Need a car loan soon? Whether you’re about to buy a car soon or just thinking about it, chances are you will likely finance it (unless, of course, you have the cash to buy it right away). So why not learn a few steps along the way to help you get a car loan. A little knowledge about the process can go a long way; so far as saving you thousands of dollars in the long run!
Ready to start comparing car loan already? Start now… it’s Free.
Step One: Review your credit file
You may need to get a free credit report and make sure you have a good credit score before applying for a car loan. The better your credit score, the higher your chance to get approved and save on interest.
Step Two: Compare interest rates
You should shop around, compare auto rates and fees before you apply for a car loan. The worst thing you can do to yourself is to apply for multiple loans at the same time, as this can affect your credit score.
So, look at multiple rates at one place so you can make the best decision. Also, remember you can choose a fixed rate or variable rate on a car loan.
Whichever you choose depends on what you’re comfortable with. Remember that a fixed rate will stay the same for all of the term of the loan. That means, your repayment will be predictable and you’ll be able to budget for a lot easier than with a variable rate.
Click here to compare car loan rates through LendingTree.
Step Three: Dealer Finance or Car loan?
You should always compare bank/independent loan to dealer finance.
Granted dealer financing may get you a auto loan with a very low rate, but that does not mean you get the best deal. Sometimes dealer financing can be more expensive in the long run. So you may want to compare rates from 2-3 lenders with a dealer finance rate to make sure you get the best rate possible.
Step Four: Get pre-approved
Before you commit to a car you should get pre-approved first. Plus, walking into the car dealership with a pre-approval letter in your hand, gives you greater negotiating power.
Step Five: Gather your documents and go car shopping
Once you decide on an auto loan that you’re happy with, it’s time to go car shopping! So gather your financial documents such as your pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, and W2s.
Want to explore your car loan options? Visit LendingTree to compare the best car loan rates.
Related: How to save money for a car
Speak With The Right Financial Advisor
You can talk to a financial advisor who can review your finances and help you reach your goals. Find one who meets your needs with SmartAssetâs free financial advisor matching service. You answer a few questions and they match you with up to three financial advisors in your area. So, if you want help developing a plan to reach your financial goals, get started now.
The post How To Get A Car Loan in 5 Easy Steps appeared first on GrowthRapidly.
6-month CD rates can be a smart strategy for your short-term saving goals.
If you’re saving for a house, you may be wondering where you can park your hard-earned cash safely and earn interest at the same time.
If so, you should consider a 6-month CD, because the rates can still be very competitive.
In fact, 6-month CD rates can range from 0.50% APY to 1.00% APY, which produce higher yields than bank savings accounts.
Also, a six-month CD comes with FDIC insurance that protects your money up to $250,000.
Why shouldn’t you take advantage of a higher yield and safety?
Of note, if you are looking for higher yields, consider investing in Vanguard index funds.
In the meantime, here’s a table listing the best 6-month CD rates.
6-Month CD Rate
APY
Minimum Balance
EmigrantDirect CD
1.00%
$1,000
MySavingsDirect
1.00%
$1,000
Limelight Bank CD
0.95%
$1,000
Sallie Mae Bank CD
0.90%
$2,500
BMO Harris Bank CD
0.80%
$5,000
Live Oak Bank CD
0.80%
$2,500
Bank5 Connect CD
0.75%
$500
HSBC CD
0.75%
$1,000
TIAA Bank CD
0.75%
$5,000
Ally Bank CD
0.65%
$0
PurePoint Financial CD
0.50%
$10,000
Best 6-month CD rates to help you achieve short-term saving goals.
*TOP CIT BANK PROMOTIONS*
PROMOTIONAL LINK
OFFER
REVIEW
CIT Bank Money Market
1.00% APY
Review
CIT Bank Savings Builder
0.95% APY
Review
CIT Bank CDs
0.75% APY 1 Year CD Term
Review
CIT Bank No Penalty CD
0.75% APY
Review
What is a CD?
A certificate of deposit or CD is a type of short-term investment where you agree to keep your money for a certain period of time, usually for three months to several years.
You usually open a CD with a traditional bank, credit union or even an investment company. For example, investment company such as Vanguard offers brokered CDs.
Once the CD “matures” or becomes “due,” you receive the principal money invested, plus interest.
If you withdraw your money before the stated period of time, an early withdrawal penalty will apply.
