Chase Bank offers a wide range of financial services and products that can be incredibly valuable to its customers.
However, there are a few common mistakes that account holders often make, which are unknowingly costing themselves money.
We'll explore these pitfalls and show you how to avoid them, ensuring you're making the most of your Chase banking experience to grow your wealth.
Set up direct deposit - pocket $400
Set up an eligible direct deposit with SoFi Checking and Savings and you could pocket a bonus of up to $400. Make the switch, set up direct deposit, earn the bonus. It basically takes no extra work at all other than following these steps.
Why people are switching: This account earns up to an insane 4.00% APY1 <p>Earn up to 4.00% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on one SoFi Savings account with a 0.90% APY Boost (added to the 3.10% APY as of 5/28/26) for up to 6 months. Open your first SoFi Checking and Savings account and receive eligible direct deposits OR qualifying deposits of $5,000 every 31 days by 12/31/26. Rates are variable, subject to change. Terms apply at <a href="https://www.sofi.com/banking/#4">sofi.com/banking#4</a>. SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.</p> on savings for up to six months (3.10% APY standard + 0.90% APY boost) on top of that $50 or $400 bonus.2 <p>New and existing Checking and Savings members who have not previously enrolled in Direct Deposit with SoFi are eligible to earn a cash bonus of either $50 (with at least $1,000 total Eligible Direct Deposits received within 25 calendar days of your first Eligible Direct Deposit of $1 or more) OR $400 (with at least $5,000 total Eligible Direct Deposits received within 25 calendar days of your first Eligible Direct Deposit of $1 or more). Cash bonus amount will be based on the total amount of Eligible Direct Deposit received within 25 calendar days of your first Eligible Direct Deposit of $1 or more. If you have satisfied the Eligible Direct Deposit requirements but have not received a cash bonus in your Checking account, please contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. Direct Deposit Promotion begins on 5/15/2026 and will be available through 12/31/26. See full bonus and annual percentage yield (APY) terms at <a href="https://www.sofi.com/banking/checking-offer/">sofi.com/banking/checking-offer/</a></p> That's way better than the measly 0.38% APY (as of 06/15/26)3 <p>Based on <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/national-rates-and-rate-caps">this</a> FDIC data, as of 6/15/26.</p> national average savings accounts offer.
No monthly fees and no surprises. Open your account and earn up to a $400 bonus
Not using the Chase Ultimate Rewards Portal for travel
Chase's Ultimate Rewards Portal offers deals and discounts when booking flights, hotels, and rental cars. By bypassing this resource, you're missing out on substantial savings and the ability to maximize your reward points.
Always leverage Chase's Travel Rewards Portal for your travel arrangements to save money and earn more rewards. It's a straightforward way to make your money work smarter for you.
Not using a Chase ATM
One of the most basic yet costly errors is failing to use Chase ATMs for withdrawals and transactions. Chase offers a vast network of fee-free ATMs for its customers.
You may incur hefty fees that quickly add up by withdrawing cash from non-affiliated ATMs. You can save money by using the convenient Chase ATMs readily available as an account holder.
Not activating quarterly bonus categories on rewards cards
Some Chase credit cards feature rotating quarterly bonus categories that offer extra rewards on specific types of spending as long as you sign up for the categories each quarter.
Failing to activate these bonuses means missing out on valuable cash back or rewards points. Monitor your card's bonus categories and activate them promptly to maximize your earnings.
Over time, this mistake can result in substantial lost rewards that could have been used for travel or other benefits.
Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt
National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.4 <p>Please note that all calls with the company may be recorded or monitored for quality assurance and training purposes. Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 45% before fees, or 20% including our fees, over 24 to 48 months. All claims are based on enrolled debts. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all clients complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Estimates based on prior results, which will vary based on specific circumstances. We do not guarantee that your debts will be lowered by a specific amount or percentage or that you will be debt-free within a specific period of time. We do not assume consumer debt, make monthly payments to creditors or provide tax, bankruptcy, accounting or legal advice or credit repair services. Not available in all states. Please contact a tax professional to discuss tax consequences of settlement. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for more information on bankruptcy. Depending on your state, we may be available to recommend a local tax professional and/or bankruptcy attorney. Read and understand all program materials prior to enrollment, including potential adverse impact on credit rating. "Debt-Free" applies only to enrolled credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. Not mortgages, car loans, or other debts. Results vary.</p>
Sign up for a free debt assessment here.
Not sending and receiving money using Zelle
Chase offers its customers the convenience of using Zelle, a digital payment platform, for free. Yet, some account holders opt for costlier alternatives like wire transfers or third-party services.
