The article highlights Jason’s career, leadership, and perspective on community banking, and also reinforces many of the values that guide TFNB Your Bank for Life. His story offers an inside look at what community banking means to us and why we continue investing in the people and places we serve.

We Believe in Showing Up

What stands out in Jason’s interview is TFNB’s commitment to staying present in the communities we are humbled to serve. While many financial institutions have reduced their physical footprint in recent years, we’ve done quite the opposite.

Over the last nine years, TFNB has opened four new locations across McLennan County, bringing banking closer to where people live, work and play. Each one is carefully planned for the community it serves. Not just a new space, but a continued investment in local relationships and personal access to banking services.

Jason is intentional about how we talk about that growth. We don't call them branches. We call them locations. As he put it, "Language matters. 'Locations' reflect how the bank thinks … not as outposts, but as places embedded in the life of each community.” 

It’s a small distinction, but it reflects a larger philosophy. Every one of our local teams should feel connected to the community it serves, not simply placed within it. That mindset influences how we hire, how we build relationships, and how we support Central Texas. That’s the kind of banking we’ve always believed in, and growth hasn’t changed it.

Championing Our Commitment

That commitment doesn’t stop at our physical locations.

For more than a decade, TFNB’s Charity Champions program has partnered with and supported over 70 nonprofits across McLennan County.

Each year, local organizations are nominated by the community and selected through a vote by TFNB employees. The chosen nonprofits receive marketing support, leadership development, and professionally produced storytelling resources designed to expand their reach and impact.

As Jason shared, the goal is simple: “We use our designation as ‘The Official Local Bank’ of the Baylor Bears to help shine a spotlight on these organizations and raise awareness of the work they’re doing. We work hard to get visibility for nonprofits that otherwise may not have the access or resources.”

We're Not Afraid of What's Next

Jason’s role as the newly named chair of the Texas Bankers Association Innovation Committee reflects his ongoing work alongside community banking leaders from across the state to share what they’re learning, what’s working, and what they’re keeping an eye on.

Jason’s candid about the issues facing community banks today. Fintech companies without the same regulatory requirements are changing the banking landscape and community banks feel that pressure. But Jason’s never one to back away from a challenge. “Innovation doesn’t scare me,” he told the magazine. “Stagnation does.”

That mindset reflects how TFNB approaches change. We believe community banking can evolve without losing its heart and soul. Personal relationships and modern banking don’t have to compete with each other, and we’re committed to making sure our customers don’t have to choose.

More Than a Recognition

We’re grateful to see Jason recognized by Texas Banking Magazine and appreciative of the leadership he brings to TFNB Your Bank for LIfe, our customers, and our communities.

The values Jason describes in the feature — showing up, staying curious, and putting people first — are the same values that guide our team every day.
Congratulations, Jason, on this well-deserved recognition.

Want to read the full article? 

READ MORE HERE >

It’s tough to start a business. It’s even tougher to sustain it. 

But we don’t just mean financially (even though, yes, that’s our expertise). There’s also the emotional and mental costs that often go hand-in-hand when worrying about the bottom line.

We understand this personally because local Waco entrepreneurs are our long-time customers, friends, and neighbors. Not just today, but for over 130 years. Our bank’s history is filled with local mom-and-pop shops, large regional franchises, and multi-generational businesses that used our services to keep their dream alive.

So below, we’re sharing 5 key business banking services that can support your small business. Learn what’s available to you and why it’s worth adding to your financial toolbelt.

Small Business: The Money Behind the Idea

Business Checking Account

Business checking accounts make it easy to complete day-to-day payments and handle other routine, manageable expenses.

If you’re just starting out, we recommend opening a dedicated business checking account (one that’s separate from your own personal account). This keeps your business dealings separate from your personal finances, giving you a clear picture of your business’s financial situation.

Stay up to date with your expenses and payments. Plus, offer easy access for your accountant to view or assist with your financials.

Payment by card is increasingly popular, so it’s important your small business can accept payment by card.

A business checking account will show customers that your small business is legitimate and professional.

With TFNB’s business checking account, your business will earn a competitive earnings allowance, based on your average daily positive collected balances. This feature allows you to offset checking fees based on your account balance. With a minimum starting deposit of just $100, it’s easy to get your business checking account up and running.

