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If you got:

1-2 points: Good start! We’re here to talk you through the basics and to help you plan for the future. Also be sure to check out our free financial basics course.
3-4 points: Well done! You’ve got the basics down; but if you need help planning for a big purchase or life event, we can help. Start with our free course: Major Life Events.
5 points: Look at you go! Capitalize on all that great financial savvy with the right mix of tools and products you need for your plans.

No matter your score, we’re committed to helping you achieve your dreams (big and small!). Visit your local branch today, or give us a call. Let’s start something amazing together.

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Compare Checking Accounts at North Carolina Banks You’re likely already aware of the importance of performing a checking account comparison before making a final decision. It can be difficult to navigate the many options and select the account that offers the most benefits. You should start your comparison by looking at the features you consider most important. Comparing a Checking Account Checking account features, fees, and requirements can all be very different. When trying to decide among various account options, try looking for a few specific things, such as: Demographics—A lot of checking accounts are designed to meet the needs of certain age groups, such as teens, college students, and senior citizens. These accounts often offer special features or benefits that other account holders do not receive. Fees—Many checking accounts charge a monthly fee, but they also often provide ways to waive the monthly fee, like using direct deposit or maintaining a minimum monthly balance. Mobile banking—If you like to have access to your accounts through mobile device, you’ll want to look for a checking account that comes with a free mobile banking app. Checking Account Comparison at First Bank If you live in North Carolina and are looking for a checking account that meets all of your needs, visit your local First Bank*. We have more than 70 locations across the Tar Heel state, and we offer a variety of checking accounts that feature benefits, including: Free online and mobile banking** Ways to keep your account fee free*** Specialized accounts for college students and seniors over the age of 55 Contact a First Bank Specialist Today If you need help deciding which account is right for you, you can use our online checking account comparison tool, or contact your local branch to learn more. **While First Bank does not charge for mobile banking, your mobile carrier’s message and data rates may apply. ***Account holders may avoid the Monthly Maintenance Fee by meeting any of the requirements listed in the Keep it Fee Free™ section of the account summary table for their account type. Other account service fees may apply as described in the Account Services Fee Schedule, also available at your local branch. 2 min read

8 Ways to Save at Your Summer BBQ In the South, we take barbecues seriously—whether it’s smoking a whole hog or grilling franks with the family. And with the warm weather, it’s even harder to resist firing up the grill for a feast, but you’ll get more out of each party if you find ways to save a few bucks each time. 4 min read

How To Make A Budget The best way to save money and gain control over your finances is to make a budget. Follow these simple steps to make a budget that will save you money and bring you peace of mind about your spending. Making a Budget People often set their budgets according to a monthly schedule because most living expenses are based on monthly billing cycles. As such, it won’t hurt to spend one full month making your budget. That way you’ll come up with the most accurate data possible. Record All Your Expenses Keep track of everything you pay each month. This includes: Rent/mortgage Car payments Car warranty Utility bills Student loans Cell phone bill Gas Groceries Insurance (car, health, or any other type) Home warranty Memberships to gyms or clubs Charitable donations Many of your monthly expenses are fixed amounts. But others, such as gas and groceries, will fluctuate from one month to the next. Round slightly up for these as it’s better to come up a little short of the intended number than to go over it. Also, some payments such as car insurance might be quarterly or yearly. Figure out how much it equates to per month and factor the payment in that way. Record Your Income The next step is to tally up how much money you’re bringing in each month. If you have a job that pays hourly or by commission and each paycheck varies a little, round slightly down. It’s better to bring in a little more money than what you intended as opposed to coming up short. Do the Math Now that you know what’s going out and what’s coming in, do the math to determine how much is left over. If the difference is positive (you’re making more than you spend): Great! You have extra money that can be put in a savings account, vacation account, or to be used for fun spending money. Or, use it to chip away at those student loans or car payments. Remember, the faster you pay those off, the less you’ll spend in interest in the long run. If the difference is negative (you’re spending more than you make): You’re operating in debt and the sooner you can curb the momentum, 4 min read

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