At Farmers & Merchants Bank, agriculture isn’t just part of the local economy—it’s part of who we are. For generations, we’ve worked side-by-side with local farmers, providing financial solutions tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of life on the land. We understand that farming isn’t a 9-to-5 job. It’s a way of life that […]
Read MoreBuying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones—and one of the most common sources of stress for new buyers. The excitement of house hunting often gets overshadowed by worries about saving for a down payment, finding the right mortgage, and managing closing costs. Fortunately, there are dedicated first-time homebuyer programs designed to help […]
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Honoring 25 Years for Sara and 40 Years for Karen Every summer, fairgrounds across Indiana come alive with more than livestock shows and lemon shake-ups. They’re places where traditions are honored, confidence is built, and community shines brightest—especially on Queen Contest night. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we’re proud to celebrate two of our own […]
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Boswell Branch Manager | 4-H Alum | Fair Board Member For Nikki Harman, giving back isn’t a seasonal thing—it’s simply part of who she is. As Branch Manager of our Boswell office, Nikki leads with consistency, care, and a deep connection to the people and places around her. And her involvement with 4-H—both past and […]
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At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we believe in investing in our communities—and that starts with investing in our youth. That’s one of the many reasons we proudly support 4-H. For more than a century, 4-H has been shaping future leaders by teaching responsibility, goal-setting, and the value of hard work. But did you know that […]
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By Samantha Otten Ag-Commercial Lender at Farmers and Merchants Bank Every summer when the fairgrounds fill with the smell of sawdust and the hum of anticipation, I’m reminded just how much 4-H shaped the person I am today. Before I was an Ag Lender at Farmers and Merchants, I was a kid with a bucket […]
Read MorePassing down a family farm is more than a financial decision—it’s about safeguarding a legacy. For generations, families have cultivated land, built businesses, and preserved traditions. But without a formal plan, that heritage is vulnerable. F&M Bank’s long history of serving multi-generational farm families proves we can help families navigate the transition process with […]
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Refinancing your mortgage or other loans can be a great financial move but it’s not always the right decision for everyone. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we want to help you understand the benefits, potential drawbacks, and key factors to consider when deciding if refinancing is the right choice for you. What Is Refinancing? Refinancing […]
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Indiana’s agricultural legacy runs deep, and today’s farmers need modern tools to keep their operations efficient and competitive. However, top-tier farm equipment—tractors, combines, grain systems—can carry high upfront costs. To help Indiana’s farming families acquire and upgrade their gear, Farmers & Merchants Bank offers flexible and personalized loan options designed with Hoosiers in mind. This […]
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As a business owner, you know that success depends on a strong, trusted team. Empowering employees with financial responsibilities can improve efficiency and operations but it’s also essential to have proper controls in place to prevent fraud. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we’re committed to helping businesses balance trust with security to protect their bottom […]
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April is Financial Literacy Month a perfect time to sharpen your money management skills and set yourself up for financial success. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we’re committed to helping our customers build strong financial habits that last a lifetime. Here are some simple, yet key tips to improve your financial literacy this month and […]
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Farming is more than a job—it’s a way of life and a vital part of our community. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with running a farm. Whether you’re looking to purchase land, upgrade equipment, or expand operations, finding the right financing option is essential for your […]
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Investing in a rental property can be an excellent way to build wealth, generate passive income, and diversify your financial portfolio. But is it the right move for you? At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we’re here to help you weigh the benefits and navigate the process if you’re ready to take the leap. Here are […]
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As we turn the page to a new year, it’s the perfect time to reassess your financial goals and set a plan for success. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we’re here to help you make 2025 your most financially secure year yet. Whether you’re saving for a dream vacation, building an emergency fund, or planning […]
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West Lafayette, IN (12-11-2024) The Farmers and Merchants Bank is pleased to name Donald Blume as President of The Farmers and Merchants Bank effective January 1, 2025, succeeding current bank President Grant Whaley. “It has been an honor serving as President, CEO & Chairman of The Farmers and Merchants Bank. I would like to personally […]
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The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also bring financial stress if you’re not prepared. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we want to help you enjoy a more peaceful holiday season in 2025 by starting a Christmas Club account today. A Christmas Club account is an easy and effective […]
