Associated Bank offers several attractive checking account bonuses, especially if you’re a resident of Wisconsin, Illinois, or Minnesota and have some cash on hand for an initial deposit. These promotions could boost your finances as you start the year.
Current Deals: Associated Bank is running numerous promotions focused on its personal checking accounts, offering up to $600 in bonuses.
Here’s a breakdown of the key offers available as of November 2025:
- Personal Checking Accounts (Access, Balanced, or Choice): Achieve varying bonus levels ($300-$600) by making a minimum opening deposit and maintaining a specific average daily balance within the first 90 days. Direct deposits totaling at least $500 are also required.
- Team-Themed Checking Accounts: Fans of the Milwaukee Brewers, Green Bay Packers, or local film festivals can snag these special checking accounts with unique perks and a chance to earn up to $600 in bonuses by meeting similar requirements as the standard personal accounts.
Business Checking Accounts:
Associated Bank also caters to businesses with bonus incentives:
- Business Access Checking Account: New business owners can receive a $100 bonus with a minimum opening deposit of $2,000 and maintenance of that balance for the qualifying period.
- Business Balanced Checking Account: Earn $400 by depositing at least $5,000 and maintaining it for 90 days.
- Business Choice Checking Account: Established businesses can qualify for a substantial $750 bonus with a higher minimum deposit of $20,000, along with required balance maintenance.
How to Qualify:
- Application: You can open an Associated Bank account either in person at a branch or conveniently online. Be prepared with essential information like your contact details, Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid photo ID.
- Funding: Once approved, fund your new account with the required minimum deposit (either cash, check, or by transferring funds from another bank).
- Direct Deposits: Set up at least the specified amount in qualifying direct deposits within the stated timeframe (typically within 90 days of opening the account).
- Balance Maintenance: Maintain the minimum average daily balance for the required period to ensure your bonus eligibility.
Important Considerations:
- Timing Matters: Seasonal promotions are common, so watch out for bonuses offered at the beginning of the year, around mid-year, or during holidays. Keep an eye on your email inbox as existing customers sometimes receive targeted offers.
- Taxes Apply: Remember that bank bonuses are generally considered taxable income. Be sure to factor this into your financial planning.
- Minimum Deposits Can Be High: Some promotions require significant opening deposits. Carefully evaluate these requirements before applying if you have limited funds available.
Comparing with the Competition: While Associated Bank offers potentially lucrative bonuses, it’s always wise to compare them to current offerings from other banks like Citi and TD Bank. Consider factors beyond just the bonus amount, such as ongoing fees, minimum balance requirements, and additional features offered by each institution.
Associated Bank presents a solid opportunity for residents of Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota to earn extra cash through its checking account bonuses. However, it’s crucial to read the fine print, compare offers across different institutions, and ensure you meet all eligibility criteria to maximize your financial gains.
