Fifth Third Bank is offering a sweet $400 bonus for opening a new Essential Checking account. To snag the bonus, you'll need to set up direct deposits totaling $500 or more within 90 days of opening the account. This offer is available only in specific states: FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, MI, NC, OH, TN, WV, and SC (and might even be limited to those within a 50-mile radius of a branch), and many times requires an in-branch visit.

Here's the fine print: You can't already be a Fifth Third checking customer or have closed an account within the last year. The bonus will hit your account within 10 business days after you meet the direct deposit requirement. The good news is there are no monthly fees or early termination fees to worry about. Plus, Fifth Third uses a soft pull on your credit via ChexSystems, so applying won't ding your credit score.

Why does this matter to award travelers? Bank account bonuses are an easy way to pad your travel fund! This $400 bonus is a great, relatively simple win. If you live in an eligible state and can swing the direct deposit, it's worth checking out. Just remember, bank bonuses are often considered interest income and could be taxable, so keep that in mind come tax season. The offer has been extended many times, but the current expiration date is December 12th, 2025, but these offers are known to end early, so don't delay!