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At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we’re dedicated to keeping our customers informed about regulatory requirements that impact their businesses. One such requirement is the filing of a Beneficial Ownership report, mandated by the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). If your business is required to file, understanding the process is essential to ensure compliance and avoid penalties. […]
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At Farmers & Merchants Bank, our greatest privilege is serving you — our customers. Every day, we are reminded of the trust and loyalty you place in us, and for that, we are truly thankful. As a community bank, we know that our success is directly tied to the relationships we build with the people […]
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The holiday season is near, and while it’s a time of joy and celebration, it can also lead to overspending if you’re not careful. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we believe in helping our customers make the most of their money, especially during the busiest shopping time of the year. Here are some smart savings […]
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In a world where banking options are as diverse as ever, choosing where to open your savings or checking account isn’t just about interest rates or convenience—it’s about trust, personalized service, and the strength of local relationships. For individuals and businesses alike, local banking relationships can be the key to making smarter financial decisions, especially […]
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In today’s digital age, protecting your personal and financial information is more critical than ever. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we prioritize your security and are committed to helping you stay safe online. Here are some essential cybersecurity tips to safeguard your sensitive data: Use Strong, Unique Passwords We’ve said if before and we will […]
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Choosing to open a business savings account is a smart decision for any company serious about securing its financial future. This decision is more than just a prudent financial move; it’s a strategic action that positions your business for growth and stability. A business savings account is not merely a storage space for surplus cash. […]
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Agricultural loans are crucial in the world of farming as they offer vital financial support and opportunities for growth. These loans are more than just financial aid. They represent the dreams and ambitions of farmers which provide a foundation for success in an unpredictable industry. This guide aims to help farmers understand the good and […]
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At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we take immense pride in our community and the values we uphold. A significant part of our culture is our deep-rooted connection to 4-H, a program that has been instrumental in shaping the lives of many of our employees and their families. Our commitment to supporting 4-H is not just […]
Read More At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we believe that our commitment to the community goes beyond providing exceptional banking services. Our mission is deeply rooted in fostering growth, supporting local initiatives, and enhancing the well-being of the communities we serve. One of the key ways we achieve this is through our active involvement in community events […]
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Home ownership is more than just a place to live—it’s an investment. And with Farmers & Merchants Bank’s Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC), you can tap into that investment to meet your financial goals. A HELOC from Farmers & Merchants Bank offers a flexible, efficient way to access funds, making it an excellent tool […]
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April is Financial Literacy Month, a time to highlight the importance of financial education and the crucial role it plays in empowering people to make informed decisions about their money. In today’s complex financial landscape, understanding the basics of money management is more important than ever. Farmers & Merchants Bank is proud to stand with […]
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In the patchwork of communities, the heartbeat of prosperity often stems from the fields that surround us. Agriculture, more than just a livelihood, is a cornerstone that sustains us, providing economic stability and a sense of connectedness. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we recognize the profound impact of supporting agriculture in our community and the […]
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Navigating finances as a couple can be challenging yet it is essential. Open communication about financial goals, creating a joint budget, and establishing shared financial values are all important in having a good financial partnership. Here are some practical tips for managing expenses and saving together which could be beneficial. Initiate Honest Conversations: Begin by […]
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In the realm of customer service, the heartbeat is undeniably the people. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, the essence of personalized financial care transcends transactions, creating a symbiotic relationship between our bank and our valued customers. From seasoned bankers to dedicated tellers, everyone here at F&M plays a pivotal role in crafting a customer-centric experience. […]
