CineFi FAQs
Getting Started
Who is CineFi?
CineFi is a digital credit union launched in 2025 by First Entertainment Credit Union. Our goal is to help you navigate your finances with ease and confidence.
- No minimums, no account fees, no drama
- Early Payday¹ and digital budgeting tools
- Financial education tailored for film professionals
Your Finances, in Focus. It starts when you complete your CineFi application today.
Who is CineFi designed for?
CineFi is built for professionals across the entertainment industry —freelancers, crew members, creatives, and anyone working behind the scenes. No matter if you’re just starting out or well into your career, our tools are here to help you take control of your finances and build lasting habits that support your life on and off the set.
All you need is a government- or state-issued ID, a Social Security number, and just 5 minutes of your time. If that’s you, open an account today!
Who can join CineFi?
We’ve got a few ways to join: You live or work in the Georgia counties of DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Newton, Paulding or Rockdale, or Los Angeles County in California. Eligibility also extends to members of the Filmmakers Alliance, or those who live with or are related to a current CineFi member. If that sounds like you, you’re already halfway there!
What is the Filmmakers Alliance?
Filmmakers Alliance is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles, California that empowers independent filmmakers through peer-to-peer support, access to creative resources, and meaningful networking opportunities. If you join CineFi through Filmmakers Alliance, you’ll receive a complimentary 1-year membership to Filmmakers Alliance as part of the partnership.
After that first year, you’re not required to maintain your Filmmakers Alliance membership in order to keep your CineFi account and benefits.
Who is First Entertainment Credit Union?
For more than 50 years, First Entertainment Credit Union has served as the financial foundation for freelancers, crew members, creatives, and storytellers across the entertainment industry. Headquartered in Hollywood, California, we’ve grown alongside the industry—now serving nearly 90,000 members and partnering with more than 400 entertainment organizations.
CineFi was created to extend that legacy with intention. It’s not just about banking—it’s about building a community where entertainment professionals can connect, support each other, and thrive. Whether you’re on set, behind the scenes, or developing your next big idea, CineFi is here to back your hustle and support your creative path.
Digital Access
Can I create a profile or log in before opening an account?
Absolutely! You will create a digital profile login before opening an account, giving you early access to explore CineFi’s financial education and budget tips, plus free credit score monitoring.
To unlock the full range of capabilities—like money movement, savings goals, spending insights & budget tools—simply open an account.
To sign up, click here.
How can I get the CineFi mobile app?
Is everything handled digitally with CineFi?
Yes – CineFi is built to keep up with your lifestyle. As a fully digital banking experience, everything from opening your account to moving money happens on your phone or desktop — no appointments, no physical locations. Just fast, flexible access whenever you need it.
Does CineFi offer any financial education or resources?
Absolutely! We built this feature with you in mind—a curated collection of financial wellness videos, articles, and tools crafted specifically for you. From navigating taxes and managing credit to saving during a hiatus, it’s all designed to support your unique career rhythm.
Do I need a smartphone to bank with CineFi?
Not necessarily. You’ll need a mobile device that can receive SMS texts so you can complete your account setup and receive one-time passcodes. A smartphone just makes things easier for managing your money, depositing checks, and keeping up with security alerts while you’re on the move. You can also access your account from a desktop or tablet—whatever fits your lifestyle.
Does CineFi have ATMs near me?
As a CineFi member, you have access to 30,000+ surcharge-free CO-OP ATMs. Find the nearest CO-OP ATM near you here or use the CineFi Mobile App to locate an ATM quickly and easily.
Plus, CineFi reimburses fees charged by out-of-network ATMs², so you can get cash almost anywhere without penalty. Please refer to our account disclosures for coverage details.
Open an Account
How do I open a CineFi account?
You can open your account right now—just tap or click ‘Get Started’ in the top-right corner of your screen whenever you’re ready.
All you need is a government- or state-issued ID, a Social Security number, a valid email address, and five minutes of your time.
Why do you need my Social Security number?
Your Social Security number helps us confirm your identity and protect against account fraud. We keep all of your personal information secure, and we never share your SSN with anyone.
Can I use my new CineFi account right away?
Yes! As soon as you’ve opened and funded your CineFi Cash or Savings Account, you’re all set. You can add money anytime via mobile deposit, external transfer, direct deposit—or through apps like Venmo, Cash App, Zelle®, or PayPal™.