Money Market Account

You understand the benefits of a savings account. And you know how practical a checking account is. Think of a money market account as a mix of the two. A business money market account with TFNB can be an important tool for growing your business’s funds, while still allowing you to use your money as needed.

There are a variety of benefits that come with a business money market account, like:

• Higher interest rates than a traditional savings account, allowing you to earn more on interest while having liquid cash available
• FDIC Insurance of up to $250,000 per account
• Ability to pay bills from the account
• Effective cash-flow management
• Check-writing ability
• A debit card linked to your account

We offer a low minimum deposit and a low required minimum balance of $2500, making this the perfect option for you when you’re just getting started. We give you the freedom to transfer and withdraw when you need — because this is your money, after all.

Stop missing out on valuable interest. Ready to open your account?

Business Credit Card

Intuit QuickBooks released a global study, the State of Small Business Cash Flow. According to the study, 69% of small business owners are kept up at night with concerns about cash flow.

If cash flow is one your list of concerns (and we bet that it is), a credit card is a simple, highly practical tool. When used responsibly it not only organizes your expenses and makes payments online safer, it’s a safety net when cash flow slows at certain points in the month or year. 

There are distinct benefits when it comes to opening a card for your business, rather than using a personal credit card for business-related expenses:

Higher Credit Limits

Before the doors even open, your business can incur large expenses. An important feature of a business credit card is the higher credit limit. This can be a much-needed tool when buying equipment or paying that first month’s rent.

Easy Expense Tracking

Receive an annual report of your credit card spending. This will help you keep track of your business expenses as you plan for the future. Additionally, you can order free employee cards with customizable spending limits on each to make it easy for employees in your company to make purchases.

Separation of Personal and Business Expenses

It’s important to separate your personal finances from your business finances. This not only protects you and your assets, but helps you track your business expenses more easily.

Cash Flow

When starting a small business, purchases are likely large while revenue slowly begins to trickle in. With a business credit card, you won’t have to worry about paying for expenses in full. When cash runs low, you can pay for the things you need without putting your business on hold, then pay off your bills once revenue allows you to.

Rewards

When you use your business card each month, you will earn rewards and incentives. TFNB is proud to offer our special Dream Points rewards program, which earns you extra points just for banking with TFNB. You’ll be automatically enrolled and rewarded one point for every dollar in qualified purchases. Dream Points can be redeemed for cash back, airline discounts, or discounts on products and services your business needs.

TFNB offers both Visa and MasterCard business credit cards. Whichever you choose, it can be used anywhere — from right here in Waco or wherever your next business trip takes you.

SBA Loan or Conventional Bank Loan

Loans are a business banking service that work best for big costs. Use a loan to pay for things that are integral to your success, such as:

• Working capital: the everyday expenses of running a business
• Debt refinancing
• Purchasing real estate: for your first location or an expansion
• Equipment: important software, tools, etc.
• Furniture and fixtures

You have options when it comes to your business loan. 

If your business has been in operation for many years, and you have generated a good credit score, a conventional bank loan will give you a quicker payout with a simpler process. 

With these loans, the bank shoulders 100% of the risk if your business defaults; that means approvals may be harder to achieve if your business doesn’t have much financial history yet. 

If you are just starting out and looking for a loan with a small down payment and more flexible terms, an SBA loan could be right for you. While the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) does not directly lend to small businesses, they do partially guarantee loans with certain lending partners. This reduces the risk involved on the lender or bank’s side and makes these loans more accessible to start-ups or new ventures with less financial history. 

TFNB is proud to be an official SBA Preferred Lender. In fact, we are the only one headquartered in McLennan County, making us the most convenient choice for all McLennan County small businesses.

While these are the high-level details, it’s important to consult with a banker before you apply for any business loan. Our Waco lending team works with business owners like you everyday, so we can guide you toward the loan that best aligns with your goals.

Local Bankers

One of the most important services your business can receive isn’t always an account or card. 

Today, nearly every business owner has a bank, yet few have a banker. To make the most out of banking resources, find a person inside your bank — one who takes the time to know the person behind the account. When times are good, it may seem like an unnecessary step. However, when times are bad, or cash flow slows, it can be one of the most important business relationships you have. 

This might be a lending officer, but that’s not always the case. Either way, your banker can be a fount of knowledge when financial questions pop up within your small business (as they inevitably will).

• Are my financials as strong as they should be?
• How should I consolidate my current debt?
• How long should I expect to wait for loan approval?

