Small Business Archives - Hanover Mortgages

Apache is functioning normally

June 8, 2023 by Brett Tams

Back in the day, if you wanted a loan to pay off your car or credit cards, you’d go to a bank or a credit union, sit down with a loan officer, and wait for them to tell you yes or no as they “crunched the numbers.”

But now peer-to-peer (P2P) lending has come onto the market, offering loans to borrowers directly from individuals — and usually carrying more favorable terms for those without a great credit profile. Borrowers can access up to $50,000 (or more) from lenders, with fixed term repayment scheduled and reasonable interest rates. Investors can also become lenders on P2P platforms, earning interest collected on loans as a passive form of investment income.

Let’s break down some of the best peer-to-peer lending sites for both borrowers and investors, so you can determine which option is best for you.

What’s Ahead:

Overview of the best peer-to-peer lending sites

Best for those with high credit scores: Prosper
Best for crypto-backed loans: BlockFi
Best for young people: Upstart
Best for a payday loan alternative: SoLo Funds
Best for small businesses: FundingCircle
Best for first-time borrowers: Kiva

Prosper: Best for those with high credit scores

Prosper 210

APR: 6.99% to 35.99%
Term: 2 to 5 years

Prosper is the OG peer-to-peer lender in the market. It was founded in 2005 as the very first peer-to-peer lending marketplace in the U.S. According to their website, they’ve coordinated over $22 billion in loans.

Borrowing with Prosper

If you’re a borrower, you can get personal loans up to $50,000 with a fixed rate and a fixed term from two to five years in length. Your monthly payment is fixed for the duration of the loan. There are no prepayment penalties, either, so if you can pay it off early, you won’t be penalized.

You can get an instant look at what your rate would be and, once approved, the money gets deposited directly into your bank account.

Investing with Prosper

As an investor, you have many options on loans to choose from. There are seven different “risk” categories that you can select from, each with their own estimated return and level of risk. Here’s a look at the risk levels and the estimated potential loss, according to Prosper:

AA – 0.00 – 1.99%
A – 2.00 – 3.99%
B – 4.00 – 5.99%
C – 6.00 – 8.99%
D – 9.00 – 11.99%
E – 12.00 – 14.99%
HR (High Risk) – ≥ 15.00%

As you can see, the lower the letter, the greater the risk of default, hence a higher estimated potential loss. With just a $25 minimum investment, you can spread your risk out across all seven categories to provide your portfolio some balance.

The borrowers that you’re lending to are also above U.S. averages regarding their FICO score and average annual income.

Learn more about Prosper or read our full review.

BlockFi: Best for crypto-backed loans

APR: 4.5% – 9.75%
Term: 12 months

BlockFi is a popular crypto lending platform that offers crypto-backed loans to borrowers and pays out interest to lenders. BlockFi offers instant loans and requires no credit checks for borrowers. All loans are collateralized, meaning borrowers will need to lock in their crypto to borrow against it.

Borrowing with BlockFi

If you’re a borrower, you can get a crypto loan for up to 50% of the value of your crypto, with rates ranging from 4.5% to 9.75% APR, depending on the amount of collateral. Payments are made monthly and are fixed for the duration of the loan.

Interest rates are determined by the amount of collateral deposited and the loan-to-value (LTV) of the overall loan. There is a 2% origination fee on all loans.

Loan rate – 9.75% (50% LTV)
Loan rate – 7.9% (35% LTV)
Loan rate – 4.5% (20% LTV)

Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), Paxos Gold (PAXG), or Litecoin (LTC) can be used as collateral for the loan, and can be liquidated if the LTV goes above the original LTV of the loan.

Investing with BlockFi

BlockFi offers interest accounts for users who deposit crypto. The funds are used for crypto lending, and interest is paid out in the native crypto deposited. Interest rates vary by cryptocurrency, and range from 0.10% APY up to 7.50% APY. Stablecoins (such as USDC) pay out the highest rates.

Crypto interest accounts are not available to U.S. investors, as BlockFi was sued by the SEC for violating securities laws.

Read our full review.

BlockFi Bankruptcy Notice -On November 10, 2022, BlockFi announced that it had to suspend withdrawals from its platform due to the FTX liquidity crisis. As a result, consumers should not be using the BlockFi platform. As of November 28, 2022, BlockFi officially declared bankruptcy.

Upstart: Best for young people

Upstart 210

APR: 5.6% – 35.99%
Term: 3 or 5 years

Upstart is an innovative peer-to-peer lending company that was founded by three ex-Google employees. In addition to being a P2P lending platform, they’ve also created intuitive software for banks and financial institutions.

What’s unique about Upstart is the way they determine risk. Where most creditors will look at a lender’s FICO score, Upstart has created a system that uses AI/ML (artificial intelligence/machine learning) to assess the risk of a borrower. This has led to significantly lower loss rates than some of its peer companies. Combine that with an excellent TrustPilot rating, and this company is certainly making waves in the P2P marketplace.

Borrowing with Upstart

Borrowers can get loans from $1,000 up to $50,000 with rates as low as 5.6%. Terms are either three or five years, but there’s no prepayment penalty.

Using their AI/ML technology, Upstart looks at not only your FICO score and years of credit history, but also factors in your education, area of study, and job history before determining your creditworthiness. Their site claims that their borrowers save an estimated 43% compared to other credit card rates.

Investing with Upstart

Investing with Upstart is also pretty intuitive. Unlike other P2P platforms, you can set up a self-directed IRA using the investments from peer-to-peer lending. This is a unique feature that many investors should be attracted to.

Like other platforms, you can set up automated investing by choosing a specific strategy and automatically depositing funds.

Upstart claims to have tripled their growth in the last three years due heavily to their proprietary underwriting model, so it might be worth a shot to consider this option.

Learn more about Upstart or read our Upstart review.

SoLo Funds: Best for a payday loan alternative

APR: 0% (tipping optional)
Term: Up to 35 days

SoLo Funds is a peer-to-peer platform that functions as a short-term lender, similar to payday loans. With term lengths only lasting for up to 35 days, loans must be paid back in a narrow timeframe. But instead of charging fees, borrowers can leave an optional tip instead.

SoLo Funds is an affordable option for clients who are in a pinch and need an advance on payday, but there are hefty fees if loans are not paid back within 35 days. Users will need to pay a 10% penalty plus a third-party transaction fee if late.

Borrowing with SoLo Funds

Borrowers can take out loans up to $575 for a maximum of 35 days. Loans do not charge fees, but allow borrowers to select an optional tip amount to lenders.

Loan applications only take a few minutes, and while most loans post within a few days, some may be instantly approved, offering same-day funding with money transferred to borrowers within a few hours.

Loans must be paid back in full within 35 days, or there is a 10% penalty plus other transaction fees. There is no option to roll the loan over.

Investing with SoLo Funds

Lending is fairly straightforward, with a simple sign-up process and no pre-qualifications needed. Since the loans are smaller amounts (up to $575), there are no minimums required for lending.

SoLo Funds has a marketplace of loan requests from borrowers, with details specified on each. Each loan request shows the amount needed plus the tip given by the borrower for the loan. Each borrower also has a SoLo Score, on a scale from 40 to 99, with higher scores showing more “worthiness” for paying back a loan. Loans can go into default, and if needed, to collections through a third party. There is a risk of total loss with SoLo Funds investing, though the platform does offer insurance against loss for a fee.

Learn more about SoLo Funds.

FundingCircle: Best for small businesses

Best Peer-To-Peer Lending Sites For Borrowers And Investors REWRITE - FundingCircle

APR: 11.29% to 30.12%
Term: 6 months to 7 years

FundingCircle is a small business peer-to-peer platform. The company was founded with the goal of helping small business owners reach their dreams by providing them the funds necessary to grow.

So far, they’ve helped 130,000 small businesses across the world through investment funds by 71,000 investors across the globe. FundingCircle is different in that it focuses on more substantial dollar amounts for companies that are ready for massive growth. They also have an excellent TrustPilot rating.

Borrowing with FundingCircle

As a borrower, the minimum loan is $25,000 and can go all the way up to $500,000. Rates come as low as 5.99%, and terms can be anywhere from six months to seven years. There are no prepayment penalties, and you can use the funds however you deem necessary — as long as they are for your business.