Read MoreWe’re excited to share groundbreaking news that’s set to transform your banking experience — FedNow. Developed by the Federal Reserve, FedNow is a real-time payment system designed to bring convenience and efficiency to your financial transactions. Let’s delve into what FedNow is and how it benefits you: Real-Time Payments, Real-Time Power. FedNow is revolutionizing the […]
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When it comes to securing an ag loan from a community bank, Indiana farmers know they can count on Farmers & Merchants Bank. In the heart of Indiana’s farming communities, our farmers trust Community Banks like never before. Here at Farmers & Merchants Bank, we hold in-person relationships in high regard and take pride in […]
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At Farmers & Merchants Bank, whеnеvеr wе rеfеrеncе thе tеrm ‘mеrchant bank in Attica, Indiana‘, it signifiеs morе than just our gеographical prеsеncе. It stands as a tеstamеnt to our unwavеring dеdication to thе intricatе domain of mеrchant banking. As pionееrs in this spacе, we firmly bеliеvе in еquipping our valuеd cliеnts with knowledge. Lеt’s […]
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In today’s diverse banking landscape, the significance of community banks remains unparalleled. Especially when it comes to an “ag loan community bank” like Farmers & Merchants Bank, a cornerstone in providing comprehensive and tailored services, the advantages are clear. The right amount of community-based insights plus the commitment to personalized service means that farmers and […]
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An indispensable blend of convenience and security is what banks offer in West Lafayette online banking. In today’s fast-paced world, it is important to access your bank anytime, anywhere. Banks are now committed to providing essential services like mobile banking, online bill pay, and real-time alerts. Moreover, they are more dedicated to ensuring that your […]
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Choosing the right financial partner among banks in West Lafayette, Indiana, goes beyond just picking a place to store money; it’s about finding a financial partner attuned to your specific needs. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we see ourselves as more than just a banking institution. We are a dedicated team, committed to providing tailored […]
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Getting approved for a personal auto loan for a new vehicle can be really exhilarating. However, the thrill can quickly fade when you realize the financial burden that monthly payments can pose. Luckily, auto loan refinancing may be a viable option. Let’s uncover the advantages it brings, factors that demand your attention before you decide, […]
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Here we are at the end of another year. Chances are your holiday shopping is almost finished and hopefully you stayed under budget! But if you didn’t, we offer a great product for you to start planning for next year! Sign up for our Christmas Club account and rest easy that you’ll be prepared and […]
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As the year comes to a close, and we reflect on all of the things we are thankful for in our lives, we want you to know that we are thankful for you, our valued customers. Without your trust and loyalty, we wouldn’t be able to do what we love to do every day. We […]
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Can you feel it? Fall is in the air. The leaves are turning into gorgeous hues of bright reds and orange. Football, fires, and fall festivals are in full swing! That means the holidays are right around the corner. Before long, you’ll be making your holiday gift list! It’s easy to go overboard, but this […]
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At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we aim to be more than a bank. We want to be a trusted partner for all your financial needs. Whether it be business or personal checking or savings accounts, mobile or digital products, valued advice, or even saving for health expenses! Did you know that we offer Health Savings […]
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As summer fair season wraps up, we’d like to reflect on the importance of this special organization. We value all organizations which make our cities and towns stronger as a whole, and 4H has an extra special place in our hearts – mostly because of all it does for our youth. Many of us have […]
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The digital world we live in today has many conveniences, but it also comes with some inconveniences such as fraud. We are often asked about best practices for protecting against fraud. Here are 6 easy tips to keep in mind to help keep your data secure: Change passwords often. We hear you. It’s annoying to […]
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According to Lending Tree, the average American has gained approx. $113,000 in equity in their home over the last 3 years! So now might be a great time to consider a home equity line of credit, or HELOC. HELOCs are a great option for home renovations, unexpected expenses, consolidating debt, paying for college and more! […]
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As a business owner, protecting your finances and preventing fraudulent activity should be a top priority. One way to do this is by using a banking service called Positive Pay. In this blog, we will explore what Positive Pay is, how it works, and why every business owner should consider using it. What is Positive […]
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Peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps and services have become increasingly popular in recent years, providing a convenient way to transfer money between individuals. However, this popularity has also led to a rise in P2P fraud. In this post, we’ll explore what P2P fraud is, how it works, and how you can protect yourself from becoming a […]