Get answers to these questions, and find greater confidence with your money, by saying “Let me ask my banker.”

Local Business Banking Services for Local Wacoans Like Us

These business banking services are nothing new. You’re likely to find many of them at other lending institutions or banks. But as we mentioned earlier, you don’t just need financial support for your business. You also need local champions for your dream — people to give you guidance, listen to your ideas, and help you build the future you envision. 

Bankers who listen and care is our most important service. It sets us apart from those other lending institutions and banks that only look at dollars and cents.

To meet bankers who understand your needs as a small business owner, visit your closest TFNB location. Like with Di Campli’s Italian Ristorante, or Waco Ale Company, we’d love to hear about your goals and help you get the right banking services to make them happen.

If you have any questions or would like to know more about our banking solutions, contact us at 254-840-2836

Congrats, grad! Graduating from college is a huge milestone. One that launches you into a totally new phase of life.

Plenty of firsts are up ahead, including your first full-time job (with that first full-time paycheck) and maybe even your first time paying for your own apartment, cell phone, utilities, health insurance…(you get the idea). While heading out into the “real world” is an exciting next step, it’s normal for these new responsibilities to also trigger some anxiety. 

We understand. We’ve been there too. We also learned firsthand that college prepares you for a lot of things, but often leaves out the lesson on financial literacy. 

The good news is that you have plenty of time to learn that lesson on your own. And we promise, it’s worth investing the time to learn it! Financial literacy helps you skip over some of those financial mistakes people in their 20s are apt to make. But most importantly, it helps you feel confident managing your own money.

April is Financial Literacy Month

At TFNB Your Bank for Life, we want to use this time to reach you — our Waco college students looking for some financial confidence at this stage in life.

Here are some of our team’s tips for college grads.

Planning for Today

Make a Budget Plan That Works For You

If you land a full-time job after college, you’re probably earning more money than you have at any other time in your life. It’s important to keep track of it, know how much you’re spending, and know what you’re spending it on. Budgeting can help you do these things.

One budget plan we recommend is called the 50/30/20 budget. This budget allocates:

• 50% of your monthly income toward essential expenses
• 30% toward wants
• 20% toward savings

The 50/30/20 budget strikes a pretty good balance for most people. It makes sure that you’re not getting behind on your savings, or spending too much on those “want-to-have” things like Netflix, Uber Eats, or your Friday Starbucks run.

With a clear rule for essential expenses, you can more easily draw up a budget for monthly rent and grocery bills. To stick to 50% of your income, figure out your priorities. Maybe you live with a friend so you can splurge on organic groceries. Or maybe you keep your trusty college car to live in a one-bedroom apartment that’s all your own. 

Budgeting should fit your lifestyle, and with the 50/30/20 budget, it can.

Tracking Your Budget

One great way to keep track of your budget is to use an app, like Mint or Pocketguard. These aggregate all of your accounts together to get a good picture of your spending and savings. The daily budget tracker will tell you what you have spent and how much you have left in your budget. Apps like these are a great way to take the guesswork out of your budget.

Pay Off Student Loans and Avoid Debt

If you have student loans, you probably want to get them out of your life as soon as possible. Luckily for you, it makes financial sense to do just that. 

Find room in your budget to make aggressive payments toward your student debt. Try to pay more than the minimum payment each month. Paying only the minimum will allow interest to accumulate on your debt, costing you more in the long run. The quicker you can shed that debt, the better you’ll feel. 

For some people, refinancing student loans can lead to sizeable interest savings. If you feel like your interest rates are keeping you from tackling your debt more quickly, consider refinancing. (Don’t know if that’s right for you? We can help. When you bank at TFNB, you gain access to our team of professionals. We encourage you to meet with a TFNB banker — our helpful, accessible bankers are the #1 benefit to banking local! We’ll help you crunch the numbers to see if refinancing could benefit you.)

Once you rid yourself of student debt, it would be silly to take on more, right? Here’s the easiest way: avoid buying things you can’t afford. Which brings us to our next point.

Use Your Credit Card Wisely

We recommend opening a credit card, so you can shop safely online and start building your credit. It may not seem important right now, but good credit will help you in the future with big purchases like cars and your first home. 

The best advice for using a credit card is to treat it like real money. Don’t use it like a loan. At the end of the month, pay your balance in full. If you start getting in the habit of paying the minimum payment, it’s easy to rack up credit card debt in a hurry.