You will pay an origination fee, but unlike other small business loans, funding is much quicker (you can be fully funded as quickly as 1 business day).

Investing with FundingCircle

As an investor, you’ll need to shell out a minimum of $25,000. If that didn’t knock you out of the race, then read on.

According to FundingCircle, you’ll “Invest in American small businesses (not start-ups) that have established operating history, cash flow, and a strategic plan for growth.” While the risk is still there, you’re funding established businesses looking for extra growth.

You can manage your investments and pick individual loans or set up an automated strategy, similar to Betterment, where you’ll set your investment criteria and get a portfolio designed for you.

Learn more about FundingCircle.

Kiva: Best for first-time borrowers

Best Peer-To-Peer Lending Sites For Borrowers And Investors REWRITE - Kiva

APR: 0%
Term: Up to 3 years

If you want to do some good in the world, you’ll find an entirely different experience in P2P with Kiva. Kiva is a San Francisco-based non-profit that helps people across the world fund their businesses at no interest. They were founded in 2005 with a “mission to connect people through lending to alleviate poverty.”

Borrowing with Kiva

If you’d like to borrow money to grow your business, you can get up to $15,000 with no interest. That’s right, no interest. After making an application and getting pre-qualified, you’ll have the option to invite friends and family to lend to you.

During that same time, you can take your loan public by making your loan visible to over 1.6 million people across the world. Like Kickstarter, you’ll tell a story about yourself and your business, and why you need the money. People can then contribute to your cause until your loan is 100% funded. After that, you can use the funds for business purposes and work on repaying your loan with terms up to three years.

Investing with Kiva

As a lender, you can choose to lend money to people in a variety of categories, including loans for single parents, people in conflict zones, or businesses that focus on food or health. Kiva has various filters set up so you can narrow down exactly the type of person and business you want to lend your money to. You can lend as little as $25, and remember, you won’t get anything but satisfaction in return — there’s no interest.

You can pick from a variety of loans and add them to your “basket,” then check out with one simple process. You’ll then receive payments over time, based on the repayment schedule chosen by the borrower and their ability to repay. The money will go right back into your Kiva account so you can use it again or withdraw it. There are risks to lending, of course, but Kiva claims to have a 96% repayment rate for their loans. Just remember, you’re not doing this as an investment, you’re doing it to help out another person.

Learn more about Kiva.

What is peer-to-peer lending?

As the name suggests, peer-to-peer lending involves private individuals making loans to other individuals. The system runs contrary to the traditional model of banks and credit unions providing financial services because it cuts out the middleman.

While peer-to-peer lending had a surge in users over the past decade, in the past few years, some P2P lending companies have shuttered their services, including StreetShares, Peerform, and LendingClub.

How does peer-to-peer lending work?

Peer-to-peer lending shares many similarities with traditional lending:

You fill out an application with your financial and personal information, including the loan’s size, tax returns, and government-issued identification.
The lender will review your application before posting it on the site for investors.
Investors get to play the part of a loan officer, reviewing a list of applications and deciding where they might want to contribute.
The platform will indicate how risky the loan is and the potential return on investment.
Funding takes anywhere from one day up to two weeks.

Is peer-to-peer lending safe?

No one would say that peer-to-peer lending is 100% safe. No form of investing is. Many of the best peer-to-peer lending sites vet borrowers and investors to mitigate risk. The review process helps eliminate untrustworthy candidates, so borrowers can receive their loan and investors can earn interest.

Read more: Should you invest in peer-to-peer loans?

Pros & cons of P2P lending for investors

Pros

An attractive alternative to more traditional investments — You can round out your portfolio that might exclusively include stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Some platforms merge private and public equities, so you can make all your investments in one place.
Most lending platforms let you select multiple loans at once — The variation enables you to reduce your risk exposure while potentially earning higher yields than a CD or savings account.
Feel good about your contribution — With sites like Kiva, you know that your money is going toward a humanitarian purpose.

Cons

Risk of default — When you lend money to individuals, you risk them defaulting. Peer-to-peer lending sites don’t come with FDIC insurance like a CD or savings account.
P2P loans lack the liquidity of stocks or bonds — Most loans are for three to five years, so you would have to wait until then to withdraw money.
Inequality — Some platforms, such as Funding Circle, only give access to accredited investors, so not everyone has equal access to lending opportunities.

Pros & cons of P2P lending for borrowers

Pros

You can circumvent the traditional bureaucracy of brick-and-mortar banks — Instead of waiting in line and negotiating with a loan officer, you have access to a fast, online experience. Because online platforms don’t have to worry about physical overhead, many can give borrowers competitive interest rates.
P2P loans typically aren’t as strict as banks or credit unions — The lax approach makes it easier to secure a loan if you have fair or poor credit history.
Often no prepayment penalties — You don’t have to worry about prepayment penalties in many cases.

Cons

Borrowers face more hurdles if they have a low credit score — Interest rates can go as high as 36% for those with lower scores, while some platforms don’t offer financial services to anyone with a credit score below 630.
Possibly high fees — Some sites have origination fees of 6%.
Impersonal — If you want the old-fashioned face-to-face borrowing experience, peer-to-peer lending isn’t for you. You don’t have a chance to sit down with your lender and hash out terms.
Loan caps around $50,000 — If you need more money, you’ll likely have to go to a bank or credit union.

Summary

Peer-to-peer lending is a great option for borrowers with less-than-stellar credit who want access to capital with reasonable terms and rates. P2P lending is ideal for small businesses and individuals who are looking for a personal loan that does not require mountains of paperwork, and that is funded quickly (usually within a few days).

But not all P2P lending platforms operate the same, and some can charge high origination fees and interest rates. Others require high minimum loan amounts to borrow as well, making them less accessible to some borrowers.

Investors can earn decent returns with P2P lending, but there is also the risk of default and the mess of going through collections agencies occasionally. Finding a solid platform with detailed risk mitigation strategies (such as borrower scores), and insurance against default can help alleviate these concerns, but it may eat into your profits.

While peer-to-peer lending is not seeing the massive growth of a few years ago, it is still a solid option for borrowers and investors alike.

Apache is functioning normally

June 7, 2023 by Brett Tams

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There are several businesses near me that either only take cash or highly encourage the use of cash via heavy discounts. One of them even takes pesos if that’s all you’ve got, but they prefer you don’t use credit cards. And it’s all about avoiding interchange fees.

That’s because every time you swipe, tap, or dip, the merchant has to pay for the privilege of accepting plastic payment methods. And that can add up fast for small businesses already operating on razor-thin margins.

Even if businesses take debit and credit card payments, those interchange fees impact your shopping experience long before you check out in the form of higher prices. That’s why it’s important to understand interchange fees and how they impact the businesses you frequent.

What Are Interchange Fees?

Interchange fees are the fees card networks like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express charge for processing and settling payment transactions. These (usually) invisible costs help compensate the various parties involved in the payment card ecosystem.

Card issuers like banks and credit unions collect these fees from the merchants who accept the card as a form of payment. They help facilitate the smooth transfer of funds between the merchant’s bank (the acquiring bank) and the bank that issued the payment card.

Interchange fees may seem like an additional burden, but they help keep the payment card system functioning smoothly. For example, the card networks and issuers use the revenue to cover the costs of maintaining the payment infrastructure, ensuring fraud-prevention measures, and providing customer support services.

How Interchange Fees Work

When it comes to interchange fees, there are a lot of moving parts and hands in the pot — which is only a mixed metaphor if you don’t consider how modern manufacturing works. Fortunately, they’re fairly straightforward to understand.

Structure & Calculation of Interchange Fees

Interchange fees aren’t arbitrary. Payment technology companies like Visa and Mastercard determine them through a structured process that takes various factors into account, such as:

Transaction type. Online purchases, in-store payments, or international transactions may have varying fee structures. For example, you might pay a foreign transaction fee if you use your card overseas.
Card type. Whether it’s a credit card, debit card, or rewards card can impact the interchange fee applied to a transaction. For instance, debit cards tend to have lower transaction fees than credit cards.
Merchant category. The industry or sector in which the business operates is also a consideration. For example, transactions made at a grocery store might have different interchange fees compared to those at a gas station or a restaurant.

