Dear Liz: I’m receiving numerous email offers from big banks offering significant incentives and bonuses to open checking and savings accounts. I usually don’t pay much attention to them but the latest one is offering $900 to open these accounts. I’ve read all the fine print and understand all the requirements, but I can’t help but think there is a mischievous motive on their part. How do I decide if these offers are a good financial alternative for me?
Answer: Banks offer these incentives to lure in new customers, but you’re wise to consider all the potential costs because the bonuses may be less lucrative than they appear.
For starters, you’ll pay income taxes on any sign-up bonus, which could substantially reduce what you net from the deal. Plus, many banks that offer sign-up incentives pay a paltry interest rate or no interest at all. You could be better off putting your money in a high-yield savings account. (Some online banks are paying around 5%.)