CIT Finance

CIT Finance: Loans, Reviews & Bank Services 2025

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Introduction to CIT Finance (2025 Update)

When I first came across CIT Finance, it seemed like just another bank. But when I dug deeper, especially after seeing several small business owners in my network recommend it, I realized that CIT is more than just a bank; it’s a financial partner for people who want to use their money smarter.

CIT Finance, now part of First Citizens Bank, has a rich history spanning over 100 years, serving both individuals and businesses across the United States. It’s best known for offering high-yield savings accounts, competitive CDs, business loans, and flexible online banking solutions. What attracted me was how simple and transparent their loan and savings products are, especially compared to the confusing jargon you often find with big banks.

CIT is worth a closer look if you’re a saver looking for high interest, a small business owner, or someone who prefers digital-first banking. I started with one of their online savings accounts in 2023 and was pleasantly surprised by the above-average interest rate and zero monthly fees.

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In short, CIT Finance has made financial tools more accessible to everyone from students to seniors, by maintaining simplicity, rewarding your money, and making it easy for you to access.

CIT Bank vs. CIT Finance: Are They the Same?

If you’re like me, you’re probably wondering: Is CIT Finance the same as CIT Bank? I used to think they were two separate companies. After opening a savings account at CIT Bank last year, I did some digging, and here’s what I found.

CIT Bank, originally known as the direct banking division of CIT Group, was a financial holding company. Later in 2022, CIT merged with First Citizens Bank, one of the oldest and most trusted banks in the United States. Since then, the CIT brand has still existed under the First Citizens umbrella, but it operates primarily online.

CIT Finance is not a separate company — it’s just another way of referring to the same services often offered by CIT Bank or CIT Group. This is where the confusion begins. Many users, especially online, use “CIT Finance” when talking about CIT Bank’s financial products, such as savings accounts, CDs, or loans.

To make matters worse, some people confuse CIT with Citibank, which is a completely different global banking brand. Because of this complexity, I have seen friends mistakenly apply for the wrong card or service.

How to avoid confusion? Always double-check the web address:
 ✅ CIT Bank: https://www.cit.com
 ❌ Citibank: https://www.citibank.com

Knowing the difference helps you make better choices and avoid banking headaches.

Sources:

  • First Citizens/CIT Merger News
  • FDIC Bank Find Tool

In simple terms: CIT Finance = CIT Bank, now part of First Citizens. Don’t confuse it with Citibank.
CIT Finance

CIT Bank Locations in the USA (2025 Update)

When I first opened an account at CIT Bank, I thought I would just find a local branch nearby, like most other banks. But I quickly learned that CIT Bank is primarily an online bank, and that’s one of the reasons it offers better rates; less overhead means more savings for customers like us.

So, is it easy to find a CIT Bank location in the U.S.? The short answer: Not in the traditional sense. After merging with First Citizens Bank, CIT no longer operates any branches under its name. Instead, it operates as an online-only division of First Citizens.

If you need direct service, you’ll want to visit a First Citizens Bank branch, which is available in more than 20 states, mostly on the Southeast and West Coast. But most CIT customers, like me, handle everything from opening an account to accessing customer support online without ever visiting a branch.

How to find one near you?

  • Use the official branch locator: https://www.firstcitizens.com/locations
  • Or download the First Citizens mobile app for ATM/branch finding tools.

My advice: I once tried to find a “CIT branch” in Texas using Google Maps, and ended up going to Citibank, which was confusing, wasn’t it? Double-check the name and always use the official link.

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So even though CIT Bank locations don’t exist like they used to, you’ll never be far from help thanks to their smart online system.

How CIT Finance Loans Work (2025 Guide)

When I first considered taking out a CIT Finance loan, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Most banks give you a confusing array of options, but CIT has made the process simple. Whether you’re a small business owner, a startup, or just need financing for equipment or expansion, CIT offers loan options designed to meet real-life needs.

Types of CIT Finance Loans

CIT (now part of First Citizens Bank) focuses mostly on business lending, including:

  • Term Loans (fixed interest, structured payments)
  • Equipment Financing (for trucks, medical tools, IT, etc.)
  • Working Capital Loans
  • Franchise Financing
  • Commercial Real Estate Loans

They don’t currently offer personal loans under the CIT brand, but First Citizens does, so if you’re looking to take out a personal loan, that’s an option worth exploring.

