Banknotes

As safer-at-home policies continue to reshape the American lifestyle and force us to adapt to the current environment, there are luckily systems in place to accommodate this new way of life. The State Bank of Cross Plains has flexible and convenient tools available for both business and consumers to continue to operate and handle their banking needs from home.

We hope you are staying safe and encourage you to use this time for “spring cleaning” of your estate and financial plans! During these unprecedented times, many of us are staying home more often and finding ourselves with extra time on our hands. Now, more than ever, it is important to make sure the many aspects of our financial futures are in order.

Over the last few weeks, our everyday normal has been turned upside down with more and more people beginning to feel financial strain. Too many aspects of our lives contain uncertainty right now. Consider these tips to help you create some stability within your finances.

One unfortunate result of the current environment is an increase in fraud attempts. Scammers prey on our fears and desire for information surrounding the novel coronavirus pandemic. Businesses can be especially susceptible because there are more points of entry into your system (employees) and generally have bigger bank accounts.

The most important thing for you to know right now is that your bank is still open for business, and people can help you. In addition to online and mobile banking tools, real people are available to help by phone and email. Plus, drive-ups are still open in most locations.

With unemployment rising and no clear timeline for the reopening of non-essential businesses, many people are worried about how they can make ends meet for the next few months and beyond.

One option to consider for financial relief is your mortgage.

The coronavirus has radically affected the lives of everyone in this country – and, indeed, the world – in an unprecedentedly short amount of time. News of it on the radio, TV, and internet seems all-consuming. This piece is not intended as an update on the virus, because by the time it’s published any news contained herein will be outdated. Instead, the purpose here is to discuss the investing environment, both during this crisis and beyond.

While a disruption in cash flow can happen for many reasons in the best of times, the economic consequences of this coronavirus pandemic have certainly proven that life is not “business as usual” for almost everyone all at the same time.

One of the most difficult decisions a small business owner will face is determining when they’re ready to grow and expand their company. How do you know if it’s the right time?

While there may never be a “perfect time” to take the leap, there are some questions you can ask yourself to help you prepare. Consider the following to help your small business avoid the pains sometimes associated with growing.

The snow is beginning to melt, the days are getting longer ... spring is definitely in the air! Every year at this time, millions of Americans set about organizing their houses and tackling projects that they've put off over the winter. But what about your financial house; is that in order? Now is the perfect time to review and, if necessary, clean up your personal finances, to ensure that your spring is filled more with sunshine than rain clouds.