However, there are some banks that offer CDs with no penalty. Banks such as CIT Bank has an 11-month, no penalty CDs. However, those CDs usually have lower APY.
CDs are very safe. That’s because they are insured by the federal government for up to $250,000.
So, if you’re looking for safety, a CD is a good choice.
Is a six-month CD right for you?
Before you start shopping for the best 6-month CD rates, you need to ask yourself these questions:
How much interest will you earn?
Are 6-month CD rates better than interests from a savings account, money market funds, etc?
With a 6-month CD, you can expect to earn good money. But not a lot when comparing to longer CD terms. It is because the longer the length of the CD, the more money you will make.
But one thing for sure is that you will earn more money on a 6-month CD than on a savings account (more on this later).
Here’s how much you can earn with a 6-month CD rate.
Overview of the best 6-Month CD Rates: how much should you expect to earn.
The minimum balance requirement and the rates for these 6-month CDs vary depending on the bank. The rates range from 0.50% to 1.00%.
EmigrantDirect 6-month CD rate
The applicable rate for a six-month CD from Emigrant Direct is 1.00% . This six-month CD has a $1000 minimum deposit requirement. This is one of the highest interest rates out there.
MySavingsDirect 6-month CD rate
This 6-month CD also has a 1.00% APY and requires a $1000 minimum deposit.
Limelight Bank 6-month CD rate
The applicable yield for a six-month CD from Limelight Bank is 0.95%. It also has a $1000 minimum balance requirement.
BMO Harris 6-month CD rate
For a BMO Harris six-month CD, it is 0.80% APY and $5,000 minimum deposit.
Live Oak Bank 6-month CD rate
You can expect a 0.80% APY, But the minimum deposit can be high, $2,500.
Sallie Mae Bank 6-month CD rate
Sallie Mae’s 6-month CD offers a 0.90% APY and requires a $2,500 minimum deposit.
TIAA Bank 6-month CD rate
The minimum deposit can be steep for a six-month CD from TIAA Bank, which is $5,000. But a rate of 0.75% is still competitive.
Ally Bank 6-month CD rate
For an Ally Bank six-month CD, the rate is 0.65%. And there is no minimum deposit.
Bank5 Connect 6-month CD rate
The Bank5 Connect 6-month CD has the lowest minimum deposit requirement ($500) with a rate of 0.75%.
HSBC Direct 6-month CD rate
For a 6-month CD from HSBC, the yield is 0.75% and the minimum deposit requirement is $1,000.
PurePoint 6-month CD rate
The yield for this six-month CD is 0.50%Â and the minimum deposit is $10,000. This deposit requirement can be too much for most people.
Why should you invest in a 6-month CD?
Given that these banks’ 6-month CD offer competitive rates, they may be a good option for you.
So, you may want to consider them for the following reasons:
Emergency fund. A 6-month CD is a good place for your emergency fund. However, if an emergency occurs before the CD matures and you withdraw the money, a penalty will apply.
Saving for a down payment. A 6-month CD is a good option if you’re thinking of buying a house in the next six months.
It’s a good place to accumulate and grow the down payment. You certainly don’t want to risk your money investing it in the stock market, because the market can plunge in a relatively short of time.
Wedding. If you have an upcoming wedding, a six-month CD is a good place to keep your cash.
Vacation. If you’re planning of taking a vacation in 6 months or so, a 6-month CD makes the most sense. Your money is safe and you’ll earn interest at the same time.
CDs vs. savings accounts vs. money market funds
While a 6-month CD can be a good option for your money, it may not be the best options in all situations.
If you need your money before the stated period and withdraw it, you will get hit with a penalty.
So, it makes sense to see what other options are available to you. And the best way to do so is to compare a 6-month CD rate with other saving vehicles.
6-month CD vs. savings account
There is no doubt you’ll receive a higher return on your money with a CD than with a savings account.
However, a savings account is more liquid than a CD. You can withdraw money in your savings account with no fear that you’ll get hit with a penalty.
With a CD, however, an early withdrawal penalty will apply if you need access to your money before the CD becomes “due.”
6-month CD vs. money market fund
It’s likely that you will earn more interest on your money with a CD than with a money market fund.
However, just like a savings account, you can easily access your funds in your money market fund at any time without the early withdrawal penalty that comes with taking money out of your 6-month CD before it matures.
You can write a check or you can call the fund company and ask them to transfer your money to your bank.
The bottom line
6-month CD rates are competitive. A six-month CD can be a good choice if you’re saving for a short-term goals. You’ll earn a higher rate on a 6-month CD than on a savings account.