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We talk about finance a lot in our day-to-day interactions, and we understand the importance of understanding basic finance concepts. But not everyone understands financial literacy and it’s an important part of our jobs to educate as much as possible. April is Financial Literacy Month and we’re outlining some important reasons for teaching our young […]
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We understand there is uncertainty in our current ag environment with rising interest rate pressure, higher input costs, high land values, and more. This year, you might be affected by: • Inflationary Pressure and Rising Interest Rates • Rising Interest Rates = Rising Cost of Money We can help you strategize. Here are some ideas […]
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Late last week and over the weekend, the financial system experienced a couple large bank failures – Silicon Valley Bank (based out of California) and Signature Bank (based out of New York). These situations are ever evolving, and the FDIC and other government entities are acting as quickly and effectively as they can to provide […]
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Ever wonder about the impact community banks have on the actual communities around them? Funny you should ask! We were just thinking about the same thing. Here are 5 ways a community bank positively affects the community it serves! As community bank relationship bankers, we focus on the needs of our customers – including individuals, […]
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Happy New Year, we hope you had a very happy holiday season! With a new year, people often create new resolutions, dreams, and goals. Make this year a great financial year by following a few simple tips for financial success! Make budgeting a top priority in 2023: sit down and create a budget and stick […]
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Can You Spot a Phishing Scam? Every day, thousands of people fall victim to fraudulent emails, texts and calls from scammers pretending to be their bank. And in this time of expanded use of online and mobile banking, the problem is only growing worse. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission’s report on fraud estimates that […]
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There is no doubt that today’s consumers are smarter and savvier than ever. They expect transparency, quick, accurate service, and convenience. The digital world we live in makes enhanced security and connectivity more important than ever. Yet not every customer wants to bank the same way; we understand that. At Farmers & Merchants, we cater […]
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It’s time for sharpened pencils and sharpened minds. Let’s get back to school! This month, we thought we’d get a jump on the learning season and highlight some of our favorite finance- related professions. Here are just 3 banking/finance related professions which might be worth pursuing if you are really into numbers! 1. Banker. Well, […]
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June and July mean warmer temperatures, outdoor activities and numerous county 4-H fairs taking place around our great state. We’d like to take the time to recognize just a few of the valuable benefits of this outstanding 120-year-old organization. Youth Development Did you know that 4-H is America’s largest youth development organization with an estimated […]
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If you’re carrying a significant amount of credit card debt, you’re not alone. It is estimated that the average U.S. household has nearly $7,000 in credit card balances. Although it takes time and dedication to reduce the balances or eliminate them altogether, there are steps you can take to get control and eventually free yourself […]
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April kicks off Financial Literacy Month which is dedicated to increasing financial literacy and promoting financial education in our communities and schools. This makes it a wonderful time to review your own finances and examine tips to help ensure you and your family are informed and equipped to effectively manage your money now and in […]
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March is National Agriculture Month! Which means it’s a great time to recognize the vital role that agriculture plays in our country, state, and community. This is particularly important to us at Farmers & Merchants Bank as our company was started in 1903 when a group of fifteen farmers and leaders got together in the […]
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Shopping for a home is an exciting, emotional, and often hectic process. When it comes time to secure the mortgage, you want to be working with a lender that is right for you and your specific situation. With the number of online lenders, mortgage brokers and banks of all sizes, choosing one can seem overwhelming. […]
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With the new year, many of us have committed ourselves to changing the way we live for the better. One of the most important improvement areas is banking. This year, make your personal finance, saving and investing a top priority. Getting financially fit is a lofty goal and it can be an overwhelming task. Many […]
Read More Online shopping is increasingly popular, particularly during the holidays. Its convenience is unmatched with 24/7 access and the ability to research, review and compare before you click. Although generally safe, it’s good to do your part to ensure you don’t have your debit or credit card compromised or provide sensitive information to the wrong party. […]
Read More Every now and then, a trick can draw a bit of glee (especially during Halloween). But no one likes to have the wool pulled over their eyes, especially when it’s a wolf disguised in sheep’s clothing. That’s why Farmers & Merchants Bank focuses on the “treats” that distinguish us as trusted lenders and keep our […]
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It used to be that convenient banking was a drive through lane or an ATM. Then the advent of digital and online services changed banking dramatically. But even with time saving technology and 24-hour accessibility, Farmers and Merchants Bank believes personal relationships are just as important today as they were in the days of teller […]