Regardless of the factors involved, the calculation methods typically involve a percentage of the transaction amount, a flat fee, or a combination of both.

The specific calculations depend on the card network and region. Card networks like Visa and Mastercard have intricate fee schedules that consider multiple factors to arrive at the appropriate interchange fee for each transaction. They update these schedules regularly.

Participants in the Interchange Fee Ecosystem

To understand interchange fees fully, you must take a closer look at the key stakeholders. These participants play crucial roles in determining and collecting interchange fees.

Card issuers: Financial institutions like banks and credit unions issue payment cards, including credit, debit, or prepaid cards. They collect interchange fees from merchants on behalf of the payment networks they partner with.
Payment networks: Payment networks like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover act as intermediaries between merchants, card issuers, and acquiring banks (merchants’ banks). They facilitate transaction authorization, clearing, and settlement and establish fee rules and structures.
Merchants: Merchants are physical stores, online retailers, or service providers that accept payment cards. They have agreements with (acquiring) banks to process their card transactions and pay interchange fees to card issuers through those banks.

How Interchange Fees Impact Consumers

Interchange fees are as important to consumers as they are invisible. That’s perhaps a bit strange in a country where retailers calculate tax at the register and have a line on the receipt for it (it’s included in the tag’s sale price in other countries). And it impacts everything from the cost of your rewards card to the cost of the products you buy.

Funds Secure & Ever-Larger Payment Card Systems

Payment networks invest some interchange revenue in the technological infrastructure needed for seamless transactions, including secure processing, fraud-prevention, and data security. Those are vital to consumers’ trust in the network and the merchants who use them.

The fees also provide crucial revenue that helps cover the costs associated with expanding, ensuring more options available to Americans nationwide (and potentially abroad).

Increases Prices

Interchange fees can impact the prices consumers pay, even if they don’t use payment cards for their transactions.

To offset these fees, merchants factor them into their pricing strategies. That means that even if a consumer pays with cash or another non-card method, they still usually pay slightly higher prices for goods and services.

By incorporating interchange fees into their overall cost structure, merchants distribute the expenses across all customers, regardless of their payment method. That helps ensure the business can cover the fees without cutting into their desired profit margins.

The extent of the price adjustment varies across businesses and industries. Small businesses with tighter profit margins may feel the impact of interchange fees more significantly and may adjust prices accordingly. Larger businesses with higher transaction volumes have more flexibility to absorb these fees without significant price adjustments.

Limit or Discourage Card Payments

A relatively small number of merchants and service providers have taken to charging the interchange fees directly to the customers who use plastic payment methods as a way to disincentivize them. For example, my local government services, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles, charge you for swiping.

Still others positively reward customers who pay in cash. I buy all my appliances from local secondhand appliance places, and they give you a discount that amounts to at least free delivery for paying in cash. And there used to be a pizza place near me that would even accept Mexican currency to avoid having a customer tap or dip.

Some are even more forceful about it. The only plastic their employees will touch are bags — maybe utensils. A restaurant down the street, also a pizza place, only started taking credit or debit cards during the pandemic. And they’re not alone.

This type of avoidance keeps their prices in check, but it could also limit their foot traffic or growth to those willing to carry or go get cash. Government services can pull it off because they’ve cornered the market. Small-business owners are often compelled to comply or risk losing their livelihood.

Funding Rewards Programs

Controversially, interchange fees play a role in supporting cardholder benefits, such as rewards programs. Card issuers use them to fund incentives like cash-back rewards, travel miles, loyalty points, and exclusive discounts at partner merchants.

To some, these benefits enhance the overall cardholder experience and incentivize card usage. They may have several cards in their wallets for various purposes, including cash-back credit cards, travel credit cards, and gas rewards cards.

To others, they’re at best an expensive nuisance. You spend your own time and money trying to earn rewards you already paid for via higher prices due to interchange fees that would be lower if there were no rewards cards.

Still others think they’re part of an overall trend of reallocating money from the have-nots to the haves. People with lower incomes often can’t afford rewards cards’ steep yearly fees if they even qualify in the first place. But nonetheless, they pay extra for products — even those they pay cash for — thanks to interchange fees. Yet they reap no rewards.

Interchange Fee Impacts on Small Business

Interchange fees can present significant challenges for merchants, especially small businesses, making it harder for them to compete effectively. These challenges ultimately become a problem for consumers too.

Creates a Financial Burden

Small businesses typically operate on thinner profit margins compared to larger enterprises. As such, interchange fees can significantly impact their bottom line, especially for businesses with high transaction volumes or lower average transaction values.

They can make it more challenging for them to allocate resources to other essential areas of business growth.

Increases Pricing Pressure

To offset the interchange fees, small businesses must adjust their pricing strategies. That can result in slightly higher prices for their goods and services compared to cash-only businesses and larger competitors who can spread the costs over a higher volume of transactions — and may even pay lower fees because of that volume.

Higher prices can potentially deter cost-conscious consumers and make it more challenging for small businesses to compete. This pricing pressure can affect customer acquisition and retention for small enterprises.

Limit Negotiating Power

Large merchants and national chains may have more leverage due to their higher transaction volumes, allowing them to negotiate more favorable terms.

In contrast, small businesses may face less favorable fee structures or have fewer options to negotiate better rates. That puts them at a disadvantage in terms of managing their interchange fee expenses.

Requires Technological Investment

Implementing payment card acceptance infrastructure and staying updated with evolving technologies can be costly for small businesses. They must invest in point-of-sale systems, security measures, and training to ensure smooth card transactions.

Interchange fees further strain their financial resources, making it challenging for them to invest in the latest technology and stay competitive with larger, more financially equipped players in the market.

Causes Cash Preference

To avoid interchange fees altogether, some small businesses may prefer cash transactions or even incentivize cash payments.

This preference for cash can limit their customer base and pose challenges in an increasingly cashless society. It can create inconveniences for consumers who prefer or rely on card payments, potentially leading them to choose competitors that offer more flexible payment options.

Those secondhand appliance places I told you about can get away with it because their closest national competitors are big-box retailers like Lowe’s and Best Buy. Those charge about three times as much for brand-new appliances, often only a year model or two newer (for better or worse) and with only a slightly better warranty. People are willing to run to an ATM for savings like that.

A mom-and-pop stationary or hardware store doesn’t have the same luxury. Only a select few people who want exactly what they have and nothing else are going to bother with that.

Interchange Fee Regulation & Evolution

Just as interchange fees haven’t always existed, they won’t always be the same as they are now. Regulations and new technologies are bound to change them somehow — if payment network and banking policies don’t get there first.

Regulatory Efforts & Policies

Payment networks have implemented voluntary initiatives aimed at increasing transparency and competition. For example, some networks have adopted standardized fee disclosure practices, enabling merchants to have better visibility. These initiatives also promote fair competition by ensuring that all participants in the payment card ecosystem have access to essential information regarding fee structures and terms.

But industry efforts seem to have fallen short if Congressional action is anything to go by.

For instance, the Durbin Amendment to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, named for Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL), introduced regulations on debit card interchange fees for issuers with over $10 billion in assets, aiming to provide relief to merchants.

In 2022, Durbin was at it again, this time taking aim at credit cards. The Credit Card Competition Act, which he introduced with Republican co-sponsor from Kansas Sen. Roger Marshall, would set similar limitations on credit card interchange fees. The bill has yet to pass, but they plan to reintroduce it.

This is the bill everyone says would kill your credit card rewards. And maybe they’re right, though there are other revenue streams that can fund those — streams that come from bills only credit card users pay rather than costs everyone bears whether they pay with plastic or not.

And if you’d still rather not pay extra for goods and services just to get those rewards, you’d also be forgiven.

These regulatory actions, along with other measures implemented globally, demonstrate the ongoing efforts to address interchange fee practices and ensure fair and equitable outcomes for all participants in the payment card ecosystem.

Technological Advances & Future Trends

Technological advancements have significantly transformed the payment landscape, paving the way for new possibilities and potential changes in interchange fee structures.

