USX Federal Credit Union's $100 Checking Bonus: Is It Worth a Trip to Pennsylvania?

If you live in Pennsylvania and are looking for a modest checking bonus, USX Federal Credit Union has a $100 offer that's straightforward but comes with a few hoops. The credit union requires a net paycheck direct deposit within 60 days, or you can deposit $400 per month if your employer doesn't offer direct deposit. The catch? You'll need to visit a branch in person, and there's a $25 fee if you close the account within 90 days. It's not a huge payout, but it's essentially free money if you're already in the area and can meet the requirements.

What You Need to Do to Get the $100

The bonus is available on two checking accounts: FREE Checking and Members Plus Checking. To qualify, you must receive a net paycheck direct deposit within 60 days of opening the account. If your employer doesn't offer direct deposit, you can instead deposit at least $400 per month into the checking account. The credit union will verify this by reviewing your deposit history.

There's no expiration date listed, but it's always smart to confirm the offer is still active when you open your account. Also, remember that the $100 bonus is considered taxable income, so you'll need to report it on your taxes.

The Fine Print That Could Cost You

The FREE Checking account has no monthly fees and no minimum balance, which is great. But if you choose the Members Plus Checking, be aware of a $10 monthly fee if your average daily balance drops below $1,000. That fee could easily eat into your bonus if you don't keep a close eye on your balance.

Another important detail: if you close the account within 90 days, you'll be hit with a $25 early termination fee. That means you need to keep the account open for at least three months to avoid losing a quarter of your bonus.

How to Join and What to Expect

USX Federal Credit Union doesn't seem to allow online account opening, so you'll need to visit a branch in person. All branches are in Pennsylvania, so this offer is really only practical for PA residents. Before you head to a branch, it's a good idea to call ahead and confirm the bonus details, as the credit union's website doesn't provide a dedicated bonus page.

You'll also need to become a member of the credit union, which typically involves meeting eligibility requirements like living, working, or worshipping in a certain area. It's worth checking those details on their website or asking a representative.

Is This Bonus Worth Your Time?

A $100 bonus is on the lower end compared to what some banks offer, especially considering you have to go into a branch and potentially maintain a $1,000 balance if you choose the Members Plus account. However, if you're already a member or live near a branch, it's a relatively easy $100 for setting up a direct deposit.

Just make sure you can meet the direct deposit requirement and keep the account open for at least 90 days to avoid the fee. If you're not in Pennsylvania, this one's a pass.

Bottom Line

• The $100 bonus requires a net paycheck direct deposit within 60 days or $400 monthly deposits if your employer doesn't offer direct deposit.
• The FREE Checking account has no monthly fees, but Members Plus charges $10 per month if your balance falls below $1,000.
• Closing the account within 90 days results in a $25 fee, so keep it open for at least three months.
• This offer is only practical for Pennsylvania residents since account opening must be done in person at a branch.
• The bonus is taxable, so set aside a portion for taxes.

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