Our Two Cents

At The Stephenson National Bank & Trust, we consider ourselves experts in the field of finance. Why not share our financial knowledge with the rest of the community? That is exactly what we are going to do. 'Our Two Cents' will allow you to learn useful techniques for saving or protecting your money. On Mondays we'll share lessons that make cents.

So, check back with us regularly!

Have a comment or suggestion? Contact Us and let us know what you think!

	Tips to Save Money at Home this Summer 6.10.19 \| Personal Tips\| When the temperature goes up, so do energy bills, water bills, and a host of other home-related costs. Here are a few tips on how to stretch your household budget this summer and still stay cool.
	Three Strategies for Paying Down Debt 5.27.19 \| Personal Tips\| Have Debt? You're not alone. The average U.S. household has over $15,000 in credit card debt, and that doesn't take into account mortgages and student loans. However, just because you owe money now doesn't mean you'll never be debt-free. There are several strategies you can use to pay off your debt in manageable increments. Here's a look at three of the most effective options.
	Homebuying Tips for First-Timers 5.13.19 \| Personal Tips\| Interest rates are still historically low, but rising. The housing market is strong. The economy is on the upswing... You've decided now's the time: you're going to buy your first house. It can be an intimidating process, so here are a few tips to help your transition from renter to owner go smoothly.
	Early Financial Mistakes to Avoid 4.29.19 \| Personal Tips\| Over the next couple of months, many young adults will graduate from college or a technical school with hopes of entering the workforce soon afterward. Once they do, it will be the first time many of them enjoy a regular paycheck. Here are a few mistakes to avoid when the income starts rolling in.
	Smart Ways to Spend Your Refund 4.15.19 \| Personal Tips\| Many people filed their taxes early this year, so a lot of U.S. consumers have already received their 2018 refunds. The average refund is about $3,000, and that extra cash can burn a hole in your wallet. Here are some ways consumers can spend those extra funds wisely.
	4 Essential Tasks for Financial Spring Cleaning 4.1.19 \| Personal Tips\| The weather seems to finally be warming up, which means it's time for spring cleaning! In addition to airing out the house, cleaning out the basement or garage, and washing the drapes, be sure to give your personal finances a spring cleaning, too. Here are four essential tasks to add to your spring cleaning to-do list.
	Pros and Cons of a HELOC 3.18.19 \| Personal Tips\| A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) functions very similarly to a credit card. You have an established limit of credit that you can borrow against whenever you would like, as long as there is credit available. You have the flexibility to take funds when needed. But, you also need to be thinking ahead about repaying that balance. Here are some possible pros and cons of having a HELOC.
	Effective Ways to Build Your Credit Score 3.4.19 \| Personal Tips\| If you ever plan on making a large purchase - such as a car, house, or luxury purchase - building credit is essential. For younger consumers who have a short credit history (or no credit history), building credit and raising your credit score before applying for a loan could save you thousands by securing a lower interest rate. Here are a few strategies for building your credit score...
	What is a HELOC? 2.19.19 \| Personal Tips\| The term HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) is often used in the banking world, but not everyone knows what a HELOC really is, or how it works. A HELOC uses the value of your home as collateral. THis makes it similar to a second mortgage, but because you can withdraw funds as you need them, it actually functions more like a credit card. To help you understand more aboiut HELOCs, here are answers to a few frequently asked questions.
	Tips for Spending Wisely on Valentine's Day 2.4.19 \| Personal Tips\| Valentine's Day is right around the corner, but it's not an event most people think to budget for. Considering shoppers spent over $19.6 billion on February 14 last year, you might want to plan ahead to try and save a little cash! Here are four easy ideas to help treat your wallet as well as your significant other this Valentine's Day.
	Smart Use of a Home Equity Line of Credit 1.21.19 \| Personal Tips\| Homeowners may be tempted to take out a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to satisfy their immediate needs or wants. Some uses for home equity are smarter and more legitimate than others.
	Financial Fitness for the New Year 1.7.18 \| Personal Tips\|According to TIME magazine, getting out of debt and/or saving money is in the top five most commonly broken New Year's resolutions. The key to keeping your financial resolution is to form fiscally responsible habits. Here are three tips to help you get your money in order in 2019.
Treat 'em Like Family Project 12.31.18 \| At SNBT we’re always improving the customer service experience. Bankers posted a picture of their favorite family member near their computer monitor as a tiny reminder to "Treat 'em Like Family." When you bank at SNBT, you’re banking with family.
	Joy to the World of Gift Cards 12.17.18 \| Personal Tips\|Many can expect to give or receive a gift card at some point during the gift giving season. With gift cards growing in popularity, the Stephenson National Bank & Trust offers suggestions to ensure consumers get the most bank for their gift card.
	Holiday Financial Planning 12.03.18 \| Personal Tips\| The holidays are usually a time of getting together with family and friends, good food and gift giving. But for many people who don’t plan holiday spending in advance, they find themselves with a financial hangover well into the New Year.
	Go Local This Holiday Shopping Season 11.21.18 \| Personal Tips\| The Stephenson National Bank & Trust (SNBT) is encouraging consumers to Go Local this holiday season by shopping at local small businesses. The shopping season gives consumers an opportunity to voice their values and support their communities. Every dollar you spend locally is another ‘vote’ in favor of community businesses and has more impact than you may realize.