Digital payments, including mobile wallets, contactless payments, and peer-to-peer payment platforms, have brought increased convenience. Interchange fee models have to adapt and may have to accept getting cut out altogether.
Alternative payment methods like cryptocurrency have taken a big hit lately. But they’re not down for the count. Blockchain is (probably) the future. These innovative payment methods operate outside traditional card networks and will almost certainly challenge the traditional interchange fee models, given that they already charge interchange-like fees to keep them operational.
Open banking initiatives enable the integration of various financial services and promote increased competition within the payment ecosystem. That could drive the exploration of alternative fee models tailored to specific transaction types, consumer segments, or payment scenarios.
Artificial intelligence offers new opportunities for personalized pricing and risk assessment. That could lead to the development of dynamic interchange fee structures that consider individual consumer behavior, transaction history, and risk factors, resulting in more tailored and optimized fee models.

As the payment landscape continues to evolve, interchange fees are likely to adapt to accommodate technological advancements and emerging trends. The future of interchange fees may involve greater flexibility, transparency, and customization, allowing for a more dynamic and efficient payment ecosystem.

Final Word

Whether you’re all for interchange fee limits or you want them to keep their filthy paws off your rewards program, one thing’s for certain: We could use more transparency around interchange fees in the United States.

By learning more, consumers gain valuable insights, allowing them to take practical steps to navigate their financial choices more effectively. At the very least, you know you might be able to get a better deal from small businesses on higher-dollar goods and services by offering to pay in cash.

Heather Barnett has been an editor and writer for over 20 years, with over a decade committed to the financial services industry. She joined the Money Crashers team in 2020, covering banking and credit content for banking- and credit-weary readers. In her off time, she enjoys baking, binge-watching crime dramas, and doting on her beloved pets.

Source: moneycrashers.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 7, 2023 by Brett Tams

While it’s hard to compare the current possible housing crisis to the very real one experienced about a decade ago, there are fears of negative market impact due to COVID-19.

We’ve already seen listing prices fall, along with a big jump in delistings, where home sellers pull their properties off the market.

And home purchase mortgage applications continue to plummet, especially in large metros like LA, NY, and Seattle, per the MBA.

purchase apps

Meanwhile, real estate brokerage Redfin revealed via an SEC filing that it was laying off 7% of its workforce, which could result in roughly 236 job losses.

Then we have Wells Fargo curtailing its mortgage menu, and ARMs pricing higher than fixed-rate mortgages.

The number of mortgages in forbearance has also surged 1000%, and is likely to get a lot worse the longer this goes on.

The real estate and mortgage industry certainly isn’t operating as usual, and it’s even reminiscent of times back in the early 2000s.

Temporary Inability to Pay the Mortgage?

The housing crisis a decade ago was driven by shoddy financing
Such as stated income, option ARMs, interest-only loans, and so on
This potential crisis is being driven mostly just by loss of income due to COVID-19
As long as it’s temporary it shouldn’t create too many problems for the housing market

This time around, the number one issue is inability to make mortgage payments due to loss of income or unemployment as a result of coronavirus.

Either companies have laid off staff due to a loss of business, or small business owners have taken a hit because they’ve had to close up shop.

Others might just be experiencing a temporary loss of income or a pay cut while companies navigate the uncertain waters ahead.

Whatever the situation, the problem seems to center around capacity to pay, as opposed to being overleveraged, or holding a home loan with some creative financing terms like interest only or an exploding ARM.

Homeowners could mostly afford their monthly mortgage payments before this unforeseen event took place, unlike the crisis that took place in the early 2000s.

Back then, borrowers took out mortgages they couldn’t afford, and serially refinanced them as their inflated home values grew.

Today, many homeowners have a sizable equity cushion, partially because cash out refinance volume has been very low, and also because home prices have risen a ton over the past decade.

This puts them in a much better position than those homeowners from 2006 who purchased a property with zero down financing and stated their income on the application.

That’s the good news. The bad news is many housing markets were already vulnerable before COVID-19 hit, and thus could see some an uptick in foreclosures if this plays out for a long period of time.

Almost Half of the 50 Most Vulnerable Counties Are in Florida and New Jersey

14 of the highest risk counties can be found in New Jersey
Several are also located in the NYC suburban area
Another 10 are in Florida, mostly in the central and north part of the state
Others are scattered along the Mideast coast

So where are the potential foreclosure hotspots, once any coronavirus-related moratoria disappear?

Well, a new “Special Coronavirus Market Impact Report” released by ATTOM Data Solutions found that half of the most vulnerable counties reside in Florida and New Jersey.

They rank market risk by looking at three main factors:

– Percentage of housing units receiving a foreclosure notice in Q4 2019
– Percentage of homes underwater (LTV 100 or greater) in Q4 2019
– Percentage of local wages required to pay for major homeownership expenses

As we know from the prior mortgage crisis, payment default was driven by homeowner equity to some degree, with underwater borrowers often throwing in the towel because they had nothing to lose.

This was further exacerbated if they didn’t have the money to make mortgage payments, or if they were simply overextended.

Finally, if a foreclosure notice was already received before the coronavirus pandemic took place, it’s clearly a bad sign for a situation that likely just got worse.

As for which counties are on alert, there are 14 in New Jersey, such as Camden and Ocean, along with five in the New York City suburban area: Bergen, Essex, Passaic, Middlesex, and Union counties.

And there are 10 counties in Florida, mostly in the northern and central portions of the state, including Clay, Flagler, Hernando, Lake, and Osceola counties.

Additional New York counties include Orange, Rensselaer, Rockland, and Ulster.

There are also a handful of counties in the top 50 in Delaware, Louisiana, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.

Only Seven Risky Housing Markets in the Midwest and West

The housing markets in the Midwest and West appear to be stronger overall
The only high-risk markets are in Illinois, mostly the Chicago metro
Along with Shasta County, CA, which is just south of Oregon
And Navajo County, AZ, in the northeast part of the state

Things appear to be a lot better in the Midwest and West, with just seven counties total landing in the top-50 most vulnerable list.

Every single Midwestern county can be found in Illinois, including Kane, Lake, McHenry, Tazewell, and Will.

Most are in the Chicago metropolitan area, a region that has never really seen massive amounts of home price appreciation since the crisis.

In terms of the West, only two counties made the top-50, including Shasta County, CA and Navajo County, AZ. Both aren’t major metros.

The report also revealed that counties where median home prices range from $160,000 to $300,000 account for 36 of the most vulnerable counties.

Meanwhile, counties with median home prices below $160,000 or above $300,000 made up just 14.

This is because those with median prices below $160,000 are among the most affordable, while those priced above $300,000 have some of the highest home equity amounts, and thus the lowest foreclosure rates.

The takeaway here is that most of the country looks pretty good overall with regard to housing market risk.

That could change depending on how long things play out, but there are plenty of mortgage relief programs available, including a 6-12 month forbearance via the CARES Act.

As long as this is somewhat temporary, and most homeowners get back to work, it should be a momentary blip.

Read more: How does mortgage forbearance work?

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 7, 2023 by Brett Tams

The Sunshine State is a great place to call home. Whether you’re an individual or small business owner, rest assured there are many banks available to help you meet your financial goals.

While some banks have brick-and-mortar locations in Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, and other parts of the state, others are online-only, meaning you’ll need to use an online portal or mobile banking app to manage your accounts.

15 Best Banks in Florida

We’ve done all the research and compiled this list of the best banks in Florida so you can make the most informed decision for your unique situation.

1. Huntington Bank

Huntington Bank has been around since 1866 and primarily services Southwest Florida. Its solo Florida branch can be found in Naples but you can bank from anywhere, thanks to a robust digital banking program.

Huntington’s checking accounts come with many benefits, such as 24-hour grace overdraft fee relief, platinum debit cards, mobile pay, and early pay. You can make deposits to them directly or through an ATM or mobile device.

If you’re looking for the ideal savings account, you may choose from several money market accounts, IRAs and other retirement accounts, and certificates of deposit. Huntington serves small business owners in Florida as well through business checking accounts, business credit cards, business loans, insurance products, and more.

2. Chime

Chime isn’t a traditional bank or credit union. However, it’s a mobile banking app you can take advantage of in Florida. It made its debut in 2013 and offers online banking services through Bancorp Bank, N.A. and Stride Bank.

