Regions Bank does offer checking account bonuses, but the offer changes and the amount depends on which account you open and your location
Regions Bank periodically runs promotions that give you money for opening a new checking account. These bonuses are real — the bank deposits cash directly into your account after you meet the requirements, usually within 30 to 60 days. The catch is that the bonus amount, which accounts may have access to, and whether the offer is available in your state all shift throughout the year. You cannot count on a specific bonus being there when you want to open an account.
The most common requirement is to set up direct deposit within a certain timeframe — often 60 days from opening the account. Some promotions also require a minimum opening deposit or a minimum balance for a set period. A few require you to make a certain number of debit card transactions. The bank publishes these terms clearly before you open the account, so you will know exactly what you need to do to get the bonus.
Key Takeaways
- Regions Bank checking account bonuses range in amount and change throughout the year, so there is no single standard offer.
- Most bonuses require you to set up direct deposit within 60 days of opening the account, and some also require a minimum opening deposit.
- You can check the current offer on Regions Bank's website or by visiting a branch in person — the offer you see online may not be the same as the one available in your state.
- The bonus is taxable income, so you will receive a 1099 form from the bank if the amount is $10 or more.
How to find out what bonus is currently available
The fastest way is to visit Regions Bank's website and look for their current promotions page. This page lists any active checking account bonuses, the amount, which states the offer covers, and the exact steps you need to take. If you do not see a bonus listed, one may not be running at that moment — the bank does not always have an offer active.
You can also call a Regions Bank branch or visit in person. Staff can tell you whether a bonus is available in your area and what the requirements are. This is especially useful if you want to confirm the offer before you open the account, or if you are unsure whether you can meet the requirements.
What you typically need to do to get the bonus
The most common requirement is setting up direct deposit. This means arranging for your paycheck or another regular income deposit to go directly into your Regions checking account. You usually have 60 days from the date you open the account to set this up. If your employer or income source does not offer direct deposit, you may not be able to meet this requirement.
Some promotions also require an opening deposit — a minimum amount you must put into the account when you create it. This might be $25, $100, or another amount depending on the offer. A few bonuses require you to maintain a minimum balance for a certain number of days, or to make a set number of debit card purchases. Read the terms carefully before you open the account so you know what you are committing to.
When the bonus shows up in your account
After you meet all the requirements, Regions Bank typically deposits the bonus within 30 to 60 days. The exact timeline is listed in the promotion terms. You will see the money appear as a credit in your account — it is not a separate check or transfer you have to claim.
Keep in mind that this bonus is taxable income. If the bonus is $10 or more, the bank will send you a 1099-INT form at tax time, and you will owe income tax on that amount. The bonus itself is not withheld for taxes, so you may want to set aside money to cover what you will owe when you file.
Bonuses vary by state and account type
Regions Bank operates in multiple states, and the checking account bonus offer may be different depending on where you live. Some states might have a higher bonus amount, or the offer might not be available in your state at all. The bank also offers different types of checking accounts — such as basic checking, premium checking, or accounts for students — and each may have its own bonus or no bonus at all.
When you check the promotion page or call a branch, make sure you are looking at the offer for your state and the specific account type you want to open. Do not assume that an offer you see advertised in another state applies to you.
What happens if you close the account soon after opening it
Most bonus offers do not have a requirement that you keep the account open for a certain length of time after you receive the bonus. However, the terms may specify that you must complete the requirements (like setting up direct deposit) before you close the account. If you close the account before meeting the requirements, you will not receive the bonus.
Some banks do include a clause that requires you to keep the account open for a set period — for example, 90 days — or they will take back the bonus. Check the specific terms of the promotion you are considering to see whether this applies.
Other reasons to open a Regions checking account besides the bonus
A bonus is a one-time payment, so it should not be the only reason you choose a bank. Consider whether Regions checking accounts fit your needs in other ways: whether the monthly fee (if any) is worth what you get, whether the bank has branches or ATMs near you, what the interest rate is on the account, and what customer service options are available.
If you are new to banking or returning after a gap, a bonus can be a nice incentive, but the account itself matters more. Make sure you understand the monthly costs, the minimum balance requirements, and how to avoid overdraft fees before you commit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use direct deposit from my job, or can I set it up from somewhere else?
Most promotions accept direct deposit from any source — your employer, Social Security, a pension, or unemployment benefits. The requirement is that money is deposited electronically into the account on a regular schedule, not that it comes from a specific source. Check the terms to confirm what counts.
What if I miss the important date to set up direct deposit?
If you do not set up direct deposit within the timeframe stated in the promotion (usually 60 days), you will not receive the bonus. The important date is firm. If you are close to the important date and unsure whether your direct deposit will go through in time, contact the bank to confirm the status.
Do I have to pay taxes on the bonus money?
Yes. The bonus is taxable income. If it is $10 or more, Regions will send you a 1099-INT form, and you will owe federal and state income tax on the amount. The bonus is not automatically withheld for taxes, so you may need to set aside money or adjust your withholding.
Can I get the bonus if I already have a Regions checking account?
Most promotions are for new customers only, or for people who have not had a Regions account in a certain period (often 90 days or more). If you already have an active account, you typically cannot use the bonus offer. Check the terms to see whether you are may be able to access.
What if the bonus offer ends before I open my account?
Promotions run for a limited time and can end without notice. If you are interested in a bonus, open the account while the offer is active. If the offer has ended by the time you are ready, you can still open a Regions checking account, but you will not receive the bonus.