	Why Reading Your Bank Statement is So Important 11.05.18 \| Personal Tips\| Most of us open our first checking account by age 20. But just because we've had one for years, that doesn't mean that we manage it properly. When is the last time you balanced your bank account? If it's not part of your monthly routine, your inattention could carry a price.
	Halloween Money Saving Tips 10.22.18 \| Personal Tips\|People of all ages enjoy Halloween. It's a fun time to dress up, eat candy, and have a lot of fun. But, if you're not careful, those Halloween expenses can take a terrifying toll on your budget! The National Retail Federation estimates that consumers will spend $7.4 billion on Halloween this year, with the average person shelling out about $77 on decorations, costumes, and candy. Take a look at these money saving tips to save this Halloween.
	When You Need Money Fast: Sources of Affordable Cash 10.09.18 \| Personal Tips\|It's two weeks until payday and your car breaks down. You only need a few hundred dollars for the repair but you need it now. While many nonbank lenders, such as pawnshops or payday lenders, advertise quick and easy cash, their services tend to come at a steep price. Here are some tips for finding emergency cash at affordable prices.
	Retirement: When to Begin Collecting Social Security Benefits 9.24.18 \| Retirement Tips\|At age 40 or even 50, many Wisconsinites may find it ludicrous to think about collecting Social Security payments. Yet knowing the facts now can be a good foundation as you plan for your future retirement. After all, everyone grows older. Check out this informational article on Retirement and Social Security.
	Identities at Risk: College Students and Their Parents 9.10.18 \| Personal Tips\|As a child goes off to college, many parents aren’t thinking about identity theft as a risk for their child’s information, much less their own. Here are some ways students and parents can protect their personal information.
	Back to School Savings 8.27.18 \| Personal Tips\|It's that time of year again… While back to school shopping can be hard on your kids (because it means summer is nearly over), it doesn't have to be hard on your wallet. By creating a strategic budget and planning ahead, you can help keep your family's costs down. Here are a few simple tips to help you stick to your budget during this year's trip through the "back to school" aisles.
	Three Tips too Raise Your Credit Score and Keep it High 8.3.18 \| Personal Tips\|Do you know your current credit score? When was the last time you checked your credit report? Your credit score affects many aspects of your life, including making large purchases, obtaining loans, renting an apartment and even applying for a job!
	Grads Living at Home: The Path to Financial Independence 7.23.18 \| Personal Tips \| More and more parents who had been looking forward to the "empty nest" years are currently playing landlord to one or more adult children. Even for recent graduates with jobs, living at home can be an appealing cost-saving option. So, how can parents help their new roommates achieve financial independence?
	6 Money Mistakes Newlyweds Should Avoid 7.9.18 \| Personal Tips \| Summer wedding season is in full swing and newlyweds will soon be managing their finances as a pair. SNBT is encouraging couples to waste no time addressing how they will handle money issues as spouses and financial partners.
	12 Tips for Protecting Your Mobile Device 6.18.18 \| Consumer Alert Tips \| As consumer use of mobile devices continues to climb, cyber criminals are targeting those gadgets more frequently. It’s easy to forget that your mobile device can be vulnerable, but any device used to connect to the internet is at risk. SNBT suggests following these 12 steps to protect your mobile device.
	ID Theft Protection for Kids: What Parents Can Do 6.4.18 \| Consumer Alert Tips \| As masses of Americans turn to solutions to prevent their identities from being stolen, one group sometimes slips through the cracks: children. Parents: don't forget that your child's identity is also at risk. Read these steps to help protect your children from ID theft.
	Protect Small Business from Ransomware Attacks 5.21.18 \| Business Tips \| Ransomware has become one of the fastest growing malware threats to small businesses in recent years. Read these tips to help guard against ransomware threats to small businesses.
	7 Money Tips Millennials Can Bank On 5.14.18 \| Personal Tips \| With student debt and high housing costs creating challenges for many millennials, now is a better time than ever for them to map out their finances and invest in their future.
	6 tips for Your Financial Spring Cleaning 4.23.18 \| Personal Tips \| As Americans kick off the spring season by cleaning, sorting and tidying up around the house, SNBT is encouraging consumers to add financial organization to their spring cleaning to-do list.
	7 Ways to Fight ID Fraud Online 4.9.18 \| Personal Tips \| SNBT is offering these tips to help users safeguard their personal information and navigate the web safely.
	Tips to Avoid Online Dating Scams 3.26.18 \| Personal Tips \| The ABA Foundation in collaboration with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released an infographic on the growing threat of online dating scams.
	Our Economy Depends on Shopping Locally 3.2.18 \| Business Tips \| The Shop Local movement is growing in popularity, partially due to national attention from programs such as Small Business Saturday. An even bigger reason is the value it adds when each citizen reinvests in his or her community.
	A Letter From The President 1.1618 \| Personal Tips \| We live in a world where change occurs at a continually faster and faster pace; therefore, we’ve been anticipating major technology modifications in the banking industry for a while.
	Financial Fitness Tips for the New Year 1.9.18 \| Personal Tips \| Getting a handle on your finances can seem like a massive chore. Here are a few basic elements of financial fitness to keep in mind.
	How to Become a Savvy Charitable Giver 12.18.17 \| Personal Tips \| Donating to your favorite cause can be fulfilling, but it’s important that your gift reaches the intended source. Read these tips to become a savvy charitable giver this holiday season.
	Budgeting Tips for the Holiday Season 12.5.17 \| Personal Tips \| 'Tis the season for holiday shopping. Creating a budget and sticking to it can help keep you on track. Here are some budgeting tips for the busiest shopping season of the year.