With the Chime Checking account, you can enjoy early direct deposit, automated savings tools, free debit card replacement, and access to over 60,000 fee free ATMs across the county. If you opt for the Chime High-Yield Savings account, you’ll lock in a competitive interest rate and won’t have to pay monthly fees or meet a minimum balance requirement. Plus, there is no cap on how much interest you may earn.

3. Revolut

Revolut is another non-traditional banking opinion that serves Floridians from the U.K. With Revolut, you can access your paycheck up to two days early and won’t be charged fees for withdrawals at 55,000 ATMs across the nation.

If you consider yourself an avid traveler, you’re sure to appreciate its travel perks, such as currency exchange, overseas health insurance, delayed baggage and flight insurance, and the ability to make purchases in numerous currencies.

With the Smart Delay feature, you’ll get to hang out in airport lounges if your flight is delayed. Additionally, Revolut offers budgeting and analytics tools so you can keep your finances in check as well as cash back when you make purchases at select retailers.

4. Ally Bank

Ally Bank is an online bank with rates that are about 10 times the national average. Even though there are no Ally branches in Florida, it’s a solid pick if you’d like your money to grow quickly. Unlike most brick-and-mortar financial institutions in the Sunshine State, Ally doesn’t charge monthly fees or impose minimum balance requirements.

You can open an Ally account with any deposit amount. In addition to a savings account, you may take advantage of an interest bearing checking account and credit cards with rewards like cash back and travel points. We can’t forget Ally’s retirement and investment services, which include self-directed trading, robo portfolios, IRAs, stocks, commission-free ETFs, and even cryptocurrency.

5. Regions Bank

Regions Bank is a regional bank with more than 300 branches and 500 ATMs in Florida. If you’re an avid traveler, rest accrued the bank also has many locations in the Midwest, South, and Texas. Regions stands out from other, larger financial institutions for its checking account rewards program and LifeGreen Savings account, which is free of monthly maintenance fees and service fees.

In addition to the LifeGreen Savings account, you may opt for a Regions Savings account. This account offers a discount on a safe deposit box, a minor account for children under 18, and the Now Savings account, which is specifically for those with a Regions prepaid Visa card.

Furthermore, Regions offers CDs with terms that range from seven days and 72 months. Other perks include a robust mobile app and 24/7 customer service through an online secure messaging system.

6. Bank of America

Bank of America is a large bank with nearly 500 branches throughout the Sunshine State and no shortage of ATMs across the country. Thanks to its handy mobile app, you can cash checks, pay bills, and manage your accounts while you’re on the go. Speaking of accounts, there’s something for everyone at Bank of America.

The Bank of America Advantage Banking account is a checking account with three features: SafeBalance, Advantage Plus, and Advantage Relationship. With SafeBalance, which is ideal for students, you don’t have to worry about overdraft fees.

Advantage Plus offers several ways to waive monthly fees and Advantage Relationship rewards you with interest and other perks for higher balances. In addition, Bank of America boasts credit cards with generous sign on bonuses for new checking account customers, a variety of mortgages, and investment management services.

7. Chase Bank

Chase Bank is a part of JPMorgan Chase and has more than 400 branches in Florida. With Chase, you can expect a large ATM network of over 16,000 ATMs across the country and a number of online and mobile banking tools. If you decide to become a Chase customer, you’ll have access to two savings accounts: the Chase Savings account and the Chase Premier Savings account.

While Chase Savings comes with a low monthly fee, the Chase Premier Savings is a solid pick if you’re looking for a competitive interest rate on a large balance. When it comes to checking accounts, Chase offers several options, like the Chase Total Checking account and the Chase Sapphire Checking account with perks like attractive interest rates and no ATM fees.

Note that the Chase Sapphire Checking account is only available for Sapphire members with an average balance of $75,000 average balance.

8. Fifth Third Bank

Fifth Third Bank is a national bank that was recognized by J.D. Power for the great banking experience it provides in Florida. It has numerous branches in Bradenton, Lakeland, Apopka, Orlando, and other cities throughout the state.

You can open a checking or online savings account without having to worry about an opening deposit requirement and won’t be charged a monthly fee for any checking account.

If you do face a fee for a savings account, there are several ways to get it waived. Fifth Third also offers an extensive ATM network, which will give you access to more than 50,000 ATMs across the country.

Additionally, if you get paid via direct deposit in a Fifth Third account, you may access your paycheck up to two days early. For questions and concerns, you can reach out to Fifth Third’s customer service team 6-days a week.

9. TIAA Bank

TIAA Bank is the largest regional bank in the Sunshine State. You can find its financial centers in Jacksonville, Clearwater, Boca Raton, Coral Gables, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, and Fort Myers.

In addition to a personalized banking experience, this Florida bank provides a checking account featuring low fees and no transaction limits, a savings account with no monthly account fees and competitive rates, and three different types of CDs.

Plus, the bank is digitally savvy and provides online banking tools so you can keep tabs on your accounts, set a budget and savings goals, make transfers, pay bills, and send money with Zelle. If you’re interested in investing, TIAA Bank will give you the opportunity to invest in precious metals and foreign currencies.

10. Capital One

Capital One is a national bank that’s known for its flagship 360 Checking account. With a 360 Checking account, you can enjoy an attractive interest rate, access to more than 70,000 fee-free ATMs across the U.S., and 24/7 mobile banking.

You also won’t be on the hook for any monthly fees and Capital One will automatically decline any transitions that overdraw your balance for no extra charge.

Even though Capital One does not have any physical branches in Florida, you can apply for and manage your accounts online. Other benefits of Capital One include early paycheck, which can allow you to receive your incoming funds up to two days early, free financial coaching sessions, and a well-designed mobile app.

11. Raymond James Bank

Raymond James Bank is based in Florida. It’s an affiliate of Raymond James, which is a financial company with headquarters and one branch location in St. Petersburg. Through its Enhanced Savings Program, you’ll be able to earn interest on certain cash if you link your brokerage account to a high-yield Raymond James bank account.

You can also receive yields that are higher than traditional checking or savings accounts without bank fees or holding periods. Raymond James also offers a plethora of mortgage products, such as fixed rate and adjustable rate mortgages, interest-only mortgages, jumbo mortgages, pledged securities mortgages, construction mortgages, and home equity lines.

12. PNC Bank

PNC Bank is one of the largest traditional banks in the U.S. with nearly 200 branches in Florida. It offers the PNC Standard Savings account, a children’s savings account, and Virtual Wallet, which pairs a traditional checking and savings account. If you decide on the Virtual Wallet, you can enjoy a generous sign-up bonus and no fees.

When it comes to CDs, you can choose from a plethora of options including fixed rate CDs, ready access CDs, fixed rate IRA CDs, callable CDs, variable CDs, and stepped rate CDs. Additionally, the bank goes the extra mile with free budgeting tools and competitive interest rates for account holders that meet certain criteria. As an added bonus, PNC has a reputation for stellar customer service.

13. Discover Bank

Discover Bank is known for its credit cards. However, it’s an online bank with other banking products for Florida residents. Not only does Discover offer cash back on debit card purchases, it doesn’t charge monthly maintenance fees, insufficient funds fees, or overdraft fees.

While there are no branch locations in Florida, Discover has an intuitive mobile banking app and is part of a large ATM network of more than 60,000 fee free ATMs. In addition to checking accounts and savings accounts, you can turn to Discover for credit cards with various rewards and loans, like personal loans, student loans, home equity loans, and mortgage refinancing.

14. Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo is a major financial institution with more than 600 branches and thousands of ATMs throughout Florida. At Wells, you’ll find a full suite of banking products and services, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), credit cards, personal loans, and home loans.

You can choose from a basic, no-frills free checking account or opt for an interest checking account or a checking account for a teen or young adult. There are also a few saving account options, like a goal-based savings account and a high-interest savings account.

While you can visit a local branch if you prefer an in-person banking experience, you may also take advantage of online and mobile banking. In addition, Wells offers other conveniences like Zelle money transfers and online bill pay.

15. My eBanc

My eBanc is an online savings bank that serves customers in Florida and other parts of the U.S. It’s part of Banco Bradesco, a large bank in Latin America, which is an FDIC insured institution chartered in Florida. As a My eBanc customer, you’ll have access to several products that can help you save money and achieve various financial goals.

