available to existing business banking members
- Membership in the credit union is required
What Those Accounts Actually Cost
Before you jump at the bonus, consider what you're signing up for. The entry-level account has no monthly fee, which is great if you want to keep it open afterward without cost. The Commercial Advantage account charges $25 monthly. The Analyzed account works differently—no flat fee, but you pay per transaction, though you earn credits that can offset those charges.
Think about your business's banking patterns. If you process lots of transactions, the Analyzed account could get expensive. If you just need a simple account, the basic option might work best long-term.
Smart Moves Before You Apply
First, verify you're eligible for credit union membership. Check their website for employer groups or community eligibility. If you don't qualify through those routes, you might need to join the American Consumer Council—which is reportedly free but adds a step.
Plan your funding. You'll need to move a substantial amount quickly if you're going for the higher bonuses. Make sure you won't need that cash elsewhere during the 60-day maintenance period. Also, remember this money isn't earning much interest while it's parked here, so factor that opportunity cost against the bonus.
Keep meticulous records. Note your opening date, when you hit the deposit requirement, and track your five transactions. Mark your calendar for when the bonus should arrive (up to 120 days). And yes, set aside some money for taxes—the bank will send you a 1099-INT.
Bottom Line
- Best for businesses with idle cash that can meet the deposit minimums without strain.
- The basic $300 offer is most accessible, but the higher tiers offer better percentage returns if you have the funds.
- Consider the ongoing account fees after you earn the bonus—you might want to downgrade or close the account.
- Act quickly; the window to open an account closes in late February.
Common Questions
Can I open an account online, or do I need to visit a branch?
You can apply either online or in person. The online application will trigger a ChexSystems inquiry.
What counts as a qualifying transaction?
Debit card purchases and ACH credits (money coming into your account) qualify. Check with the bank to confirm if other transaction types count.
Is there a direct deposit requirement?
No, this offer doesn't require setting up direct deposit. The requirements are about deposit amounts and maintaining balances.
What happens if my balance dips below the required average?
You'd likely forfeit the bonus. The terms specify maintaining the average daily balance, so occasional dips might be okay if the average stays up, but don't risk it.
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