	How to Prevent the Grandparent Scam 11.7.17 \| Consumer Alert Tips \| The next time you receive a frantic call from someone saying they are your grandchild and asking for money, make sure it’s actually your grandchild who’s calling.
	8 Tips for Protecting Your Identity 10.10.17 \| Consumer Alert Tips \| Identity theft continues to be one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States.SNBT recommends following these tips to keep your information – and your money – safe
	Equifax Hack: What You Need to Know 9.25.17 \| Consumer Alert Tips \| The Equifax data breach has been making headlines since it was first announced on September 7. Read on for answers to some commonly asked consumer questions.
	What do Faster Payments Mean for You? 8.14.17 \| Personal Tips \| Payments are moving faster, and soon they will be taken out of your account in “real-time”. Will you be ready for this change? Click Here to learn more about Faster Payments.
	Back to School Savings Strategies 8.8.17 \| Personal Tips \| Summer is almost over, and fall will be here before you know it. Here are a few tips to keep your back to school shopping from squeezing the family budget.
	5 Tips for Garage Sale Shopping 7.24.17 \| Personal Tips \| In the summer many consumers take advantage of the nice weather to either host or shop at a garage sale. Before you hit the sales this weekend, consider the following tips.
	Give Your Retirement Savings Plan a Check-Up 7.11.17 \| Retirement Tips \| Saving for retirement is not a "set it and forget it" endeavor. Here are a few questions to consider when you give your retirement savings plan a check-up.
	6 Financial Traps New College Graduates Should Avoid 6.19.17 \| Personal Tips \| ABA has highlighted six traps new college graduates should avoid to position themselves for financial success as they transition from the dorm room to the office.
	S ummer Fun that won't Break the Bank 6.12.17 \| Personal Tips \| The weather's hot and humid, school is out and you need to plan something fun for the whole family! Here are a few ideas to keep your budget from exploding this summer!
	5 Questions When Choosing Your First Home 6.5.17 \| Personal Tips \| Moving into your own place can be exciting and frightening at the same time. SNBT suggests considering the following questions when choosing your own home.
	Jargon Cheat Sheet for Your Mortgage Loans 5.22.17 \| Personal Tips \| The home buying process is stressful enough on its own. Not being able to understand your loan officer’s jargon shouldn’t part of it. Here is a list of common terms and what they mean.
	Planning for Student Loans After Graduation 5.15.17 \| Personal Tips \| Student loan debt has become a hot topic, and with good reason. In 2006, U.S. student loan debt hovered around $600 billion; today, that number has skyrocketed to $1.3 trillion.
	5 Money Tips to Help You Care for Your Loved One 5.8.17 \| Personal Tips \| Financial caregivers play a major role in ensuring that their loved ones maintain the best quality of life possible and that all finances are managed wisely.
	6 Ways to Use Your Debit Card Safely 5.1.17 \| Security Tips \| Despite the convenience of debit cards, there is a risk of fraud or theft.To avoid becoming a victim of debit card fraud, consider these tips.
	4 Things to Know About Construction Loans 4.3.17 \| Personal Tips \| There are many reasons why people decide to build their home, instead of buy. It meets your every want and need in a home, and the resell value can earn you some bang for your buck.
	6 Ways to Travel Safely with a Debit Card 4.18.17 \| Personal Tips \| It is possible to enjoyably travel with a debit card as your primary method of payment; however, you should make appropriate plans to compensate for the above concerns.
	6 Tips to Save for the House of Your Dreams 4.10.17 \| Personal Tips \| Saving for a down payment, typically between 5 to 20 percent of the home’s value, is one of the biggest challenges for those aspiring homebuyers. Here are 6 tips to start saving.
	Tips for First-Time Homebuyers 4.3.17 \| Personal Tips \| If you're looking to take advantage of great rates and buy your first home, make sure you prepare with today's real estate market in mind. Here are a few tips to get you started.
	What Do Rising Interest Rates Mean For You? 3.27.17 \| Personal Tips \| You may have heard that the "Fed" has been raising rates, and is likely to do so more often in the future. What does this mean, and how will it impact the average consumer?
	7 Ways to Protect Your Data Online 3.20.17 \| Personal Tips \| Cyber thieves are using social media profiles to gather personal information and use it to commit fraud. Follow these tips to safeguard your information online.
	Wise Ways to Spend Your Refund 3.6.17 \| Personal Tips \| Many Americans have recently received, or will receive soon, a refund from Uncle Sam. If you're one of the millions of these consumers, here are a few smart ways to use that money.
	5 Ways to Get Involved in Your Community 2.27.17 \| Personal Tips \| Volunteering can open the door to a number of opportunities and experiences – meeting the people in your neighborhood, developing personal and business relationships, and more.
	4 Tips to Clear the Clutter 2.20.17 \| Personal Tips \| Is clutter taking over your life? If so, there are many ways to declutter your home with the help of technology. Read these 4 tips to clear your clutter.
	Busting the Myths of Online & Mobile Banking 2.13.17 \| Personal Tips \| According to Pew Research, over half of all U.S. adults use online banking services. Are your concerns about online banking stopping you from joining in?
	7 Tips to Avoid Tax ID Fraud 2.6.17 \| Security Tips \| As the 2017 tax season gets underway, it is important take extra precaution when filing your return to prevent exposure to tax fraud. To help prevent tax ID fraud, read these tips.
	eStatements Provide Solutions 1.30.17 \| Personal Tips \| Receiving bank and investment account statements and other documents online instead of in the mail can have benefits — including convenience, less clutter, and less garbage.
	How to Talk to Your Kids About Money 1.23.17 \| Personal Tips \| How soon is too soon to talk to your kids or grand kids 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.
	Understanding Your Role as a Financial Caregiver 1.16.17 \| Personal Tips \| According to the Caregiver Action Network, more than 90 million Americans care for a loved one living with disability or experiencing reduced financial capability as a result of aging.
