First Citizens Bank basics

First Citizens Bank is a regional bank headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, with branches across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. It offers checking and savings accounts, credit cards, loans, and investment services through both physical branches and online banking. You can open an account in person at a branch, online through their website, or by phone.

The bank operates under federal regulation and is FDIC-insured, meaning deposits up to $250,000 per account type are protected if the bank fails. First Citizens has been operating since 1829, though it expanded significantly through acquisitions over the past two decades.

Key Takeaways

  • First Citizens Bank offers standard checking and savings accounts, credit cards, personal loans, mortgages, and investment accounts through branches and online platforms.
  • You can open most accounts online without visiting a branch, though some products require a phone call or in-person visit.
  • The bank charges monthly maintenance fees on many accounts, but these can often be waived by meeting balance or deposit requirements.
  • First Citizens has ATM access through its own network and through surcharge-free partnerships, depending on your account type.
  • Customer service is available by phone, online chat, and in-person at branches during business hours.

Checking and savings accounts

First Citizens offers several checking account options, each with different features and fee structures. Their basic checking account typically includes online and mobile banking, bill pay, and access to their ATM network. Premium checking accounts may include higher interest rates, higher ATM limits, or waived fees for certain services.

Savings accounts at First Citizens earn interest, though the rate varies based on account type and current market conditions. You can check current rates on their website or by calling a branch. Most savings accounts have a monthly maintenance fee, but this is often waived if you maintain a minimum balance—typically between $500 and $2,500 depending on the account.

Money market accounts combine features of checking and savings, offering check-writing ability along with interest earnings. These accounts usually require a higher minimum balance than regular savings but pay a higher interest rate.

How to open an account

To open a checking or savings account online, visit First Citizens' website and select the account type you want. You will need a valid government-issued ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit method (debit card or bank transfer). The process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account opens the same day or within one business day.

If you prefer to open an account in person, find a branch near you using their branch locator tool. Bring your ID, Social Security number, and initial deposit. A banker will walk you through the account setup and can answer questions about features and fees specific to your situation.

You can also open an account by phone by calling First Citizens' customer service line. A representative will guide you through the process and can discuss which account type fits your banking needs.

Debit cards and ATM access

First Citizens issues a debit card with every checking account. The card works at any merchant that accepts Visa (the network First Citizens uses) and at ATMs worldwide, though you may pay a fee at out-of-network machines. First Citizens operates its own ATM network across its branch locations, and these withdrawals are free for all account holders.

Many First Citizens checking accounts include surcharge-free ATM access through partner networks beyond First Citizens' own machines. The exact network depends on your account type—premium accounts often have broader access. Check your account details or call customer service to confirm which ATM networks are included with your specific account.

If you use an ATM that is not part of First Citizens' network or a partner network, you will typically pay a fee of $2 to $3 per transaction, charged by the other bank. First Citizens may also charge you a fee for out-of-network use, depending on your account.

Online and mobile banking

First Citizens' online banking platform lets you check balances, transfer money between your accounts, pay bills, and deposit checks by taking a photo with your phone. You log in with your username and password, and the platform uses encryption to protect your information.

The mobile app offers the same core features as the website, plus mobile wallet integration if you want to pay with your phone at stores. You can set up alerts for low balances, large transactions, or upcoming bill payments. The app is free to read and works on both iOS and Android devices.

Bill pay through First Citizens lets you schedule one-time or recurring payments to businesses, utilities, or individuals. Payments typically process within one to three business days, depending on the payee. You can set up bill pay through online banking or the mobile app.

Credit cards and loans

First Citizens offers credit cards with varying rewards structures—some earn cash back on all purchases, others offer bonus categories like groceries or gas. Each card has an annual percentage rate (APR) that depends on your credit score and creditworthiness. You can see current card offers and rates on their website or ask at a branch.

The bank also offers personal loans for expenses like home improvement, debt consolidation, or major purchases. Loan amounts, terms, and interest rates vary based on your credit profile and income. You can request a personal loan online, by phone, or in person at a branch.

First Citizens provides mortgages for home purchases and refinancing, as well as home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) if you own a home. These products require a more detailed process process and typically involve an appraisal and credit check. A mortgage specialist can walk you through the process and explain rates and terms.

Fees and account maintenance

Most First Citizens checking accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee, typically between $5 and $15. This fee is often waived if you maintain a minimum daily balance, set up direct deposit, or meet other requirements like a minimum number of debit card transactions per month. The specific waiver conditions depend on your account type.

Savings and money market accounts also carry monthly maintenance fees, usually waived by maintaining a minimum balance. Overdraft fees explore if you spend more than your available balance—First Citizens typically charges $35 per overdraft, though this varies. Some accounts include overdraft protection, which transfers money from a linked savings account to cover the shortfall.

Wire transfer fees, stop payment fees, and fees for closing an account early (if applicable) vary by service. Ask about specific fees when opening your account or call customer service for details on any service you plan to use.

Customer service and support

First Citizens offers customer service by phone during business hours, typically 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and limited hours on weekends. You can find the phone number on your account statement, on their website, or on the back of your debit card. Wait times vary depending on call volume.

Online chat support is available through their website and mobile app during business hours. This option works well for quick questions about your account or how to use a feature. For complex issues like disputes or loan applications, phone or in-person service may be more efficient.

You can also visit a branch in person to speak with a banker about your account, open new products, or resolve issues. Branch hours vary by location, so check their website or call ahead to confirm when your nearest branch is open.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a First Citizens account if I don't have a branch near me?

Yes. You can open most checking and savings accounts entirely online without visiting a branch. You will need a valid ID, Social Security number, and an initial deposit method. Some products like mortgages or investment accounts may require a phone call or in-person meeting, but basic deposit accounts are fully available online.

What happens if I overdraft my account?

If you spend more than your available balance, First Citizens will typically charge an overdraft fee (usually $35 per transaction). Some accounts include overdraft protection, which automatically transfers money from a linked savings account to cover the shortfall without a fee. Check your account terms or call customer service to see if your account has this feature.

How do I deposit a check without visiting a branch?

Use mobile check deposit through the First Citizens mobile app. Take a photo of the front and back of the check, enter the amount, and submit it through the app. The check typically posts to your account within one business day. You can deposit up to a certain amount per day and per month—limits vary by account type.

Are there fees for using out-of-network ATMs?

Yes. If you use an ATM that is not part of First Citizens' network or a partner network, you will pay a fee—typically $2 to $3 charged by the other bank, plus a fee from First Citizens depending on your account type. Using First Citizens ATMs or partner ATMs included with your account avoids these fees.

Can I transfer money between First Citizens and another bank?

Yes. You can link an external bank account to your First Citizens account and transfer money between them through online banking or the mobile app. Transfers typically take one to three business days. You can also set up external transfers for bill pay if you want to pay a bill from another bank account.