About First Tech Credit Union

First Tech Federal Credit Union (or First Tech) is a federally chartered credit union headquartered in Hillsboro, Oregon. It is regulated by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). First Tech has more than 650,000 members, over $12 billion in assets, and 33 branches, mainly located in high-tech business centers in California, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, and four other states.

This type of credit union is not usually ideal as your primary checking account, but it can be very worthwhile for a bank account bonus. The current $300 + 5% APY offer is quite attractive.

Bonus

Open a First Tech Checking account now and complete one $1,000+ Direct Deposit (DD) each month for three months to earn a $300 bonus. The requirements are pretty straightforward. The account also offers a solid 5% APY, which is nice if you have some extra cash to park there. Offer expires on June 30, 2024.

If you can change where your paycheck is deposited, you can switch it over, keep it there for three months, and then switch it back. If you do not have payroll direct deposit or cannot change it, then according to DOC data points, the following transfers may also count as DD:

  • Ally: 1,
  • Capital One: 12  (didn’t work)
  • Chase: 12,

Fees

This account has no monthly fee, no maintenance fee, and no early account closure fee. In general, it is probably best to keep it open and wait until after one year to close it. Closing it right after receiving the bonus does not feel ideal.