	How to Create a Budget 1.9.17 \| Personal Tips \| The holiday season is over and it’s time to get your finances back under control. Now is an important time – more than ever –to develop a budget and stick to it.
	Resolutions for Your Wallet 1.3.17 \| Personal Tips \| Every year, people make financial New Year's resolutions in January and give up on them by Valentine's Day. Read tips to help you actually accomplish your resolutions this year.
	5 Ways to Protect Your Small Business from Account Fraud 12.19.16 \| Business Security Tips \| Corporate account takeover is a type of fraud where thieves gain access to a business’ finances to make unauthorized transactions. Here are tips to keep your business safe.
	4 Easy Ways to Avoid Overdraft Charges 12.12.16 \| Personal Tips \| Sometimes mistakes happen. It is easy to lose track of your expenses when you aren’t constantly monitoring your account. Read these 4 easy ways to avoid overdraft fees.
	Holiday Budgeting Tools You Need to Know 12.5.16 \| Personal Tips \| 'Tis the season for holiday shopping. We understand that the gifts, family meals and decorations all put a strain on your wallet. Create a holiday budget and sticking to it.
	Bi-weekly or Monthly Payments, Which Best Fits You? 11.28.16 \| Personal Tips \| Everyone is familiar with monthly mortgage payments. But what if there was a way to shorten the years of your loan payments, would you be interested?
	Money Safety Tips for the Holiday Shopping Season 11.21.16 \| Security Tips \| Scams, fraud and data hacks abound during peak shopping season. However, you can fight back against the criminals who may try to steal your identity with these tips.
	3 Tips to Raise Your Credit Score & Keep it High 11.14.16 \| Personal Tips \| Your credit score affects many aspects of your life, including making large purchases, obtaining loans, renting an apartment and even applying for a job!
	Is a Joint Bank Account Right for You? 11.7.16 \| Personal Tips \| Joint bank accounts are often viewed as an easy way to give financial caregivers the ability to manage money on behalf of older adults. Find out if a join account is right for you.
	5 Ways to Use Your Requity 10.31.16 \| Personal Tips \| Using your secondary home as collateral is a convenient way to access a large sum of money. Choosing how to spend that extra cash is the difficult part.
	8 Banking Tips Millennials Need to Know 10.24 \| Personal Tips \| Millennials are connected to social media, but are they connected to their bank? Today's technology and innovation makes it easy to for consumers to stay connected to their bank.
	4 Security Tips for Mobile Check Deposits 10.17.16 \| Security Tips \| Start by taking photos - and taking precautions. At an increasing number of banks, consumers can use a smartphone to deposit a check into their account from anywhere.
	7 Tips for Protecting Yourself Online 10.3.16 \| Security Tips \| Though the internet has many advantages, it can also make users vulnerable to fraud, identity theft and other scams. Read these seven tips to protect yourself online.
	Which Method of Banking is Most Popular? 9.26.16 \| Personal Tips \| More than half of Americans manage their bank accounts online more often then any other method, according to a recent survey done by the American Bankers Association.
	12 Tips to Secure Your Mobile Device 9.19.16 \| Security Tips \| As consumer use of mobile devices continues to climb, cyber criminals are targeting those gadgets more frequently. Here are 12 things you can do to protect your mobile device.
	ATM Skimming - Tips to Avoid Becoming a Victim 9.12.16 \| Consumer Alerts \| Many consumers know how to protect themselves from identity theft. But, many consumers are unaware of another financial scam that can impact their bank accounts: ATM skimming.
	3 Ways to Secure Your Online Information 9.2.16 \| Security Tips \| There's no question that the Internet makes life easier in many ways. Shopping, communicating and storing information are just a few of the ways we all use the web.
	Are College Students Risking Their Parents' Identity 8.29.16 \| Security Tips \| Students attending college have a lot on their mind, and let’s face it, identity theft probably isn’t one of them. Preparing your kids with precautions is vital to preventing identity theft.
	Ways to Make Financial Dieting a Habit 8.22.16 \| Personal Tips \| Consumers can get blue over their lack of green, especially when bills arrive. A budget, or financial diet, can help improve your financial health. Read these tips to get you started.
	Savings ABC 8.15.16 \| Personal Tips \| It's no secret that many households are pinching pennies these days. There are two ways to save: ‘spend less’ and ‘save first.’
	Use Your CD to Stretch Your Dollars 8.8.16 \| Personal Tips \| Did you know that you can use your Certificate of Deposit (CD) as collateral to secure a loan? This is a little-known, and under-utilized option that can be used to make a purchase.
	Business Account Security 8.1.16 \| Business Tips \| Protecting your business is the most effective way of controlling corporate account takeover, which is a type of business ID theft where a criminal steals a business’s banking credentials.
	Don't Be a Target For Holiday Hoaxes 11.9.15 \| Security Tips \| The hustle and bustle of the holidays are upon, that means shopping, spending and traveling for many of us. These increased transactions are a golden opportunity for scammers.
	When is the Best Time to Start Saving? 9.21.15 \| Retirement Tips \| There is no better time to start saving than now – Don’t Wait! It’s so easy to let other financial obligations take priority over funding your retirement. It seems so far away, yet it’s critical.
	Resolve to Save for Retirement 9.7.15 \| Retirement Tips \| Make a complimentary appointment with a Retirement Expert. The sooner you develop a comprehensive retirement plan, the sooner you relax knowing you have a trusted investor.
	All About IRAs 8.21.15 \| Retirement Tips \| An individual retirement arrangement (IRA) is a personal retirement savings plan that offers specific tax benefits. IRAs are one of the most powerful retirement savings tools available.
	What can the Retirement Experts do for me? 5.5.15 \| Retirement Tips \| What’s your vision of retirement? Our goal is to help you achieve that vision, whether you plan to travel more or to relax more, you’ll need guidance from a retirement professional.

