The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and, unfortunately, increased activity for scammers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals. As we gear up for the festivities here in Southern Minnesota, it's crucial to be vigilant and protect ourselves from financial scams that can dampen the holiday spirit. Here are six scams to watch out for this holiday season.
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Mobile deposits have become a game-changer in personal banking, offering a host of benefits that make managing your finances more convenient and efficient. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started with the concept, mobile deposits can revolutionize the way you handle your banking needs. Here are five benefits of mobile deposits that you can access from First Independent Bank today!
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In today's fast-paced world, technology continues to reshape the way we live, work, and manage our finances. Gone are the days of waiting in long queues; instead, we embrace the convenience of mobile and online banking tools. First Independent Bank's comprehensive suite of online and mobile services brings numerous benefits to our financial lives. Here's what you can expect from our mobile banking services.
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As the warm summer days will soon begin to gradually give way to the crispness of fall, farmers worldwide are gearing up for one of the most crucial times of the year: harvest season. To ensure a successful and efficient harvest, having the right farming equipment in place is essential. Properly selected and maintained machinery can significantly impact the quality and yield of your crops. Let's explore the importance of choosing the right farming equipment and how First Independent Bank can help you get the financing you need to make it possible.
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When it comes to managing your finances, having a solid deposit strategy is the cornerstone of building a secure and prosperous future. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about deposits, direct deposits, Certificates of Deposit (CDs), and effective savings techniques. Whether you're just starting your financial journey or looking to optimize your existing strategy, First Independent Bank is here to help you understand the different types of deposit and savings accounts that will set you up for financial success.
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In the heartland of Minnesota, agriculture isn't just a livelihood; it's a way of life. From sprawling farms that stretch across the horizon to bustling agricultural operations that feed communities, the state's rich agricultural heritage is deeply ingrained in our communities. For those seeking to venture into or expand within the farming business, securing financing for agricultural real estate is a crucial first step. This is where First Independent Bank steps in, forging a path to success for farm and agricultural operations across Southern Minnesota. We've compiled our best advice for seeking agriculture real estate funding for your farming venture.
Read more ...First Independent Bank is excited to announce that Gary Kellen has re-joined the bank as Senior Vice-President specializing in Agriculture and Commercial Lending.
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When saving for retirement, Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) offer a practical and tax-advantaged way to secure your financial future. While several types of IRAs are available, the most common ones are Traditional, Roth, and SEP (Simplified Employee Pension) IRAs. Understanding the differences between these three options is essential to make informed decisions about your retirement savings strategy. First, Independent Bank is here to help you discover which IRA is right for you.
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As a local bank invested in the success of our agricultural community, we understand the importance of making wise financial decisions when purchasing equipment for your agricultural operation. Farm machinery is a significant investment that can significantly impact your farm's productivity and profitability. Therefore, it's crucial to ask the right questions before making a purchase. Here are five essential questions you should consider before buying your next piece of farm equipment.
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When it comes to financing your farm equipment, you have a lot of options available to you, including big banks and online lenders. However, local banks offer you several unique advantages that can greatly benefit farmers in need of equipment financing. Here’s why we think using a local bank like First Independent Bank is a smart decision for farm equipment financing.
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Some months make it harder to reach your financial goals than others. With bills, unexpected expenses, medical bills, etc., you might look at your bank account and realize that you're going to need more money to make it to your next paycheck. Our team at First Independent Bank understands. That's why our checking accounts come with our First Reserve Line of Credit option. Here's why we think you should consider using this convenient feature.
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Farming equipment is essential to getting your daily tasks done on the farm. Old or deteriorating equipment could slow or stop your operations, costing you valuable time and money in the long run. Here's how you know it's time to improve your farming equipment and the ways First Independent Bank can help.
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Farming equipment is an essential part of your agricultural operations. When it comes time to buy new equipment, you might wonder what options are best for you and what trends are rising. Here are three trends to know about in the farming equipment industry.