Speak with the Right Financial Advisor
If you have questions about your finances, you can talk to a financial advisor who can review your finances and help you reach your goals (whether it is making more money, paying off debt, investing, buying a house, planning for retirement, saving, etc).
Find one who meets your needs with SmartAssetâs free financial advisor matching service. You answer a few questions and they match you with up to three financial advisors in your area. So, if you want help developing a plan to reach your financial goals, get started now.
*TOP CIT BANK PROMOTIONS*
PROMOTIONAL LINK
OFFER
REVIEW
CIT Bank Money Market
1.00% APY
Review
CIT Bank Savings Builder
0.95% APY
Review
CIT Bank CDs
0.75% APY 1 Year CD Term
Review
CIT Bank No Penalty CD
0.75% APY
Review
The post 6-Month CD Rates: Earn More Money appeared first on GrowthRapidly.
If you’re planning to buy or sell a house or a rental investment property, you might consider hiring a real estate attorney.
A real estate lawyer can provide legal protection. They can help you navigate the home-buying process, which can be complex.
In fact, many states require a real estate lawyer to be present at closing.
*TOP CIT BANK PROMOTIONS*
PROMOTIONAL LINK
OFFER
REVIEW
CIT Bank Money Market
1.00% APY
Review
CIT Bank Savings Builder
0.95% APY
Review
CIT Bank CDs
0.75% APY 1 Year CD Term
Review
CIT Bank No Penalty CD
0.75% APY
Review
Even if you live in a state that doesn’t require you to have a real estate attorney, it’s important to have one by your side.
But it’s also important to know who you’re dealing with, what they can do for you, and what’s in it for them.
Real estate attorneys can help structure transactions and closing. They will review documents well in advance before the closing to make sure there are no errors.
Real estate lawyers, however, can only represent one of the parties. The buyer and the seller’s interests can often be in conflict. Therefore, the attorney should never represent both parties.
Besides representing you in sales transactions, real estate attorneys can represent you in a courtroom as well.
During the home-buying process, disputes between the buyer and the seller may arise that will have to settle in court.
The real estate attorney’s qualifications
A real estate attorney, just as any lawyer, has attended 3 years of law school. In law school, they take courses in law in general, including real property and other real estate classes.
During law school, they may do internships at law firms which specialize in real estate law.
Once they graduate law school, they take to bar exam in the state they want to practice in.
Once they become licensed to practice, they can work in a law firm specializing in real estate law.
The real estate lawyer’s fees
A real estate attorney can charge by the hour or a fixed fee. How much their charge for their services depends on their reputation, their level experience, the level of complexity.
Regardless of the fee, your attorney will discuss it with you. Their hourly fee is typically between $150 to $350.
They’ll draft a retainer agreement and make the necessary disclosures before you can retain them.
The attorney’s role in real estate transaction
Real estate attorneys can have many roles. Their roles will vary depending on whether it is a simple transaction or a complex one, and whether a real estate broker is involved.
In some cases, a real estate broker can handle many aspects of real estate transactions. If that case, the real estate attorney’s role is often limited.
In other instances, the real estate lawyer plays a crucial role in all phases of the real estate transaction.
Nonetheless, a real estate attorney’s roles include acting as a legal counselor, negotiator, advisor and coordinator.
Real estate attorney as a legal counselor
A real estate attorney acting as a legal counselor can handle drafting the proposed contract. If there is a broker involved, the broker will prepare the contract.
But, your attorney will review it for any proposed changes. Your lawyer can also draft the deed and examine title documents.
If you retain a real estate agent or broker, your attorney may also review the broker’s agreement before you sign it.
Real estate attorney as a negotiator
If you hire a real estate lawyer before you sign a contract or before engaging in any contract negotiations, your attorney will assume that role. All communications from the other party or his or her attorney will be directed to your lawyer.
Your attorney will negotiate proposed changes to the contract, including the price of the house. They will review any mortgage contingency clauses.
In addition, your real estate attorney can negotiate the following matters:
Personal property to be included;
Repairs before closing;
The closing date;
You may not get a mortgage commitment within the stipulated date in the contract. So, your attorney may negotiate an extension of time to obtain the mortgage;
You may need an early possession of the house. Your lawyer can negotiate that.
