Lake Michigan Credit Union Max Checking vs SoFi Checking & Savings
Lake Michigan Credit Union Max Checking returns more on the money it ties up, so it is the better first move for most people. SoFi Checking & Savings still makes sense if its requirement is easier for you to meet.
| Lake Michigan Credit Union Max Checking | SoFi Checking & Savings | |
|---|---|---|
| Bonus | $110 cash bonus | $50 - $400 |
| Requirement | Open checking through the referral and maintain recurring direct deposits totaling at least $500 for 60 days. New members must meet LMCU eligibility rules. | Direct deposit $1,000 for $50, or $5,000 for the full $400 within 25 days. |
| Direct deposit | Required | Required |
| Money tied up | None | None |
| Hold period | 60 days | No hold |
| Effective APY | 133.8% | 32.4% |
| Payout | after the 60-day qualification period | 2-4 weeks after DD posts |
| Last checked | Sep 18, 2026 | Jul 5, 2026 |
Effective APY, side by side
Bonus divided by the money you must hold, annualized over the hold period.
Payout size, side by side
What each offer actually pays, before considering the capital it ties up.
How the money builds
How the money builds
Lake Michigan Credit Union timeline
From opening the account to the bonus landing in it.
- 1Day 0Open the account$0 to start · DD account
- 2~Day 15Route a direct depositOpen checking through the referral and maintain recurring direct deposits totaling at least $500 for 60 days. New members must meet LMCU eligibility rules.
- 3~Day 29Bonus posts - $110 cash bonusafter the 60-day qualification period. Cash lands in the account you just opened.
SoFi timeline
From opening the account to the bonus landing in it.
- 1Day 0Open the account$0 to start · DD account
- 2~Day 15Route a direct depositDirect deposit $1,000 for $50, or $5,000 for the full $400 within 25 days.
- 3~Day 29Bonus posts - $50 - $4002-4 weeks after DD posts. Cash lands in the account you just opened.
Keep going
Full breakdowns
Requirements, timeline, effective APY, and step by step for each.
Lists these appear on
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- Chase Total Checking vs Lake Michigan Credit Union Max Checking$400 vs $110 cash bonus
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