Score an easy $450 cash bonus from US Bank—here’s what to do before the November deadline

Time is running out on one of the year's most generous banking bonuses, and it comes with some particularly sweet perks for Americans over 65.

US Bank's promotion offering up to $450 for new checking account holders expires November 20, 2025, giving you just about a month to take advantage. But before you dismiss this as another complicated bank offer, consider this: seniors age 65 or older are automatically eligible for additional services and bank rewards tailored to meet their needs.

The deal centers around US Bank's Smartly Checking account, and the bonus amount depends on how much money you can direct deposit within your first 90 days. Deposit between $2,000 and $4,999.99, and you'll earn $250. Bump that up to $5,000-$7,999.99 for a $350 bonus, or go for the full $450 with $8,000 or more in direct deposits.

Why this makes sense for seniors

Here's where it gets interesting for older Americans. Customers ages 65 and over pay no monthly maintenance fee—that's an automatic $83.40 savings per year right there. Plus, Social Security payments qualify as direct deposits, making it easier for retirees to meet the bonus requirements without changing their entire financial setup.

US Bank is the fifth-largest banking institution in the United States, so you're dealing with a well-established, FDIC-insured institution rather than some fly-by-night operation. The bank has been running similar promotions regularly, and users report successful bonus payouts, with some receiving their money within a couple of weeks of meeting requirements.

What you need to do

The process is straightforward, but timing matters. You'll need to open the account by November 20, then complete these steps within 90 days:

• Make an initial deposit of at least $25
• Enroll in online banking or the mobile app
• Complete two or more direct deposits totaling your target amount

The bonus gets credited automatically within 30 days after you've met all requirements. Keep in mind you'll need to keep the account open and in good standing until the money hits your balance.

Also read: Don’t miss out: Score a $300 Chase bonus with just $5.55 a day if you act by October 15

Before you sign up

Not everyone qualifies. You can't currently have a US Bank checking account, and you can't have closed one or received another checking bonus from them within the past 12 months. The offer is also limited to certain states where US Bank operates.

Direct deposits must come through official channels—your payroll department or government agencies like Social Security. Person-to-person transfers or mobile deposits from other accounts don't count toward the total.

The bonus will be reported as interest on your tax return, so factor that into your planning. For many seniors, though, the immediate cash plus ongoing fee savings make this worth considering.

Getting started

You can apply online in under five minutes, according to the bank, or visit a local branch if you prefer face-to-face service. If applying online, the promotional offer should be automatically applied. Branch customers need to specifically ask their banker to activate the deal during account setup.

The clock is ticking—applications must be completed by November 20 to lock in the reward. Once all steps are done, the bonus gets added automatically, potentially giving you some extra holiday spending money.

Some readers might worry about switching banks or dealing with new technology. The good news is that US Bank offers both online and in-person support, and its mobile app is designed with user-friendly features. Plus, you can keep your existing accounts while you test out the new one.

Also read: These 5 states still offer senior discounts at Publix—see if yours made the list

Read next:

• How one scam drained a senior’s savings—and what you can do to stay safe
• October brings energy relief: Four programs delivering up to $3,200 to cash-strapped Americans

Key Takeaways

• US Bank is offering new customers up to $450 in automatic cash bonuses if they open a Smartly Checking account and meet certain deposit requirements by November 20.
• To qualify, customers must make a minimum opening deposit of $25, enroll in online or mobile banking within 90 days, and complete at least two qualifying direct deposits totaling at least $2,000 within the first 90 days.
• The amount of the cash bonus depends on the total value of direct deposits: $250 for $2,000–$4,999.99, $350 for $5,000–$7,999.99, and $450 for $8,000 or more, with the bonus paid automatically within 30 days after criteria are met.
• The offer is only available to new US Bank checking customers who haven’t held a US Bank checking account or received a bonus in the past 12 months, and the bonus may be reported as taxable interest.

Have you ever taken advantage of a bank bonus offer? What was your experience like, and do you have any advice for others considering making the switch?