CIT Bank: Is It The Right Online Bank for You in 2025?

CIT Bank is now a fully integrated division of First Citizens Bank, operating as one of America's leading direct banks with over $100 billion in assets. Following the completion of their merger in January 2022, CIT Bank customers benefit from both competitive online banking rates and access to First Citizens' extensive network of 550+ branches across 21 states.

The bank specializes in high-yield savings accounts, certificates of deposit, and fee-free banking services designed for customers who prefer digital-first banking. CIT Bank maintains its direct banking model while offering the security and resources of a top-20 U.S. financial institution.

This review focuses on CIT Bank's personal banking services, though the bank also provides business and commercial banking solutions for small businesses.

CIT Bank offers a focused range of deposit products designed for online banking customers. All accounts come with free debit cards featuring EMV chip technology and comprehensive fraud protection through the CIT Bank Shield program.

Platinum Savings

CIT Bank's flagship Platinum Savings account offers 3.75% APY on balances of $5,000 or more, with 0.25% APY on smaller balances. You can open an account with just $100, making it accessible for most savers.

The account has no monthly maintenance fees and your deposits are FDIC insured up to $250,000. The tiered structure encourages saving by rewarding larger balances with significantly higher returns.

Savings Builder

The Savings Builder account offers 1.00% APY when you meet specific requirements designed to encourage regular saving habits:

This account works well for people who can't maintain the $5,000 minimum for Platinum Savings but can commit to regular monthly deposits. The $100 opening deposit requirement keeps it accessible, while the monthly deposit option makes earning the higher rate achievable for consistent savers.

Savings Builder accounts have no opening or maintenance fees, making them suitable for building emergency funds or working toward specific savings goals.

Savings Connect

Savings Connect provides a linked checking and savings account combination, though APY rates vary and are updated regularly based on market conditions. The current rate as of December 2025 is AYP at 3.65% with a 9x2 multipler.

The linked structure allows easy transfers between checking and savings, helping you manage daily expenses while maximizing interest earnings on funds you don't need immediately.

Money Market Account

CIT Bank's Money Market Account currently offers competitive rates with no minimum balance requirements to earn interest. The account requires just a $10 minimum opening deposit and charges no monthly service fees.

Money Market accounts include Bill Pay functionality, allowing you to pay bills directly from the account. However, like all money market accounts, you're limited to six withdrawals per statement cycle, with a $20 fee for additional transactions.

eChecking Account

The CIT Bank eChecking account is a digital interest-bearing checking account designed for mobile-first users. It offers a tiered interest structure where higher balances earn a more competitive rate.

The account is characterized by its lack of standard maintenance fees and flexibility in accessing funds through digital wallets and a mobile app. While it does not offer traditional check-writing capabilities, it provides various digital payment options including Zelle and Bill Pay.

Certificates of Deposit (CDs)

CIT Bank offers several CD options with varying terms and features to match different savings strategies.

Term CDs

Standard term CDs require a $1,000 minimum opening deposit and offer terms from 6 months to 5 years. Current rates as of December 2025 include:

• 6-month CD: 2.75% APY
• 13-month CD: 3.25% APY
• 18-month CD: 2.75% APY
• 5-year CD: 2.50% APY

Term CDs lock in your rate for the entire period, providing predictable returns regardless of market changes.

No-Penalty CDs

The 11-month No-Penalty CD offers 3.25% APY with the flexibility to withdraw your entire balance and earned interest without penalties. You can access your funds starting seven days after deposit, making this ideal for savers who want CD rates without the commitment anxiety.

This product requires a $1,000 minimum opening deposit and has no monthly maintenance fees. It's particularly valuable in uncertain interest rate environments where you might want to move money to take advantage of better opportunities.

Jumbo CDs

Jumbo CDs are available for large deposits, though specific minimum requirements and current rates should be verified directly with CIT Bank as these products often have customized terms based on deposit amounts and market conditions.

Mortgages

CIT Bank offers fixed-rate mortgages with terms ranging from 10 to 30 years. Savings Builder account holders may qualify for relationship pricing benefits, though specific details about rate reductions and cashback offers should be confirmed directly with the bank as these programs change based on market conditions.

Opening a CIT Bank account is entirely online-based since the bank operates without physical branches. You can complete the application process through the CIT Bank website or mobile app in minutes.

The account opening process requires standard personal information, including your Social Security number, government-issued ID, and initial deposit method. Most accounts can be funded through electronic transfers from existing bank accounts, with funds typically available within 1-2 business days.

For customers who need in-person assistance, the integration with First Citizens Bank means you can visit any of their 550+ branch locations across 21 states for account support, though the primary banking relationship remains digital.

CIT Bank operates as a digital-first bank with 24/7 online access through its website and mobile applications. The bank's technology infrastructure provides comprehensive account management capabilities from anywhere with internet access.

The CIT Bank mobile app supports essential banking functions including balance checking, transaction history, mobile check deposits, bill payments, and money transfers. The app integrates with Zelle for person-to-person payments and supports Apple Pay and Samsung Pay for convenient transactions.

However, recent user reviews indicate some technical challenges with the mobile app. Users report occasional login difficulties, biometric authentication failures, and mobile deposit recognition issues requiring multiple attempts. While CIT Bank responds to customer

CIT Bank provides customer support through multiple channels, with phone support available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. The bank is closed Sundays and holidays.

Current customer service phone number: 855-462-2652

Customers can access their accounts 24/7 through online banking and mobile applications. The bank also offers automated telephone banking for basic account information and transactions.

For customers requiring in-person assistance, the First Citizens Bank branch network provides additional support options, though most routine banking can be handled through digital channels.

The CIT mobile application supports comprehensive account management including:

Let's do a quick glance over the advantages and disadvantages CIT Bank brings to the table.

CIT Bank remains a solid choice for online banking, particularly for customers who value fee-free operations and reliable service over absolute rate maximization. The integration with First Citizens Bank adds stability and branch access while maintaining the digital-first approach that makes online banking convenient.

If you prioritize the highest possible interest rates above all else, several competitors now offer superior APYs. However, if you want a balanced approach combining competitive rates, no fees, ATM reimbursements, and the security of a large banking institution, CIT Bank delivers solid value.

The bank works best for customers comfortable with digital banking who occasionally need in-person support. The First Citizens branch network provides that safety net while keeping the primary banking experience streamlined and fee-free.

If you’re ready to ditch the low interest rates of your local neighborhood bank and want to see your savings actually grow, CIT Bank is a fantastic teammate to have. It’s safe, it’s big, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves doing everything from their phone. While the app can have issues sometimes, the trade-off is a fee-free experience that puts more money back in your pocket.

So, if you’re comfortable with digital banking and want a secure place to park your cash, CIT Bank is definitely worth a look. It’s all about making your money work as hard as you do.