The Basics of Securing Your Check Book

April 23, 2021 by First Federal Bank

Even though financial transactions today are increasingly paperless, there are still advantages to using a check book. They can help you avoid processing fees, leave behind a useful paper trail for your spending, and give you a means of transferring funds should the internet be unavailable. But are check books safe? How do you secure your check...

Topics: Personal Banking, Financial Education

Staying Motivated while Eliminating Debt

April 07, 2021 by First Federal Bank

Although not a traditional four-letter word that would get you into trouble if you said it as a kid in school, there is no doubt debt is one of the worst words in the English language. Financial debt affects your sense of self, your present lifestyle, and your hope for the future. Getting out of debt is a daunting, time-consuming task, but the...

Topics: Financial Education

Understanding Taxes When You're Self-Employed

March 29, 2021 by First Federal Bank

If you’re new to the world of business ownership, managing your taxes can be one of the most daunting aspects of self-employment. Dealing with estimated taxes, figuring out deductions, and navigating tax forms can dampen the spirits of even the most intrepid entrepreneur. To help you prepare, here are a few things to know about the unique tax...

Topics: Financial Education

Business Accounting Mistakes to Watch Out For

March 19, 2021 by First Federal Bank

Tax time is stressful for every small business owner, especially if you make certain common accounting mistakes. These simple errors can lead to missed deductions, additional fines, and plenty of unnecessary stress, all of which cost you the time and energy you could be using to grow your company. From simple disorganization to overburdening...

Topics: Small Business, Financial Education

What Happens When You Miss Tax Deadlines?

March 17, 2021 by First Federal Bank

The beginning of each new year brings the looming stress of filing your taxes. Sorting through all the paperwork, filling out the correct forms, and making sure everything is prepared and filed on time can be a challenge. Depending on your circumstances, you may find yourself missing important tax deadlines. This can be a frightening situation,...

Topics: Financial Education

Business Tax Tips For Procrastinators

March 08, 2021 by First Federal Bank

Every year you tell yourself you will not wait until the last minute to file your business’s tax return. Every year, though, you still find yourself scrambling to complete it. If you are ready to break the procrastinating cycle when it comes to filing your business’s tax return, implement these tips into your business plan:

Topics: Small Business, Financial Education

Essential Financial Lessons For Kids

March 01, 2021 by First Federal Bank

As a parent, you are your child’s first and most enduring teacher. The example you set, the lessons you teach, and the instruction you neglect will live in your child’s psyche forever. That includes how to handle money. Help your kids develop good money habits now and throughout their lives with the following financial lessons:

Topics: Financial Education, Family

Basic Tips to Keep Your Account Safe

February 26, 2021 by First Federal Bank

Criminals are crafty, smart, and — for the most part — lazy. They are looking for accounts they can easily hack and information that is simple to steal. By putting up barriers, even simple ones, you can help protect your account from thieves.

Topics: Financial Education

How to Plan Your Retirement Using Age Banding

February 22, 2021 by First Federal Bank

Even if you’re nowhere near retirement age, chances are you’ve been — or have recently begun — preparing for the eventuality of leaving a working lifestyle behind. A lot goes into retirement planning, and knowing where to start or how to make sure everything goes as planned can be daunting. That’s where the concept of “age banding” comes into...

Topics: Retirement, Financial Education

Are Shopper Loyalty Programs Worth It?

February 15, 2021 by First Federal Bank

Shopper loyalty programs may seem like an easy way to save money on your favorite products. The choice to sign up for exclusive savings and customized coupons may seem like a no-brainer — however, these savings come at the cost of your personal data being sold to marketers. Here’s what to know about the benefits and risks of these store loyalty...

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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