Credit cards are a great financial tool — as long as you spend with awareness, there’s nothing to fear about them. In fact, they can actually benefit you! Look for a credit card that will reward you with things like cash back or points toward travel like those available through TFNB.

Planning For Tomorrow

Start Saving For Retirement

“Retirement?! I haven’t even started my career yet!”

We know it may sound silly at first, but now is a time to invest in your future. Instead of thinking about savings as letting your money sit where you can’t touch it, think of savings as paying yourself. Throughout the month you pay the grocery store, your landlord, your student loan lender, and a whole list of other people, but savings—either for retirement or your emergency fund—is paying yourself so you have money when it counts.

By investing in your early 20s, you are maximizing the power of interest. To put it in perspective, here’s what your total savings would look like if you invested $250/month beginning at different ages: 

See what a difference just 10 years can make? Don’t put off saving for retirement until you’re “older.” Start small if you need to; it’s the timeline that’s most important. (See it for yourself with this interest calculator.)

401(k) Plans

Talk to your employer about any retirement savings plans they offer. A 401(k) (or 403(b), offered through non-profits) is an employer-sponsored retirement account. It makes it easy to save for the future because it automatically pulls pre-tax funds from your paycheck (in whatever amount you choose) to go directly toward your retirement savings.

Your employer may match contributions to your account — 3% to 5% is the norm. If they do, don’t let it go to waste. We recommend investing at least as much as your company is willing to match. Otherwise, that’s free money you’re leaving on the table! If your employer advertises a 401(k) during the hiring process, don’t be afraid to speak up and get the information you need to set-up and fund it after you start your new job.

Roth IRA

In addition to a 401(k), consider opening a Roth IRA. A Roth IRA is a retirement savings account that’s all your own — it’s not tied to an employer. The tax implications of both these accounts vary, so we recommend talking to a banker to make sure you understand your investments. If you’re looking for a Roth IRA in Waco, visit TFNB. We’ll be happy to walk through your options and find the right solution for you.

Planning With Us

Peace of Mind When You Plan with Your Bank for Life

Graduating from college can be equal parts thrilling and scary, but having a plan in place for your money can give you peace of mind. 

We know it’s easy to rely on our banking app these days, but you shouldn’t be afraid to walk into one of our locations to meet with someone. Our bankers are here to answer questions. You don’t need millions of dollars to sit down for a conversation with a banker, you just need the courage to walk through the door.

If you are ready to open a new credit card, or that Roth IRA, or simply want to talk to someone about your personal financial situation, talk to a team member at TFNB. We’re here for you now, and for your future. That is why we’re Your Bank for Life.

If you have any questions or would like to know more about our banking solutions, contact us at 254-840-2836

50% of Your Income Should Go Towards Necessities

• Housing
• Groceries
• Internet and phone costs (although some people consider this a want, we think it's essential in this day and age)
• Utilities
• Health insurance
• Transportation;
• And minimum debt payments

30% of Your Income Can Go Towards Wants

• Concerts
• Subscriptions
• Travel
• Dining out
• Upgrades
• Shopping sprees;
• And generally, any other sort of fun extra expenditure.

20% of Your Income Should Go Towards Savings

• Building emergency savings
• Investments
• Retirement funds
• College funds;
• And paying off debt (Not making minimum payments, but making additional principal payments, like adding an additional $50 to your credit card payment.)

The 50-30-20 Rule In Action

Step One: Calculate Your Income

Step Two: Categorize Your Spending

Step Three: Take a Hard Look At Your Spending and Adjust

TFNB Makes the 50-30-20 Rule Easy

If you have any questions or would like to know more about our banking solutions, contact us at 254-840-2836

The ones who are really thriving? They tend to do certain things that don't show up in business books or get talked about at networking events. It's not flashy. But the results speak for themselves.

If you're a business owner trying to build something that lasts, here's what we've seen that makes all the difference: 

1. They Separate Business and Personal Finances Early

This one seems obvious until you realize how many business owners blur this line for years and deeply regret it. A dedicated business account keeps your books clean, makes tax season far less painful, and shows lenders that you're running a real operation. The owners we see doing well made this separation early and never looked back. 

Pro tip: If you haven’t opened separate accounts, it’s never too late to start today.