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	Tips to Save Money at Home this Summer 6.10.19 \| Personal Tips\| When the temperature goes up, so do energy bills, water bills, and a host of other home-related costs. Here are a few tips on how to stretch your household budget this summer and still stay cool.
	Three Strategies for Paying Down Debt 5.27.19 \| Personal Tips\| Have Debt? You're not alone. The average U.S. household has over $15,000 in credit card debt, and that doesn't take into account mortgages and student loans. However, just because you owe money now doesn't mean you'll never be debt-free. There are several strategies you can use to pay off your debt in manageable increments. Here's a look at three of the most effective options.
	Homebuying Tips for First-Timers 5.13.19 \| Personal Tips\| Interest rates are still historically low, but rising. The housing market is strong. The economy is on the upswing... You've decided now's the time: you're going to buy your first house. It can be an intimidating process, so here are a few tips to help your transition from renter to owner go smoothly.
	Early Financial Mistakes to Avoid 4.29.19 \| Personal Tips\| Over the next couple of months, many young adults will graduate from college or a technical school with hopes of entering the workforce soon afterward. Once they do, it will be the first time many of them enjoy a regular paycheck. Here are a few mistakes to avoid when the income starts rolling in.
	Smart Ways to Spend Your Refund 4.15.19 \| Personal Tips\| Many people filed their taxes early this year, so a lot of U.S. consumers have already received their 2018 refunds. The average refund is about $3,000, and that extra cash can burn a hole in your wallet. Here are some ways consumers can spend those extra funds wisely.
	4 Essential Tasks for Financial Spring Cleaning 4.1.19 \| Personal Tips\| The weather seems to finally be warming up, which means it's time for spring cleaning! In addition to airing out the house, cleaning out the basement or garage, and washing the drapes, be sure to give your personal finances a spring cleaning, too. Here are four essential tasks to add to your spring cleaning to-do list.
	Pros and Cons of a HELOC 3.18.19 \| Personal Tips\| A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) functions very similarly to a credit card. You have an established limit of credit that you can borrow against whenever you would like, as long as there is credit available. You have the flexibility to take funds when needed. But, you also need to be thinking ahead about repaying that balance. Here are some possible pros and cons of having a HELOC.
	Effective Ways to Build Your Credit Score 3.4.19 \| Personal Tips\| If you ever plan on making a large purchase - such as a car, house, or luxury purchase - building credit is essential. For younger consumers who have a short credit history (or no credit history), building credit and raising your credit score before applying for a loan could save you thousands by securing a lower interest rate. Here are a few strategies for building your credit score...
	What is a HELOC? 2.19.19 \| Personal Tips\| The term HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) is often used in the banking world, but not everyone knows what a HELOC really is, or how it works. A HELOC uses the value of your home as collateral. THis makes it similar to a second mortgage, but because you can withdraw funds as you need them, it actually functions more like a credit card. To help you understand more aboiut HELOCs, here are answers to a few frequently asked questions.
	Tips for Spending Wisely on Valentine's Day 2.4.19 \| Personal Tips\| Valentine's Day is right around the corner, but it's not an event most people think to budget for. Considering shoppers spent over $19.6 billion on February 14 last year, you might want to plan ahead to try and save a little cash! Here are four easy ideas to help treat your wallet as well as your significant other this Valentine's Day.
	Smart Use of a Home Equity Line of Credit 1.21.19 \| Personal Tips\| Homeowners may be tempted to take out a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to satisfy their immediate needs or wants. Some uses for home equity are smarter and more legitimate than others.
	Financial Fitness for the New Year 1.7.18 \| Personal Tips\|According to TIME magazine, getting out of debt and/or saving money is in the top five most commonly broken New Year's resolutions. The key to keeping your financial resolution is to form fiscally responsible habits. Here are three tips to help you get your money in order in 2019.
Treat 'em Like Family Project 12.31.18 \| At SNBT we’re always improving the customer service experience. Bankers posted a picture of their favorite family member near their computer monitor as a tiny reminder to "Treat 'em Like Family." When you bank at SNBT, you’re banking with family.
	Joy to the World of Gift Cards 12.17.18 \| Personal Tips\|Many can expect to give or receive a gift card at some point during the gift giving season. With gift cards growing in popularity, the Stephenson National Bank & Trust offers suggestions to ensure consumers get the most bank for their gift card.
	Holiday Financial Planning 12.03.18 \| Personal Tips\| The holidays are usually a time of getting together with family and friends, good food and gift giving. But for many people who don’t plan holiday spending in advance, they find themselves with a financial hangover well into the New Year.
	Go Local This Holiday Shopping Season 11.21.18 \| Personal Tips\| The Stephenson National Bank & Trust (SNBT) is encouraging consumers to Go Local this holiday season by shopping at local small businesses. The shopping season gives consumers an opportunity to voice their values and support their communities. Every dollar you spend locally is another ‘vote’ in favor of community businesses and has more impact than you may realize.
	Why Reading Your Bank Statement is So Important 11.05.18 \| Personal Tips\| Most of us open our first checking account by age 20. But just because we've had one for years, that doesn't mean that we manage it properly. When is the last time you balanced your bank account? If it's not part of your monthly routine, your inattention could carry a price.
	Halloween Money Saving Tips 10.22.18 \| Personal Tips\|People of all ages enjoy Halloween. It's a fun time to dress up, eat candy, and have a lot of fun. But, if you're not careful, those Halloween expenses can take a terrifying toll on your budget! The National Retail Federation estimates that consumers will spend $7.4 billion on Halloween this year, with the average person shelling out about $77 on decorations, costumes, and candy. Take a look at these money saving tips to save this Halloween.
	When You Need Money Fast: Sources of Affordable Cash 10.09.18 \| Personal Tips\|It's two weeks until payday and your car breaks down. You only need a few hundred dollars for the repair but you need it now. While many nonbank lenders, such as pawnshops or payday lenders, advertise quick and easy cash, their services tend to come at a steep price. Here are some tips for finding emergency cash at affordable prices.
	Retirement: When to Begin Collecting Social Security Benefits 9.24.18 \| Retirement Tips\|At age 40 or even 50, many Wisconsinites may find it ludicrous to think about collecting Social Security payments. Yet knowing the facts now can be a good foundation as you plan for your future retirement. After all, everyone grows older. Check out this informational article on Retirement and Social Security.
	Identities at Risk: College Students and Their Parents 9.10.18 \| Personal Tips\|As a child goes off to college, many parents aren’t thinking about identity theft as a risk for their child’s information, much less their own. Here are some ways students and parents can protect their personal information.
	Back to School Savings 8.27.18 \| Personal Tips\|It's that time of year again… While back to school shopping can be hard on your kids (because it means summer is nearly over), it doesn't have to be hard on your wallet. By creating a strategic budget and planning ahead, you can help keep your family's costs down. Here are a few simple tips to help you stick to your budget during this year's trip through the "back to school" aisles.
