Financial Education Blog | Growing and Managing Consumer Wealth

Protect your vacation from start to finish

IT’S VACATION TIME AGAIN, ARE YOU PREPARED?

With summer just around the corner, people across the nation are gearing up for that long-awaited vacation to a dream destination of their choice. Maybe it’s Disneyland, the Grand Canyon, or Yellowstone to see Old Faithful. Perhaps you’re dreaming bigger with a trip to the Bahamas, England, or Europe. Whatever your dream destination is, have you planned out how you’re going to carry your cash? While you’re on vacation, you are inevitably out of your comfort zone. That place where you feel safe and protected against pickpockets.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW TO PROTECT YOUR MONEY ON VACATION

PREVENTING CHECK FRAUD

Check fraud is a challenge for all businesses and financial institutions today. With advancements in technology, it has become increasingly easy for criminals to manipulate or forge checks. Check fraud can happen to anyone; someone can steal a blank check from your wallet or home and even look through your garbage for a cancelled or old check. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent check fraud from happening to you.

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RETIREMENT – THINGS TO DO IN YOUR 60S

If you are in your 60s and are thinking about retirement, it’s all about planning and saving – and the sooner you start, the better.

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DRIVE HAPPY AND KEEP YOUR VEHICLE DEPENDABLE

That new car that’s been sparkling on the car dealer’s lot is finally yours. You went through a lot to make that happen. While shopping for and purchasing a new car is exciting, drivers who want to keep their vehicle on the road longer should consider regular maintenance, according to the Car Care Council, which promotes vehicle care information to consumers.

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AN ESTATE IS NOT JUST A NICE IDEA

Did you know that less than half of Americans have a will? And, even less have an estate plan? Many people think they don’t need an estate plan because they don’t have a vast estate. But the truth is an estate plan deals with the distribution of assets and legacy wishes and can help you and your heirs pay less in taxes, fees and court costs should you pass away. Ask yourself the following questions to see if an estate plan is right for you.

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BUDGET FOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL AND THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

When summer winds down, stores across the country will fill up with pencils, paper, and notebooks in preparation for the “Back-to-School” shopping season. Back-to-school shopping is big business. In fact, the average parent spends approximately $200-$375 a year on school supplies. And that doesn’t include musical instrument rentals, electronic devices or clothing, which can set you back even more. With costs this high, budgeting for the new school year becomes essential for families. Here are a few suggestions to help you plan for the school year.

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PROTECT YOUR VACATION FROM START TO FINISH

You’re excited about your trip to Europe. But, the day before you’re supposed to leave, you’re in a car accident and are hospitalized. The doctor tells you there’s no way you can travel the next day. What are your options? If you have travel insurance, your travel expenses may be covered.

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WHAT LIFE INSURANCE IS RIGHT FOR YOU, AND HOW MUCH SHOULD YOU GET?

Do you really need life insurance? If someone you love will suffer financially when you die, then yes, you likely need life insurance. What about if you’re single? Again, if someone will have to take care of your financial matters when you die, you’ll need life insurance. But how much you need and the type you purchase depends on your situation.

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National small business week virtual conference: May 1 - May 3, 2018

RANSOMWARE

Reports about an epidemic of ransomware attacks dominated the news this weekend. These attacks targeted businesses worldwide. Though the attacks hit European companies hardest, U.S. companies, including FedEx, were affected as well.

These attacks have increased because they're very easy to execute. Victims typically pay the ransom demands, so you can expect to see more of these attacks. With that in mind, here are a few simple things you can do to protect yourself...

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DON'T GIVE AWAY HISTORIC DETAILS ABOUT YOURSELF

In light of the recent news about Facebook turning a blind eye as Cambridge Analytica harvested the personal information of tens of millions of Facebook users, we're sharing this blog post written by Brian Krebs of Krebs on Security (https://krebsonsecurity.com/). But Cambridge Analytica is just the tip of the iceberg. The fact is we, as a society, have been giving away our own personal information on social media for years one small, seemingly-harmless piece at a time. Read the post, and use care in what you share.

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HOW TO SPOT ELDER ABUSE

Elder abuse occurs too often in our communities. Many elderly adults are abused in their own homes, in homes of their relatives, and in facilities responsible for their care. How do you know if someone is being abused and how can you help?

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FINANCIAL SPRING CLEANING

There aren’t many rituals of spring more commonly shared than the annual clean. Spring cleaning may not be easy and it may not be fun, but it is essential to reducing clutter and making things run smoother. Financial spring cleaning is no less important. Clearing out your financial clutter each year can make your life easier and reduce the chances of any nasty financial surprises. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

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Learn about renters insurance and if it is something you need.

IS MY MONEY REALLY SAFE WITH MOBILE BANKING?