While you wait for your debit card to arrive, you can still move funds and manage your money seamlessly.
When will my debit card arrive?
Your debit card should arrive within 7–10 business days.
How do I activate my debit card?
To activate your debit card and set your PIN, call 1-866-209-4164.
Managing Money & Transfers
How do I add money to my CineFi account?
External transfer: Easily move funds from another bank account with instant account linking.
Direct deposit: Head to CineFi Digital Banking to set it up—either by completing a form or using the automated deposit switch feature for quick, secure setup.
Mobile deposit: Snap a pic of your check and deposit it right from the CineFi Mobile App.
Third-party apps: Transfer extra cash from Venmo, Zelle®, Cash App, or PayPal™ directly to your CineFi account or CineFi debit card.
How can I set up direct deposit for my paycheck?
You can set up direct deposit using our secure, automated switching tool, powered by Pinwheel.
With Early Payday¹, you can access your paycheck up to three days early when your employer offers direct deposit.
If your employer does not use a payroll provider that allows for automatic processing, you can generate a pre-filled form that can be sent directly to your HR or finance department.
How do I link an external account?
CineFi uses Plaid to securely link your external accounts in seconds. Simply enter your login credentials for each financial institution and follow the steps—no need to hunt down account or routing numbers.
Ways to link your external accounts:
- After your account is approved and opened, you’ll see an option to link external accounts.
- In the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking, go to the dashboard and select the linked accounts plus sign, or choose the Pay & Transfer>Manage External Accounts option.
How do I set up an external transfer?
In the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking, select Pay & Transfer > External Transfer. Follow the prompts to receive or send money.
What are my standard transfer limits?
Transfer limits may vary by member and transfer type. To learn more about your specific limits, please contact the CineFi Support Crew via chat or send a secure message through the CineFi App or Online Banking.
How do I link my CineFi account to apps like Venmo, Zelle®, Cash App, and PayPal™?
To link your CineFi account, just follow the steps provided by each financial app to set CineFi as your preferred institution.
What is CineFi’s routing number?
The routing number for CineFi is 122287756.
How do I find my CineFi account number?
Open the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking, head to your dashboard, select your account preview, and tap the ‘eye’ icon to reveal the full number.
Need help? You can always chat with the CineFi crew directly in the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking.
Where can I get cash?
As a CineFi member, there are three easy ways to access cash:
- Fee-free withdrawals at CO-OP ATMs: You can withdraw cash nationwide at any CO-OP ATM without paying a fee.² Use the CineFi Mobile App or click here to quickly locate a nearby ATM.
- Access to non-network ATMs: You can also withdraw cash from ATMs outside the CO-OP network. CineFi reimburses fees charged by non-network ATMs², so you’re covered almost anywhere. Check our account disclosures for full details on fee coverage.
- Cash back at checkout: Get cash back from participating merchants when you use your CineFi debit card during a purchase.
Your Debit Card
Where can I use my CineFi debit card?
Anywhere Visa® is accepted—including internationally. Just remember to enable Foreign Transactions in the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking before traveling.
Can I link my debit card to my mobile wallet?
Absolutely. Your CineFi debit card is compatible with Apple Wallet®, Google Wallet™, and Samsung Wallet™.
You’ll be able to add your debit card to your digital wallet once you receive and activate it.
How do I find an ATM?
As a CineFi member, it’s easy. You have access to over 30,000 CO-OP ATMs nationwide. Just open the CineFi Mobile App or tap here to find one nearby in seconds.
And if you’re not near a CO-OP ATM, no worries—CineFi reimburses fees charged by out-of-network ATMs², so you can grab cash when you need it, wherever you are. For full details, check our account disclosures.
What should I do if my debit card is lost or stolen?
First, open the CineFi Mobile App and head to Card Management to lock your debit card. You can also reach the CineFi crew through chat or send a secure message to request a new card.
If you cannot login, please call 1-866-209-4164 right away to block your card.
How can I change my debit card PIN?
Call 1-866-209-4164 anytime to update it.
CineFi Account Overview
What types of accounts does CineFi offer?
We offer a CineFi Cash Account and High-Yield Savings Account, designed specifically for entertainment professionals who want to grow their money while effortlessly managing everyday spending.