	Three Tips too Raise Your Credit Score and Keep it High 8.3.18 \| Personal Tips\|Do you know your current credit score? When was the last time you checked your credit report? Your credit score affects many aspects of your life, including making large purchases, obtaining loans, renting an apartment and even applying for a job!
	Grads Living at Home: The Path to Financial Independence 7.23.18 \| Personal Tips \| More and more parents who had been looking forward to the "empty nest" years are currently playing landlord to one or more adult children. Even for recent graduates with jobs, living at home can be an appealing cost-saving option. So, how can parents help their new roommates achieve financial independence?
	6 Money Mistakes Newlyweds Should Avoid 7.9.18 \| Personal Tips \| Summer wedding season is in full swing and newlyweds will soon be managing their finances as a pair. SNBT is encouraging couples to waste no time addressing how they will handle money issues as spouses and financial partners.
	12 Tips for Protecting Your Mobile Device 6.18.18 \| Consumer Alert Tips \| As consumer use of mobile devices continues to climb, cyber criminals are targeting those gadgets more frequently. It’s easy to forget that your mobile device can be vulnerable, but any device used to connect to the internet is at risk. SNBT suggests following these 12 steps to protect your mobile device.
	ID Theft Protection for Kids: What Parents Can Do 6.4.18 \| Consumer Alert Tips \| As masses of Americans turn to solutions to prevent their identities from being stolen, one group sometimes slips through the cracks: children. Parents: don't forget that your child's identity is also at risk. Read these steps to help protect your children from ID theft.
	Protect Small Business from Ransomware Attacks 5.21.18 \| Business Tips \| Ransomware has become one of the fastest growing malware threats to small businesses in recent years. Read these tips to help guard against ransomware threats to small businesses.
	7 Money Tips Millennials Can Bank On 5.14.18 \| Personal Tips \| With student debt and high housing costs creating challenges for many millennials, now is a better time than ever for them to map out their finances and invest in their future.
	6 tips for Your Financial Spring Cleaning 4.23.18 \| Personal Tips \| As Americans kick off the spring season by cleaning, sorting and tidying up around the house, SNBT is encouraging consumers to add financial organization to their spring cleaning to-do list.
	7 Ways to Fight ID Fraud Online 4.9.18 \| Personal Tips \| SNBT is offering these tips to help users safeguard their personal information and navigate the web safely.
	Tips to Avoid Online Dating Scams 3.26.18 \| Personal Tips \| The ABA Foundation in collaboration with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released an infographic on the growing threat of online dating scams.
	Our Economy Depends on Shopping Locally 3.2.18 \| Business Tips \| The Shop Local movement is growing in popularity, partially due to national attention from programs such as Small Business Saturday. An even bigger reason is the value it adds when each citizen reinvests in his or her community.
	A Letter From The President 1.1618 \| Personal Tips \| We live in a world where change occurs at a continually faster and faster pace; therefore, we’ve been anticipating major technology modifications in the banking industry for a while.
	Financial Fitness Tips for the New Year 1.9.18 \| Personal Tips \| Getting a handle on your finances can seem like a massive chore. Here are a few basic elements of financial fitness to keep in mind.
	How to Become a Savvy Charitable Giver 12.18.17 \| Personal Tips \| Donating to your favorite cause can be fulfilling, but it’s important that your gift reaches the intended source. Read these tips to become a savvy charitable giver this holiday season.
	Budgeting Tips for the Holiday Season 12.5.17 \| Personal Tips \| 'Tis the season for holiday shopping. Creating a budget and sticking to it can help keep you on track. Here are some budgeting tips for the busiest shopping season of the year.
	How to Prevent the Grandparent Scam 11.7.17 \| Consumer Alert Tips \| The next time you receive a frantic call from someone saying they are your grandchild and asking for money, make sure it’s actually your grandchild who’s calling.
	8 Tips for Protecting Your Identity 10.10.17 \| Consumer Alert Tips \| Identity theft continues to be one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States.SNBT recommends following these tips to keep your information – and your money – safe
	Equifax Hack: What You Need to Know 9.25.17 \| Consumer Alert Tips \| The Equifax data breach has been making headlines since it was first announced on September 7. Read on for answers to some commonly asked consumer questions.
	What do Faster Payments Mean for You? 8.14.17 \| Personal Tips \| Payments are moving faster, and soon they will be taken out of your account in “real-time”. Will you be ready for this change? Click Here to learn more about Faster Payments.
	Back to School Savings Strategies 8.8.17 \| Personal Tips \| Summer is almost over, and fall will be here before you know it. Here are a few tips to keep your back to school shopping from squeezing the family budget.
	5 Tips for Garage Sale Shopping 7.24.17 \| Personal Tips \| In the summer many consumers take advantage of the nice weather to either host or shop at a garage sale. Before you hit the sales this weekend, consider the following tips.
	Give Your Retirement Savings Plan a Check-Up 7.11.17 \| Retirement Tips \| Saving for retirement is not a "set it and forget it" endeavor. Here are a few questions to consider when you give your retirement savings plan a check-up.
	6 Financial Traps New College Graduates Should Avoid 6.19.17 \| Personal Tips \| ABA has highlighted six traps new college graduates should avoid to position themselves for financial success as they transition from the dorm room to the office.
	S ummer Fun that won't Break the Bank 6.12.17 \| Personal Tips \| The weather's hot and humid, school is out and you need to plan something fun for the whole family! Here are a few ideas to keep your budget from exploding this summer!
	5 Questions When Choosing Your First Home 6.5.17 \| Personal Tips \| Moving into your own place can be exciting and frightening at the same time. SNBT suggests considering the following questions when choosing your own home.
	Jargon Cheat Sheet for Your Mortgage Loans 5.22.17 \| Personal Tips \| The home buying process is stressful enough on its own. Not being able to understand your loan officer’s jargon shouldn’t part of it. Here is a list of common terms and what they mean.
	Planning for Student Loans After Graduation 5.15.17 \| Personal Tips \| Student loan debt has become a hot topic, and with good reason. In 2006, U.S. student loan debt hovered around $600 billion; today, that number has skyrocketed to $1.3 trillion.
	5 Money Tips to Help You Care for Your Loved One 5.8.17 \| Personal Tips \| Financial caregivers play a major role in ensuring that their loved ones maintain the best quality of life possible and that all finances are managed wisely.
	6 Ways to Use Your Debit Card Safely 5.1.17 \| Security Tips \| Despite the convenience of debit cards, there is a risk of fraud or theft.To avoid becoming a victim of debit card fraud, consider these tips.
	4 Things to Know About Construction Loans 4.3.17 \| Personal Tips \| There are many reasons why people decide to build their home, instead of buy. It meets your every want and need in a home, and the resell value can earn you some bang for your buck.
	6 Ways to Travel Safely with a Debit Card 4.18.17 \| Personal Tips \| It is possible to enjoyably travel with a debit card as your primary method of payment; however, you should make appropriate plans to compensate for the above concerns.
	6 Tips to Save for the House of Your Dreams 4.10.17 \| Personal Tips \| Saving for a down payment, typically between 5 to 20 percent of the home’s value, is one of the biggest challenges for those aspiring homebuyers. Here are 6 tips to start saving.
	Tips for First-Time Homebuyers 4.3.17 \| Personal Tips \| If you're looking to take advantage of great rates and buy your first home, make sure you prepare with today's real estate market in mind. Here are a few tips to get you started.
	What Do Rising Interest Rates Mean For You? 3.27.17 \| Personal Tips \| You may have heard that the "Fed" has been raising rates, and is likely to do so more often in the future. What does this mean, and how will it impact the average consumer?
