Blog: Smart Saving Tips & Advice | Citizens First Bank Citizens First Bank

How to Build Credit For Beginners

Establishing good habits early on is key to helping you reach your personal and financial goals later in life.

3 Smart Ways to Use Inherited Money

When a relative or friend passes away, they may leave an inheritance. While this does provide added benefits for financial opportunities, it can also add unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.

Four Steps to Boost Your Banking Security

Online and mobile banking are convenient ways to manage finances, cutting down the time spent on a trip to the bank or ATM. Keep reading to learn how to most effectively protect yourself and your information while using these convenient banking features!

Four Side Hustles to Have While Working Full Time

4 Side Hustles to Have While Working Full Time

Having a little extra cash or a secondary source of income is never a bad thing! If you have the time and capacity, picking up a side hustle may be something to consider. Here are a couple ways to make some extra money while still working a full-time job.

Four Smart Ways to Get the Cash Back From Your Credit Card

4 Smart Ways to Use the Cash Back from Your Credit Card

Cash-back credit cards are one of the most popular types of cards out there. They are an awesome way to save money and help you take control of your finances. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you are using your cash-back card to its fullest potential.

Three Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Credit Card

3 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Credit Card

Finding a credit card to fit your needs can be intimidating. Before applying, ask yourself the following questions to ensure it is the right fit for you.

Multi-Factor Authentication: Your Key to Online Banking Safety

The convenience of managing our finances from the comfort of our homes is unmatched. However, as we embrace convenience, it’s crucial to prioritize security. At Citizens First Bank, we understand the importance of safeguarding your financial information. That’s why we implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) as your key to online banking safety. Understanding Multi-Factor Authentication Multi-factor […]

Phone with warning symbol to demonstrate the importance of protecting your checking account from online threats.

Cybersecurity Month: Protecting Your Account from Online Threats

In today’s digital age, online banking has become an integral part of our lives. It offers convenience, efficiency, and accessibility, allowing us to manage our finances from the comfort of our homes or on the go. However, with the convenience of online banking comes the risk of cyber threats. October is National Cybersecurity Month, making […]

Choosing A Checking Account For Your Business

Simplifying Your Business Banking: Business Checking Accounts

As a business owner, your time is a precious commodity, and you often have a lot of tasks on your plate. Managing your business’s finances and staying on top of your cash flow is critical to your success, but it can be time-consuming and stressful. At Citizens First Bank, we know that your time is […]

Two orchardists smiling with their operation in the background demonstrating how Citizens First Bank supports agricultural growth within the community.

Building Stronger Communities: The Role of Local Banks in Supporting Agricultural Growth

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s important not to forget our roots and the industries that have shaped our communities for generations. Agriculture plays a vital role in our society, providing us with food, jobs, and a connection to the land. With that being said, it’s no wonder that local banks have emerged as strong pillars […]

How to Get Funding for Your Small Business

Most businesses require tools, facilities, and ongoing expenses to get work done. Here are some ways to secure funding to get your small business started and stay successful.

What to Conisder Before Selling Your Business

What to Consider Before Selling Your Business

Sometimes, business owners reach a point when they are ready to move on from their businesses. While some are ready to cash in and retire, others are simply looking for a career change.

Young woman using security tips to keep her online banking accounts safe.

Top 5 Online Banking Security Tips to Keep Your Account Safe

Online banking has revolutionized how we manage our finances. The convenience of checking balances, transferring money, and paying bills from your smartphone or computer is hard to beat. However, with this convenience comes responsibility—ensuring that your accounts remain secure from cyber threats. At Citizens First Bank, we prioritize your security and want to share five […]

Coffee cup, fall leaves, and financial goals in mind.

Top 5 Financial Goals to Focus on This Fall

As fall settles in and 2025 approaches, it’s the perfect time to reassess your financial goals. At Citizens First Bank, we understand that the post-summer season offers a fresh start—a chance to refocus on your finances after vacations, events, and summer spending. Whether you’re looking to tackle debt, build your savings, or plan for the […]

A jar of money saved from this summers savings account to be saved into early fall.

Smart Ways to Rebuild Your Savings Account After Summer Spending

As summer winds down, we at Citizens First Bank know how easy it can be for summer vacations, events, and spontaneous spending to take a toll on your savings account. The good news? Fall offers the perfect opportunity to rebuild those savings accounts and refocus on your financial goals. Here are some practical strategies to […]

A model house with a Veteran signing paper in the background.

