FirstBank $300 Checking Bonus: A Simple Way to Score Some Extra Cash

If you live in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky, or North Carolina, here's a straightforward bank bonus that's worth your time. FirstBank is offering $300 to new customers who open a FirstRewards Checking account. The requirements are pretty reasonable, and there's no monthly maintenance fee to worry about. Let's break down exactly what you need to do to pocket that cash.

What's the Catch? (Spoiler: It's Not Much)

FirstBank isn't asking for a ton of hoops to jump through. You just need to open a new FirstRewards Checking account by September 15, 2026, using the offer code WELCOME300. Then, before December 31, 2026, you'll need to have at least $1,000 in direct deposits hit your account during a single statement cycle. On the last day of that cycle, your balance needs to be $1,000 or more. That's it. The $300 gets credited automatically on the last business day of that statement cycle.

One thing to keep in mind: this offer is for new customers only. If you currently have a FirstBank consumer checking account, you won't qualify. But if you closed one more than a year ago, you're good to go. Business accounts are also excluded.

• Open the account online or at a branch with code WELCOME300.
• Set up direct deposit of at least $1,000 (payroll, pension, or government benefits work).
• Keep the balance at $1,000 or more on the last day of that statement cycle.
• Bonus posts automatically—no need to call or email.

Why This Account Is Actually Pretty Great

Beyond the bonus, the FirstRewards Checking account has some nice perks. There's no monthly service charge, no minimum balance requirement, and they refund ATM fees from other banks. You also earn a competitive 1.51% APY on balances up to $25,000—but only if you make 10 debit card purchases and one ACH transaction per month. If that sounds like too much, you still get a tiny base rate.

The account comes with a free Visa debit card, unlimited check writing, and a solid mobile app with bill pay. And since it's a soft pull to apply, your credit score won't take a hit.

• No monthly fees or minimum balance.
• ATM fee refunds nationwide.
• 1.51% APY on up to $25,000 (with qualifying activity).
• Free e-statements and online banking.

A Few Things to Watch Out For

First, make sure your direct deposit is truly a direct deposit—transfers from another bank account you own usually don't count. Payroll, Social Security, or other government benefits are your best bet. Also, you need to keep that $1,000 balance on the last day of the statement cycle, not just average it. If your balance dips below that on the critical day, you might miss the bonus.

The bonus is considered taxable income, so FirstBank will likely send you a 1099-MISC form. Plan for that when tax season rolls around. And remember, you can only get one bonus per Social Security number.

Bottom Line

• Open a FirstRewards Checking by 9/15/26 with code WELCOME300.
• Deposit $1,000+ via direct deposit and keep $1,000 balance at cycle end.
• Meet requirements by 12/31/26 to get $300 automatically.
• No monthly fees, soft credit pull, and ATM fee refunds.
• Bonus is taxable—expect a 1099-MISC.

Common Questions