Real estate attorney as an advisor
You, as a client, may not need strictlegal advice. You may just want your lawyer to be present for general advice. If you’re a first time home buyer or an elderly buyer, your attorney can also act as an advisor.
Real estate attorney as a coordinator
Your attorney can also act as your coordinator. Residential closings involve a lot of steps. And not everyone involved will follow them.
So, one of your real estate lawyer’s role is to contact the brokers, the title insurers, the mortgagees. They will also monitor the progress of obtaining financing, title policy, etc.
They will also contact the other attorney to make sure all parties are ready for the closing.
Your attorney’s responsibilities before closing
If you hire a real estate lawyer to represent you either as a seller or buyer, his or her responsibility before closing include the following:
Make sure you, as a buyer or seller, can fulfill the requirements imposed by the real estate sale contract
Review the title insurance;
Check the mortgage commitment;
Monitor status of the contract contingencies;
Examine closing documents for accuracy;
Coordinate closing date and time with the mortgage lender, seller and buyer’s broker;
If buyers will not attend the closing, obtain power of attorney for property to cover documents to be signed at closing;
Get wire instructions for payment of balance due at closing
In case a dispute arises between the parties, the real estate attorney can represent you in court.
Issues that might arise include damages and earnest money forfeiture, specific performance, misrepresentation, etc.
Do I need a real estate attorney?
Some states require a real estate attorney to be present during closing. They include Massachusetts, Maine, Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, South Carolina, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, New York, North Dakota, Mississippi, New Hampshire, and New Jersey.
If you don’t live in any of these states and the District of Columbia, it’s really up to you if you want to hire a real estate attorney. If you’re just trying to save money and can barely afford to buy a house, you’re probably don’t need a real estate lawyer.
But if your real estate transaction is complex, a good real estate attorney can be an asset.
The bottom line…
Some states do not require you to have a real estate attorney during closing. However, it’s worth the cost hiring one especially if you’re buying a house in foreclosure.
Work With A Financial Advisor Near You
If you have questions beyond hiring a real estate attorney, you can talk to a financial advisor who can review your finances and help you reach your goals. Find one who meets your needs with SmartAssetâs free financial advisor matching service. You answer a few questions and they match you with up to three financial advisors in your area. So, if you want help developing a plan to reach your financial goals, get started now.
*TOP CIT BANK PROMOTIONS*
PROMOTIONAL LINK
OFFER
REVIEW
CIT Bank Money Market
1.00% APY
Review
CIT Bank Savings Builder
0.95% APY
Review
CIT Bank CDs
0.75% APY 1 Year CD Term
Review
CIT Bank No Penalty CD
0.75% APY
Review
The post What Does a Real Estate Attorney Do? appeared first on GrowthRapidly.
If you’re one of those investors with very little time to research and invest in individual stocks, it might be a good idea to look into investing in mutual funds.
Whether your goal is to save money for retirement, or for a down payment to buy a house, mutual funds are low-cost and effective way to invest your money.
*TOP CIT BANK PROMOTIONS*
PROMOTIONAL LINK
OFFER
REVIEW
CIT Bank Money Market
1.00% APY
Review
CIT Bank Savings Builder
0.95% APY
Review
CIT Bank CDs
0.75% APY 1 Year CD Term
Review
CIT Bank No Penalty CD
0.75% APY
Review
What is a mutual fund?
A mutual fund is an investment vehicle in which investors, like you ad me, pool their money together. They use the money to invest in securities such as stocks and bonds. A professional manages the funds.
In addition, mutual funds are cost efficient. They offer diversification to your portfolio. They have low minimum investment requirements.
These factors make mutual funds among the best investment vehicles to use. If you’re a beginner investor, you should consider investing in mutual funds or index funds.
Investing in the stock market in general, can be intimidating. If you are just starting out and don’t feel confident in your investing knowledge, you may value the advice of a financial advisor.
Types of mutual funds
There are different types of mutual funds. They are stock funds, bond funds, and money market funds.
Which funds you choose depends on your risk tolerance. While mutual funds in general are less risky than investing in individual stocks, some funds are riskier than others.
However, you can choose a combination of these three types of funds to diversify your portfolio.
Stock funds: a stock fund is a fund that invests heavily in stocks. However, that does not mean stock funds do not have other securities, i.e., bonds. It’s just that the majority of the money invested is in stocks.
Bond funds: if you don’t want your portfolio to fluctuate in value as stocks do, then you should consider bond funds.
Money market funds: money market funds are funds that you invest in if you tend to tap into your investment in the short term.