Every year, millions of dollars are stolen through identity theft and other forms of fraud in the US. This might beg the question: Is my mobile app safe? The short answer is “yes.” But, let’s discuss why we are so confident with this answer.

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COSTLY SCAMS THAT TARGET SENIORS

According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), the following are the Top 3 scams against senior citizens in our country:
1. Funeral and Cemetery Scams
2. Counterfeit Prescription Drugs
3. Medicare/Health Insurance Fraud

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SHOULD YOU GET RENTERS INSURANCE?

You’ve found the perfect apartment: easy commute, ample space, great rate. But what about renters insurance? Is it worth the money? What does it actually cover? Here are a few things to know about renters insurance if you’re considering buying a policy.

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HOW TO MAKE HOME-BUYING BETTER IN 10 SIMPLE STEPS, PT. 2

Buying a home is an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming. So, where do you start? There are 10 important steps to follow when purchasing a new home. In our previous post, we discussed the first five steps in the home-buying process:

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HOW TO MAKE HOME-BUYING BETTER IN 10 SIMPLE STEPS, PT. 1

Buying a home is an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming. It will probably be the single largest investment or purchase you ever make. Make sure you've done your homework. It's important that you're informed about this important decision.

So, where do you start? There are 10 important steps to follow when purchasing a new home. We will focus on the first five steps in this article.

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SIMPLIFY YOUR FINANCES

It’s easier to get balance in your life when you simplify things. When it comes to your finances, there are a few steps you can take to make them more streamlined.

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HOW TO WATCH OUT FOR ROMANCE SCAMS

Millions of Americans use dating sites, social networking sites, and chat rooms to meet people. And many forge successful relationships. But scammers also use these sites to meet potential victims. They create fake profiles to build online relationships, and eventually convince people to send money in the name of love. Some even make wedding plans before disappearing with the money.

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IT'S NEVER TOO EARLY - OR TOO LATE - TO SAVE

No matter your stage of life, it’s important to have savings: Whether it’s for a special purchase, a college education, your first home, retirement, or an emergency fund.

But just how do you get started and stay on course? Here are a few tips and resources to help you reach your savings goal.

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HOW TO SAVE MONEY WHEN YOU DON'T THINK YOU CAN

Having trouble setting aside money for a rainy day? You're not alone. Saving money is a hurdle many people face. Some people feel they don’t have a large enough income to put anything in savings. Others make impulsive spending decisions with the money they could be saving. The reality is that you should be saving money for your future no matter what your circumstances are. The general rule of thumb is to save approximately 20 percent of your income each month. So, how can you save when you're living paycheck to paycheck?

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IS YOUR CAR WINTER READY?

In this part of the country, we typically experience relatively mild temperatures for much of the winter. But the mild weather is often punctuated hard, cold and icy conditions. To help lessen the impact of those hard conditions, we’ve put together a list of things you can do to prepare your car for winter.

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BECOME A BETTER SAVER

Saving money is a hurdle many people face. Some people feel they don’t have a large enough income to put anything in savings, while others make impulsive spending decisions with money they could be saving. The reality is that you should be saving money for your future – no matter your circumstances. The general rule of thumb is to save approximately 20 percent of your income each month. So, how can you become a better saver?

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FINANCIAL TIPS FOR VETERANS

Active military members have a lot to manage. They move repeatedly, get deployed for extended periods, and are away from family for months and sometimes years. Adjusting to civilian life as a veteran can be challenging, but knowing what financial opportunities are available helps smooth the transition. Here are a few suggestions for veterans who are returning to civilian life...

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HOLIDAY SPENDING TIPS

The holidays are a time full of merry gift-giving and cheer, but once it’s all over and you get that final credit card statement, the wonderment of the holidays is sure to fade into a distant memory. The most important way to avoid over-spending on holiday gifts is to remember to plan ahead. Consider these holiday spending tips during this year's season of giving...

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RELAX AND ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAY TRAVELS

Are you planning to travel to relatives this holiday season? Or, maybe your family is spending Christmas in England? Whatever your travel plans, here are some tips to keep you sane (and help you save money).

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CREDIT CARD REWARDS AND HOLIDAY SHOPPING

Fall is in full swing as well as holiday shopping. How can you maximize your credit card rewards this year while looking for the perfect gift?

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5 EASY TIPS THAT WILL ACTUALLY MAKE YOU SAFER

ATMs are a great convenience, but they are also places where you need to watch out for your safety. ATM theft is a problem that can devastate your finances. These simple safety precautions will reduce your chances of being a victim.

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ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR HOLIDAY SHOPPERS

Holiday shopping is easy now that most stores have a website. Instead of walking through a crowded mall, you can simply click a button wherever you are and your shopping is done. But remember to take safety precautions like you would at the mall when you shop online. Here are some ways you can keep your purchases and personal information safe online...