2. They Know Their Numbers And Not Just What's Coming In

After years of sitting across the table from business owners at every stage, you start to notice patterns about successful business owners. They understand more than just what’s coming in, they understand their margins. They know what it actually costs to land and serve a customer. They can tell you the difference between being profitable on paper and having cash saved up to pay their bills. You don't have to love spreadsheets to run a strong business but you do have to know your numbers. The owners who don't are usually the ones who get caught off guard.

3. They Build a Banking Relationship Before They Need One

This one plays out the same way, time and again. Owners who introduce themselves to their business banker when things are going well — and not when they're already in a tough spot — are in a completely different position when the time comes to ask for something. They have history on their side. We know their story, their goals, their struggles, and their track record. As a community bank in Waco, building that kind of relationship with our business customers is genuinely what we're here for. The owners who invest in it early are always glad they did, and we are too.

Pro tip: Don't wait until you need something. Stop in and ask for a quick meeting anytime. 

4. They Keep a Cash Reserve, Even When Business Is Good

When revenue is strong, it's tempting to put every dollar back into the business. And sometimes that makes sense. But the owners we've watched come through hard seasons without missing payroll, without panicking, without making desperate decisions: they had a cushion. Three to six months of operating expenses set aside in a savings account and left alone. It's not exciting to talk about. It's not a growth strategy. But it's the kind of discipline that keeps a business alive long enough to keep growing.

5. They're Deeply Invested in Their Community

In a place like Waco, reputation travels fast. The business owners who are still thriving five and ten years down the road aren't just running good operations; they're genuinely plugged into their community. They show up for other businesses. They serve local needs and support charities. They refer people without keeping score. They build real relationships that run deeper than transactions. That kind of goodwill compounds in ways that no ad spend can replicate.

6. They Automate the Things That Don't Need Their Attention

Payroll, recurring bill pay, transfers to a business savings account, invoicing reminders … the owners who protect their time have figured out what doesn't need to be on their plate. We see this consistently: the further along a business owner is, the more intentional they are about where their attention actually goes. Getting routine financial tasks off your to-do list frees you up for the decisions and relationships that only you can handle.

Pro tip: If you haven't found a way to automate your processes yet, reach out. We'll help you figure out where to start.

7. They Revisit Their Banking Relationship Once a Year

Most business owners open an account and move on. The ones who are really running a tight ship treat their banking relationship the same way they'd treat any other vendor or service; they check in on it periodically. Are the tools still the right fit? Are there products or services they haven't looked at that could actually improve cash flow or save time? We’d much rather those questions come to us directly than have someone quietly feel like they’ve outgrown the relationship. That conversation is always welcome and often turns up something useful.

8. They Think About the End Game Early

Even if an exit or transition is 20 years away, the owners who ultimately build real value are thinking about it now. Clean books, documented processes, a team that doesn't depend on them for every decision: these things matter to a buyer or a successor down the road. Building with that in mind from the start is a whole lot easier than trying to clean things up later. 

We’re Your Bank for Local Business 

We've been banking alongside Waco business owners for a long time — 136 years to be exact. Here’s one thing we’ve noticed more than others. Quiet, steady habits matter far more than the big swings. The owners who are still here are usually the ones who got the fundamentals right and stuck with them.

If you're looking for a Waco business bank that actually wants to know your business, we'd love to have that conversation.

Reach out to your local business banking team or stop by a location today.
TALK WITH A BUSINESS BANKER >

Fortunately, most first-time homebuyer mistakes are entirely avoidable. At TFNB Your Bank for Life, we've been helping Central Texas families buy homes for more than 135 years. Here are the seven most common mistakes we see, and what you can do instead.

Mistake #1: Falling in Love With Homes Before Getting Pre-Approved

Here's a hard truth nobody tells you early enough: falling in love with a home you can't afford is one of the most common first-time buyer mistakes there is. Pre-approval fixes that. It gives you a real number based on your actual income, debt, and credit so you have a game plan before you set foot in a single open house. Sellers take it seriously too. In today's market, most won't even look at an offer without one.

Start now: Talk to a TFNB mortgage banker before you tour a single home to get pre-approved.

Mistake #2: Underestimating the True Cost of Homeownership

That monthly payment is just the beginning. Closing costs typically run 2–5% of the loan amount. On a $450,000 home, that's up to $22,500 due at signing. Then add property taxes, homeowner's insurance, maintenance (budget 1–2% of your home's value per year), and any HOA dues. Buyers who plan only for the monthly payment are often caught off guard within the first year.

