Manage Your Credit Card Usage
Consumer Tips Shop around for the best card for your needsYou will find a range of interest rates, rewards programs and terms. The interest rate, penalty fees, annual fee and grace period all play a factor in your total cost. Pay as much as you can, as soon as you can, and always pay by […]
Budget Tips
The key to a good budget is including as much information as you can, so that you can adequately prepare and plan. It’s important to keep accurate records of your spending so you’ll spot places where you can save money and know how much you can reasonably spend. How to Make Your Budget What is […]
5 Tips to Avoid Financial Frostbite this Holiday Season
Consumers spent more than $700 billion on holiday shopping in 2018. With this year’s holiday shopping season launching in full force, West Bank is highlighting five tips to help consumers keep their holiday spending under control. “There are so many people to shop for during the holidays, and big sales can make it easy to overextend […]
Become a Savvy Charitable Giver
According to an article on Forbes.com, 16% of organizations say they receive more than half of their total contributions for the year between the months of October and December and 11% of online charitable donations will be made in just the three final days of the year. As a community bank, giving back to the community […]
Holiday Spending
With the holidays rapidly approaching, it’s important for consumers to develop a holiday spending plan to avoid financial headaches in the future, says the American Bankers Association. ABA highlighted seven tips to help consumers minimize their holiday spending debt. “It’s a special feeling to make loved ones happy with the perfect holiday gift or to […]
6 Ways to Avoid Holiday Shopping Scams
In the wake of recent data breaches, shoppers should be on high alert while purchasing their presents this holiday season. “While millions of credit and debit card transactions are conducted safely every day, it’s important that consumers are aware of the potential for holiday scams,” said Zach Stubbs, West Bank Vice President/Central Iowa Retail Manager. […]
How Much House Can I Afford?
The VA Loan is a home-mortgage option available to United States Veterans, Service Members and not remarried spouses. VA Loans are issued by qualified lenders and guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The USDA Guarantee loan is a 100% financing mortgage for moderate-to-low income homebuyers in eligible rural and suburban areas. Loans are issued through the USDA Rural Development Guaranteed Housing Loan […]
Five Questions for First Time Homebuyers
Moving into your own place can be exciting and frightening at the same time. The American Bankers Association suggests considering the following questions when choosing your own home. 1. How much money do you have saved up? Start with an evaluation of your financial health. Figure out how much money you have for a down […]
Home Office Safety and Security
If you work out of your home or just need a place to take care of personal business, it’s a good idea to set up a workspace dedicated to this purpose in your home. Whether it’s a corner of your apartment or a whole room, your space should be comfortable, safe, and securely protect your […]
Kids and Money
How soon is too soon to talk to your kids or grandkids about money? If they are old enough to ask for a toy or a bike, they are old enough to start learning financial lessons that will last a lifetime. The best financial lessons are part of everyday experience. Look for opportunities to talk […]