If you’ve been researching high-yield savings accounts, you’ve likely come across Marcus by Goldman Sachs. Known for competitive interest rates and no-fee banking, Marcus has become a popular choice for savers. But one question comes up again and again: Does Marcus have a referral program in 2026?
The short answer is yes—but the terms, bonus amounts, and eligibility rules have evolved. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Marcus referral program in 2026: how it works, how much you can earn, who qualifies, when bonuses post, and how to maximize your rewards. We’ll also compare Marcus to other bank referral programs and share real-world examples.
➡️ Read next (recommended)
📋 Table of Contents
- 1. What Is Marcus by Goldman Sachs?
- 2. Does Marcus Have a Referral Program in 2026?
- 3. How the Marcus Referral Program Works
- 4. Current Bonus Amounts & Earning Limits
- 5. Eligibility Requirements: Who Qualifies?
- 6. When Does the Bonus Post? (Payout Timing)
- 7. How to Maximize Your Marcus Referral Earnings
- 8. Marcus vs Other Bank Referral Programs
- 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- 10. Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
What Is Marcus by Goldman Sachs?
Marcus is the consumer banking arm of Goldman Sachs, launched in 2016. It offers high-yield savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), and personal loans—all with no fees and competitive rates. As of 2026, Marcus remains one of the top online banks for savers, consistently offering APYs above the national average.
💡 Marcus Key Features in 2026:
- High-Yield Savings: No minimum balance, no monthly fees, competitive APY
- No-Penalty CDs: Flexible terms with no early withdrawal penalty
- Personal Loans: Fixed rates, no fees
- User-Friendly App & Website
- 24/7 Customer Support
Does Marcus Have a Referral Program in 2026?
Yes. Marcus by Goldman Sachs continues to offer a referral program in 2026, though the bonus structure and terms have been updated. The program allows existing customers to earn cash bonuses by referring friends and family who open a new Marcus high-yield savings account or CD.
However, the referral program is not always active. Marcus occasionally runs promotions, and the bonus amount can vary. As of February 2026, the program is active with a standard bonus of $50 per referral (for both the referrer and the new account holder), subject to certain conditions. We'll cover the exact terms below.
✅ Current Status (Feb 2026):
Active. Bonus: $50 per referral (up to 5 referrals per year, total $250). Some targeted users may see higher limited-time offers (e.g., $75 or $100).
How the Marcus Referral Program Works
The referral process is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Get Your Unique Referral Link
Log in to your Marcus account (web or app). Navigate to the "Refer a Friend" section. You'll find a unique referral link and a referral code. Copy the link to share.
Share Your Link
Send your referral link to friends, family, or share on social media. The referred person must click your link to start the application.
Friend Opens and Funds an Account
The referred person must open a new Marcus high-yield savings account or CD using your link. They also need to fund the account with a minimum deposit (usually $500) within a specified timeframe (e.g., 30 days).
Bonus Is Credited
Once the conditions are met, both you and your friend receive a cash bonus. The bonus is typically credited within 30–60 days after the qualifying deposit.
Both parties must meet eligibility requirements. The bonus is deposited directly into the Marcus savings account.
Current Bonus Amounts & Earning Limits
| Referral Bonus (Standard) | Amount | Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Per successful referral | $50 | Unlimited? No, there's a cap. |
| Maximum referrals per year | 5 | $250 total bonus potential |
| Friend's bonus | $50 | One-time |
| Minimum deposit required | $500 | Must be new money (not from existing Marcus accounts) |
Some users may receive targeted offers with higher bonuses (e.g., $75 or $100 per referral). Check your Marcus account or email for personalized promotions. Also, Marcus occasionally runs limited-time campaigns where the bonus might be increased or the referral cap lifted.
⚠️ Important:
Bonuses are considered interest and are taxable. You'll receive a 1099-INT from Marcus for bonuses totaling $10 or more.
Eligibility Requirements: Who Qualifies?
For the Referrer (You):
- Must be an existing Marcus customer with an open savings account or CD in good standing.
- Must be a U.S. resident (accounts are only available to U.S. citizens or residents with a valid tax ID).
- Cannot be an employee of Goldman Sachs or its affiliates.
- You can only refer individuals who are not already Marcus customers and have not had a Marcus account in the past 12 months.
For the Referred Friend:
- Must be a new Marcus customer (no existing account).
