IRS Lowers 2018 Family Health Savings Account Contribution Limit to $6850

by Amy Mavris @ Merrimack County Savings Bank

Fri Mar 09 13:02:32 PST 2018

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced a reduced Health Savings Account (HSA) contribution rate for families with High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs). The 2018 maximum family contribution rate will be $6850 instead of the $6900 limit that had previously been announced. The maximum self contribution for 2018 will remain $3450. The IRS has cited recent tax changes [...]

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Figuring Out How Much to Allocate to Your 401(k)

by April Masterson @ First National Bank of Newtown

Thu Nov 16 10:33:10 PST 2017

When your employer offers a 401(k) plan, you have a great opportunity to save for retirement. You’ll want to contribute at least enough to get the full employer match, if your employer offers one. Beyond that, here are some ways to know how much to allocate to your plan. Decide how much you’ll need It helps to first decide how much money you think you’ll need to live on after retirement. You’ll also want to consider other sources of income you may receive, like Social Security benefits. (If you have a partner, it’s good to plan together, but you probably

The post Figuring Out How Much to Allocate to Your 401(k) appeared first on First National Bank of Newtown.

March 8: We will be opening at 11am due to today’s weather. Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Telephone Banking and ATMs will all be available during this period. We expect to open on Thursday as usual. We apologize for any inconvenience.

by Cindy Hemeon-Plessner @ Merrimack County Savings Bank

Thu Mar 08 03:32:46 PST 2018

The post March 8: We will be opening at 11am due to today’s weather. Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Telephone Banking and ATMs will all be available during this period. We expect to open on Thursday as usual. We apologize for any inconvenience. appeared first on Merrimack County Savings Bank.

March 13: We will be closing at 1pm due to today’s weather. Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Telephone Banking and ATMs will all be available during this period. We apologize for any inconvenience.

by Julia Brough @ Merrimack County Savings Bank

Thu Mar 08 03:41:19 PST 2018

The post March 13: We will be closing at 1pm due to today’s weather. Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Telephone Banking and ATMs will all be available during this period. We apologize for any inconvenience. appeared first on Merrimack County Savings Bank.

ChoiceOne Bank, Fremont Area Community Foundation Launch Kickstart to Career

by Kylie Thompson @ ChoiceOne Bank

Fri Mar 23 13:32:57 PDT 2018

3 Reasons You Need An Automatic Savings Plan

by April Masterson @ First National Bank of Newtown

Thu Oct 05 11:09:55 PDT 2017

“Save money” is a timeless bit of personal finance advice, but actually doing it can be another story. If you need a way to boost your savings and stay consistent with your goals, setting up an automatic funds transfer can help. There are two ways you might do this. You can set up a transfer from your checking to a savings or investment account at your financial institution. Another method can be having a portion of your paycheck directed into a retirement or other account by your employer, if possible. Here’s a closer look into why saving this way might

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At this time, we are hoping to be open as usual on Tuesday, March 13th. However, please watch this space and the Merrimack’s Facebook page for up to date information for any changes due to the storm. Thank you.

by Cindy Hemeon-Plessner @ Merrimack County Savings Bank

Mon Mar 12 07:13:04 PDT 2018

The post At this time, we are hoping to be open as usual on Tuesday, March 13th. However, please watch this space and the Merrimack’s Facebook page for up to date information for any changes due to the storm. Thank you. appeared first on Merrimack County Savings Bank.

Starting 2018 Off Right

by April Marasco @ Howard Bank

Mon Dec 18 16:27:16 PST 2017

As 2017 comes to an end and 2018 is imminent, here are a few ideas for getting a great start to the new year.   To recap: Examine the trends. Take stock of competitors. Eliminate things that are not working. Update your website, social media, marketing, and sales strategies. Set goals for 2018. And remember, we’re …
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ChoiceOne Bank Continues Expansion into Grand Rapids on Market Street

by Kylie Thompson @ ChoiceOne Bank

Fri Jan 19 06:12:10 PST 2018

Saving for Retirement While Paying Down Debt

by April Masterson @ First National Bank of Newtown

Thu Feb 15 12:07:38 PST 2018

When faced with two big financial priorities, such as paying off old debt and saving for retirement, it can be easier to focus on just one. For people repaying student loans for themselves or their children, for example, 38% weren’t able to put money away for retirement, according to a 2015 survey from the National Foundation for Credit Counseling and NerdWallet. But there are ways you can contribute to retirement savings even while paying off student or other debt. Neglecting either one can be a losing proposition. If you focus just on repaying debts, you can lose out on potential

The post Saving for Retirement While Paying Down Debt appeared first on First National Bank of Newtown.