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Managing money is one of the most significant life lessons parents can teach their children. Instilling the value of budgeting, saving, and spending wisely sets your child up for future success in handling their finances. Let’s look at some ways to introduce good money habits to children. Basic Banking Opening a child’s first bank account […]
Read More It’s 4-H season with county fairs wrapping up or getting underway around the state. Now is a great time to recognize just a few of the valuable benefits of this outstanding 120-year-old organization. Youth Development First and foremost, 4-H is America’s largest youth development organization with an estimated 6 million members. It’s built to cultivate […]
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As interest rates remain near record lows, the popular refrain is that “it’s time to refinance.” But is it the right decision for you? Let’s look at some of the benefits of refinancing right now. Lower Interest Rate Paying less in interest is always the goal when borrowing money. So the first thing to look […]
Read More Home equity is often a homeowner’s most valuable asset. The difference between your mortgage balance and the appraised value of one’s home offers potential access to funds. A portion of a home’s equity can be used to borrow money as a line of credit or home equity loan providing the homeowner an opportunity to fund […]
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Getting a clear picture of your household financial situation is always a good strategy. But getting it done can be challenging, particularly in an uncertain economic climate. The best way to manage your money (and hang on to more of it) is by creating and following a budget. It opens your eyes to your cash […]
Read More What better time to share some fun facts about our farmer friends? We all know that farmers are the backbone of the Ag industry and without farmers feeding the world, we’d literally starve. We also all know that farmers are some of the hardest workers in the entire world. And we want them to know […]
Read MoreAs your local community bank, we constantly search for ways to deliver more conveniences and services to our customers. We initiated contactless services to help keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, and as many of you already know, we have embraced online banking and mobile banking. We are now pleased to announce that we […]
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As a second round of CARES Act stimulus checks makes its way to eligible Americans in the amount of $600 each, scammers have resurfaced to try to snatch them from unsuspecting and innocent citizens. There are few things to be aware of to ensure you don’t fall victim to these unscrupulous swindlers. The IRS is […]
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The holiday season is finally upon us and with it comes all the usual cheer and stress that the hustle and bustle of shopping for the perfect gifts for friends and loved ones brings. Following are a couple ways to keep your finances in check and get the most ‘bang for your buck’ while you […]
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Have you been receiving robo-calls, emails or texts message from persons or sources that you don’t know or with whom you have never initiated contact? More than ever, unscrupulous individuals and fraudulent fake companies are targeting consumers with faulty claims of “free-money,” debts being owed, or other scams designed to trick people out of their […]
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You know what they say about a penny saved, right? Well, pennies don’t go very far these days, but we have some tips that can help save you real dollars. Take a read and see if you can do any of these to stretch your dollars! Being Over-Insured Having insurance is a good idea to […]
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Covid-19 is still wreaking havoc around the world, including in the financial markets. If you are in a position to ride out the storm until sunnier skies arrive, that’s great! On the other hand, now may be a good time to consider refinancing your home to lower your mortgage payments and/or even withdraw some cash. […]
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During the last 8 months, you have likely heard more about supporting small business than you’ve ever heard before. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we’ve always supported small business. We truly understand the impact they have on communities throughout the country. It’s what our philosophy is all about! Here are 5 reasons to support your […]
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While we continue to social distance, we should not have to worry about distancing from our finances. Now more than ever there is a need for contactless banking and we have you covered. Mobile Wallet A mobile wallet is essentially a “virtual wallet” application (app) that stores your debit or payment card information on a […]
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If you are like most people in the US who have filed or paid taxes, had previously been employed and/or received retirement benefits, you should be receiving a stimulus check from the US Treasury due to the Covid-19 crisis if you haven’t already. To better understand what this payment represents, let’s briefly explore the government’s […]
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By now anyone who is reading this blog understands that the world is dealing with a situation unparalleled in recent history – a worldwide pandemic driven by a Coronavirus strain known as Covid 19. In these uncertain times, unsubstantiated fear and panic sometimes leads people to make rash or irrational decisions out of fear which […]
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