Common Myths and Misconceptions About Investing

April 18, 2022 by First Federal Bank

It’s some of the most common financial advice — if you want to grow your savings, invest. However, getting started with investing can be a daunting task, especially with so many myths surrounding the topic. We’re here to clear the air and address some common misconceptions about investing.

Topics: Financial Education

Should Your Spend Your Retirement Savings?

April 15, 2022 by First Federal Bank

If you’ve amassed significant savings for your retirement, it’s important to think about what you’ll do with the money. Would you prefer to spend it on yourself, give it away, or hang on to it and leave an inheritance for your children or other loved ones? Your answer will depend on a wide variety of factors, of course, but here are some points to...

Topics: Retirement, Financial Education

How to Make Your Home Wi-Fi Network More Secure

April 13, 2022 by First Federal Bank

The safest place to do your online banking is at home over a secure Wi-Fi network. Unfortunately, many private internet connections are not actually that private — including yours. Your internet security may be vulnerable to hackers and thieves. To ensure your online banking is secure, follow these suggestions to bolster your Wi-Fi’s defenses:

Topics: Family, Homeowners

What Happens to Your Unpaid Loans When You Die?

April 11, 2022 by First Federal Bank

You work hard because you want to set your family up for the future they deserve. Unfortunately, there may come a time where you’re not there to share that future with them. Because of all the uncertainties that life presents, it’s never a bad idea to know what happens if you should die and leave unpaid loans behind.

Topics: Financial Education

How to Receive a Tax Extension

April 08, 2022 by First Federal Bank

The deadline for filing and paying your 2021 income taxes is April 18, 2022. If you’re worried you won’t have enough time to submit your federal tax return before it’s due, you can request an extension from the IRS. Doing so will give you until Oct. 15, 2022 to file a return — an additional six months.

Topics: Financial Education

Fixed vs. Variable Expenses

April 06, 2022 by First Federal Bank

Putting together a budget requires looking at a range of expenses; some that are expected and others that are not. Expenses generally fall into one of two categories — variable and fixed. Understanding how they differ can help you handle current bills as well as future ones.

Topics: Financial Education

The Pros and Cons of Refinancing Your Mortgage

April 04, 2022 by First Federal Bank

When interest rates dip lower than your current rate, you might be tempted to refinance your mortgage. After all, lower interest rates should equal lower monthly payments. This means you could have more room in your budget while still paying on your home. Refinancing, however, is a serious financial decision and should be based on several...

Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity

Can You Invest with Your HSA?

April 01, 2022 by First Federal Bank

A health savings account is a valuable tool for saving money while receiving the medical care and treatment you need. But paying for doctor’s bills and prescription drugs aren’t the only ways you can use your HSA. You can use the savings to invest and prepare for future medical costs during retirement. Here’s a look at how that works:

Topics: Financial Education

Design Tips for Improving Your Master Bedroom

March 30, 2022 by First Federal Bank

Your bedroom should be more than just a place to lay your head. It should serve as a refuge, a comfort, and a respite from the rest of the world. If your bedroom is lacking the calm you need, the design inspiration you want, or the amenities to make it a place you enjoy spending time in, consider these tips to update your space:

Topics: Homeowners

Case-Shiller Home Price Indices: Home Prices Grow at a Near-Record Pace

March 30, 2022 by First Federal Bank

U.S home prices grew at a near-record pace in January according to the National S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Index; year-over-year home prices rose by 19.20 percent in January as compared to December’s reading of 18.90 percent. Home prices rose 1.80 percent on a month-to-month basis from December to January.

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

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