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As a community bank, First Independent Bank remains well-capitalized and well-positioned to continue to serve our customers and community. We will be celebrating 120 years of serving our communities. First Independent Bank was established in 1903, and we expect to serve this community for generations to come.
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Credit Cards have become the easiest way to build, improve, and maintain your credit score. Some cards offer many benefits and can be a lifeline in an emergency. Whether you are opening a new credit card account for personal or business expenses, First Independent Bank is here to help you learn how to get the most out of your credit card.
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The supply chain is still reeling from the pandemic shutdowns over the last two years. While we are starting to see some sectors go back to normal, the car market is still struggling to regain a sense of normalcy. The main issue with the car market is the lack of inventory caused by the halting of production at the beginning of the pandemic and the shortage of computer chips needed to run sensors, electronic dashboards, and infotainment systems. These chips are also used in just about every electronic device you can think of, from cell phones to video game consoles to computers adding to the issue.
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A UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle) or an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) can be a great addition to your home, farm, or cabin. Whether you’re using it for recreation, quick local travel, or as part of your farm or business, there’s a lot to consider when purchasing your new vehicle. We’re here to help you understand the difference and which vehicle will best fit your needs.
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Banking is an essential part of your day-to-day business operations. From daily deposits or withdrawals to business loans, your experience with a bank could positively or negatively affect your company’s success. When you work with a local bank instead of a national corporation, you get premium, personalized service that allows you more time to run your business the way you want. Here are some reasons why you should consider working with a local bank.
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When it comes to getting a loan for your small business, there are many options. You might have heard about the SBA 504 Loan program explicitly created to support the small business industry. These loans can be used for fixed assets that grow your business and create jobs. This program offers enticing benefits for your financial needs, and we’re here to help you discover if this loan might be right for you. Here are five reasons you should look into an SBA 504 loan.
Read more ...A health savings account (HSA) is similar to a personal savings account, but it can only be used for healthcare expenses. You must be enrolled in a high-deductible health plan to be eligible for an HSA. They have become an increasingly popular option for people seeking to manage their healthcare costs, and they also work as a tax-advantaged savings tool.
Read more ...As prices rise on gas and goods, hotels and airfare are climbing alongside them, and many people’s budgets are getting tighter. You might be wondering how you can justify getting out and taking a vacation this summer. But there are plenty of ways to plan a vacation that fits your lifestyle and will keep you on track to meeting your financial goals.
Read more ...First Independent Bank, Russell MN, and Citizens State Bank of Tyler, Inc., announced the signing of an agreement to merge. Completion of the transaction is scheduled for May 31, 2022.
Read more ...We are excited to introduce two new bankers who have joined our team through the merger with United Southwest Bank!
Read more ...We know that cash flow rises and falls when it comes to your business. Sometimes a commercial loan is what you need to move your business forward, whether that’s so you can hire more employees, make improvements to your store, or buy new equipment.
Read more ...In the current hot housing market, many people are thinking about buying homes that need some work. But is buying a fixer-upper right for you? Here are the pros and cons of buying a house that needs renovations.
Read more ...Did you know that 25% of all farmers are beginning farmers (in business less than ten years); their average age is 46 (source: Farm Bureau). In Minnesota, we rank fifth in the nation in agricultural production, and our top five agricultural commodities are soybeans, corn, livestock products, wheat, and processed vegetables.
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Knowing your home buying budget and the loan amount you will qualify for is an important part of the search process when you’re in the market for a new home. That’s where mortgage preapproval comes in. Getting preapproved for your mortgage can help give you confidence and show you are a serious buyer in a competitive housing market.
Read more ...On February 8th, 2022, the Board of First Independent Bank elected Thomas Koerber as President. Tom has currently been serving as Executive Vice-President and Chief Credit Officer. He has been in banking since 1987, with First Independent since 2017, and served as Chief Credit Officer of First Independent Bank’s sister Bank, Northview Bank, from 2005-2017.
