Score $500 with First Entertainment Credit Union's Creator Package (But Act Fast!)

If you're in the entertainment industry or live in Los Angeles County, here's a chance to pocket a nice bonus. First Entertainment Credit Union is offering up to $500 through their Creator Package. The offer changed recently—it was $600, but now it's $500 through June 30, 2025. Still, that's a solid chunk of change for a few steps.

Who Can Get This Bonus?

First Entertainment Credit Union was founded in 1967 and is based in Hollywood. It's the 33rd largest credit union in California with about 89,000 members. To join, you generally need to live, work, worship, or attend school in Los Angeles County. But this specific promotion is aimed at employees of certain entertainment companies like Warner Bros Discovery, Sony Pictures Studios, Paramount, and members of Local 695. If you don't fit those categories, you might still qualify if you receive a direct invitation from the credit union.

So if you're in the entertainment biz or live in LA County, you're likely eligible. Check their membership page to be sure.

How the $500 Bonus Breaks Down

The Creator Package has two parts. First, you open a Value Checking or Advantage Checking account and set up recurring deposits of at least $1,000 per month. That gets you $400. The deposits can be direct deposit, but they also accept electronic transfers like Zelle, Venmo, or ACH—so it's flexible. You need to do this for 90 days after opening the account.

Second, you apply for a First Entertainment credit card, activate it, and spend at least $500 within 90 days. That earns you an extra $100. So total potential bonus is $500.

• You must open a First500 Savings account with $1 to become a member.
• Both the checking and credit card requirements must be met within 90 days of opening your membership.
• Bonuses are deposited into your savings account within 30 days after the 90-day period ends (so within 120 days total).
• The bonus is considered dividends and may be reported on a 1099-INT.

Watch Out for Fees and Fine Print

The Value Checking has a $6 monthly fee, but it's waived if you sign up for eStatements. The Advantage Checking costs $8 per month, waived if you keep a daily balance of $1,000 or an aggregate balance of $4,000. So you can avoid fees easily.

Also, you must keep the accounts open and in good standing for at least 90 days to get the bonus. If you close them early, you forfeit the bonus. And remember, this offer is for new members only—if you've had an account with First Entertainment before, you don't qualify.

One more thing: the credit card approval isn't guaranteed. It's subject to credit review, so not everyone will get approved. If you're denied, you'll only get the $400 from the checking part.

Is It Worth It?

For a $500 bonus, the requirements are pretty reasonable. You need to move $1,000 per month into the checking account for three months, and spend $500 on the credit card. That's doable if you have regular income or can shift some expenses. Just make sure you can meet the deadlines—the offer ends June 30, 2025, so you need to act soon.

The credit union has nine branches in the LA area, so if you're nearby, it's convenient. If not, you'll be doing everything online or by phone. Their rates on CDs and savings aren't the best, but this is a bonus play, not a long-term investment.

Overall, it's a solid deal if you're eligible. Just read the fine print and set reminders for the 90-day milestones.

Bottom Line

• Earn $400 by opening a checking account and depositing $1,000/month for 90 days.
• Earn an extra $100 by getting a credit card and spending $500 within 90 days.
• Offer ends June 30, 2025—apply soon.
• Eligibility limited to entertainment industry employees or LA County residents.
• No early termination fee, but accounts must stay open 90 days to get bonus.

Common Questions