First Federal Bank Blog

Growing a business involves its share of uncertainty, and that may include finding yourself at a point where you don’t have the means to cover operating expenses and needs. A business line of credit is a viable option to help you find your way out of a tough spot, and offers some advantages that may make it the preferable alternative to a...

When your employees are experiencing burnout on the job, it’s not just a problem for them — it has the potential to negatively affect your entire business. To promote your business’s success and protect the well-being of your workers, it’s vital to recognize the key signs of burnout and know how to address them. Even more importantly, your company...

As implied by their names, the main difference between short-term and long-term loans is how long your business has to repay them. Depending on the lender, short-term loans may last from a few months to a year, while long-term loans can last for a much longer period. When determining what type of loan is better for your business, you need to...

Every entrepreneur wants their business to flourish — and to achieve that goal, it’s important to be aware of the signs your company is struggling. Here’s a look at four factors that indicate your company has to address some issues before it can thrive:

Managing your company’s debt can quickly become complicated. One way to simplify the process is to consolidate your business debt. However, like many other parts of entrepreneurship, this decision comes with a unique set of benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a look at some of the potential pros and cons to consider before you consolidate your business...

The Section 179 tax deduction is an important tool for small businesses. Instead of buying eligible business equipment and spreading out tax deductions for it over a period of years based on depreciation, business owners can use Section 179 to write off the full value of that purchase for the current year’s taxes. When used properly, this...

Ideally, you want your employees to be happy and healthy — not just because they work for you, but because they’re people you genuinely care about. As an employer, you have the ability to help in this cause. Rolling out wellness programs for your workers offers your employees tools they can use to build better health, and you can great results on...

An emergency fund for your small business is a smart investment. By having some savings on hand, you can help your company weather economic downturns, a loss of patronage, and unexpected expenses. However, it can be a bit overwhelming to set savings goals, carve out money from your company budget, and plan for all the ups and downs your business...

A stock ownership plan can be an appealing way to give your employees an ownership stake in the business via stocks. This investment vehicle empowers your workers to invest tax-free money directly in your company and cash out their funds when they reach retirement age. But the benefits of an ESOP go beyond perks for your crew — investing in your...

Starting your own business from scratch can be daunting if you lack experience or know-how. If you’ve been thinking about striking out on your own, a great way to get your feet wet is by becoming a franchise owner. Franchise businesses are an excellent gateway for entrepreneurs on the grow, especially if you start in a proven industry.