Who Qualifies?

CIT loans are offered to small to medium-sized businesses in the United States, especially those that are established and consistently generate revenue.
 Here’s what they typically look for:

  • Business history of at least 2 years
  • Solid credit score (650+)
  • Proof of revenue and cash flow
  • Collateral (in some cases)

Rates & Repayment

In 2025, interest rates vary depending on the type of loan, but the average interest rate for term loans is between 6.25% and 9.99%. Repayment periods can range from 12 to 72 months, depending on the size and structure of the loan.

CIT Finance
Real-Life Example

A close friend of mine owns a small trucking company in Georgia. He used a CIT Finance loan to purchase two new trucks through their equipment financing program. The loan had a fixed rate of 7.2%, no surprise fees, and monthly payments were made in line with his cash flow. The online application took less than 30 minutes, and approval came within 48 hours.

Where to Apply

Apply directly through: https://www.cit.com/business/loans
 Or call their U.S. support: 866-777-0117

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Simply put: CIT Finance loans are smart, flexible, and designed to help grow real businesses without the hassle of paperwork.

Is CIT Bank Safe for Your Money? (2025 Honest Answer)

One of the first questions I asked before opening an account was: “Is CIT Bank safe?” In today’s digital world, trusting an online bank with your money isn’t just important – it’s everything.

FDIC Insured — Yes, Absolutely

CIT Bank deposits are FDIC-insured through First Citizens Bank. This means your funds are protected up to $250,000 for each depositor, based on the type of ownership of each account. That gives peace of mind, just like any traditional bank. You can verify this on the FDIC’s official site here: https://banks.data.fdic.gov

Strong Online Security

CIT uses 256-bit SSL encryption, multi-factor authentication, secure login alerts, and other tools to keep your account safe. I’ve been using their mobile app since 2023, and every time I log in, I’m asked to verify my identity. That extra layer matters.

Your data remains private; it’s never sold to outside companies. Their privacy policy is easy to read and updated regularly.

Why Trust Matters

In my experience, online banking isn’t just about features—it’s about feeling secure. I’ve dealt with big-name banks that offered less protection and slower fraud support than CIT. When I had a login issue once, CIT’s U.S.-based customer service resolved it in minutes.

My Take

Trust isn’t given—it’s earned. And over the past two years, CIT Bank has earned mine. Their platform is clean, their security is serious, and they haven’t once given me a reason to worry about my money.

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In short, if you’re wondering, “Is CIT Bank safe?” – my answer is yes. Your money is safe, your privacy is respected, and your experience matters.

CIT Finance
CIT Bank Customer Service: Real People, Real Reviews (2025 Update)

When it comes to online banking, great service can make or break your trust. Before opening my account, I looked at CIT Bank customer service reviews to see how they treat their customers. And after using their support myself, here’s the real story.

Phone, Email, and Chat Support

CIT Bank offers US-based phone support, secure messaging through your account, and a 24/7 automated system. You can reach a live representative Monday through Friday, starting at 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

In my case, I called them to reset my password. I waited about 4 minutes, then was connected to a calm and friendly representative who resolved my issue in less than 10 minutes. It felt personal, not scripted.

Real User Feedback

Based on user reviews on sites like Trustpilot and NerdWallet, most customers say CIT Bank’s service is responsive, professional, and helpful. Some reviews mention delays during busy times, especially after the merger with First Citizen, but many also praise the clarity of communication and polite staff.

Here are a few common highlights:

  • ✅ Clear answers from phone reps
  • ✅ Fast email responses (within 24 hours)
  • ❌ No weekend live chat (as of early 2025)

My Final Impression

For an online-first bank, CIT offers better customer service than some of the traditional banks I’ve used. You won’t always get instant answers, but you’ll get real help from real people when it matters most.

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If you value accessible, human support—even in an online environment—CIT Bank’s customer service will likely meet, if not exceed, your expectations.

CIT Finance Reviews: What Real Customers Are Saying (2025 Update)

Before choosing a bank or lending institution, I always take the time to read reviews, especially when it’s online-based like CIT. After reading hours of CIT Finance reviews from real users on platforms like Trustpilot, Reddit, and Google, I found a mix of positive, concerning, and helpful.