The SuperSaver Money Market account requires a $5,000 minimum deposit but offers perks such as a competitive interest rate, unlimited deposits, money management tools, and mobile check deposit. Other popular accounts you might consider include the eRelationship Savings account and Advantage Checking account. My eBanc also offers online time deposits with terms between 6 months and 36 months.

Types of Banks in Florida

The ideal bank depends on your particular banking preferences. In the Sunshine State, most banks are either national banks, regional banks, community banks, or online banks. Let’s take a closer look at how each banking option works.

National Banks

National banks are common in larger cities throughout Florida. If you’re looking for a wide range of banking products, you’re sure to find them at national banks, such as Wells Fargo, PNC Bank, and Wells Fargo.

Regional Banks

Regional banks have branches in certain regions of the U.S. In most cases, these banks are mid sized and offer a good mix of personal banking and business banking products. A few examples of regional banks in Florida include Regions Bank and TIAA Bank.

Community Banks

Community banks serve customers in specific geographic areas. Also known as local banks, community banks are similar to credit unions in that they focus on personal customer service and community outreach. Community Bank of the South and Mainstreet Community Bank of Florida are two community banks in Florida.

Online Banks

Online banks don’t have physical locations in Florida but serve individuals and businesses with online banking services. Since they have less overhead costs than banks with brick-and-mortar locations, online banks tend to offer more competitive interest rates and minimal to no fees.

Bottom Line

If you live or work in Florida, there are many reputable banking options available to you. As you explore various banks and credit unions, consider their accounts and services, fees, interest rates, customer service, and perks. Good luck in your search for the best bank in Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the largest banks in Florida?

The largest banks in the Sunshine State include Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Fifth Third Bank. These banks have many branches throughout the state.

Should I choose an online bank?

If you’re comfortable with the internet or mobile apps, online banking from a place like Ally Bank and CIT Bank can be a smart choice. This is particularly if you can find the products you need with competitive interest rates and low fees.

What is the best bank for in person service?

Florida offers many great options if you prefer an in-person banking experience. You might want to consider Regions Bank, TIAA Bank, or Raymond James Bank.

How do I open a bank account in Florida?

Most banks allow you to open a deposit account online, from the comfort of your own home or office. Be prepared to make a minimum opening deposit and provide basic personal information, like your name and Social Security number.

Do Florida banks charge fees?

In most cases, larger brick and mortar banks require customers to pay fees like monthly service fees, wire transfer fees, overdraft fees, excessive withdrawal fees, ATM fees, and late payment fees. You might be able to get them waived, depending on the bank and the type of account you open.

What is the best local bank in Florida?

There are many local banks in the Sunshine State that each come with their own benefits and drawbacks. Several options you might want to explore include Florida Shores Bank, Seaside Bank and Trust, and One Florida Bank.

What is the difference between a bank and a credit union?

Anyone can become a customer at a bank. If you want to take advantage of the products and services at a credit union, you’ll need to meet certain criteria and join it.

Source: crediful.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 7, 2023 by Brett Tams

If you owe federal income tax and can’t pay in full, the IRS Fresh Start program can help you get caught up. Fresh Start was established by the federal government in 2011 to offer some relief to taxpayers and curb predatory practices by the IRS. Under the Fresh Start Initiative, eligible taxpayers can enroll in a payment plan to clear their tax debt or negotiate an agreement to pay less than what’s owed. Either one could help you get back on track financially if you have an outstanding tax bill. You can also talk to a financial advisor about how to manage your tax liability going forward.

Understanding IRS Fresh Start

The IRS Fresh Start program or Fresh Start initiative was established in 2011 to help eligible taxpayers manage past-due tax debts. The program is designed to aid people who don’t have a prior history of unpaid taxes and aren’t subject to a federal tax lien.

Fresh Start offers help in one of four ways:

Payment plans
Offers in compromise
Currently not collectible status
Penalty abatements

The main goal of the Fresh Start program is to help individuals and business owners resolve their federal tax debt, without being unfairly penalized by the IRS. That includes allowing taxpayers who might otherwise be subject to a tax lien to avoid that scenario.

IRS Fresh Start Tax Relief Options

As mentioned, there are four avenues taxpayers can use to get tax relief through the Fresh Start initiative. Each one is designed to meet a different type of need.

If you’re interested in seeking tax relief through Fresh Start, here’s how the options compare.

Payment plans: The IRS offers short- and long-term payment plans, also referred to as installment agreements, to eligible taxpayers. Short-term plans must be paid in full within 180 days while long-term plans may allow you up to 84 months to repay tax debt, depending on how much you owe.
Offer in compromise: An offer in compromise allows you to repay tax debt for less than what you owe. You must be able to prove a financial hardship that prevents you from paying what you owe in full. If approved, you’d need to be able to pay the IRS an agreed-upon amount to settle your tax debt in a series of periodic payments.
Currently not collectible status: Currently not collectible status allows you to claim financial hardship and temporarily pause your obligations to repay your tax debt. While your account is marked as currently not collectible, the IRS cannot take any collection actions against you and must halt any levies, including bank account levies and tax refund offsets.
Penalty abatement: When you fail to pay taxes on time, penalties and interest can accrue. Penalty abatement allows you to get some relief from penalties if you owe a significant amount of tax debt.

Who Qualifies for IRS Fresh Start Relief?

Generally speaking, you may qualify for help through the Fresh Start program if you:

Owe federal income tax
Don’t have a history of unpaid taxes
Are not yet subject to a federal tax lien
Cannot pay your tax bill in full

If you’re specifically interested in a payment plan, your ability to qualify can depend on how much you owe. You may qualify to apply online for a long-term payment plan if you owe $50,000 or less in combined tax, penalties and interest, or for a short-term plan if you owe $100,000 or less. Business owners can apply online for a long-term payment plan if they’ve filed their tax return and owe $25,000 or less in combined tax, penalties and interest.

The IRS approves Offers in Compromise on a case-by-case basis. To apply, you’ll need to have filed all required tax returns and made the required estimated payments. You can’t be in a bankruptcy proceeding and you must have filed a valid tax extension. Approval is based on your:

Ability to pay
Income
Expenses
Asset equity

The IRS encourages taxpayers to explore payment plan options before applying for an Offer in Compromise.

You’ll need to contact the IRS to apply for currently not collectible status if you’re experiencing a significant financial hardship. The IRS may ask you to file any past-due tax returns if you haven’t done so and you’ll likely need to provide documentation proving your hardship situation. Late payment penalties and interest will continue to accrue on your account.

If you receive an IRS notice for back taxes, the notice may include instructions on how to apply for penalty abatement. You’ll need to call the IRS and provide some information to the IRS about your taxes and financial situation. You can also submit Form 843, Claim for Refund and Request for Abatement if you’re not able to call.

IRS Fresh Start Advantages and Disadvantages

The Fresh Start program is designed to offer some benefits to people who are dealing with unpaid tax debt. Specifically, this program can help you to avoid:

IRS levies
Federal tax liens
Wage garnishments
Criminal penalties

Once you qualify for Fresh Start relief through a payment plan or Offer in Compromise, you’re automatically sheltered from those types of outcomes since you’re making an effort to resolve your debt with the IRS.

Claiming currently not collectible status can also create some breathing room financially if you’re experiencing an extreme hardship that leaves you unable to pay what you owe. Penalty abatement, meanwhile, can reduce some of what you owe in penalties to the IRS.

Fresh Start is not a perfect solution, however. If you enroll in a payment plan, then penalties and interest will continue to accrue until the balance is paid in full. So, the total paid can exceed more than your actual tax balance due.

If you’re interested in an Offer in Compromise, it’s also important to keep in mind that getting approved can be challenging. The IRS wants to collect as much of your unpaid tax debt as possible. If you’re unable to provide sufficient proof of a hardship that keeps you from paying in full, you may be denied. In that case, you’d have to reconsider a short- or long-term payment plan.

The Bottom Line

IRS Fresh Start can help you get out of a tax debt hole if you owe money to the federal government. If you also owe state income tax, you’d need to reach out to your state tax authority to discuss repayment options. The most important thing to remember if you owe taxes is that some action is better than none since your obligation to pay won’t go away.