- Must open a new high-yield savings account or CD through the referral link.
- Must fund the account with at least $500 within 30 days of opening.
- The $500 must be "new money" — not transferred from another Marcus account or a linked external account that already belongs to the referrer.
- The account must remain open and not be closed before the bonus posts (usually 60 days).
If you refer a spouse or someone in the same household, you may both still qualify as long as each person meets the new customer criteria and the funds are from separate sources.
When Does the Bonus Post? (Payout Timing)
Based on current terms and user reports in 2026, the bonus typically posts within 30 to 60 days after the referred friend completes the qualifying deposit. The exact timing depends on when the deposit is made and when Marcus processes the referral batch.
You can track your referrals in your Marcus account dashboard. It will show pending referrals and their status (e.g., "pending funding," "bonus pending," "bonus paid").
📅 Real-World Timeline Example:
- Day 1: Friend opens account via your link and deposits $500.
- Day 30: Deposit is confirmed and held for required period.
- Day 45–60: Bonus appears in both accounts.
If the bonus doesn't post after 60 days, contact Marcus support with the referral details.
How to Maximize Your Marcus Referral Earnings
Share with Family First
High SuccessThe easiest referrals come from immediate family members or close friends who trust you. Explain the benefits: a competitive savings account with no fees, plus a $50 bonus for them just for depositing $500 (which they can withdraw later).
Use Social Media & Personal Networks
Wide ReachShare your referral link on Facebook, Instagram, or in personal messages. But be mindful: Marcus may restrict public sharing on coupon sites. Stick to personal networks to avoid referral fraud flags.
Combine with Other High-Yield Accounts
StrategyIf you have a spouse or partner, you can each have a Marcus account and refer each other (as long as you meet new customer criteria). This doubles the bonus potential within the household.
Time Your Referrals with Promotions
TimingKeep an eye on your email for limited-time bonus increases. If Marcus offers $75 or $100 per referral for a short period, that's the time to ramp up your sharing.
Remind Friends to Complete Requirements
Follow-upMany referrals fail because the friend opens the account but forgets to fund it. Follow up gently to ensure they make the minimum deposit before the deadline. You both benefit, so it's a win-win.
Marcus vs Other Bank Referral Programs (2026)
| Bank | Referral Bonus | Requirements | Annual Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marcus by Goldman Sachs | $50 per referral | Open savings, deposit $500 | 5 referrals ($250) |
| Chase | $50–$200 (varies by account) | Open checking/savings, direct deposit | Often unlimited, but per account limits |
| Ally Bank | $50 per referral | Open savings, deposit $500 | 10 referrals ($500) |
| Capital One 360 | $50 per referral | Open savings, deposit $250 | 5 referrals ($250) |
| SoFi | $300 (combined offer for referrer + friend) | Open checking/savings, direct deposit | Often limited to first few referrals |
Marcus's referral program is competitive but not the highest payer. However, its simplicity and the quality of the savings account make it an attractive option for those who already trust Goldman Sachs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if you are an existing Marcus customer and a U.S. resident, you can access the referral program via your online account. However, the program may be temporarily paused or limited to certain customers. Check your dashboard to confirm.
No. The referred person must be a new Marcus customer. If they've had an account in the past 12 months, they are ineligible.
You need to maintain the deposit until the bonus posts (usually 30–60 days). After that, you can withdraw the funds without penalty, though the account must remain open (Marcus may close accounts with zero balance after a period).
Yes, as long as each person meets the new customer requirement and the funds come from separate sources (not just moving money between accounts).
Yes. The IRS considers referral bonuses as interest income. Marcus will issue a 1099-INT if you earn $10 or more in bonuses during the tax year.
The bonus will not be paid. The account must remain open and in good standing until the bonus is credited.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
The Marcus referral program in 2026 is a straightforward way to earn up to $250 per year in cash bonuses. While $50 per referral isn't the highest on the market, it's easy money if you have friends or family who are looking for a reliable high-yield savings account. The lack of fees and competitive APY make Marcus a solid choice even without the bonus.
If you're already a Marcus customer, log in to your account and check your referral dashboard. Share your link with those who might benefit—it's a win-win for both of you.
💡 Key Takeaway:
Marcus does have an active referral program in 2026. With a $50 bonus per referral (up to 5 per year), it's a nice perk for existing customers. Just be sure to follow the eligibility rules and remind your friends to fund their accounts on time.