5 Questions to Ask Before Buying A Home

by April Masterson @ First National Bank of Newtown

Thu Mar 22 11:21:14 PDT 2018

As winter melts into spring, you’ll likely start to see “For-Sale” signs popping up in your neighborhood. Buying a home can be an exciting milestone in your life, and it’s important to educate yourself on the financial implications of homeownership before you make an offer. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a current owner looking to sell or refinance, there are a few key questions that should help guide your decision: 5 Questions to Ask Before Buying A Home 1. What are the pros and cons of owning vs. renting? Owning a home is a long-term commitment. Recent studies show

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6 Ways to Save More Money in the New Year

by April Masterson @ First National Bank of Newtown

Thu Dec 07 10:21:56 PST 2017

Even if saving has never been your thing and money is tight, the coming of a new year is an opportunity to change old financial habits. Here are some ways to become a more efficient saver. 1. Budget Budgeting helps you organize your finances so you have money left over to save each month. It may seem laborious, but budgeting doesn’t have to be hard. Mobile apps cut a lot of the work and can help you track spending throughout the month. 2. Pay yourself first Firmly commit to making a savings deposit monthly, even if you can only afford

The post 6 Ways to Save More Money in the New Year appeared first on First National Bank of Newtown.

Organize Your Finances for the New Year

by April Masterson @ First National Bank of Newtown

Thu Dec 21 11:32:56 PST 2017

A new year brings a chance to start fresh with just about anything. If your midnight toast includes a resolution to improve your financial health, here’s how to make it happen. Get on a budget To get ahead, it’s important to know where you stand and to create a plan with realistic goals such as a comfortable retirement, education and home ownership. Budgeting may sound old-school, but it’s still one of the best ways to accomplish this. Start by totaling your income and subtracting your monthly expenses for a quick financial snapshot. Then set goals, reduce unnecessary spending and, if

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ChoiceOne Bank Announces Partnership with Autobooks

by Kylie Thompson @ ChoiceOne Bank

Wed Jan 24 12:03:54 PST 2018

With Everyday Debit Card Purchases, You Could Win a Priceless Surprise® from Mastercard®

by Amy Mavris @ Merrimack County Savings Bank

Fri Mar 02 11:23:38 PST 2018

Everyday purchases made using your Merrimack debit card could earn you a Priceless Surprise® from Mastercard®! Prizes include $500 statement credits and incredible surprise getaways with a guaranteed winner from the Merrimack during each of the 3 contest periods. You will automatically receive 1 entry into the sweepstakes for each eligible card purchase of $10 [...]

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What Not to Do on Your Facebook Small Business Page

by April Masterson @ First National Bank of Newtown

Thu Nov 02 11:22:53 PDT 2017

More entrepreneurs are tapping into the world’s largest social media network: There are more than 70 million businesses now on Facebook, up from about 18 million in 2013, according to Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg during a recent investor call. Facebook gives businesses a platform to showcase new products and services, promote specials and provide customer service. But with these benefits comes the potential for mistakes that can damage your brand. Here are five common small-business mistakes to avoid on your Facebook business page. 1.) Don’t post too often Most industries should aim to post no more than once or twice a day to

The post What Not to Do on Your Facebook Small Business Page appeared first on First National Bank of Newtown.

The Merrimack Named Small Business of the Year by Hooksett Kiwanis

by Diana Johnson @ Merrimack County Savings Bank

Thu Mar 22 07:00:56 PDT 2018

Merrimack County Savings Bank (the Merrimack) has been named Small Business of the Year by the Hooksett Kiwanis. The award will be given out at the Hooksett Kiwanis Community Leaders event on Tuesday, April 3rd at the Southern New Hampshire University Dining Center in Manchester. Several hundred guests are expected to attend the reception that [...]

