
Citizens Equity First Credit Union is a great option for those looking for a financial institution that truly has their members' best interests at heart. They are a not-for-profit credit union, which means that their profits are reinvested back into the community.
As a member-owned credit union, Citizens Equity First Credit Union operates on a cooperative model, where members pool their resources together to provide financial services. This approach allows them to offer competitive rates and lower fees.
Their commitment to their members is evident in their mission to provide exceptional service and support.
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Account Options
If you're looking to open a checking account, you'll need a minimum deposit of $25 to get started with CEFCU.
The standard checking account at CEFCU doesn't have many extra features, but it does come with no monthly maintenance or in-network ATM fees. There's a $1 out-of-network ATM fee if you need to use an ATM outside of the 30,000 available.
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To avoid a $6 monthly service fee, you'll need to maintain a higher balance in CEFCU's Dividend Checking account, which requires at least $2,500 to open and maintain.
You'll earn a dividend of 0.03% on your balance with the Dividend Checking account, but be aware that there's a $30 charge for each overdraft for up to $120 per day.
To avoid overdraft fees, consider linking a savings account for overdraft protection or having debit transactions declined if your account balance can't cover them.
A money market account at CEFCU requires at least $2,500 to open, and it earns higher interest than the Dividend Checking account, ranging between 0.08% and 0.10% APY.
However, if you make a substantial number of withdrawals and bill payments each month, a checking account might be a better option despite the lower interest rate.
You can earn a tiered interest rate of 0.10% to 0.80% on a CD at CEFCU, depending on the term, which ranges from three to 60 months. The minimum deposit required to open a CD is $1,000.
Features and Benefits
CEFCU offers a variety of interest-bearing accounts with rates higher than some of the largest national banks.
Their CD program is particularly strong, thanks to the My Save account, which provides a more flexible certificate of deposit with lower opening minimums and the option to add more funds during the term.
The mobile app has good reviews from Apple and Android users and can make mobile deposits, help you set up bill payments, and manage your accounts.
With a minimum deposit of $25, you can open a standard checking account at CEFCU, which doesn't have many bells or whistles but meets basic requirements without monthly maintenance or in-network ATM fees.
However, be aware that there's a $1 out-of-network ATM fee if you need to use an ATM outside the 30,000 available.
CEFCU's digital experience is solid, with online banking, eStatements, and online check ordering, as well as a mobile app that received an average of 4.6 out of five stars from the App Store and 4.4 on Google Play.
Checking Accounts
If you're looking for a basic checking account, you can open a standard checking account at CEFCU with a minimum deposit of just $25.
You won't have to worry about monthly maintenance or in-network ATM fees with this account, but you will pay a $1 fee for each out-of-network ATM use outside of the 30,000 available ATMs.
To avoid a $6 monthly service fee, you'll need to maintain a balance of at least $2,500 with CEFCU's Dividend Checking account.
This account earns a dividend of 0.03% on your balance, which is a small but nice perk.
Overdraft protection is available with both accounts, but be aware that there's a $30 charge for each overdraft, up to $120 per day.
It's worth monitoring your account balance carefully to avoid these fees, or consider having debit transactions declined if your account can't cover them.
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Editor's Favorite
I've always been impressed by the digital banking experience offered by CEFCU, and it's no surprise why it's my favorite feature. The mobile app has received an average of 4.6 out of five stars from the App Store and 4.4 on Google Play.
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One of the standout features of the mobile app is its clean design with bold, colorful graphics, making it a joy to use. The app allows you to easily track activity and manage your CEFCU accounts and loans in one place.
With the mobile app, you can make mobile deposits, set up bill payments, and manage your accounts on the go. This level of convenience is a game-changer for anyone who wants to stay on top of their finances.
Here are some key features of the mobile app:
Overall, the mobile app is a powerful tool that makes it easy to manage your finances on the go.
First Northern CU
First Northern CU offers competitive rates on its money market account and CDs. Their rates are definitely worth considering if you're looking to grow your savings.
Their competitive rates on CDs are a great option for those who want to lock in a high-yield savings rate for a fixed period of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Citizens Equity First Credit Union?
CEFCU was founded in 1937 to serve Caterpillar Tractor Company employees, initially as a state credit union and later switching to a federal charter. The credit union has a rich history spanning over 85 years, serving its members with financial services and support.
Is a credit union exactly the same as a bank?
No, credit unions and banks have different ownership structures and profit goals. While banks are owned by shareholders, credit unions are member-owned cooperatives focused on serving their members' financial needs.
Sources
- https://www.gobankingrates.com/banking/banking-reviews/citizens-equity-first-credit-union/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citizens_Equity_First_Credit_Union
- https://www.justice.gov/usao-cdil/pr/justice-department-secures-agreement-cefcu-ensure-access-people-disabilities
- https://casetext.com/case/san-diego-cnty-credit-union-v-citizens-equity-first-credit-union
- https://www.ipupdate.com/tag/san-diego-county-credit-union-v-citizens-equity-first-credit-union/
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