Sector funds. As the name suggests, sector funds are funds that invests in one particular sector or industry. For example, a fund that invests only in the health care industry is a sector fund. These mutual funds lack diversification. Therefore, you should avoid them or use them in conjunction to another mutual fund.
Additional funds
Index funds. Index funds seek to track the performance of a particular index, such as the Standard & Poorâs 500 index of 500 large U.S. company stocks or the CRSP US Small Cap Index. When you invest in the Vanguard S&P 500 Index fund, youâre essentially buying a piece of the 500 largest publicly traded US companies. Index funds donât jump around. They stay invested in the market.
Income funds: These funds focus invest primarily in corporate bonds. They also invest in some high-dividend stocks.
Balance funds: The portfolio of these funds have a mixed of stocks and bonds. Those funds enjoy capital growth and income dividend.
Related Article: 3 Ways to Protect Your Portfolio from the Volatile Stock Market
The advantages of mutual funds
Diversification. You’ve probably heard the popular saying “don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.” Well, it applies to mutual funds. Mutual funds invest in stocks or bonds from dozens of companies in several industries.
Thus, your risk is spread. If a stock of a company is not doing well, a stock from another company can balance it out. While most funds are diversified, some are not.
For example, sector funds which invest in a specific industry such as real estate can be risky if that industry is not doing well.
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Professional Management.
Mutual funds are professionally managed. These fund managers are well educated and experienced. Their job is to analyze data, research companies and find the best investments for the fund.
Thus, investing in mutual funds can be a huge time saver for those who have very little time and those who lack expertise in the matter.
Cost Efficiency. The operating expenses and the cost that you pay to sell or buy a fund are cheaper than trading in individual securities on your own. For example, the best Vanguard mutual funds have operating expenses as low as 0.04%. So by keeping expenses low, these funds can help boost your returns.
Low or Reasonable Minimum Investment. The majority of mutual funds, Vanguard mutual funds, for example, have a reasonable minimum requirement. Some funds even have a minimum of $1,000 and provide a monthly investment plan where you can start with as little as $50 a month.
Related Article: 7 Secrets Smart Professionals Use to Choose Financial Advisors
The disadvantage of mutual funds.
While there are several benefits to investing in mutual funds, there are some disadvantages as well.
Active Fund Management. Mutual funds are actively managed. That means fund mangers are always on the look out for the best securities to purchase. That also means they can easily make mistakes.
Cost/expenses. While cost and expenses of investing in individual stocks are significantly higher than mutual funds, cost of a mutual fund can nonetheless be significant.
High cost can have a negative effect on your investment return. These fees are deducted from your mutual fundâs balance every year. Other fees can apply as well. So always find a company with a low cost.
How you make money with mutual funds.
You make money with mutual funds the same way you would with individual stocks: dividend, capital gain and appreciation.
Dividend: Dividends are cash distributions from a company to its shareholders. Some companies offer dividends; others do not. And those who do pay out dividends are not obligated to do so. And the amount of dividends can vary from year to year.
As a mutual fund investor, you may receive dividend income on a regular basis.
Mutual funds offer dividend reinvestment plans. This means that instead of receiving a cash payment, you can reinvest your dividend income into buying more shares in the fund.
Capital gain distribution: in addition to receiving dividend income from the fund, you make money with mutual funds when you make a profit by selling a stock. This is called “capital gain.”
Capital gain occurs when the fund manager sells stocks for more he bought them for. The resulting profits can be paid out to the fund’s shareholders. Just as dividend income, you have the choice to reinvest your gains in the fund.
Appreciation: If stocks in your fund have appreciated in value, the price per share of the fund will increase as well. So whether you hold your shares for a short term or long term, you stand to make a profit when the shares rise.
Best mutual funds.
Now that you know mutual funds make excellent investments, finding the best mutual funds can be overwhelming.
Vanguard mutual funds.
Vanguard mutual funds are the best out there, because they are relatively cheaper; they are of high quality; a professional manage them; and their operating expenses are relative low.
Here is a list of the best Vanguard mutual funds that you should invest in:
Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Funds
Vanguard 500 Index (VFIAX)
Total International Stock index Fund
Vanguard Health Care Investor
Vanguard Total Stock Market Fund
If you’re looking for a diversified mutual fund, this Vanguard mutual fund is for you. The Vanguard’s VTSAX provides exposure to the entire U.S. stock market which includes stocks from large, medium and small U.S companies.