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Building Baltimore’s Best Business Bank

by April Marasco @ Howard Bank

Tue Aug 22 05:45:39 PDT 2017

We are committed to building Baltimore’s Best Business Bank. Howard Bank and 1st Mariner Bank jointly announced the signing of an agreement where Howard Bank will acquire 1st Mariner. The combination of Howard Bank and 1st Mariner Bank enables us to achieve the vision of becoming the region’s leading business bank in a relentless way. Together, we become …
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Same Day ACH – Does it Impact Me?

by April Marasco @ Howard Bank

Wed Sep 06 06:33:40 PDT 2017

For those following the new rules towards the processing of ACH transactions, it’s no surprise to you that Same Day ACH will now apply to debit transactions in addition to credit transactions starting at the beginning of September.  For those who perhaps haven’t been following this as closely (it’s okay, we understand), let’s back up …
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Friday, March 23 – Please be advised that our Main Office on Main Street in Concord was closed unexpectedly today and will remain closed for the rest of the day. Please visit an alternate location this afternoon. For a full list of branches, please visit http://www.themerrimack.com/about/locations. Thank you for understanding.

by Amy Mavris @ Merrimack County Savings Bank

Fri Mar 23 11:25:12 PDT 2018

The post Friday, March 23 – Please be advised that our Main Office on Main Street in Concord was closed unexpectedly today and will remain closed for the rest of the day. Please visit an alternate location this afternoon. For a full list of branches, please visit http://www.themerrimack.com/about/locations. Thank you for understanding. appeared first on Merrimack County Savings Bank.

Education

by Natasha Drozdak @ South State Bank

Fri Jun 27 13:43:33 PDT 2014

Through local initiatives and programs that promote financial literacy and responsibility, we work to provide opportunities at the Pre K-12,...

The post Education appeared first on South State Bank.

Healthcare and Human Services

by Natasha Drozdak @ South State Bank

Sat Jun 27 17:44:20 PDT 2015

This includes local initiatives and organizations that support the improvements of health, wellness and hunger.

The post Healthcare and Human Services appeared first on South State Bank.

The Merrimack Launches New Financial Management Tool

by Diana Johnson @ Merrimack County Savings Bank

Tue Mar 20 06:55:31 PDT 2018

Merrimack County Savings Bank (the Merrimack) has recently implemented a new, complimentary Personal Financial Management (PFM) solution for online banking customers, partnering with industry-leader, MX Money Management to provide enhanced services. “In a technology driven world, consumers are accustomed to instantly accessing information whenever and from wherever they need, so they’re also looking to banks to keep them [...]

The post The Merrimack Launches New Financial Management Tool appeared first on Merrimack County Savings Bank.

Reflections of 2017

by April Marasco @ Howard Bank

Wed Dec 27 06:40:07 PST 2017

Late December is a time of year that encourages us to reflect – on our achievements, our left “to dos” and the excitement of  looking forward to a new year and new goals and challenges. These reflections of course take place in a larger context. It is the time of year  when some of us retell …
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2017 CRA Public Comments

by Christine Okoye @ South State Bank

Fri Dec 01 05:11:26 PST 2017

Letter to Mathew Lee Letter to Adam Drimer Letter to Eike and Exhibits 2017 CRA Public Comments

The post 2017 CRA Public Comments appeared first on South State Bank.

A Note of Appreciation to Law Enforcement and the Barley House

by Diana Johnson @ Merrimack County Savings Bank

Fri Mar 23 14:13:49 PDT 2018

We would like to thank law enforcement for the incredible job they’ve done evaluating the details of today’s suspicious incident at our Main Office on 89 North Main Street in Concord. Though our employees are well-trained on how to respond to unusual and possibly threatening events, it was reassuring to see how quickly and thoroughly [...]

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Building and Growing a Small Business

by April Marasco @ Howard Bank

Mon Mar 05 16:00:45 PST 2018

At Howard Bank, we want to help you start, fund and grow your business. Our Small Biz Talks series offers a wide range of business information to help you with your business. If you have a business, here are a few things to consider.

Culture Arts

by Natasha Drozdak @ South State Bank

Fri Jun 27 13:43:00 PDT 2014

Initiatives and organizations that support arts and culture in the communities we serve, including local museums, art educational programs, music...

The post Culture Arts appeared first on South State Bank.

