Personal Finances Articles

From personal finance to paying off debt, credit score insights, and more — you’ll find everyday financing basics here.

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Understanding how to manage your money is the first step to financial health. To help our communities, we’ve compiled articles with helpful tips for stretching your hard-earned dollars further. For a deeper dive on financial topics below, you can also check out our financial wellness courses.

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Online Money Hacks – First Bank If you are active on social media, you’ve probably tried a “life hack” at some point. Life hacks are little things you can do to make your life easier. For example, tying a small piece of bright colored fabric to your luggage makes it easier to tell which bag at the airport. Life hacks are great, but do you know what’s even better? Money hacks! Money hacks not only make your life easier, they help you save your hard earned cash. Money Hacks Worth Trying Money hacks can be anything from saving your spare change in a piggy bank to skipping your morning Starbucks run and making coffee at home. Small money hacks will help you save a little bit of money, but if you’re looking to save in a big way, try these money hacks from Forbes and from your very own First Bank. Borrow against your home’s equity. This money hack is specifically for homeowners, but it’s useful to know if you are ever planning on buying a home. If you find yourself needing a personal loan for a large amount of money, it might be better to borrow money against your home’s equity. Since you already have been approved for a mortgage the loan application process will typically be easier. Another benefit is that interest payments on home equity lines of credit are typically tax-deductible, unlike interest paid on personal loans. Consult your tax advisor for details on the deductibility of interest. Pay insurance premiums once a year. You’re probably currently making monthly payments for policies like life insurance and auto insurance, but it isn’t required that you make your payments that way. You can opt to pay your insurance policy in one lump sum, which can save you money in the long run. Paying by the month may be convenient, but insurance companies typically charge a courtesy fee. Fun Tips to Save More Money Try a service contract. Instead of shelling out hundreds of dollars for a car or home repair, offset the costs by considering monthly payments for an auto warranty or home protection plan. Stay cool. Preserve the longevity of your batteries, hosiery, and candles by storing them in your freezer. Raise a glass to 3 min read

First Bank Loans Between banks and online lenders, you have a lot of options to choose from when you need a loan. But not all loans are created equal, and First Bank loans are a step above the rest. If you are in need of a loan, visit your local First Bank. We offer a variety of loan options, from personal loans to mortgage loans, with highly competitive rates. Loans Available at First Bank First Bank loans come in a variety of forms, each with competitive rates and flexible terms: Personal loans. Gain instant borrowing power with a personal credit line or use the equity in your home to secure a home equity loan. Business loans. Use a credit line, lump-sum business loan, or construction loan to finance your business. Credit cards. Take advantage of no annual fees and competitive interest rates to complete personal or business transactions today and pay for them tomorrow. Mortgages. Conventional, government, jumbo, commercial, and professional loans are all possible with a First Bank loan. Applying for a First Bank Loan Applying for a loan is simple with First Bank. For a business loan, talk to one our experts during a small business financial consultation. An application for a mortgage loan can be filled out online. For personal loans or credit cards, just contact your nearest First Bank and speak to one of our associates. Whether it’s building a business or moving into your dream home, a First Bank loan can help you with some of life’s biggest purchases. Loans subject to credit approval. ——— Sources: Investopedia: http://www.investopedia.com/terms/o/overdraft-protection.asp?ad=dirN&qo=investopediaSiteSearch&qsrc=0&o=40186 Investopedia: http://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/interest.asp?ad=dirN&qo=investopediaSiteSearch&qsrc=0&o=40186 2 min read

High-Interest Savings Accounts in South Carolina Why should I settle for a regular savings account when I can take advantage of a high-interest savings account? If I’m going to store my money away, I may as well get the highest interest on it that I can. While the above statement is true, it’s important to understand the difference between a traditional savings account and a high-interest savings account. In South Carolina for example, First Bank offers a Money Market account with interest rates that are higher than the basic savings account options offered. However, there are some further requirements for high-interest savings accounts as a trade-off for the better interest. Money Market Account vs. Basic Savings Account Let’s break down some of the differences of a high-interest money market savings account when compared to First Bank’s most basic savings account so you can be sure you’re selecting the savings account that is right for you. Initial Deposit Basic account: Only a $50 minimum deposit is required to open the account. Money Market: You’ll need an initial deposit of $1,000 to open. How to Avoid Monthly Maintenance Fees* Basic account: You can avoid First Bank’s monthly maintenance fees just by keeping a $300 minimum daily balance. Money Market: In order to steer clear of monthly maintenance fees, you’ll need a $2,500 minimum balance or an average collected balance of $5,000 or more. ATM Withdrawals** Basic account: Enjoy two free withdrawals per month within the approved network. Money Market: You have the luxury of 6 free monthly withdrawals within the approved network. High-Interest Savings Accounts in South Carolina There are 6 First Bank locations in South Carolina offering high-interest savings accounts and basic savings accounts alike. And there are many similarities between the two as well. Each offer such amenities as online and mobile banking, monthly electronic statements, account activity alerts, mobile check deposit and more. Use our account comparison chart to see the two savings accounts side-by-side and visit your nearest South Carolina First Bank to open the one that’s right for you. *Account holders may avoid the Monthly Maintenance Fee by meeting any of the requirements listed in the Keep if Fee Free™ section of the account summary table for their account type. Other account service 3 min read

Savings Account Interest Rates in North Carolina Whether you’re saving for retirement or starting a college fund, having the right savings account can help you reach your financial goals. With some of the most competitive savings account interest rates in North Carolina, First Bank offers a variety of options to meet your financial needs. Types of Savings Accounts at First Bank When you’re comparing interest rates, it’s important to understand which accounts offer the best rates. At First Bank, we offer six different savings accounts with varying interest rates: Everywhere Savings—For simple savings at a competitive interest rate, this account offers free online and mobile banking, account alerts, and free eStatements. MyFirst Savings—If you’re under 18 and ready to start saving, consider opening a MyFirst Savings account. You only need a $10 deposit to open the account and don’t have to worry about a minimum balance or maintenance fees. Money Market—With higher interest rates and instant access, our money market account allows you to have six free withdrawals per month, free online and mobile banking, free eStatements, and more. CDs—If you don’t need immediate access to funds, this option provides flexible rates and guaranteed rates of return. CDs typically offer higher interest rates than savings and money market accounts, making them a great investment option. IRAs—At First Bank, we offer a variety of IRA options for your long-term retirement plans including traditional, Roth, and SEP IRAs. Talk to one of our banking experts about the different rates you’ll receive if you choose to open up an IRA. Health Savings Accounts (HSA)—For a great way to save on current and future medical expenses, consider opening a health savings account. This account allows you to manage health care spending and earn tax-advantaged savings. Use our Account Comparison Chart to decide which savings account is best for you. Get Competitive Interest Rates at First Bank Interest rates will vary depending on which savings account you choose. Regardless of the type of savings account you open, we want to make sure you’re getting a good rate. Consult with one of our banking experts at your nearest First Bank to compare interest rates. Open a Savings Account Today Visit one of our North Carolina branches and talk to a financial expert about getting 3 min read