The top companies include Microsoft, Apple, Amazon. In addition, the expenses are relatively (0.04%). It has a minimum initial investment of $3,000, making it one of the best vanguard stock funds out there.
Vanguard S&P 500 (VFIAX)
The Vanguard 500 Index fund may be appropriate for you if you prefer a mutual fund that focuses on U.S. equities. This fund tracks the performance of the S&P 500, which means it holds about 500 of the largest U.S. stocks.
The largest U.S. companies included in this fund are Facebook, Alphabet/Google, Apple, and Amazon. This index fund has an expense ration of 0.04% and a reasonable minimum initial investment of $3,000.
Vanguard Total International Stock Market
You should consider the Vanguard International Stock Market fund of you prefer a mutual fund that invests in foreign stocks.
This international stock fund exposes its shareholders to over 6,000 non-U.S. stocks from several countries in both developed markets and emerging markets. The minimum investment is also $3,000 with an expense ratio of 0.11%.
Vanguard Health Care Investor
Sector funds are not usually a good idea, because the lack diversification. Sector funds are funds that invest in a specific industry like real estate or health care. However, if you want afund to complement your portfolio, the Vanguard Health Care Investor is a good choice.
This Vanguard mutual fund offers investors exposure to U.S. and foreign equities focusing in the health care industry. The expense ration is a little bit higher, 0.34%. However, the minimum initial investment is $3,000, making it one of the cheapest Vanguard mutual funds.
Bottom Line
Mutual funds are great options for beginner investors or investors who have little time to research and invest in individual stocks. When you buy into these low cost investments, you’re essentially buying shares from companies.
Your money are pooled together with those of other investors. If you intend to invest in low cost investment funds, you must know which ones are the best. When it comes to saving money on fees and getting a good return on your investment, Vanguard mutual funds are among the best funds out there.
They provide professional management, diversity, low cost, income and price appreciation.
What’s Next: 5 Mistakes People Make When Hiring A Financial Advisor
Speak with the Right Financial Advisor
If you have questions beyond knowing which of the best Vanguard mutual funds to invest, you can talk to a financial advisor who can review your finances and help you reach your goals (whether it is making more money, paying off debt, investing, buying a house, planning for retirement, saving, etc).
Find one who meets your needs with SmartAssetâs free financial advisor matching service. You answer a few questions and they match you with up to three financial advisors in your area. So, if you want help developing a plan to reach your financial goals, get started now.
*TOP CIT BANK PROMOTIONS*
PROMOTIONAL LINK
OFFER
REVIEW
CIT Bank Money Market
1.00% APY
Review
CIT Bank Savings Builder
0.95% APY
Review
CIT Bank CDs
0.75% APY 1 Year CD Term
Review
CIT Bank No Penalty CD
0.75% APY
Review
The post What Are Mutual Funds? Understanding The Basics appeared first on GrowthRapidly.
You may need your CIT Bank routing number for several things from sending money to friends and family to direct deposit money.
This guide will help you find your CIT Bank routing number.
*TOP CIT BANK PROMOTIONS*
PROMOTIONAL LINK
OFFER
REVIEW
CIT Bank Money Market
1.00% APY
Review
CIT Bank Savings Builder
0.95% APY
Review
CIT Bank CDs
0.75% APY 1 Year CD Term
Review
CIT Bank No Penalty CD
0.75% APY
Review
What is a routing number?
A routing number is a 9-digit number that banks use to identify themselves. Think of it as an address that lets banks know where to send the money.
A routing number is often referred to as the ABA number or check routing number.
The American Bankers Association created the bank routing number in 1910 in order to process paper checks and allow banks and other financial institutions to send and receive funds from and to other financial institutions.
Unlike other banks such as Wells Fargo routing number and Citibank routing number, which have several routing numbers for different states, CIT Bank only has one routing number.
That is because CIT Bank is an online-only bank. So it does not matter where you live, you only need to know one routing number.
CIT Bank Routing Number:
The CIT Bank routing number is: 124084834.
As mentioned above, because CIT bank does not have local branches, you will only need to remember the number above to do your transactions, regardless of where you live.
So, for example, if you live in New York, your CIT Bank routing number is still 124084834.
You will need your CIT bank routing number for several reasons. For instance, you need it for:
To set up direct deposit
For ACH payments;
To transfer funds between accounts at different banks;
For bill payments;
To receive government benefits;
To receive tax refunds;
For wire transfers;
To have payments like paycheck deposited into your account
How to Find Your CIT Bank Routing Number?