Start now: Estimate your true cost of home ownership budget before making an offer.

Mistake #3: Draining Your Savings to Cover the Down Payment

A bigger down payment lowers your monthly mortgage but emptying your savings to get there leaves you short when something breaks (and trust us, something always breaks). 

Here's something a lot of first-time buyers don't know: you don't necessarily need 20% down. FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down for buyers with a credit score of 580 or higher, and some conventional programs, like Fannie Mae's HomeReady and Freddie Mac's Home Possible, which start at 3%. You may pay Private Mortgage Insurance until you hit 20% equity, but that's often a worthwhile trade-off for keeping your savings intact.

Start now: Ask a TFNB banker about low-down-payment options that keep your savings healthy.

Mistake #4: Making Big Financial Moves During the Mortgage Process

From application to closing, lenders will continue reviewing your financial profile. New debt, large purchases, opening a credit card, or changing jobs can trigger a re-review, or worse, cause your loan to fall through. The rule: no new accounts, no big withdrawals, and definitely no co-signing for anyone. 

Start now: Ask us for a do's and don'ts checklist at the start of the lending process.

Mistake #5: Waiving the Home Inspection to Win an Offer

We understand the competitive pressure to land the home you fell in love with if there are multiple offers on the table. But skipping a $300–$500 inspection to just hurry up the process is a costly mistake. That extra step can uncover problems worth tens of thousands: foundation issues, leaky plumbing, faulty wiring, roof damage, termite damage and more. If you want to strengthen your offer without waiving protection, talk to your agent about shortening the inspection window or limiting repair requests instead.

Start now: Budget for the inspection as a non-negotiable line item.

Mistake #6: Only Shopping With One Lender

Rates and fees vary more than most buyers realize. Getting just one additional quote could save you thousands over the life of your loan. When comparing offers, check the APR, origination fees, and whether the rate is locked in for the life of the loan. When you shop a local lender like TFNB, you also get something the big banks rarely offer: direct access to the people making the decisions.

Start now: Compare 2–3 lenders so you can see how the financials all stack up.

Mistake #7: Leaving First-Time Buyer Programs on the Table

Texas offers several programs specifically for first-time buyers through Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC ) and The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), including down payment assistance grants of up to 5% that don't have to be repaid. Eligibility varies but there's only one way to find out if you qualify: apply.

Start now: Check out TSAHC and TDHCA for more information.

You Don't Have to Figure This Out Alone

Our mortgage team isn't a call center somewhere across the country; we’re right here in your neighborhood. We know the Central Texas market, and we genuinely care about helping you land in the right home with a payment that works for your lifestyle.

Ready to take the first step? We'd love to help. Reach out today or visit one of our bankers in person.

TALK WITH A MORTGAGE BANKER >

This Isn't About Chasing Rates. It's About Recognizing Opportunity.

We're not here to sell you on a number. Rates are one part of a much bigger picture and honestly, the most important part of that picture is you and your individual needs. 

What we can tell you is this: when the market shifts in your favor, the families who move thoughtfully and not frantically are the ones who come out ahead.

Lower rates don't just reduce a monthly payment. They can change what's possible.
Better purchasing power, more flexibility in what you can afford, and real room to build equity instead of just keeping up. Those shifts add up over time in ways that matter to a real household budget.

This insight comes not from pushing rates but from over 130  years of watching Central Texas families carefully build wealth through homeownership. The best place to start is knowing your own numbers.

Want to get a sense of what this could mean for you? Start with a quick look at the numbers.

CALCULATE MY MORTGAGE PAYMENT >

For Central Texas Families, Here Are Three Reasons This Season Matters.

If you're a first-time buyer — You’ve probably been watching from the sidelines. Running the numbers. Waiting for things to feel right. No moment is perfect but some are worth a closer look. Lower interest rates means more purchasing power, more options, and a monthly payment that may pleasantly surprise you. The entry window is open. You don't have to rush but you should at least look.

If you're a current homeowner — When did you lock in your rate? If it's been a few years, there's a real conversation worth having. Refinancing isn't just a financial transaction; it's a chance to reset, to free up cash flow, to redirect what you're paying toward something that works harder for your family. It doesn't cost you anything to have the conversation.

If you're ready to upgrade — You've built the equity. Your family has grown, your needs have changed, and that house that felt right five years ago may not fit the life you're living now. A favorable rate environment is exactly the right time to put that equity to work and move into the home you've been working toward.