	7 Ways to Protect Your Data Online 3.20.17 \| Personal Tips \| Cyber thieves are using social media profiles to gather personal information and use it to commit fraud. Follow these tips to safeguard your information online.
	Wise Ways to Spend Your Refund 3.6.17 \| Personal Tips \| Many Americans have recently received, or will receive soon, a refund from Uncle Sam. If you're one of the millions of these consumers, here are a few smart ways to use that money.
	5 Ways to Get Involved in Your Community 2.27.17 \| Personal Tips \| Volunteering can open the door to a number of opportunities and experiences – meeting the people in your neighborhood, developing personal and business relationships, and more.
	4 Tips to Clear the Clutter 2.20.17 \| Personal Tips \| Is clutter taking over your life? If so, there are many ways to declutter your home with the help of technology. Read these 4 tips to clear your clutter.
	Busting the Myths of Online & Mobile Banking 2.13.17 \| Personal Tips \| According to Pew Research, over half of all U.S. adults use online banking services. Are your concerns about online banking stopping you from joining in?
	7 Tips to Avoid Tax ID Fraud 2.6.17 \| Security Tips \| As the 2017 tax season gets underway, it is important take extra precaution when filing your return to prevent exposure to tax fraud. To help prevent tax ID fraud, read these tips.
	eStatements Provide Solutions 1.30.17 \| Personal Tips \| Receiving bank and investment account statements and other documents online instead of in the mail can have benefits — including convenience, less clutter, and less garbage.
	How to Talk to Your Kids About Money 1.23.17 \| Personal Tips \| How soon is too soon to talk to your kids or grand kids 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.
	Understanding Your Role as a Financial Caregiver 1.16.17 \| Personal Tips \| According to the Caregiver Action Network, more than 90 million Americans care for a loved one living with disability or experiencing reduced financial capability as a result of aging.
	How to Create a Budget 1.9.17 \| Personal Tips \| The holiday season is over and it’s time to get your finances back under control. Now is an important time – more than ever –to develop a budget and stick to it.
	Resolutions for Your Wallet 1.3.17 \| Personal Tips \| Every year, people make financial New Year's resolutions in January and give up on them by Valentine's Day. Read tips to help you actually accomplish your resolutions this year.
	5 Ways to Protect Your Small Business from Account Fraud 12.19.16 \| Business Security Tips \| Corporate account takeover is a type of fraud where thieves gain access to a business’ finances to make unauthorized transactions. Here are tips to keep your business safe.
	4 Easy Ways to Avoid Overdraft Charges 12.12.16 \| Personal Tips \| Sometimes mistakes happen. It is easy to lose track of your expenses when you aren’t constantly monitoring your account. Read these 4 easy ways to avoid overdraft fees.
	Holiday Budgeting Tools You Need to Know 12.5.16 \| Personal Tips \| 'Tis the season for holiday shopping. We understand that the gifts, family meals and decorations all put a strain on your wallet. Create a holiday budget and sticking to it.
	Bi-weekly or Monthly Payments, Which Best Fits You? 11.28.16 \| Personal Tips \| Everyone is familiar with monthly mortgage payments. But what if there was a way to shorten the years of your loan payments, would you be interested?
	Money Safety Tips for the Holiday Shopping Season 11.21.16 \| Security Tips \| Scams, fraud and data hacks abound during peak shopping season. However, you can fight back against the criminals who may try to steal your identity with these tips.
	3 Tips to Raise Your Credit Score & Keep it High 11.14.16 \| Personal Tips \| Your credit score affects many aspects of your life, including making large purchases, obtaining loans, renting an apartment and even applying for a job!
	Is a Joint Bank Account Right for You? 11.7.16 \| Personal Tips \| Joint bank accounts are often viewed as an easy way to give financial caregivers the ability to manage money on behalf of older adults. Find out if a join account is right for you.
	5 Ways to Use Your Requity 10.31.16 \| Personal Tips \| Using your secondary home as collateral is a convenient way to access a large sum of money. Choosing how to spend that extra cash is the difficult part.
	8 Banking Tips Millennials Need to Know 10.24 \| Personal Tips \| Millennials are connected to social media, but are they connected to their bank? Today's technology and innovation makes it easy to for consumers to stay connected to their bank.
	4 Security Tips for Mobile Check Deposits 10.17.16 \| Security Tips \| Start by taking photos - and taking precautions. At an increasing number of banks, consumers can use a smartphone to deposit a check into their account from anywhere.
	7 Tips for Protecting Yourself Online 10.3.16 \| Security Tips \| Though the internet has many advantages, it can also make users vulnerable to fraud, identity theft and other scams. Read these seven tips to protect yourself online.
	Which Method of Banking is Most Popular? 9.26.16 \| Personal Tips \| More than half of Americans manage their bank accounts online more often then any other method, according to a recent survey done by the American Bankers Association.
	12 Tips to Secure Your Mobile Device 9.19.16 \| Security Tips \| As consumer use of mobile devices continues to climb, cyber criminals are targeting those gadgets more frequently. Here are 12 things you can do to protect your mobile device.
	ATM Skimming - Tips to Avoid Becoming a Victim 9.12.16 \| Consumer Alerts \| Many consumers know how to protect themselves from identity theft. But, many consumers are unaware of another financial scam that can impact their bank accounts: ATM skimming.
	3 Ways to Secure Your Online Information 9.2.16 \| Security Tips \| There's no question that the Internet makes life easier in many ways. Shopping, communicating and storing information are just a few of the ways we all use the web.
	Are College Students Risking Their Parents' Identity 8.29.16 \| Security Tips \| Students attending college have a lot on their mind, and let’s face it, identity theft probably isn’t one of them. Preparing your kids with precautions is vital to preventing identity theft.
	Ways to Make Financial Dieting a Habit 8.22.16 \| Personal Tips \| Consumers can get blue over their lack of green, especially when bills arrive. A budget, or financial diet, can help improve your financial health. Read these tips to get you started.
	Savings ABC 8.15.16 \| Personal Tips \| It's no secret that many households are pinching pennies these days. There are two ways to save: ‘spend less’ and ‘save first.’
	Use Your CD to Stretch Your Dollars 8.8.16 \| Personal Tips \| Did you know that you can use your Certificate of Deposit (CD) as collateral to secure a loan? This is a little-known, and under-utilized option that can be used to make a purchase.
	Business Account Security 8.1.16 \| Business Tips \| Protecting your business is the most effective way of controlling corporate account takeover, which is a type of business ID theft where a criminal steals a business’s banking credentials.
	Don't Be a Target For Holiday Hoaxes 11.9.15 \| Security Tips \| The hustle and bustle of the holidays are upon, that means shopping, spending and traveling for many of us. These increased transactions are a golden opportunity for scammers.
	When is the Best Time to Start Saving? 9.21.15 \| Retirement Tips \| There is no better time to start saving than now – Don’t Wait! It’s so easy to let other financial obligations take priority over funding your retirement. It seems so far away, yet it’s critical.
	Resolve to Save for Retirement 9.7.15 \| Retirement Tips \| Make a complimentary appointment with a Retirement Expert. The sooner you develop a comprehensive retirement plan, the sooner you relax knowing you have a trusted investor.
	All About IRAs 8.21.15 \| Retirement Tips \| An individual retirement arrangement (IRA) is a personal retirement savings plan that offers specific tax benefits. IRAs are one of the most powerful retirement savings tools available.
	What can the Retirement Experts do for me? 5.5.15 \| Retirement Tips \| What’s your vision of retirement? Our goal is to help you achieve that vision, whether you plan to travel more or to relax more, you’ll need guidance from a retirement professional.

