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June 2021

tiny wooden homes next to a calculator

What You Need to Know About Home Equity Loans

A home equity loan is also known as a second mortgage. This type of loan applies to people who have paid off a substantial portion of their first mortgage. As a homeowner, you may borrow against your equity in your home. If you then use the funds to extend or substantially improve the home, the interest on the loan may be tax-deductible, according to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.
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Cyber Security & Protecting Your Financial Data

The prevalence of online banking and other financial transactions means the need for smart cyber security has never been more important. According to the Federal Trade Commission, more than 1.3 million Americans were victims of identity theft in 2020, and American consumers collectively lost more than $3.3 billion to fraud. So, what steps can you take to safeguard your information against scammers and identity thieves? Here is our Sound Advice for better cyber security and financial protection.
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How Do Home Construction Loans Work?

Building a new house can be an exciting time. You’re preparing to customize your home to suit your needs exactly — maybe you’ve even been dreaming about this house for a long time. To help prepare you for financing a new build, we’ve outlined some key points of home construction loans, so you can move forward with more confidence.
couple meeting with a business lender

The Best Small Business Loans in Wisconsin

Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economies throughout the state of Wisconsin. There are many different types of business loans that can help you reach your unique goals. As one of the top banks providing small business loans in Wisconsin, the team at First National Bank and Trust wants you to know more about the options available to find the best one to help your business thrive.
 
crossword tiles spelling out money saving and ideas

Questions to Ask When Opening a Savings Account

Opening a savings account can help you take control of your finances. You can use your account to save for a large purchase or to set up an emergency fund. Emergency funds can help you weather unforeseen occurrences. The common guideline is to save up to three to six months of your common expenses to take on any challenges that come your way. As you explore where to open a savings account, consider the following questions.