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To make the best decision when evaluating whether to buy or lease ag machinery for your operations, it’s essential to understand the factors affecting the economics and compare the financial aspects of each option.
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At First Independent Bank, we can trace our history back over 100 years. As such, we thought it might be fun to share some history and the story behind our Russell location.
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A business line of credit is a flexible form of financing that is used by many small businesses. It can be accessed as needed (as long as you haven’t hit your credit limit and it is used for approved expenses), similar to a credit card, but has many advantages over a credit card.
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Credit card debt can be frustrating, overwhelming, and feel impossible to pay off. It’s also expensive! The average credit card interest rate is around 16%.
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House hunting can be fun and exciting, especially when you think you might have found the home of your dreams. It’s also an intensely emotional decision.
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If you’re looking for a commercial or business loan for your small business, you’ve come to the right place. Here are four of our best tips that can help you get a commercial loan.
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First Independent Bank, Russell MN, and United Southwest Bank, Cottonwood MN announced the signing of an agreement to merge. Completion of the transaction, which is currently expected to occur by the end of 2021, is contingent upon regulatory approval.
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As a livestock farmer, you have dreams and plans for your operation. You have the know-how to get the job done. What you might need is a partner for financing your growth and expansion.
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As a small business owner, you probably have big plans. Sometimes a capital injection is helpful, though, when it comes to starting or expanding your small business. A business loan can help. Here are five key steps to take before getting a business loan.
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Managing finances can be a challenge for small business owners. You might be an expert in making your product or providing a service, but managing your business finances is a significant part of small business success.
Read more ...Have you dreamed of owning recreational or hunting property? Many people buy recreational land to enjoy hunting, camping, fishing, hiking, or ATV-riding on the privacy of their own property. Owning recreational land can give you a unique opportunity to escape the pace of daily living and provide you with a chance to enjoy the many benefits of being out in nature.
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Expanding your small business can help ensure you stay competitive and in business. Recent research found that 82 percent of small businesses fail due to lack of capital (cash flow), and 55 percent of small business owners cite cash flow as the number one challenge to growing their businesses.
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Summer is almost here and many people are ready to get out and enjoy a relaxing summer vacation this year. If you haven’t planned a trip yet, we’ve got some last-minute family vacation ideas that can fit many budgets.
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At First Independent Bank, we focus on providing the very best tools and resources to our members. Whether you're exploring options or expanding your business operations, our suite of business loans, financial services, and professional expertise can help your small business reach its goals.
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If you’re ready to plan your next adventure, we’d like to help! At First Independent Bank, we have helped countless people enjoy their leisure time by providing recreational loans. Our recreational loans are designed to help you and your family get the most of your time off without “breaking the bank.”
Read more ...Opening a savings account for your child is one of the best ways to introduce them to the concept of saving at an early age. It’s a skill they will use throughout their life, so teaching them about money and financial literacy at an early age has many benefits.
Read more ...Livestock is an integral part of the Minnesota agricultural economy. Hogs are Minnesota’s top-producing livestock commodity, we are second in the nation for the number of bison producers, and we lead the nation in turkey production.
Read more ...At First Independent Bank, you may know our tagline, “Big Enough to Know Business. Small Enough to Know You.” But what do we mean by that, exactly? To us, it speaks to the many benefits of working with a local community bank. Here’s how those benefits translate for our customers.
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We’re still fresh into the new year, and if you’re like many people, you have some financial goals. One financial goal that many people start with in the new year is to create and stick to a budget. Budgeting can help you achieve the goals you’re working toward. It’s getting out of debt, saving for retirement, or just trying to keep your grocery bill from getting out of hand. Budgets can help you reign in your spending and gain control of your financial life.
Read more ...After 38 years, on January 27th, 2021, the Board of First Independent Bank elected as President someone other than Duke Pogatchnik.
Read more ...Kathy Neels and Thomas Koerber were named as Directors of First Independent Bank at its annual board meeting held on January 27, 2021.