Neglecting this feature makes them miss out on easy, fee-free money transfers. Whether splitting bills with friends or paying vendors, using Zelle can save you money over time. It's a secure and swift way to move money, making this mistake an unnecessary expense.
Ignoring account benefits
Many Chase accounts offer a range of benefits beyond just basic banking. These can include perks like purchase protection, extended warranties, and travel insurance.
For example, if your credit card offers rental car insurance, you can skip the expensive coverage offered by rental companies. To make the most of your account, take time to understand and utilize these benefits — they can add up to a lot of savings over time.
Paying for money orders or cashier's checks elsewhere
Many Chase account holders overlook that they can obtain money orders and cashier's checks at reduced costs through their Chase accounts.
This common oversight can result in unnecessary fees that could be easily avoided, making it one of the top money-wasting mistakes made by Chase Bank customers. By leveraging this often missed benefit, you can keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket.
Not taking advantage of Chase credit card bonuses
Chase offers lucrative bonuses for new credit card holders. Failing to seize these opportunities is like leaving money on the table.
These bonuses can include cash rewards, travel miles, or valuable points that can be redeemed for various benefits as long as you meet the minimum spend requirements. By not capitalizing on these offers, you miss out on an easy way to boost your financial perks.
Not referring friends and family for extra credit card points
Chase often rewards account holders for referring others to their credit card programs. Don't pass up the chance to earn more points and help your inner circle enjoy the perks of Chase cards while bolstering your own financial gains.
Not sharing these opportunities with friends and family means you're missing out on bonus points or cash incentives that could significantly enhance your rewards.
Overdrafting your account
One costly mistake Chase account holders make is overdrafting their accounts. This leads to hefty overdraft fees, which can add up quickly. To avoid this, it's crucial to monitor your account balance closely, set up alerts, or link your savings account to cover overdrafts.
By staying vigilant and managing your finances wisely, you can prevent these unnecessary expenses and keep your hard-earned money where it belongs — in your account.
Earn $100 cash rewards bonus with this incredible card
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (Rates and fees) has no annual fee and you can earn a $100 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
Cardholders can also earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
The best part? There's no annual fee.
Not using alerts for account activity
Many Chase account holders miss out on valuable information by not setting up account alerts. These alerts can notify you of low balances, suspicious activity, or upcoming payments.
Ignoring this feature may lead to missed opportunities for timely action and increased account security. By taking advantage of alerts, you can stay on top of your finances, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure your money works for rather than against you.
Ignoring your monthly statements
It's easy to toss your monthly bank statements aside, but doing so could be a costly mistake. Neglecting these documents means missing important information about your account activity, fees, and potential errors.
Reviewing your statements regularly allows you to spot discrepancies, track your spending, and stay on top of any unauthorized transactions. Ignoring these valuable documents might lead to financial surprises that could have been avoided.
Paying for unnecessary services
Many Chase account holders unknowingly shell out money for services they don't need. These can include extra account features, insurance, or premium packages with hefty fees.
By failing to scrutinize your account and opting for services that aren't essential, you're essentially wasting money that could be better spent or saved.
Review your account details regularly and eliminate any unnecessary expenses to ensure your money stays with you where it belongs.
Keeping a low balance
Some Chase accounts charge monthly fees if your balance falls below a certain threshold. This means you're essentially paying the bank to store your money.
You can avoid these fees and make your money work for you by keeping a higher balance. It's a simple change that can save you a significant amount over time and help you maximize the benefits of your account.
Not activating Chase cashback offers
Chase frequently offers cash back to its cardholders for shopping at specific retailers or making certain purchases. Failing to activate these offers means missing out on easy cashback rewards.
It's a simple step that can put money back in your pocket, making this oversight expensive for Chase account holders who love saving money. Always review your card's benefits and cashback offers to maximize your savings potential.
Not using Chase mobile banking
Chase mobile banking allows you to monitor your account, pay bills, deposit checks, and transfer funds anytime, anywhere.
Not taking advantage of Chase's mobile app means you're missing out on convenience and potentially incurring fees for transactions you could have handled for free online.
Embrace the power of mobile banking to keep your finances in check and stop throwing money away.
Bottom line
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Chase Bank accounts work to your advantage, boost your savings, and make the most of the services offered.
Being proactive and informed about your banking choices can lead to a more rewarding financial experience. If you follow these tips, you'll be saving money in no time.
Up To 5% Cash Back
on Issuer's secure website Intro Offer
INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300
Annual Fee $0 Why we like it
The Discover it® Cash Back is ideal for anyone who loves flexible rewards options.
Cardholders can redeem their cash back for any amount.
Earn 5% cash back on rotating bonus categories up to the quarterly maximum when you activate, along with 1% cash back on all purchases. Categories may include places like gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and more.
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