Heads up, awardtrail readers! TruChoice Federal Credit Union is offering a $500 bonus for new members who open a checking account and set up qualifying direct deposits. If you live, work, worship, or go to school in certain Maine counties, or have a relative who's a member, you're eligible!

To snag the bonus, you'll need to establish direct deposits totaling at least $2,000 within 90 days of opening the account. The good news is the bonus itself doesn't require any extra hoops to jump through. Just make sure those deposits are legitimate direct deposits like your paycheck (Zelle, Venmo, and mobile deposits don't count). The bonus will be deposited into your savings account after you meet the requirements.

Why does this matter to you? Well, a cool $500 is nothing to sneeze at! Bank account bonuses are an easy way to pad your travel fund, and this one seems relatively straightforward. Plus, there are no monthly fees to worry about on the checking account. Keep in mind that bank bonuses are considered income by the IRS, so you'll need to report it on your taxes. This offer is valid through March 31, 2026. Time to make it rain!