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Farm land and property are at the heart of any Ag business, which is why we make financing land an integral part of the services we offer at First Independent Bank. For over 100 years, we have helped aspiring and experienced farmers imagine the possibilities of the future. Together, we work to make that future a reality with farm mortgage loans, rural land loans, and more.
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The new year is upon us! If one of your goals is to improve your finances, we have some tips for you.
Read more ...Running an Ag business takes expertise, hard work, and money. If any of these variables is missing, you’re going to have a hard time.
Expertise can be taught. Hard work can be learned. But money is something altogether different.
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USDA Census of Agriculture data ranks milk from cows as the fourth largest contributor to Minnesota’s agricultural sales, accounting for 9.4 percent of the state’s total agricultural products sold. On average, a Minnesota dairy farm has 200 head of dairy cows and spent $882,160 to produce milk in 2019. This spending generated $1.6 million of economic activity in the state – a significant source for our state!
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The holiday season is a joyful time of family, gifts, and festive celebration. Unfortunately, sometimes financial worries add a lot of stress to our holidays. Here are three tips that will reduce stress and help you stay on track financially.
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With First Independent Bank as your business banking partner, you can manage your finances with confidence. We offer the capabilities of the big banks, but also you get personal service, flexibility, and the local decision-making of a trusted community bank.
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Phishing scams are plentiful right now, and they can sometimes be hard to spot. What is "phishing?" Scammers use email messages (and sometimes text messages) to trick you into giving them your personal information. What they are ultimately after are your passwords, account numbers, or Social Security numbers, with the intent to gain access to your email, bank, or other accounts.
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At First Independent Bank, we are passionate about partnering with farm and agricultural operations across Minnesota. One of the services we provide is financing and lending support to launch, operate, and expand agricultural and farming facilities across the state.
Read more ...When shopping for a new home, there are many types of mortgages to choose from. One of the lesser-known types of mortgage loans is a USDA loan, which is a zero-down-payment mortgage for rural and suburban homebuyers. USDA loans are issued through the USDA Rural Development Guaranteed Housing Loan Program by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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Minnesota is the nation's third-largest hog-producing state and pork is critical to our state’s agricultural economy. Though swine farmers (and farmers in general) are no strangers to navigating difficult times, the last six to nine months have been tough for our friends in the swine industry.
Read more ...Mortgage refinancing rates are still low compared to historic standards and many homeowners are choosing to refinance their mortgage loans, saving thousands of dollars in interest over the life of their loans.
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For the first time since 1971, interest rates have fallen below 3%. So, it is no surprise that with interest rates at historic lows, many people are buying homes for the first time or trading up from their current home.
Read more ...In Minnesota, lake life is a dream for many during the summer. A cabin or vacation property is fun for all, unlike your primary home where you pay bills or do homework at the dining room table.
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If you’re a homeowner or a vacation property owner - or if you plan to be one - then you’ve undoubtedly been watching the record low mortgage rates that have been put in place to boost and sustain our economy.
Read more ...Businesses are beginning to open up again after the unprecedented nationwide shutdown. Crippling business restrictions have turned out to be too much for many small businesses around the country. Some business owners, to avoid inevitable permanent closure, have chosen to defy mandated lockdowns.
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In times of crisis, the helpers always show up. People who risk their lives to help others in any way they can. We are so thankful for all the essential workers who are currently doing just that as the COVID-19 situation continues to develop.
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People who work in the Ag business are already some of the hardest working people in our country. Early mornings. Late nights. You’re managing a business, working with your hands, thinking financially, working strategically. In all of it, you are also at risk in this season of quarantine.
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While we are currently in the middle of a health crisis with the novel coronavirus, we’re also experiencing an economic downturn of historic proportions.
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A “money mule” scam is when someone is recruited to move money for a scammer by transferring stolen funds from one account to another. Usually the “mule” has no idea he or she is aiding in theft and simply thinks they’ve fallen on an online opportunity to make some extra money.