The Benefits of a Mortgage Preapproval — and How to Get One

by April Masterson @ First National Bank of Newtown

Thu Jan 11 10:43:15 PST 2018

Unless you were recently selected as the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft or released a hit album, you probably won’t pay for your new house in cash. Like millions of Americans, you’ll take out a mortgage. Before you begin your housing search, try to get a mortgage preapproval, which is usually good for up to 90 days. After reviewing and verifying some of your financial information, lenders will tell you how much money they’d be willing to let you borrow. Getting preapproved can speed up the sale process and demonstrates to sellers that you’re serious about buying. Here’s

The post The Benefits of a Mortgage Preapproval — and How to Get One appeared first on First National Bank of Newtown.

10 Tips to Get a Home Ready for Sale

by April Masterson @ First National Bank of Newtown

Thu Jan 25 12:37:48 PST 2018

Preparing to sell your home can be difficult. You have to create enough ambiance so that buyers can envision themselves living there but make sure it’s not so cluttered that all they see is you. Make some changes inside and out to get top dollar for your abode. Do a drive by. If a person sees trash on the lawn or overgrown weeds, they won’t be enticed to come inside. Boost your home’s curb appeal by planting a few colorful flowers at the entrance and mow the lawn. Declutter. Most people are familiar with the deceptive clean-up strategy of stuffing

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ChoiceOne Bank Recognized by West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

by Kylie Thompson @ ChoiceOne Bank

Fri Mar 23 13:13:10 PDT 2018

How to Plan for Early Retirement

by April Masterson @ First National Bank of Newtown

Thu Mar 01 10:43:23 PST 2018

If you want to retire early, your investment strategy may need to be a little different from a person who plans to keep working well into his or her 60s and beyond. That’s because with many retirement savings plans, including 401(k)s and IRAs, you could be charged a tax penalty if you withdraw money before age 59½. You also generally won’t be eligible to start receiving partial Social Security benefits until age 62, or full benefits a few years later. If you plan to leave work earlier than that, you may need to tweak your investment efforts. Here’s a look

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Financial Planning for Your Business

by April Marasco @ Howard Bank

Mon Oct 02 04:04:15 PDT 2017

October is Financial Planning Month, and financial planning is as important for your business as it is for your personal finances. Are you thinking about starting a business or are you already a business owner? You will probably need money for your business at some time. So, what do you need to do to prepare …
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End of Year Checklist for Your Small Business

by April Marasco @ Howard Bank

Mon Nov 20 14:50:54 PST 2017

The end of the year is a good time to take stock of your business – review your accomplishments from this year and plan for next year. In this infographic, we’ll give you some ideas on getting started and what you might want to include in your checklist. Take a look, and build on this …
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Beware of Timeshare Resale Scams

by Amy Mavris @ Merrimack County Savings Bank

Thu Mar 15 07:19:06 PDT 2018

We’ve been seeing an increase in reports of timeshare resale scams impacting area residents. Timeshare resale scams often begin when a phony vacation property company reaches out to a timeshare owner claiming to have guaranteed buyers and promising hefty returns for their timeshare. The company stresses that they must move quickly and be willing to [...]

The post Beware of Timeshare Resale Scams appeared first on Merrimack County Savings Bank.

South State Advisory Privacy Notice

by Christine Okoye @ South State Bank

Thu Nov 30 20:13:56 PST 2017

South State Advisory Privacy Notice PDF  

The post South State Advisory Privacy Notice appeared first on South State Bank.

ChoiceOne Bank Continues Expansion

by Kylie Thompson @ ChoiceOne Bank

Wed Feb 14 07:26:38 PST 2018

Tyler Wright – 40 Under 40

by April Marasco @ Howard Bank

Thu Sep 14 06:53:11 PDT 2017

Making the BBJ’s 40 under 40 List is an honor. For Tyler Wright, interacting with past and current members of this group feels like an extension of the community-focused and relationship-driven team spirit that is inherent in the Howard Bank DNA. Tyler describes the Howard Bank culture and work ethic this way: “Relationship banking and …
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7 Steps to Creating a Business Plan

by April Marasco @ Howard Bank

Mon Oct 23 14:33:48 PDT 2017

To give your business the best possible chance of success, you need a business plan. Whether you’ve been in business for a while or you are in the planning stages for your new business, a business plan is key. A good business plan lets you measure your achievements, attract investors, secure financing, and serves as …
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