TFNB Your Bank for Life in All of Life's Seasons.

We’ve been here since 1889. Long before rate cycles became headlines. Long before online applications and national call centers.

We’ve walked alongside families through every kind of market, the easy ones and the uncertain ones.

That perspective matters. Because decisions like this aren’t about a moment.
They’re about what comes afterward.

The season has shifted and that rate might be in your favor. We'd love to help you make the most of it. 

Ready to Start a Conversation?

No pressure. No obligation. Just a real conversation with someone who knows this market, and takes the time to understand you. 

EXPLORE YOUR HOME LOAN OPTIONS >

Whether you're just starting out, working to rebuild, or simply want to make sure you're on solid footing, understanding your credit is one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself. So let's walk through it together.

What Is a Credit Score, Really?

Your credit score is a three-digit number typically between 300 and 850 that summarizes how reliably you've managed borrowed money over time. Lenders, landlords, and even some employers use it to get a quick sense of your financial responsibility.

The most widely used model is the FICO Score, and it's calculated based on five key factors:

• Payment history (35%):  Do you pay your bills on time? 
• Amounts owed (30%): Are you close to your credit limits? How much of your available credit are you using? 
• Length of credit history (15%): How long have your accounts been open?
• Credit mix (10%):  Do you use different types of credit, like credit cards, car loans, or a mortgage?
• New credit (10%): Have you recently applied for new credit accounts?

A score above 700 is generally considered good, and above 740 will typically qualify you for the best loan rates available.

Unsure What Your Number Is? 

If you’ve never checked your credit score, the good news is finding it doesn’t have to cost you anything.  Here are a few easy ways to check:

• AnnualCreditReport.com is the official site authorized by federal law, and it gives you a free credit report from each of the three major bureaus once a year. It's the best place to see the full picture of your credit history.
• Your bank or credit card app may already show your credit score. Many financial institutions now include this as a free feature, so it's worth a quick look the next time you log in.
• Experian.com lets you create a free account to view your FICO® Score and track changes over time — a great option if you want to keep a closer eye on where you stand.
• Credit Karma offers free access to your TransUnion and Equifax scores and updates them regularly, so you can monitor movement as you build or maintain your credit.

Knowing your number is the first step. Once you do, you'll have a much clearer sense of what you need to work on.

Starting with Low or No Credit Scores

If you’re new to building credit or starting over after a rough patch, the good news is you’re not stuck with a low number forever. If your credit has taken some hits, whether from a difficult season of life, a job change, medical bills, or just past habits you've moved on from, know this: your credit score is not permanent. It's a snapshot, and snapshots can change.

Secured credit cards, credit-builder loans, and becoming an authorized user on a trusted family member's account are all practical tools for people working to rebuild. Progress can feel slow at first, but consistent habits add up over time. 
Here's what actually moves the needle:

Pay every bill on time. 
This is the single biggest factor in your score. Even one missed payment can have a noticeable impact, so set up autopay for at least the minimum due on any account.

Keep your credit utilization low. 
Try to use no more than 30% of your total available credit, and ideally less. If your credit card limit is $1,000, aim to carry a balance under $300.

Don't close old accounts unnecessarily. 
Length of credit history matters. Keeping older accounts open (even if you rarely use them) can work in your favor.

Be selective about new credit applications. 
Every hard credit inquiry can slightly lower your score. Apply for new credit when you have a clear reason to do so and not just because it is available.

High Scorers: Here's How to Keep It That Way

You've put in the work and it shows. A strong credit score opens real doors, and the good news is that keeping it there doesn't require much heavy lifting. It mostly comes down to staying consistent and staying aware.

Check your credit reports regularly.
You're entitled to a free report from each of the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) every year through AnnualCreditReport.com. Even with a great score, errors and unfamiliar accounts can sneak in, so it's worth a quick look at least once a year.

Consider a credit freeze. 
If you're not actively applying for new credit, placing a freeze with the bureaus is one of the most effective ways to prevent someone from opening fraudulent accounts in your name. It's free, it's reversible, and for high scorers especially, it's a smart layer of protection.

Watch for the signs of identity theft. 
Unfamiliar charges, sudden score drops, or collection calls about accounts you don't recognize are all red flags worth taking seriously. The faster you catch something, the easier it is to resolve.