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One of the greatest ways to train your kids for the life that awaits them is by finding practical, even fun, ways to demonstrate the real world to them. As a parent, you have the chance to give them the tools they’ll need to manage money. It just takes time and opportunity. There’s no minimum amount of money your child needs to start. It’s simply about building the habits, developing the discipline, and teaching the language.
Read more ...As a homeowner, you’re frequently given opportunities to refinance your home. Sometimes a simple inquiry online leads to an onslaught of communication from mortgage lenders you've never heard of. But the decision can be a hard one to make, and it’s based on more than interest rates.
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Whether just starting your farming operation or expanding it, our Ag lending experts from First Independent Bank partner with farmers across Minnesota to help them buy farm land. By walking with them to find and finance farm land, our lending team is giving farmers a financial advocate who understands the farming business and is invested in helping them succeed.
Read more ...At First Independent Bank, our doors first opened in the early 1900’s. Since then, our branches have expanded across the state and we’ve been able to impact thousands of Minnesota families. We have branches throughout Minnesota that work with local families, local business owners, and local farmers.
Read more ...The more strategic you are with your financing, the more profitable you’ll be in your Ag operation. By working with First Independent Bank, farmers have access to the most competitive financing solutions available, with terms and conditions that work with their budgets and on their timelines. They’ll also be partnered with a bank that has been supporting local Ag operations for more than a century.
Read more ...More than 75% of the dairy farms in the United States are family owned and operated. This means that, for most dairy farmers, the people doing the heavy lifting are the same people managing the facility, buying animals, maintaining the operation, and strategically planning for the future. First Independent Bank partners with dairy farms to make the work easier.
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At First Independent Bank, we are committed to working with people throughout Minnesota in whatever situation they’re in. It’s why we do what we do. We’re helping you make life easier with our services and products. Our customers rely on our lending experts to help them find the tools, support, and resources they need for the improvements they’re looking to make in life.
Read more ...That’s a statement that points to the opportunities that customers have to work with a bank with the tools they need to make success possible, and the expertise they need to make the right decisions at each crossroads. It's also a statement of the value of having a personal banker.
Read more ...Sometimes that means we’re helping a couple save for college for their children or for some other major expense that is just around the corner. Sometimes it means we’re helping them build out an investment portfolio that plans for the future or an HSA that takes care of coming medical costs.
Read more ...Our loan officers and lending professionals are committed to the success of your business, whether that means helping you manage your operation or equipping you to expand it. From facility acquisition and equipment purchasing to merchant services and business checking, First Independent Bank makes running a business easier.
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Personal loans give you the freedom to relax. They take the pressure off of the day-to-day and give you room for new opportunities and more flexibility.
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Whether you’re starting a business or expanding one, the commercial loan team at First Independent Bank is able to partner with you to make things happen. Our lending experts have been working with business owners and entrepreneurs for more than a century, bringing them lending solutions that work with their businesses, with their budgets, and with their timelines.
We’re providing financing for operations, equipment, and facilities throughout the region, helping local business and building local economies.
Read more ...Minnesota is one of three states where hog production is most concentrated (Iowa and North Carolina are the others). From large, long-running farms to new operations that are just getting started, the state of Minnesota is where the hog farming business is one of the places with strong economic activity.
This type of specialized farming business needs specialized attention. Hog farming operations are unique, facing specific challenges that others don’t have. From housing pigs and the various operational challenges that go with it to the high costs of production, hog farmers need a partner in their business…one who can help them take the right steps forward.
Read more ...At First Independent Bank, we are equipped to help Minnesota farming and agriculture operations succeed with lending solutions that work for them. Our lending experts know farming. They are committed to local Ag business and can help farmers throughout our state make the right decisions about a loan for their operation. Whether it’s time to expand your farming operation or if you’re updating equipment or facilities, Ag Lending from First Independent Bank comes with expertise and service you can depend on.
Read more ...Some people feel the pinch of financial stress 24 hours a day, worrying about keeping up with the many demands on their wallets and their bank accounts. And in a culture where most people are managing at least some debt, First Independent Bank wants to help people discover and enact strategies for debt reduction. Less debt means more opportunities. But before that happens, most need to delineate between good debt and bad debt.