Tax Planning Tips

Staying on top of your tax situation can help you avoid being hit with a surprise bill when it’s time to file your return. Talking to a financial advisor about how to minimize your tax liability can ensure that you’re paying enough to stay in favor with the IRS, without paying more than you need to. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
The simplest way to avoid IRS tax penalties and interest is to pay what you owe by the filing deadline. If you don’t have cash readily available to pay, you might consider getting a personal loan to pay instead.

Photo credit: ©iStock.com/dragana991, ©iStock.com/bojanstory, ©iStock.com/FatCamera

Rebecca Lake, CEPF®
Rebecca Lake is a retirement, investing and estate planning expert who has been writing about personal finance for a decade. Her expertise in the finance niche also extends to home buying, credit cards, banking and small business. She’s worked directly with several major financial and insurance brands, including Citibank, Discover and AIG and her writing has appeared online at U.S. News and World Report, CreditCards.com and Investopedia. Rebecca is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and she also attended Charleston Southern University as a graduate student. Originally from central Virginia, she now lives on the North Carolina coast along with her two children.

Source: smartasset.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

If you live or work in Delaware, it’s important to find the right bank for your unique goals. Fortunately, there are plenty of options at your disposal.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, affordable housing, and historical landmarks, the First State is home to many reputable banks that are member FDIC for your peace of mind and ideal for your personal or business finances.

13 Best Banks in Delaware

While some have local branches throughout the state, others are online only. To make your search for the ideal financial institution a bit easier, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you and listed the best banks in Delaware below.

1. The Bank of Delmarva

The Bank of Delmarva is a small community bank with branches in Ocean City, Salisbury, and Sussex County. Its lineup of personal banking accounts and services includes the best checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, CDs, and IRAs.

If you’re a small business owner, rest assured that it offers business loans, commercial products, and merchant services. Compared to other banks in the state, it offers low fees and competitive interest rates. Plus, it’s earned stellar reviews for its customer service. We can’t forget the intuitive mobile app you can use to manage your banking while you’re out and about.

2. Chime

Chime is a digital bank redefining traditional banking norms. With no physical branches, Chime stands out by providing a simple yet intuitive suite of financial products, all managed from their highly rated mobile app. The bank offers a fee-free¹ checking account, a savings account, and a secured credit card.

The checking account, with no minimum balance and no overdraft fees, is particularly impressive. Its standout feature, SpotMe⁵, allows qualifying users to overdraw by up to $200 without fees. Meanwhile, the savings account is made appealing with an automatic savings feature, making it simple to save without thinking.

Notably, Chime gives the benefit of receiving paychecks up to two days early² with direct deposit setup, a major plus for budgeting and financial planning. Its secured credit card is also a boon, helping users build credit over time through responsible usage and consistent payments.

3. TD Bank

TD Bank is a solid pick for a national bank with a handful of locations in the First State. With TD Bank, you can expect a plethora of products and services, no fees on international transactions, and a highly rated mobile banking app.

From personal and business checking accounts and savings accounts to personal loans, IRAs, and mortgages, TD Bank truly offers it all. If you open an account, you might qualify for a generous bonus. Also, if you’re a student or young adult, you won’t have to worry about monthly maintenance fees or service fees. You might also be able to waive these fees if you maintain a high balance in your accounts.

4. M&T Bank

M&T Bank has many locations in Delaware in cities like Wilmington and New Castle. Even if you don’t live in an area with a physical M&T location, you can enjoy digital banking and conveniences like Zelle transfers and mobile deposits. When it comes to checking accounts, M&T Bank offers four options.

The EZ Choice Checking is your best bet for a basic, free checking account while MyWay Banking is a checkless account that doesn’t charge overdraft fees. MyChoice Plus is an interest-bearing account, just like MyChoice Premium, which offers competitive rates on loans and other products.

In addition to these noteworthy checking accounts, you’re sure to appreciate M&T’s large ATM network and no monthly fees.

5. Artisans’ Bank

Artisans’ Bank has served Delaware since 1861. Today, it has 12 branch locations in the First State as well as two commercial lending offices. Artisans’ list of personal banking products includes checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, debit cards, and branded credit cards with cash back rewards.

The bank also serves small businesses in Delaware with small business banking products such as business bank accounts, business credit cards, and business loans. Even though Artisans’ is a local bank with a physical presence, it offers online banking services so you can manage your accounts online.

6. Capital One

Capital One is a large bank with a reputation for no minimum deposit requirements or monthly maintenance fees. While there are no Capital One branches in Delaware, the bank is worth considering if you prefer online banking. You can apply for and manage personal and business accounts online.

Speaking of accounts, its flagship account is the 360 Performance Savings that makes it a breeze to earn interest on your hard earned money. In addition to an impressive interest rate, there is no minimum balance required so you can open an account with any amount. Other perks there is a highly rated mobile app and free credit card monitoring.

7. Axos Bank

Axos Bank is a digital bank with competitive interest rates on checking and savings accounts, which are free of monthly fees and ATM fees. Even if you live in Delaware, you can perform your banking through Axos online or via the intuitive mobile app, which comes with mobile check deposits, fund transfers, and mobile bill pay.

The bank’s checking accounts offer rewards while the savings accounts stand out for their ATM cards. Speaking of ATMs, Axos Bank will reimburse you for ATM fees on many of its accounts. In addition to its personal banking products, Axos specializes in new mortgages, mortgage refinancing, HELOCs and home equity loans, car loans, personal loans, and managed investment portfolios.

8. Barclays Bank

Barclays Bank operates in Wilmington. It’s a global bank that serves all U.S. states with several banking products. Even though there is only one branch in Delaware, it offers an online portal and a highly rated mobile app so you can bank from anywhere.

As a customer, you’ll enjoy benefits like a high interest rate on high-yield savings accounts and CDs. If you do open a CD with Barclays, you’ll also reap the benefits of low withdrawal penalties. In addition, the bank’s customer service line is available seven days a week to answer any questions or concerns you might have.

9. Community Bank Delaware

Community Bank Delaware is exactly what it sounds like: a community bank based in Delaware. Since it’s locally owned and managed, it focuses on personalized customer service and community support.

At this bank, you’ll find checking accounts, personal savings accounts, time deposits, personal loans, personal credit cards, mortgages, and home equity loans. Community Bank also serves local small business owners with products to support their business operations, such as checking accounts, business savings accounts, business credit cards, and merchant services.

Additional banking solutions include online banking, wire transfers, cashiers checks, night depositary services, direct deposit, and safe deposit boxes.

10. PNC Bank

PNC Bank is a national bank with over 30 branches in cities such as Dover, Bear, Wilmington, and Newark. Its deposit accounts and other products are designed to meet all your banking needs. Virtual Wallet Spend is a combination checking and a long term savings account with a generous sign-up bonus and features like online bill pay, free mobile banking, and a debit card.

While there is a monthly maintenance fee, you can avoid this monthly fee if you maintain a direct deposit balance. PNC also offers loans, such as mortgages, home equity lines of credit, auto loans, personal loans, student loans, and refinancing products. With the PNC mobile app, you’ll be able to manage your accounts while you’re on the go.

11. Ally Bank

Ally Bank is an online bank with competitive rates on savings accounts, money market accounts, and CDs. Thanks to its low overhead costs, Ally doesn’t charge monthly maintenance fees or impose minimum balance requirements.

You can access your money and make cash transactions at more than 43,000 ATMs through the Allpoint network, which Ally has joined. If you have certain savings goals, you’ll love Ally’s “buckets” feature. With the buckets, you’ll be able to organize your funds and receive personalized recommendations that allow you to save.

12. Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo is one of the largest banks in the U.S. with no shortage of physical branches and ATMs throughout Delaware so you can easily deposit cash. Just like most large banks, Wells Fargo offers a full suite of banking products, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, home loans, personal loans, and auto loans.

Investment and retirement accounts as well as wealth management services are available too. You can invest on your own or take advantage of a financial advisor that will help you come with a personalized financial plan. Whether you’re an individual or a small business owner, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for at Wells. If you open an account, you may be eligible for a cash sign on bonus.

13. WSFS Bank

WSFS Bank is a regional bank and a subsidiary of a financial services company called WSFS Financial Corporation. Based in Delaware and Greater Philadelphia, WSFS Bank is known as one of the oldest banks in the country.

