Truist $500 Checking Bonus: A Straightforward Way to Boost Your Bank Account

If you're looking for a solid bank bonus that doesn't require jumping through too many hoops, Truist has a deal that might catch your eye. They're offering $500 to new checking customers who open either a Truist One Checking or Truist Marquee Checking account. The offer runs from July 14, 2026, through February 2, 2027, so you've got plenty of time to plan. But like any bonus, the devil's in the details—and I've dug through them so you don't have to.

What You Need to Do to Get the $500

First, you need to open a new Truist One Checking or Truist Marquee Checking account. You can do this online, in a branch, or over the phone. Just make sure you use a valid promo code when you sign up—you can't add it later.

Once your account is open, you have 120 days (starting the day after opening) to complete two things: First, receive at least two qualifying direct deposits that total $2,000 or more. Second, make at least 20 qualifying debit card purchases. That's it. Once both are done, Truist will deposit the $500 into your new account within 10 business days.

• Direct deposits must be ACH credits over $5. Person-to-person payments like Zelle, wire transfers, and ATM deposits don't count.
• Debit card purchases must post to your account. ATM withdrawals, Zelle transactions, and bank fees are excluded.
• You can track your progress in Truist's online or mobile banking.

Avoiding the Monthly Maintenance Fee

The Truist One Checking account has a monthly fee that can range from $0 to $12, but there are several easy ways to waive it. You only need to meet one of these criteria each statement cycle:

If you're under 25 or 62 or older, the fee is automatically waived. Otherwise, you can set up $500 or more in qualifying direct deposits per month, keep a combined ledger balance of $500 across your Truist accounts, have a Truist credit card, mortgage, or personal loan, link a small business checking account, or be a student (with a graduation date on file).

For the Marquee Checking account, the fee structure is different, so check the terms if you go that route.

• Under 25 or 62+? Fee waived automatically.
• $500 in monthly direct deposits also does the trick.
• A $500 combined balance across Truist accounts works too.

Who Can't Get This Bonus?

Not everyone is eligible. You can't be a current primary account holder on a Truist personal checking account, and you can't have closed one on or after July 14, 2025. Also, Truist employees, directors, and officers are out. You need to be a U.S. resident with a valid taxpayer ID, and your physical address must be in one of the eligible states or DC.

A Few Things to Watch Out For

The bonus is taxable income—Truist may report it to the IRS, so set aside some of that $500 for taxes. Also, if your account balance hits $0 or goes negative when they try to pay the bonus, or if your account is restricted or closed, you'll forfeit it. And remember, you can only get this bonus once per client and per account.

One more thing: the promo code is single-use and can't be shared. If you're planning to open multiple accounts, this offer won't stack.

Bottom Line

• Earn $500 with $2,000 in direct deposits and 20 debit card purchases within 120 days.
• Offer valid through February 2, 2027, in 18 states and DC.
• Monthly fees are easy to waive with direct deposits or a low balance.
• Bonus is taxable and forfeited if account is closed or has $0 balance at payout.

Common Questions