Hey Reader,

I talk a lot about leveraging points and miles to save money on travel.

But there are also ways I actually MAKE extra cash for travel. And I don't mean by walking dogs or delivering Door Dash the side.

Last month, between my husband and I, we earned an easy $1,000 in cash to put toward our travel fund.

We do this by taking advantage of bank bonuses.

Like credit card offers, banks want you to become their customer. And they often offer welcome bonuses for becoming a new banking customer and moving money into your new bank account.

The most recent offer we jumped on was actually one that we received through the mail from KeyBank.

They were offering a $500 bonus for new checking accounts after depositing $1,000 into your new checking account. For about 20 minutes of time at the computer and waiting 30 days after the deposit, the $500 was dropped into each of our accounts. I don't know about you, but a free $1,000 for 20 minutes of work is a slam dunk for me.

A few things to keep in mind around bank bonuses:

• Opening new bank accounts does not affect your credit score
• Be sure to read all the fine print to avoid monthly minimum charges (if applicable)
• Make sure the transfer type is eligible for the bonus by reading the fine print (for example, Venmo transfers may not be considered eligible deposits)
• Bank bonuses are reported as taxable interest income on a Form 1099-INT
• If you don't plan to use the account after earning the deposit, wait at least 60 days (sometimes more - read the fine print) before moving your money out, and closing the account. Closing accounts is easily done online and also does not affect your credit score.

There are tons of bank bonuses out there, and offers are always changing.

And one of my favorite bonuses is back: earn $300 after making two $500 deposits with a new Capital One 360 Checking Account.

Use my link for $50 more than the generic $250 offer!

Remember - don't throw away those mailer offers before taking a closer look! And see if you can take advantage of any bank bonuses. For the little effort it takes to track these, they can be extremely lucrative!

Happy earning,

Michelle

This email contains referral links for bank bonuses I have personally tested and had success with. I may receive a bonus at no cost to you if you sign up with my link. I only recommend products and services I love and truly believe can help you travel more for less!

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