The headline is only the starting point.
The sample inputs are hypothetical, not an available bank offer or a current interest-rate quote. Use the qualifying bonus tier, the balance you will actually hold, the fees you expect to pay, and the APYs from the accounts you are comparing.
How the estimate works
Extra value = cash bonus − total fees + offer-account interest − alternative-account interest. For each account, estimated interest = balance × ((1 + APY ÷ 100)days ÷ 365 − 1).
The calculation assumes a constant balance, constant APYs, a 365-day year, and that you earn the bonus. It is before tax and excludes your time, changing balances, and other account benefits or costs. Actual interest accrual and payment may differ. Direct deposit totals are not necessarily required maintained balances.
Compare real deposit requirements: Chase vs. SoFi ↗