Snag a $475 Checking Bonus from Travis Credit Union (California Only)

If you're in California and looking for a solid bank bonus, Travis Credit Union has a pretty sweet deal on the table right now. We're talking about a $475 cash incentive just for opening a new checking account and meeting a few straightforward requirements. The best part? You don't need to set up a direct deposit to qualify, which makes this one of the more accessible offers out there. Let's break down exactly what you need to do to get your hands on that cash and what you should keep in mind before you apply.

Who Can Get This Bonus?

First things first, you need to be eligible to join Travis Credit Union. Membership is primarily for folks who live, work, worship, or go to school in several Northern California counties, including Alameda, Contra Costa, Sacramento, San Joaquin, and Solano, among others. Military and civilian personnel at Travis Air Force Base are also eligible.

For the bonus itself, you must be a new or existing member who hasn't had a consumer checking account with them in the past three years. This is your chance if you're a first-timer or it's been a while. You also need to be at least 18 years old and, of course, remember to use that all-important promo code when you apply.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to the $475

The process is fairly simple, but timing and attention to detail are key. Here's your roadmap to making sure you get paid.

• Apply for your account before the clock runs out on March 31, 2026. This isn't just a suggestion—it's a hard deadline.
• When you fill out the application, you must enter the promo code 'CheckingBonusX75'. If you forget this code, you will not get the bonus. It's that simple.
• You'll need to open either a Free Checking or an Access Checking account. If you're a brand-new member, you'll also need to open a basic savings account (called a Prime Share Account) with a $5 membership fee and a $5 minimum deposit.
• Fund your new checking account with the minimum required: $50 for Free Checking or $25 for Access Checking.
• Once your account is open, you have a 90-day window to receive 'qualified direct deposits.' The good news? The offer doesn't specify a minimum amount for these deposits, which is unusually flexible. Just make sure some deposits come in.
• Then, you wait. If you've done everything right, the credit union will deposit your $475 into your account sometime between 90 and 150 days after you opened it.

Practical Advice and Pitfalls to Avoid

A bonus this size is fantastic, but you don't want to miss out because of a small oversight. Here are some crucial tips and warnings.

• Double-check your eligibility area. Don't assume you qualify based on living in California; it's specific counties. Use the branch locator on their site to confirm your location is within their field of membership.
• Write down the promo code. Seriously, put it on a sticky note on your monitor. No code, no bonus.
• Mark your calendar for the 90-day deadline to get those direct deposits set up. Don't let it slip your mind.
• Be aware of the early termination fee. If you close the account within six months, they'll charge you $20. Plan to keep it open at least that long to avoid the fee and any potential issues with clawbacks.
• Remember, the bonus is considered interest income. You'll receive a 1099-INT form, and you must report it on your taxes for the year you receive it.
• While the checking accounts themselves have no monthly fees, this credit union isn't necessarily known for top-tier savings or CD rates. This account is great for the bonus, but you might want to shop around for your long-term savings goals.

Bottom Line

• A $475 bonus with no strict direct deposit minimum is a rare and valuable find.
• Eligibility is restricted to residents of specific Northern California counties or those connected to Travis Air Force Base.
• The promo code 'CheckingBonusX75' is non-negotiable and must be used during application.
• Plan to keep the account open for at least six months to avoid an early closure fee.

Common Questions