What is the SBA, and What Does It Do?

October 06, 2023 by First Federal Bank

If you’ve considered starting a small business, you’ve almost certainly heard of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA is one of the most useful resources for entrepreneurs and companies on the grow, and it’s been an incredible asset for countless American businesses over the past 80 years. What is the Small Business Administration?

Topics: Small Business

Helping Older Adults Understand Online Banking

October 04, 2023 by First Federal Bank

New technology helps make the completion of everyday tasks more convenient and accessible. But, these advancements can also seem daunting to anyone who has difficulty learning or trusting new technology. As the financial industry embraces digitization through online platforms, seniors can’t always follow their traditional methods of managing their...

COAs must prepare operationally and financially for new legislation

October 03, 2023 by Jim Weaver

It would seem in today’s world the life of many Condo Associations are financially battling a 3headed dragon known as Insurance, Milestone Inspections and Structural Integrity Reserve Studies.Alone, any one of these could result in a substantial financial blow to an Association butbeingimpacted by all three could result in a financial crisis.

Topics: Financial Education

4 Scary Video Games to Play This October

October 02, 2023 by First Federal Bank

Halloween is almost here. If your idea of a scary good time is cozying up under the blankets with a video game, you’re in luck. 2023 has been an excellent year for horror video games, and October is a great time to get caught up and get scared by some of the year’s finest titles.Alan Wake IIThough it doesn’t come out until October, it seems like...

Be on Guard for These Common Tax Scams

September 29, 2023 by First Federal Bank

As a small business owner, it is crucial to stay vigilant against tax scams that can potentially harm your financial well-being. Fraudsters are continuously evolving their tactics, making it critical to educate yourself on common tax scams. By being aware and taking proactive measures, you can safeguard your business and personal information. In...

Topics: Small Business, Financial Education

Beginning with Pre-Approval

September 29, 2023 by First Federal Bank

If you’re looking to buy a home this fall, there are a few things you need to know. Affordability is tight with today’s mortgage rates and rising home prices. At the same time, there’s a limited number of homes on the market right now and that’s creating some competition among buyers. But, if you’re strategic, there are ways to navigate these...

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

The Pros and Cons of A Fixed Rate Second Mortgage vs. Opening a Home Equity Line of Credit

September 27, 2023 by First Federal Bank

When it comes to a mortgage and the financial stability of your home, there's no such thing as too much you can know in the case of keeping your biggest investment safe. If you're looking at paying off debt and are considering using the equity in your home, here are a few things you'll need to know about refinancing your mortgage and home equity...

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

3 Reasons Why Your Mortgage Lender Might Ask for Your Tax Returns - And Why You Should Provide Them

September 27, 2023 by First Federal Bank

After you have completed the initial loan application and have signed the preliminary loan disclosures, your mortgage loan application will generally receive a preliminary prequalification. This prequalification will be based in large part on your ability to provide documentation to support your statements on your loan application, including your...

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

The Pros and Cons of Paying Your Mortgage off Biweekly Versus Monthly

September 27, 2023 by First Federal Bank

If you have a mortgage, you're probably looking for the best option to pay it off. Monthly mortgage payments are an easy-to-manage way to pay for your house- in fact, they're the most common form of mortgage payment  but now, many homeowners are discovering that biweekly payments offer them better results.

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

What to Know About Social Security Survivor Benefits

September 27, 2023 by First Federal Bank

Once you’ve qualified for Social Security retirement benefits, your spouse, children, and other survivors may be eligible to receive monthly payouts in the event of your death. These survivor benefits are an important resource for millions of people across the United States, and here’s an overview of how they work:How do survivor benefits work?...

Topics: Financial Education

The content on this site is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered accounting, legal, tax, or financial advice. First Federal Bank recommends that customers conduct their own research and consult with professional legal and financial advisors before making any financial decisions. Links to third-party websites may be provided for your convenience; however, First Federal Bank does not guarantee the reliability, accuracy, or safety of the information, products, or services offered on these external sites. We are not liable for any damages resulting from the use of these links, and we do not investigate, verify, or endorse the content or opinions expressed on any third-party sites.

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