Banknotes

Across all types of media – from the internet, to the radio, and everywhere in between – consumers are flooded with advertisements for credit-monitoring and credit-improvement services. And while some of that information can be beneficial, it is important to first understand the basics of a credit score. From there, you can set yourself up for success and, hopefully, save money over time.

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.

In today’s increasingly digitized world, consumers do not lack for banking options; in fact, they’ve never had so many at their disposal. Accordingly, many choose to spread their money among several institutions, to create a “diversified portfolio” of providers for their discrete financial needs. While this approach is not without its benefits, there’s another that may deliver even more value: It’s called the “full-banking relationship,” and while it can help save time, money, and stress, perhaps its most valuable “feature” is peace of mind.

With the year winding down and holiday shopping well underway, have you thought about taking stock of your finances from the last 12 months? While this might feel like just one more thing you need to get done, view it as a necessary step in getting organized before the New Year begins. Categorize your finances into three categories – Needs, Balances, and Resources – and think about the year ahead.

The leaves are beginning to fall, the weather's beginning to chill, and the days are beginning to feel a bit shorter – we must be heading toward Halloween, the spookiest time of the year! And for some, using new banking technology can be every bit as scary as the frights provided by ghosts, ghouls, and goblins. But it doesn't have to be! We're here to turn on the lights to prove that these modern tools are nothing to fear, and can, in fact, make your banking experience much more convenient.

As fall approaches and families begin preparing for the start of school, some households may be coming to terms with their son or daughter heading off to college for the first time. Items are being purchased for dorm rooms, roommates are being met, but are frank discussions of finances also taking place?

Fraud is everywhere, and debit cards are a prime target for unsavory characters seeking to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. Banks work hard to ensure that their customers are safeguarded by dedicating departmental time and resources to recognizing and addressing unwanted/unauthorized transactions.

Let’s look take a look at how fraud is caught, what happens when it occurs, and the measures that State Bank of Cross Plains takes to keep customers safe and secure.

Graduating from college can be both an exciting and nerve-racking experience. The euphoria you feel upon receiving that hard-earned degree can quickly give way to the harsh reality of student loans and real-world expenses. What you do with your finances upon graduation is extremely important. Think about these three things as you prepare.

With winter showing no mercy this year, many Wisconsinites will try to seek refuge in warmer climates over spring break. State Bank of Cross Plains wants to help you access your money safely and conveniently while away from home.

Many parents worry about their ability to fund all or part of their children’s college experience…but what if someone else paid for college?

Below, our college financial planning experts share some other sources to explore for college funding besides your own pocket.