We're Here When You Have Questions

At TFNB Your Bank for Life, we believe financial knowledge belongs to everyone in our community, not just those who already have it figured out. Whether you're curious about your score, unsure where to start, or working through a more complicated credit situation, our friendly team of personal bankers is always glad to have a real conversation. No judgment, just honest guidance from people who know you by name.

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And if you're wondering whether the effort is worth it this year: the average tax refund as of late February 2026 is $3,804, up 10.2% from the same point last year. The IRS has already issued over $109 billion in refunds this season, and historically, refunds rise higher as more returns are processed. Whether you're expecting a big check or just want to avoid a surprise tax bill, the prepwork you put in now will make a huge difference.

Start by Gathering Your Documents

The first step is easy: pull everything together in one place. Most of your key tax documents should have arrived by now, either in the mail or your email inbox. Create a folder (digital or paper) and add documents as you receive them.

Here's what to look for: W-2s from every employer you worked for in 2025, 1099s for any freelance, contract, or gig work, bank interest statements, mortgage interest forms (Form 1098), retirement distribution notices, and last year's tax return (it's a useful reference).

You don't have to wait until the stack is complete before you start. Getting organized early means fewer last-minute surprises.

Take an Honest Look at Your Income

This is especially worth doing if 2025 was a busy year with a side job, some freelance work, a little rental income, or stock sales. The IRS receives a lot of the same information you do, and with updated 1099-K reporting thresholds, more of that activity shows up in the tax system than it used to.

Go through your bank statements month by month and review deposits to identify which ones represent taxable income. Yes, this takes some time but it almost always uncovers income you’ve forgotten and deductions you didn’t know you had.  

Don't Leave Deductions on the Table

The standard deduction for 2025 is $15,000 for single filers and $30,000 for married couples filing jointly. Many people will take the standard deduction and move on. But it's still worth running the numbers to see if itemizing makes sense for your family.

A few deductions people commonly miss: medical and dental expenses exceeding 7.5% of your adjusted gross income, educator expenses if you're a teacher who buys your own classroom supplies, and contributions to a SEP-IRA or Solo 401(k) if you're self-employed. These can be made up until the filing deadline, including extensions.

This tax season also reflects new provisions from the federal tax legislation passed in July 2025, sometimes referred to as the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill,’ which introduced deductions for tips, overtime pay, and auto loan interest on American-made vehicles. If any of those apply to your household, make sure you're accounting for them. They're a big part of why refunds are running higher this season.

Most deductions don't automatically appear, you have to know to look for them. That's why it pays to review carefully, or sit down with someone who knows what to look for.

Dates Worth Putting on Your Calendar

• January 31 — Employers must mail W-2s; most 1099s due to recipients
• March 17 — Partnership and S-corp returns due
• April 15 — Individual return deadline + IRA contribution deadline
• October 15 — Extended return deadline (if you file Form 4868 by April 15)

Get Organized Digitally and Back It Up

Paper piles have a way of disappearing or scattering when you need them most. If you can, scan your documents and save them in clearly labeled folders: Income, Deductions, Investments, Prior Returns. Keep a backup in cloud storage for just in case.

Audits are rare, but organized records make the process far easier if one ever happens.  And honestly, building these habits now makes next tax season a whole lot easier too.

Should You File Yourself or Work with a Pro?

Tax software has come a long way. If your situation is fairly straightforward (W-2 income, standard deduction, no big changes in 2025), programs like TurboTax, H&R Block, or FreeTaxUSA can handle it well. And if your adjusted gross income is $79,000 or less, you may qualify for IRS Free File at no cost.

But if 2025 brought something more complex, like selling a home, inheriting assets, starting a business, managing investments, or going through a divorce, a CPA or tax pro is likely worth every penny. The savings they find, and the mistakes they prevent, almost always outweigh the cost.

One more note: e-filing is almost always the faster choice. The IRS typically processes electronic returns within 21 days, while paper returns can take six weeks or more.

Start Small, Start Now

You don't have to tackle everything at once. Even setting aside 30 minutes this weekend to collect documents and glance at last year's return puts you ahead of where most people will be in mid-April. A little preparation now can make April a whole lot smoother.

If you ever want to talk through your finances with someone local, there's always someone at TFNB who's happy to sit down and talk it through. That's what TFNB Your Bank for Life is all about.

Questions about your finances heading into this tax season? We'd love to help.

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