Read more ...At First Independent Bank, we have loans and financing solutions for people in just about any situation. As we work with customers, connecting them with the right financing for their needs, it’s generally not a question of whether we have a lending solution that will work for them. Rather, it’s a question of how can we customize and accommodate the various lending options available at our branches.
Read more ...At First Independent Bank, we have the tools, resources, and financial products to help your business succeed. Whether you’re just starting out in business or needing a support team to help you operate your business as efficiently as possible, First Independent Bank can help. Our bankers and lending professionals live and work in the same communities where our customers run their businesses. We are committed to your success because we are committed to our local community, local economy, and local customers.
Read more ...Tired of trying to get your name on the calendar to borrow someone else’s cabin? Does the lake you’ve are wanting to buy on finally have property for sale? Realizing you want a place for your family to escape to? Tire of waiting? Vacation property is possible with First Independent Bank!
Read more ...At First Independent Bank, we’ve spent more than a century doing work across Minnesota. It’s been more than 100 years of serving the communities we’re living and working in. 100 years of helping local businesses take the most strategic financial steps forward. It's been providing personal banking options to families and helping children set up their first savings accounts. It’s been about partnership with our local communities, helping people discover and do matters most to them.
Read more ...At First Independent Bank, we are equipped with the resources and products to help you succeed in work and in life. From the work our loan officers put in to helping small business owners take the right step toward their goals to the care our bankers make sure each customer has the tools they need, we are committed to our customers and to the things they care about.
Read more ...One of the simplest ways to change your financial situation is to change your financial habits. Bad financial routines can be a significant source of anxiety. They limit opportunities for people to move ahead in life. By changing these routines, one at a time, you can start to see changes in your life that will be felt. You can put yourself in a different financial situation and can be more in control of your spending…and of your future.
Read more ...At First Independent Bank, we like to say that we are big enough to know business and small enough to know you. For business owners, this means that we have the resources and reach of a big bank but with the added benefit of being your neighbors and friends.
Read more ...People in a healthy financial situation understand the importance of saving money. People in an unhealthy financial situation do not place a value on savings. It’s that simple. As you consider your own financial situation, consider how your own savings account looks. What are your habits? What decisions are you making to set yourself up for success when it comes to savings?
Read more ...First Independent Bank makes new construction possible with our construction financing solutions. With variable, competitive rates and flexible terms and conditions, our construction loans give homeowners the ability to make the right decisions for their new home that work with their budget and timeline.
Read more ...At First Independent Bank, we’re always working on behalf of our customers. We’re giving them access to our expertise, partnering them with the right tools, the right people, and the right financial products to set them up for success. We do it because we want to help them connect with all of the financial tools available to them.
Read more ...At First Independent Bank, we are committed to helping business owners succeed. Whether just starting out or expanding their operation to something beyond what they once thought they’d ever be able to accomplish, our lending experts and unique commercial loan options put business owners at a distinct advantage.
Read more ...It’s been said that if you want to know what’s most important to someone, take a look at their bank account. Whatever they spend the most money on is the thing they care about the most. If you take that same test a bit further, it becomes something like a financial IQ test. How smart you are with your money will reveal itself with how well you manage it.
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Your ag business needs your expertise looking out for it. And you need people to be helping to make that possible. Livestock loans from First Independent Bank are one way to make that happen.
Read more ...With First Independent Bank, customers have a partner through any season of life. Whether just starting out or finally taking steps toward things that once seemed impossible, First Independent Bank has the team and the tools to move you in the right direction. Our team of bankers and lending experts walk closely with young people, families, business owners, and entrepreneurs, helping them discover and utilize the opportunities available to them.
Read more ...With the varying costs of corn (with incremental increases to nearly $3.75 a bushel in late 2018), the question inevitably must be answered: How do I weather the storm of low costs per bushel of corn?
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