Here’s an easy way to score some free cash, especially if you’re opening a bank account for the first time. As you might guess, banks are scrambling for your business and some of them will even pay a bonus to get it. The process is incredibly simple. Just open up a savings or checking account, sometimes a Certificate of Deposit will count, and wait for 90 days or whatever other period of time imposed by the bank and, voila, a free cash deposit will be made into your account ranging from $125 to a $1,000 or more. Keep in mind there are restrictions! A typical scenario is this: Be a first time applicant to open a checking account at Bank X. Minimum deposit is $100. You have to make at least five debit card transactions and keep the account in good standing for at least 90 days. Do all this and Bank X pays you $125 in cold, hard cash. Obviously, the details regarding such an arrangement can vary greatly depending upon the bank you’re using. National chains tend to all have some sort of comparable program but read the fine print closely. If you have to jump through too many hoops for a small return, maybe it’s not worth it. A little bird told us that Internet banks have the best deals when it comes to cash back accounts. The secret is do your research and don’t go with a bank you have a bad feeling about just because they’re giving you free money. Ultimately, you’re in it for the long haul, so choose a suitable partner.