Valley Strong Credit Union is Offering Up to $250 Just for Opening a Checking Account

If you live in certain parts of California and have been thinking about switching banks, Valley Strong Credit Union has a pretty sweet deal right now. They're offering a $250 bonus for opening a new checking account, and the best part? You don't need to set up direct deposit if you don't want to. There's also a referral program that can put another $50 in your pocket for each friend you bring along. Let's break down what you need to know.

Who Can Get This Deal?

Valley Strong Credit Union has been around since 1938, starting out in a high school library. Today, they serve over 150,000 members with more than $2.2 billion in assets. But here's the catch: you need to live in California, specifically in Tulare, San Joaquin, or Solano Counties. If you're not in those areas, you're out of luck for this offer.

You also need to be a new checking account customer. If you've ever had a checking account with Valley Strong before, you won't qualify. But if you're new to the credit union, you're good to go.

How to Earn the $250 Bonus

The process is pretty straightforward. Open a new qualifying checking account using promo code NEW250 and deposit at least $25. You can choose from CentsAble Checking, Makes Cents Checking, or Grow Strong Checking. Then, you have two ways to meet the requirements:

Option one: Set up direct deposit into your Valley Strong account. Option two: Make an average of 12 debit card or point-of-sale transactions each month for 90 days. ATM withdrawals don't count, so make sure you're swiping that card at stores or online.

Once you've done that, the bonus will be deposited into your account around the 91st day. Just make sure your account stays open and in good standing during that time.

Referral Bonuses: Share the Love and Earn More

Valley Strong also wants you to bring your friends and family along. For each person you refer who opens a qualifying checking account, you both get $50. You can refer up to $500 worth per year, so that's ten friends max.

If you know a small business owner, the referral bonus jumps to $250 for each business account opened. Just fill out the referral form online before your friend or business applies. The referral is valid for 90 days, and the person you refer can't have closed an account with Valley Strong in the last 180 days.

What to Watch Out For

A few things to keep in mind. First, this offer is only for new checking customers. If you already have a checking account with Valley Strong, you're not eligible. Second, the bonus is taxable. Valley Strong will send you a 1099-MISC form, so set aside some of that cash for Uncle Sam.

Also, while there's no monthly fee listed, make sure you read the fine print on the account you choose. Some accounts might have fees if you don't meet certain balance or activity requirements. And finally, if you close your account before the 90 days are up, you might not get the bonus.

Bottom Line

• Open a new checking account with promo code NEW250 and $25 to start.
• No direct deposit required – 12 debit transactions per month for 90 days works too.
• Bonus pays out around day 91. Keep the account open and in good standing.
• Refer friends for $50 each (up to $500/year) or businesses for $250 each.
• Only available in Tulare, San Joaquin, and Solano Counties in California.

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