Tri City National Bank's $350 Checking Bonus: A Wisconsin-Only Opportunity

If you're in Wisconsin and don't mind a trip to a local branch, there's a solid checking account bonus on the table right now. Tri City National Bank is dangling $350 for new customers who open an Everyday Checking account and set up a qualifying direct deposit. It's a straightforward offer, but it comes with a very specific catch: you need to have received a promotional mailer. Let's break down whether this deal might work for you and what you need to know before heading to a branch.

The Mailer is Your Golden Ticket

This isn't a publicly advertised promo code you can use online. The bank's official terms are clear: you must bring your promotional mailer or flyer to a physical branch to get the offer. That language about being 'targeted' is key—it means they sent these mailers to specific households.

Now, some folks online mention trying a code like '777' or 'Account Promo Code N,' but the bank's own page doesn't list any codes. Relying on that is a gamble. Your safest bet is to have that physical mailer in hand. If you didn't get one, you could call a local branch and politely ask if they're accepting customers for the $350 bonus offer. Sometimes bankers have discretion, but there's no guarantee.

What Counts as a Qualifying Direct Deposit?

This is where you need to pay close attention. Not just any transfer will do. The bank specifies 'Qualified Direct Deposits' as recurring electronic deposits from an employer (payroll), a government agency (like Social Security), or a pension provider.

A transfer from another bank, a Venmo deposit, or a one-time ACH push likely won't qualify. The deposit must come directly from the source. The required amount should be listed on your mailer, but it's commonly at least $500. You have a 60-day window from the day you open the account to get that money flowing in.

Practical Steps and Things to Watch Out For

If you have the mailer and live near a branch, the process is simple but requires an in-person visit. Bring your mailer, your Social Security card, a driver's license or state ID, and proof of your address. You'll need $50 to open the account.

A few crucial fine print details can trip people up. First, you're disqualified if you've had any Tri City checking account in the past 12 months. Second, the bonus can take up to 90 days after you open the account to actually land in your balance. Most importantly, you must keep the account open for a full six months (180 days). If you close it earlier, they'll take the $350 back.

• The bonus is considered taxable income. You'll receive a 1099-INT form for it.
• The bank states they use a hard inquiry? The source material was unsure, so be prepared for a possible credit pull.
• There's no monthly fee for the Everyday Checking account, which is a nice perk while you're waiting out the 180-day period.

Is This Bonus Right For You?

This offer makes the most sense for Wisconsin residents who naturally use a local bank and were already planning to switch their direct deposit. The $350 is a generous thank-you for that move.

If you're a bonus chaser who lives out of state or doesn't have a qualifying direct deposit source, this probably isn't worth the effort. The in-person, mailer-dependent nature makes it less flexible than nationwide online offers. But if the stars align—you're in Wisconsin, you got the mailer, and your paycheck is ready to be redirected—it's a straightforward path to a decent chunk of cash.

Bottom Line

• This is a branch-only offer requiring a targeted mailer; don't count on online promo codes.
• Plan to keep the account open for at least 6 months after receiving the bonus.
• Only recurring electronic deposits from employers, pensions, or government benefits will meet the requirement.

Common Questions