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HOW TO AVOID OVERDRAFT FEES

Overdraft protection is designed to cover your purchases if your account dips into the red. Let’s say you’re at a restaurant with friends and you have $100 in your checking account. You eat dinner and pay, only to find your electric bill cleared earlier than anticipated, so your account is now in the red. With overdraft protection, the difference is covered, but you’ll be charged a fee for that coverage.

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TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR HOME WINTER READY

By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the warmth of your home in the cold winter months. If you have any questions about getting your home winter ready, ask a professional at the local hardware store, a trusted handyman, or a professional landscaper. Being prepared eliminates panic so do what you can before the first storm hits, and you’ll be set for whatever comes your way.

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HELP US FIGHT HUNGER IN OUR COMMUNITIES

Did you know as many as 1 in 4 children in Oklahoma and 1 in 5 in Kansas struggle with hunger every day? Did you know that $1 can provide five meals to hungry families? Throughout November and December, City National Bank is sponsoring a donation drive for your local food bank. Stop by any CNB location to buy a tag that we will put on our wall. You can spend as little as $1 or as much as you like. We will match every dollar donated up to $5,000. The best part? Every dollar raised in your community stays in your community. Help us put an end to food insecurity in our communities. Donate today

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TOP 10 TIPS FOR BLACK FRIDAY SHOPPING

It’s hard to believe it’s already November. Time for family and friends, pumpkin spice, turkey and holiday shopping. While it’s a great day to score some amazing deals and get a jump-start on holiday shopping, it can also be overwhelming and leave you feeling out of control when it comes to spending. That’s why we put together these tips on how to make sure you and your wallet are happy this season — plus one easy way to make your community a better place.

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ARE YOU ACCIDENTALLY SHOOTING YOUR BUDGET IN THE FOOT?

Your Budget

Budgeting can either make or break your financial stability. Financial mistakes occur from time-to-time, so it’s important to know how to reduce your chances of making them. Having a solid budget will help you maintain your financial freedom. Let’s take a look at five critical tips to follow to stay on the right course when it comes to budgeting:

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THE TRUE COST OF OWNING A CAR

The True Cost of Owning a Car

Congratulations! You got a great deal on your new car. But is the initial price you paid for your vehicle the total cost of owning a car? Unfortunately not. Not even close. Here are some factors that contribute to the total cost of car ownership.

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CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS

Car Maintenance Tips

Once you buy a car, read through the owner’s manual so you’ll know suggested time frames for oil and transmission fluid changes and other important things. Here are a few things to do regularly to keep your car running smoothly.

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THINKING ABOUT BUYING A HYBRID?

Thinking About Buying a Hybrid?

Are you in the market for a hybrid vehicle? They’re great for the environment but drive a little differently than conventional cars. Here are a few things to consider if you’re looking for a hybrid.

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BUDGETING FOR YOUR FIRST CAR

Budgeting for Your First Car

Buying your first car is exciting! But with all the makes and models available today, picking out the perfect car can be a little daunting. Here are a few tips to help you prepare to purchase your first car.

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WHAT AUTO DEALERS WANT YOU TO KNOW

What Auto Dealers Don’t Want You to Know

Buying a car is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. But because you don’t buy a car very often, you may not be familiar with trends or how the industry works. You may often think that a salesperson has the upper hand. It doesn’t have to be that way. Here are six things your auto dealer doesn’t want you to know.

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STAYING SECURED WHEN YOU GO MOBILE

Staying Secured When You Go Mobile

Smartphones, tablets, and laptops have become part of our daily life. We are a society of constant connection. Whether through email, texting or social media, we expect instant contact. We work and socialize on the go, but with this convenience come a few things to remember to keep your financial information safe.

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EQUIFAX BREACH

Equifax Breach

September 7, 2017 – Equifax, one of the “Big Three” credit reporting bureaus, has announced a security breach that could potentially affect 143 million U.S consumers. Equifax has set up a Web site — https://www.equifaxsecurity2017.com — that anyone concerned can visit to see if they may be impacted by the breach. The site also lets consumers enroll in TrustedID Premier, a 3-bureau credit monitoring service (Equifax, Experian and Trans Union) which also is operated by Equifax.

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BUYING A CAR: ONLINE VS. IN-PERSON

Buying a Car: Online vs. In-person

Today’s technology gives you plenty of options when it comes to shopping, even when shopping for a car. Many people now bypass salespeople by doing their own online research. With a little time and an Internet connection, you can learn all about any vehicle you can imagine. You can even research dealerships.

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STUDENT CHECKING ACCOUNT

Get the Student Checking Account That’s Right for You

Opening a student checking account can seem as difficult as choosing a major. With so many options available, where do you start? Here are some important questions to consider as you search for the best checking account:

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