There are several ways to find your CIT Bank routing number.
Your CIT Bank personal check.
For your CIT bank “eChecking” account, you can find your routing number at the bottom left hand corner of the personal check.
On this page:
In case you have missed it, we have listed the CIT Bank routing number earlier in this article. It is: 124084834.
Cit bank online:
Find your routing number online by going to their resources and FAQs page.
Call customer service:
Lastly, you can call customer service at 855-462-2652 to get your routing number. However, you will need to identify yourself to get your number.
Once you do so, a representative will be able to help you.
Routing Numbers for Domestic Wire Transfers
With your CIT Bank account, you are able to wire money to other bank accounts in the United States.
Other banks can also wire money to your account as well.
So, to get funds from a domestic wire, use this routing number: 124084834.
You will also need the following:
The recipient’s name as it appears on the account;
The address of the recipient including the city and state;
Account number of the recipient; and
The bank routing number.
One thing to be aware of, while CIT bank does not charge for incoming wires, they will charge you a $10 fee for outgoing fee unless you maintain a daily of $25,000 or more.
If you are a commercial, listing service, and institutional client, call CIT Bank at 877-748-0004 to get the correct routing number for wire transfers.
Routing Numbers for International Wire Transfers
CIT Bank does not have outbound international wire transfers at this time. But, you can receive an international transfer from another bank.
So, just provide the routing number 124084834 to whoever wants to send you an international wire transfer. Also CIT Bank does not have a SWIFT code, which is used for international transfers.
The Bottom Line
You will need your CIT Bank routing number to do several financial transactions. For example, you will need it to set up direct deposit, automatic payment, or wire transfer.
So it’s important to know what it is and to keep it handy.
However, if you don’t have an account with CIT Bank yet, make sure you check out their CIT Bank savings accounts and best CD rates.
Speak with the Right Financial Advisor
If you have questions about your finances, you can talk to a financial advisor who can review your finances and help you reach your goals (whether it is making more money, paying off debt, investing, buying a house, planning for retirement, saving, etc).
Find one who meets your needs with SmartAssetâs free financial advisor matching service. You answer a few questions and they match you with up to three financial advisors in your area. So, if you want help developing a plan to reach your financial goals, get started now.
*TOP CIT BANK PROMOTIONS*
PROMOTIONAL LINK
OFFER
REVIEW
CIT Bank Money Market
1.00% APY
Review
CIT Bank Savings Builder
0.95% APY
Review
CIT Bank CDs
0.75% APY 1 Year CD Term
Review
CIT Bank No Penalty CD
0.75% APY
Review
The post Here’s Your CIT Bank Routing Number appeared first on GrowthRapidly.
A CIT Bank Savings account will help you boost your savings, earning 20 times more than what a traditional bank account will offer you.
If you have a regular checking and savings account at your local bank, you may notice that your rate on the savings account is less than a tenth of a percent.
You can keep your savings account at your local bank if you choose to. But you don’t have to.
Instead of getting crummy interest rates, you can switch to or open a CIT Bank savings account.
CIT Bank savings accounts are offered online, where you can earn a competitively high yield.
CIT BANK: AN OVERVIEW
In brief, CIT Bank is an online-only bank. That means, there is no local branch.
There are no ATMs. You will perform every transactions online. However, the bank does not charge its customers when they use another bank’s ATMs.
And if the bank charges you a fee, CIT will reimburse you up to $15 every month.
The bank currently offers some of the highest interest rates on its savings accounts and its other products, such as CDs, checking account and money market account.
Lastly, there no are no account maintenance fees on any of the bank’s products.
HOW MUCH CAN I EARN WITH A CIT BANK SAVINGS ACCOUNT?
With a CIT Bank savings account, you will earn a 0.95% APY through the Savings Builder option and 1.00% APY through Premier High Yield Savings account.
But certain conditions will apply (more on this below).
CIT Bank Savings accounts offers interest rates that are 20 to 25 times higher than what a traditional, brick and mortar bank is currently offering.
Because of that big difference between CIT Bank’s high-yield savings accounts between a traditional savings account, you’ll earn more money.
For example, if you have $5,000 in a traditional savings account with a 0.10 APY%, you would get just $5 in a year.
But if you have that same amount of money in an account earning 2%, you return will be $100.
