Public vs Robinhood: Public pays more, $100 in a stock or ETF you pick, but you need a first deposit of at least $1,000 and the reward stays put for 12 months. Robinhood is simpler, a free stock picked at random once you're approved. Terms apply. Investing involves risk.
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Public vs Robinhood at a glance
| Public | Robinhood | |
|---|---|---|
| What you get | $100 in a stock or ETF you choose | A free stock, picked at random |
| What it takes | Get approved and make a first one-time deposit of at least $1,000 | Get your account approved, then claim it in the app |
| Time limits | Claim within 30 days. Keep it 12 months or there may be an early-withdrawal fee up to $100 | Follow the steps in the app. See Robinhood's terms for details |
| Who it's for | No existing Public brokerage account | New to Robinhood |
| Official terms | Public terms | Robinhood terms |
| Full details | Public page | Robinhood page |
Go with Public if...
- You were already planning to put $1,000 or more into a brokerage account.
- You'd rather pick your own stock or ETF than get a random one.
- You're fine leaving the reward in for 12 months.
Go with Robinhood if...
- You just want to open an account and grab a free stock.
- You don't want a big deposit requirement tied to the bonus.
- You're cool with a random pick. Robinhood shows which stock you got after you're approved.
Can you do both?
Yeah, they're separate companies with separate programs. Be new to each one and meet its terms.
Investing and crypto involve risk, including losing money you put in. A sign-up bonus isn't a reason to invest more than you can afford to lose. Nothing here is financial or tax advice.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Public or Robinhood referral bonus better?
Public pays more, $100 in a stock or ETF you choose, but you need a first deposit of at least $1,000. Robinhood gives a random free stock once you're approved.
Do I have to deposit money for the Public bonus?
Yes. Public requires a first one-time deposit of at least $1,000 after you're approved.
Can I pick my Robinhood stock?
No. It's picked at random, and Robinhood shows it in the app after approval.
Can I withdraw the Public reward right away?
No. It has to stay in your account for 12 months or you may be charged an early-withdrawal fee of up to $100.
Can I get both?
Yes, if you're new to each and meet each program's terms.