Micah S. (Director)

Proud Sponsor

AFI Fest

Supporting creators for more than 50 years.

Founded in 1967 on the Warner Bros. studio lot, we’ve grown to become the premier member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution designed to serve creators of entertainment just like you.

Trusted in the industry

First Entertainment has been serving L.A. County since 1967 and is trusted by nearly 90,000 members, most of them entertainment industry professionals, but don’t just take our word for it.

Named Best of Southland Finalist for Best Credit Union

In 2022, First Entertainment was named a Los Angeles Best of Southland Finalist for Best Credit Union.

2022 Was a Fantastic Year for First Entertainment

First Entertainment has recently been recognized by Californians as one of the best financial institutions in Los Angeles County based on multiple factors. Join today and experience exceptional products and services.

See what your peers have to say about banking with First Entertainment.

First Entertainment understands our craft and position as independent contractors. I feel valued, and like I can really accomplish something big!

— Mellanie U., Property Master Read full member story

See what your peers have to say about banking with First Entertainment.

First Entertainment Credit Union understands what we need as creators. The staff is always knowledgeable, efficient, and thorough.

— Reuel B., Actor Read full member story

See what your peers have to say about banking with First Entertainment.

First Entertainment Credit Union reminds me of the friendly small town bank I was accustomed to growing up.

— Lisa R., Stills/Unit/Photographer Read full member story

See what your peers have to say about banking with First Entertainment.

First Entertainment offered a lower interest rate for financing my daughter’s car, plus free checking — can’t beat it!

— Ronald C., Grip (Local 80) Read full member story

See what your peers have to say about banking with First Entertainment.

First Entertainment understands the entertainment industry and is able to make funds available sooner.

— Lisa S., TV Writer Read full member story

Why we’re first in entertainment

In addition to banking and member perks, we support the entertainment community through sponsorships and special programs designed to get people in their dream jobs.

Bank with a creative community

From industry panel discussions with your peers to financial seminars and webinars, we provide access to resources to grow your career and improve your financial well-being. Learn more about our credit union events.

Personalize your financial strategy

Whether you get paid every two weeks like clockwork or have some gaps in income while waiting to land your next job, our teammates work with you to find the best solutions for your individual needs.

Powerful Digital Banking tools

A highly rated (4.9 stars) app that lets you access your accounts virtually anywhere.

Become a lifetime member

You can continue using First Entertainment Credit Union without pause if you change jobs, switch studios, move out of state, or experience similar life circumstances.¹

Join First Entertainment today.

Open an account

First Entertainment vs. Banks

As a Credit Union, we recognize your unique goals and understand that people in the entertainment industry expect more than just a simple bank.

Type of organization

Type of organization
Who can join

Who can join
Invested in

Invested in
Deposit federally insured

Deposit federally insured
Governance

Governance
Interaction with like financial institutions

Interaction with like financial institutions

First Entertainment Credit Union

Type of organization

Not-for-profit – Fewer fees, better rates

As a not-for-profit financial cooperative, we return our profits to our members in the form of better rates, lower fees and greater service.
Who can join

Members

First Entertainment’s membership is open to anyone we serve, including the family of eligible members.
Invested in

Community members

We serve the needs of our membership and community by investing our non-interest income and interest from loans in local organizations working to make a difference.
Deposit federally insured

NCUA Insured ($250k)

Your deposits are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and are backed by the faith and credit of the United States Government.
Governance

Member Owned

Each member can exercise their voting rights to fill seats on the Board of Directors. The directors advocate for membership.
Interaction with like financial institutions

Cooperative

Credit Unions are financial cooperatives. That means we work together toward one common goal– helping our members prosper.

Banks

Type of organization

For-profit – More fees, worse rates

Traditional banking institutions primarily focus on generating profits for their shareholders with no added benefits to their customers
Who can join

Customers

You cannot join a bank, but anyone can be a customer.
Invested in

Generating revenue

Banks use the income they generate from fees, interest, business accounts and investments to increase their shareholders’ earnings.
Deposit federally insured

FDIC Insured ($250k)

At a bank, your deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and are backed by the full faith of the United States Government.
Governance

Stakeholder Owned

Banks are governed by their shareholders. Voting rights depend on the number of shares you own leaving regular customers out of decisions.
Interaction with like financial institutions

Competitive

Banks are competitive. They compete with one another for your business and see you only as a number.

See how you’re eligible to join.

There’s a few different ways to join First Entertainment Credit Union

You can apply for membership at First Entertainment Credit Union if you live in Los Angeles County, California.

See the clients we serve for a comprehensive list of companies and entertainment industry organizations currently offering the benefits of First Entertainment members.

If someone in your immediate family or household is eligible through one of the above options or is already a First Entertainment Credit Union member, you’re also eligible to join.

What you will need to apply

Just confirm a few details and you’re in.

Confirm your eligibility

See how you’re eligible to join First Entertainment Credit Union.

Identify yourself

Provide a government-issued ID, driver’s license/state ID, or passport.

Verify your address

A physical and mailing address are required to apply.

Validate your personal info

Provide your SSN and date of birth to further confirm your identity.

Open an account

We’ve got you covered with personalized checking.

No minimum balance requirement
No monthly service fee (with eStatements¹)
No foreign transaction fees
24/7 mobile banking
Send and receive money² in minutes with Zelle^{^®}
Mobile check deposits
Access to nearly 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs
Advanced pay to get your payroll deposits up to 3 days earlier.³
With $1,000 or more in direct deposits per month, you’ll get these additional benefits.⁴
- Up to $15 in ATM surcharge-fee rebates per month when using non-First Entertainment ATMs.
- No out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees.
- Get a 0.25% discount on an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) loan when you use autopay.

Disclosures

1: Must maintain the required minimum account balance for membership to remain in active status.