Ready to get started? Complete your CineFi application
Does CineFi have account fees?
CineFi checking and savings accounts have no account fees or minimum balance requirements.
You can withdraw cash at any CO-OP ATM fee-free. If you use an out-of-network ATMs², fees may apply—please refer to our account disclosures for coverage details. You can also get cash back at merchants when using your CineFi Visa® Debit Card.
Can I open a business account with CineFi?
Not at this time. While CineFi doesn’t currently offer business accounts, we do provide a variety of banking features designed to help you stay organized and support your freelance finances—such as transaction folders, budgeting tools, cashflow insights, and savings goals.
Does CineFi offer loan products?
Not just yet, but coming soon! In the meantime, we’re backed by First Entertainment Credit Union, which offers a full suite of financial products. To explore more, visit: https://www.firstent.org/
Does CineFi provide checks?
No. As a digital-only credit union, CineFi does not support paper check writing or accept third-party checks drawn from your account. Instead, you can set up and use secure ACH Transfers or Person-to-Person (P2P) features to send money quickly and conveniently.
How does Early Payday¹ work?
With CineFi’s Early Payday¹, you can access your paycheck up to three days early, depending on your employer and when the deposit file is received.
Where can I find current rates on CineFi products?
Account Features & Tools
What is Round Up³ to save?
When you enroll in Round Up³ to save, we automatically round your debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and transfer the difference to your savings—making it easier to grow your balance with every transaction.
How do I enroll or enable Round Up³ savings?
To use Round Up³, open your CineFi Cash and Savings Accounts. Then create a savings goal in the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking. Choose how you want to save and tap Round Up³ to turn it on. Your purchases will be rounded up, and the change will go straight to your savings.
What are Transaction Folders?
Transaction Folders allow you to update how transactions are categorized and tracked within your CineFi Cash Account using the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking. While the system automatically sorts expenses like food and dining, gas, and travel, you can adjust the category to match the folder you want to track spending in.
What is a Savings Goal?
Savings Goals let you create virtual folders in your CineFi savings account, so you can simultaneously plan for multiple goals without opening separate accounts.
Can I pause or change my savings goal later?
Yes. You can pause, cancel, or edit your savings goals at any time in the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking without closing your savings account.
Are you connected with Zelle®?
CineFi offers a built-in Person-to-Person (P2P) transfer feature that works similarly to services like Zelle. You simply need your friend’s email or mobile number to set them up as a new payee.
Do you support instant deposits through Zelle, CashApp, etc.?
Not yet—instant transfers from apps like Zelle®, CashApp, or PayPal™ may take 24–48 hours to post.
Can I access my credit score through CineFi?
Yes. CineFi includes free credit monitoring powered by Savvy Money. You can track your score and get personalized insights through your dashboard within the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking.
Security & Support
Is my money safe with CineFi?
Absolutely. CineFi is a division of First Entertainment Credit Union, where all accounts are held and insured. Your deposits are protected to at least $250,000 by the NCUA, a U.S. government agency. Since CineFi and First Entertainment share the same insurance coverage, your combined deposits are insured up to that limit.
How does CineFi handle my personal information?
Our members trust us with their data, and we treat it like our own. We never sell your information and your data is safeguarded using enhanced security standards trusted across the banking industry. See our Privacy Policy for full details.
What steps should I take if I feel my information might've been compromised?
First, change your CineFi password. Then turn on alerts and monitor account activity. Contact our crew right away via chat or secure message so we can help.
How do I report fraud?
If you notice any suspicious activity, contact our support crew immediately through chat or secure message in the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking. Be sure to include as many details as possible.
If you don’t have access to your online account and need to report your card lost or stolen, call 1-866-209-4164 to block your CineFi debit card right away.
How can I lock my debit card?
You can lock your debit card in the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking, just go to Manage Cards > Lock Card. This will block all transactions until you unlock it.
How do I notify you before traveling internationally?
Foreign Transactions can be enabled through Card Management in the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking.
How do I contact Member Support?
Our Member Support crew is here to help. We’re available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST—excluding federal holidays. Chat with us anytime via the CineFi Mobile App or Online Banking or send us a secure message anytime.
To help us assist you quickly, please include a detailed description of your question or request. Remember to leave out sensitive account info in chats or messages—your security comes first.