CIT Bank offers two savings accounts options: 1) the Savings Builder and the Premier High Yield Savings account.
Both accounts require a minimum opening deposit of $100. But neither has monthly maintenance fees.
Here’s a quick table of CIT Bank two savings accounts.
CIT Bank Savings Account
Minimum deposit
APY
Savings Builder
$100 or $25,000
0.95%
Premier High Yield Savings
$0
1.00%
The Savings Builder:
The CIT Bank Savings Builder will allow you to earn 0.95% APY, but only if you make at least one monthly deposit of $100 or more.
Or, if you keep a balance of at least $25,000. Interest in this high-yield savings account compounds daily to boost your earning.
Click here to learn more about CIT Bank’s Savings Builder.
The Premier High Yield Savings account:
With this account, you will earn 1.00% APY regardless of your account balance or monthly fees.
Interest in this savings account is also compounded daily to maximize your earning.
PROS AND CONS OF CIT BANK SAVINGS ACCOUNTS
Pros:
No monthly fees on deposit accounts;
a minimum deposit requirement of $100;
Refunds ATM fees — because the bank does not have ATMs, it does not charge customers who use another bank’s ATMs. And if there is a fee, CIT will refund you up to $15 per month.
Cons:
No bank branches or ATM;
No 24/7 customer support — as with all high yield savings accounts, most inquiries are handled online. While live telephone is available, hours are limited.
HOW TO OPEN A CIT BANK SAVINGS ACCOUNT?
To open an account, simply go to the CIT Bank homepage, and create the account online.
You’ll need to provide your name, address, phone number, and ID. You’ll also need to provide your social security number.
Note that CIT does not have any branches. Everything must be done online.
If you’re opening a CIT Bank Builder Savings account, you will need to make an initial minimum deposit of $100.
You will also need to make monthly deposit of $100 to take advantage of the 0.95% APY. Or, you will need to have a $25,000 balance.
If you’re opening the Premier High Yield Savings account, you’re not required to make any initial minimum deposit.
So, you can open the account first and fund it later.
HOW MUCH TO KEEP IN YOUR CIT BANK SAVINGS ACCOUNT?
How much should you keep on your savings account will depend on your savings goals.
If you’re opening the account to serve as an emergency fund, experts have recommended to keep at least three to six months of living expenses.
That money is reserved in case of an emergency like a loss of job, you fell ill, or need money for a major car repair.
But one thing you should know is that deposits at any banks are covered by the federal government up to $250,000.
So if you have more than that, you should split your money into multiple accounts.
WHO IS A CIT BANK ACCOUNT GOOD FOR?
A CIT Bank savings account is good for anyone who:
Wants to earn a higher yield on the savings accounts;
Does not mind having their banking online;
Can commit saving at least $100 every month; or
Can carry $25,000 balance.
WHAT OTHER PRODUCTS CIT BANK OFFERS?
In addition to the two savings accounts, the bank also offers a checking account, money market accounts and Certificate of deposits (CDs).
The checking account is called “eChecking.” It is the only account the bank offers. There is no monthly fees and you can open the account with as little as $100.
Note that CIT Bank does not have ATMs. But the bank does not charge you for using another bank’s ATM.
And CIT will refund you for ATM fees other banks charge you.
CIT bank also offers one money market account. This money market account has no monthly fees and requires an opening minimum deposit of $100.
CIT Bank has several terms CDs, which range from 6 months to 5 years.
There is also a no penalty 11-month term, where customers can withdraw money with no penalty.
CIT Bank also offers jumbo CDs, ranging from two to five years. You can open a term CD, including the no-penalty CD, with a minimum of $1,000.
The Jumbo CDs require a minimum of $100,000.
Click here to learn more about CIT Bank CDs.
THE BOTTOM LINE
A CIT Bank savings account, is a high yield savings account, where you can a higher yield than regular savings accounts.
You will earn a 0.95% APY through the Savings Builder option and 1.00% APY through Premier High Yield Savings account.
So, whether you’re saving money for an emergency fund, saving money to go on a vacation, or saving money to buy a house in the next few years, CIT Bank is the right bank for you.
Speak with the Right Financial Advisor
If you have questions about high interest savings accounts, you can talk to a financial advisor who can review your finances and help you reach your goals. Find one who meets your needs with SmartAsset’s free financial advisor matching service. You answer a few questions and they match you with up to three financial advisors in your area. So, if you want help developing a plan to reach your financial goals, get started now.