What Customers Like

Most positive reviews highlight the easy application process, competitive rates, and clear communication. Many small business owners say that CIT’s equipment financing has helped them grow without the hassle of red tape.

One reviewer wrote, “We financed two vans for our cleaning business. CIT financed them in less than a week at a better rate than our local credit union.”

People also appreciate the low or no hidden fees—a big advantage in today’s banking world.

Complaints and Weak Spots

Some negative reviews have cited processing delays or slow customer service during times of high demand, especially after the CIT-First Citizens Bank merger. Some users have felt that the approval process was initially unclear, especially for startups without a credit history. However, CIT has responded publicly to many complaints, often explaining the issues and offering to communicate to resolve them. In my opinion, this level of engagement builds a bit more trust.

What I Like & Dislike

I appreciate their transparent loan terms, but I wish they had live chat and more weekend support. Their website is clean, but sometimes you have to search for specific loan information.

Spotting Fake Reviews

Beware of vague compliments like “great service” without detailed descriptions. Real reviews often mention specific products, timelines, or issues resolved. Verified user badges also help.

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Bottom line: The majority of CIT finance reviews are positive, especially from established businesses, but do your homework and always read the fine print.

CIT Bank Review: Is It Right for You? (2025 Honest Insight)

If you’re reading this CIT Bank review, you’re probably trying to figure out if it fits your needs, and that’s exactly where I come in.

Pros

  • High-yield savings and CDs with above-average rates
  • No monthly fees on most accounts
  • User-friendly online platform
  • FDIC insured through First Citizens Bank
  • Fast digital account setup

Cons

  • No physical CIT Bank branches
  • No personal loan products under the CIT name
  • Limited customer service hours (no weekends)

Who Should Consider CIT Bank?

From my experience, CIT is perfect for:

  • Savers looking to grow money with fewer fees
  • Tech-comfortable users who prefer managing accounts online
  • Small business owners interested in equipment financing

If you have to visit a branch regularly, or you’re not comfortable with digital banking, CIT may not be the best fit for you.

Compared to Other Banks

Compared to traditional banks like Chase or Bank of America, CIT offers better rates and lower fees, but it doesn’t have a physical presence. It’s similar to Ally or Discover Bank, but the product line is a bit narrower.

My Final Thoughts

Ease of use, strong interest rates, and a clean experience make it a smart choice. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re comfortable banking online, CIT can offer more opportunities to grow your money.

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In short, this CIT Bank review reflects real-world experience – it’s a strong option for modern savers, as long as you can do business without branches.

Frequently Asked Questions About CIT Finance (2025 Update)

As a CIT user and an explorer of its features, I have collected and answered the most common questions based on my personal experience and updated research.

Does CIT offer credit cards?

No, CIT Finance or CIT Bank does not currently offer credit cards. Their focus is on savings accounts, CDs, and business loans. If you’re looking for credit card options, First Citizens Bank (CIT’s parent company) offers a few.

What is their loan approval time?

It depends on the type of loan. For business or equipment financing, CIT typically decides within 1 to 3 business days. When I helped a friend apply for equipment financing, the initial approval came in less than 48 hours.

Is CIT Bank part of Citibank?

No, and this is a common misconception. CIT Bank is not related to Citibank. CIT is a division of First Citizens Bank, which is part of the global Citigroup.

Can you apply fully online?

Yes, and that’s one of the best parts. Whether it’s a high-yield savings account or a business loan, the entire application process is digital. I opened my CIT savings account in less than 10 minutes – all from my phone.

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In short, CIT Finance makes banking easy, but knowing the information helps you use it better.

Conclusion: Should You Trust CIT Finance? 

Having personally used CIT Finance, I can say: It’s more than just an online bank – it’s a smart choice for those who want real value. I opened a Savings Connect account in early 2025, and within a few months, I noticed the difference: high interest income, no monthly fees, and a very clean mobile app experience.

If you’re looking for simple banking with solid returns and reliable service, CIT Finance is worth it. But always check your needs first.

My advice? Explore their savings and CD rates today. Compare them to others. You might be pleasantly surprised, as I was.

Source: First Citizens Bank – CIT Division (2025)

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