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Personal Finances Articles

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

Learn About Everyday Finances

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.

All Budgeting and Goals Credit: Score and More Family Finances Fending Off Fraud Paying Off Debt Personal Finance 101 Homeownership Retirement Student Loans

Community Banks Near Me Where can I find banks near me? When it comes to banking, customers want banks nearby that are part of the communities where they live, work and play. First Bank is rooted in a community focus that dates back to the days of the Great Depression when we helped farmers and local businesses make every dollar count. Our core values have not changed in the eight decades since we opened our doors. First Bank remains a community bank that’s committed to helping communities prosper and thrive. First Bank: Your Community Bank We began as a community bank in 1935 with only one location but now we have more than 100 branches in North Carolina and South Carolina, mountains to coast. First Bank is the best of both worlds when it comes to community banks: small enough to serve our communities on a personal level but large enough to fully manage any financial needs. Services Offered by First Bank Here are just some of the amenities offered by First Bank: 5 different types of personal checking accounts and 5 types of business accounts 6 levels of personal savings accounts and certificate deposits (CDs) and 3 options for business savings Credit cards and debit cards for both personal and business use Loans for personal, business and home equity Adjustable, fixed-rate, and non-conforming mortgage loans FHA, rural housing and VA loans Professional and construction loans Free financial wellness programs for your employees Wealth management services including mutual funds, stocks and bonds, annuities, 401(k) and IRA’s, life insurance and more Personal and business insurance First Bank utilizes modern technology to stay close to our customers at any time from any location. We offer 24-hour banking via our online and mobile banking. Our accessibility is one of the many reasons why we are one of the best community banks near you. Visit a Local Branch Near You First Bank has many locations in North Carolina and South Carolina. Use our location finder to see a branch near you. Investment and Insurance Products are NOT Bank Deposits, NOT FDIC-Insured, HAVE NO Bank Guarantee, NOT Insured by any Federal Government Agency, May Go Down in Value. ——— Sources: FDIC: https://www.fdic.gov/regulations/resources/cbi/report/cbsi-1.pdf 2 min read

Best Savings Account – North Carolina Finding some of the best savings account in North Carolina may seem like a difficult task. After all, there are hundreds of North Carolina banks offering savings accounts. How do you go about determining which account is right for you? Savings Account Options with First Bank Finding the best savings account in North Carolina that meets your unique needs is easy with First Bank. Our account options include: 1. Everywhere Savings — Our most basic account designed to meet the saving needs of anyone. It includes: 2 free withdrawals per month* No minimum balance to earn interest Free online and mobile banking** 2. MyFirst Savings — An account designed to teach children and teens under 18 the value of saving. It includes features like: 2 free withdrawals per month* No minimal balance to earn interest Free online and mobile banking** Only $10 required to open account 3. Money Market — For customers who want to earn interest at a higher rate while still having access to their funds. This account includes: 6 free withdrawals per month* Interest-earning account access $1,000 minimum to open account Free online and mobile banking** First Bank also offers: Certificates of Deposit (CDs) with a fixed rate and choice of terms. IRAs for a long-term savings. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) to help you save for current and future health expenses. To view and compare all of our savings account options, click here. Visit Your Local First Bank Today At First Bank, we are dedicated to providing our customers with the best savings account options in North Carolina. Visit a location near you to learn more about opening an account, or visit our website today. To learn more about First Bank, visit these related articles: Best Savings Account Rates in North Carolina, What is a Child Savings Account, or Stress-Free Savings Account – North Carolina. *Withdrawal fee of $2 each after the first two during the month. Federal regulations limit withdrawals of preauthorized transfers to six (6) per month, including checks, drafts, online transfers, telephone transfers and debit card purchases. You may conduct an unlimited number of withdrawals at the ATM, in person at a branch, or by mail when the check is mailed to you. **While First Bank does 3 min read

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

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5 Financial Tips for Your 30s Your thirties are a great time to get a handle on your finances and start investing in your future. 3 min read

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New Year, New Budget It’s a great time to make sure you have a solid budget in place and a good plan for how to move forward with your finances. 3 min read

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Have You Heard of Smishing? It Sounds Ridiculous, But It’s a Real Threat Over the past year, there has been a huge increase in scammers using text messages to pose as banking institutions alerting you to possible fraud. This has been a wide-spread issue that has affected the banking industry, but we wanted to address it directly to make sure you have the tips and resources you need to stay safe. 4 min read

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It’s Never Too Late to Start Your Financial Journey A little financial education can go a long way to help your employees manage their money and plan for the future. This infographic below, lays out some startling facts about why now is the time to boost financial savvy. 1 min read

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Are You a Financial Wellness Wiz? Take our quick quiz to find out! Create your own user feedback survey 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. 2 min read

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The Startling Cost of College There’s a startling financial truth for those enrolled in college and recent graduates: a higher education almost always comes with a significant price tag–and debt. Here, we take a look at the numbers. 1 min read

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