Our Two Cents

6.10.19 | Personal Tips| When the temperature goes up, so do energy bills, water bills, and a host of other home-related costs. Here are a few tips on how to stretch your household budget this summer and still stay cool.

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4.29.19 | Personal Tips|

4.15.19 | Personal Tips| Many people filed their taxes early this year, so a lot of U.S. consumers have already received their 2018 refunds. The average refund is about $3,000, and that extra cash can burn a hole in your wallet. Here are some ways consumers can spend those extra funds wisely.

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1.21.19 | Personal Tips|

Treat 'em Like Family Project

12.03.18 | Personal Tips|

11.21.18 | Personal Tips|

Most of us open our first checking account by age 20. But just because we've had one for years, that doesn't mean that we manage it properly. When is the last time you balanced your bank account? If it's not part of your monthly routine, your inattention could carry a price.

Identities at Risk: College Students and Their Parents

Our Economy Depends on Shopping Locally 3.2.18 | Business Tips | The Shop Local movement is growing in popularity, partially due to national attention from programs such as Small Business Saturday. An even bigger reason is the value it adds when each citizen reinvests in his or her community.

4 Tips to Clear the Clutter 2.20.17 | Personal Tips | Is clutter taking over your life? If so, there are many ways to declutter your home with the help of technology. Read these 4 tips to clear your clutter.

6.10.19 | Personal Tips|

When the temperature goes up, so do energy bills, water bills, and a host of other home-related costs. Here are a few tips on how to stretch your household budget this summer and still stay cool.

4.15.19 | Personal Tips|

Many people filed their taxes early this year, so a lot of U.S. consumers have already received their 2018 refunds. The average refund is about $3,000, and that extra cash can burn a hole in your wallet. Here are some ways consumers can spend those extra funds wisely.

Our Economy Depends on Shopping Locally
3.2.18 | Business Tips |
The Shop Local movement is growing in popularity, partially due to national attention from programs such as Small Business Saturday. An even bigger reason is the value it adds when each citizen reinvests in his or her community.

4 Tips to Clear the Clutter
2.20.17 | Personal Tips |
Is clutter taking over your life? If so, there are many ways to declutter your home with the help of technology. Read these 4 tips to clear your clutter.