Understanding VA Loans with Citizens First Bank: A Guide for Veterans

For many veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, the dream of owning a home is a significant milestone. Thanks to the VA loan program, this dream can become a reality with fewer financial barriers. VA loans offer a range of benefits that make homeownership more accessible, from no down payment requirements to competitive interest […]

The Advantages of Pre-approval For a Home Loan

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make. To ensure a smooth and successful homebuying journey, securing pre-approval for a home loan is a crucial step. At Citizens First Bank, we understand the importance of pre-approval and are here to help you navigate the process with ease. Let’s explore the […]

Students enjoying a summer night watching fireworks light up the sky

Balancing Summer Jobs and Fun: A Guide for Students

Summer is a time for relaxation, adventure, and for many students, gaining valuable work experience. At Citizens First Bank, we understand the importance of balancing work and play during the summer months. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can make the most of your summer job while still having fun and learning essential […]

Calculator, savings, and a created budget.

Creating a Realistic Budget

Creating a realistic budget can be a crucial step toward financial stability and achieving your financial goals. At Citizens First Bank, we understand the importance of effective budgeting, and we’re here to guide you through the process. In this comprehensive how-to guide, we’ll provide you with practical steps to help you create a realistic budget […]

The Importance of Building an Emergency Fund

In the unpredictable journey of life, financial stability plays a pivotal role in ensuring peace of mind and security. One of the key pillars of financial preparedness is having an emergency fund. At Citizens First Bank, we’ll dive into the significance of having an emergency fund and offer practical tips to kickstart your journey toward […]

A community coming together to recognize the year 2023.

2023: A Year of Community Commitment and Giving Back

As the year comes to a close, Citizens First Bank takes pride in reflecting on the impactful initiatives and community engagements that defined our commitment to making a positive difference in the areas we serve. In 2023, we were honored to participate in a variety of sponsorships and volunteer activities that strengthened our ties with […]

Two individuals experiencing the joy of giving

The Joy of Giving Christmas Gifts That WON’T Break the Bank

The Holiday season is upon us, and with the joy of giving comes the task of finding the perfect gifts for our loved ones. However, in a world that often seems to revolve around extravagant presents, it’s important to remember that the most meaningful gifts don’t always come with a hefty price tag. At Citizens […]

A couple celebrating at home for the holidays on a budget.

How to Decorate Your Home for the Holidays on a Budget

The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit than by transforming your home into a winter wonderland. But what if your budget is a little tighter this year? Fear not! With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can deck the halls without breaking the bank. Citizens First […]

Two people exchanging gifts for the holidays.

‘Tis the Season to Save: Unwrap Holiday Savings

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and giving. However, the festivities often come with a hefty price tag, leaving many of us feeling the strain on our wallets. Fear not, as Citizens First Bank has your back with some invaluable tips for holiday savings that will help you save money when shopping […]

3 Retirement Concerns to Consider

The road to retirement is different for everyone. To make a smooth transition from your career to enjoy the next phase of life, planning for your lifestyle and needs ahead of time is important.

Will Your Retirement Savings Be Enough?

When it comes to retirement, it’s never too early to start estimating and preparing for future expenses. Consider the following advice to help determine whether your retirement plan is on the right track.

Three Things to Know Before Starting a 401k

3 Things to Know Before Starting a 401(k)

It is never too early to start planning for retirement, especially since the trend towards longer life expectancies is increasing the average retirement age past 65. If your employer is offering a 401(k) plan, consider taking advantage of it. However, to get the most out of a 401(k), research the plan that fits your needs the best.

Strategies for Earning Passive Income During Retirement

Passive income is generated by your investments, businesses, and side hustles. Adding streams of passive income is a great way of diversifying your investments. Read on to explore new options for additional income during retirement.

Pros and Cons of Early Retirement

It is not uncommon for people to dream about retiring early. The thought of having free time, leaving the workforce, and being financially independent is very appealing. Retiring early can mean living wherever you want and doing whatever you want. Here are a few pros and cons to early retirement.

When is the Right Time to Retire?

It can be difficult to decide on the right time to retire. With COVID-19 causing financial havoc to our work lives and financial markets, is retirement still possible? Here are a few things to keep in mind when you are preparing for retirement.

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