It offers a wide range of personal banking services, like checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, loans, and wealth management. Its certificates of deposit (CDs) feature competitive interest rates you might not be able to find elsewhere and the WSFS Bank Philadelphia Union Visa® Debit Card comes with contactless pay and access to more than 670 ATMs in Delaware and Philadelphia.

At WSFS Bank, you can also take advantage of business banking services, like SVP management, cash management, and merchant services.

Delaware Banking Options

There are three main types of banks in Delaware, including national banks, community banks, and online banks. Here’s a brief overview of each one.

National Banks

National banks are large banks that can be seen throughout Delaware and other states. These banks typically offer a long list of products for individuals and business owners, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, retirement accounts, credit cards, and mortgages. Some examples include TD Bank, Wells Fargo, and PNC Bank.

Community Banks

Community banks are designed to serve local communities in Delaware. You’ll find that these banks prioritize personal customer service. Community Bank Delaware and the Bank of Delmarva are two community banks in the First State.

Online Banks

Online banks operate online and don’t have physical locations in Delaware. Since their overhead costs are lower than banks with brick-and-mortar branches, online banks usually provide lower fees and higher interest rates. Chime, Axos Bank, Ally, and UK-based Barclays Bank are great online banking options in Delaware.

Bottom Line

Delaware has plenty of banks and other financial institutions to help you meet your financial goals. Before you choose one, consider your priorities and weigh the pros and cons of all your options.

If you like an in-person banking experience, a community bank might make sense. On the flip side, if you prefer online and mobile banking, an online bank is likely the way to go. Good luck with your search for the best bank in Delaware.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Delaware banks keep my money safe?

Most banks insure your deposits up to 250,000 with the FDIC or Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Other services like fraud protection can also give you some peace of mind for your linked accounts.

What are the most popular banks in Delaware?

The banks with the most branches in Delaware include PNC Bank, M&T Bank, and WSFS Bank. If in-person banking is important to you, these banks should definitely be on your radar.

Can I open a bank account in Delaware as a non-resident?

Yes. In most cases, you can open an interest earning account or business savings account even if you don’t live in Delaware. You’ll likely need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.

1. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply with Chime except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.

2. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment ﬁle from the payer. Chime generally make these funds available on the day the payment ﬁle is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.

5. Chime SpotMe is an optional, no fee service that requires a single deposit of $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to the Chime Checking Account each at least once every 34 days. All qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their account up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially, but may be later eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on member’s Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. Your limit will be displayed to you within the Chime mobile app. You will receive notice of any changes to your limit. Your limit may change at any time, at Chime’s discretion. Although there are no overdraft fees, there may be out-of-network or third party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe won’t cover non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. See Terms and Conditions.

Source: crediful.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

Taxes are unavoidable but that doesn’t mean you have to pay more than you owe. What happens to your tax liability with proper financial planning? The simple answer is that it can allow you to minimize what you owe while preserving more of your income to fund your financial goals. Talking to a financial advisor is a good first step in creating a strategy for effectively managing tax liability.

Understanding Tax Liability

Tax liability refers to the money that an individual, business or organization owes to a federal, state or local tax authority. A simpler way to think of your tax liability is the difference between your taxable income and the tax deductions you’re able to claim.

As a general rule of thumb, earning a higher income can result in a higher tax liability. The U.S. uses a graduated tax system, which means that income and tax rates move together. As income increases, so does your tax rate.

The amount you pay in taxes is determined by your income, but capital gains can also affect your tax liability. That’s important to know if you’re focused on investing and building wealth, as higher net-worth individuals may face a steeper tax liability if they’re reaping capital gains from investments.

What Happens to Your Tax Liability With Proper Financial Planning?

Managing your tax liability is important as it can directly influence how much of your income or investment earnings you get to keep. The more income and assets you have to work with, the easier it becomes to build wealth.

Proper financial planning can help you implement strategies that are designed to minimize taxes while maximizing income and assets. Having a solid financial plan in place can generate significant tax savings year by year. You can then use those savings to generate additional income through investments, grow your retirement accounts and increase your net worth.

Does financial planning require you to work with a financial advisor? Not necessarily. You could always go it alone. But there are some distinct advantages to having a financial advisor help you formulate a plan for managing tax liability.

Financial advisors have extensive knowledge about how tax planning can affect your financial plan. A good advisor is also familiar with the tax code and the latest tax rules. Even if you think you have a relatively straightforward tax situation, a financial advisor may be able to pinpoint areas where you can improve tax efficiency that you might have missed.

Financial Planning Strategies for Minimizing Tax Liability

There are different ways to approach tax planning in order to reduce your tax bill, depending on the specifics of your situation. If you’re working with a financial advisor to create a tax plan, then it may include any or all of the following.

Retirement Planning

Retirement planning is a focal point of a solid financial plan, particularly with regard to taxes. Aside from ensuring that you have enough money to retire, it’s also important to consider how much of your savings you’ll be able to keep once you start making withdrawals.

In terms of how you plan for retirement, your financial advisor may suggest any of the following:

Maxing out annual contributions to a traditional 401(k) or to a Roth 401(k) if you have that option.
Contributing money to a traditional or Roth IRA each year.
Funding a Health Savings Account (HSA) if you have that option with a high deductible health plan.

If you’re self-employed or own a business, you might open a solo 401(k), SEP IRA or SIMPLE IRA to save for retirement instead. It’s important to understand the tax treatment of different retirement savings options.

For example, traditional 401(k) plans and traditional IRAs allow for tax-deductible contributions. Qualified distributions are taxed as ordinary income in retirement. Roth accounts don’t offer a tax deduction, but you can make withdrawals tax-free when you retire.

A Health Savings Account is not a retirement account, per se. It’s meant to be used to save money for medical expenses, but it can double as a source of retirement income since you can withdraw funds for any purpose after age 65 without a tax penalty. You’ll just owe regular income tax on withdrawals.

Investment Planning

Investment planning is related to retirement planning, but it can include different aspects of managing tax liability. For instance, say that you’re investing through a taxable brokerage account, which is subject to capital gains tax. Your financial advisor can offer different strategies for managing tax liability, which may include:

Holding investments longer than one year to take advantage of the more favorable long-term capital gains tax rate.
Choosing tax-efficient investments, such as exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which can trigger fewer turnover events than traditional mutual funds.
Harvesting tax losses to offset some or all of your capital gains for the year.

Your advisor may also be able to guide you on how to deduct expenses related to investment properties if you own one or more rental homes. They could also help with executing a 1031 exchange if you’re interested in swapping out one property for another to minimize capital gains tax.

Tax Deductions and Credits

Tax deductions reduce your taxable income, which can help to push you into a lower tax bracket for the year. There are numerous expenses you might be able to deduct, including:

Mortgage interest
State and local taxes
Charitable donations
Business expenses
Self-employment expenses
Medical expenses
Student loan interest

Tax credits, meanwhile, reduce what you owe in taxes on a dollar-for-dollar basis. For instance, if you owe $1,000 in taxes and qualify for a $1,000 tax credit, the credit can wipe out what you owe. Some credits are refundable which can increase the size of your tax refund for the year. A financial advisor can walk you through the various deductions and credits you might be eligible to take in order to reduce your tax liability.

Withdrawal Planning

As you approach retirement, it’s important to consider how you’ll withdraw the money that you’ve saved. Your advisor can discuss different strategies for withdrawing money from a 401(k), IRA or taxable brokerage account so that you’re not overpaying taxes or draining your retirement reserves too quickly.

Your advisor may also discuss ways to tax-friendly ways to create supplemental income in retirement, such as purchasing an annuity or taking out a reverse mortgage. An advisor can also help you figure out when to take Social Security benefits to maximize your payment amount and how to coordinate those benefits with other sources of income in retirement.

The Bottom Line

Knowing what happens to your tax liability with proper financial planning is important for creating a long-term strategy for growing wealth. Handing over more money than you need to in taxes doesn’t offer any tangible benefit and it can be problematic if it leaves you with less money to save and invest. Having a trusted financial advisor to work with can ensure that you’re meeting your tax obligations without shortchanging your goals.

Financial Planning Tips

Tax planning can seem complicated if you’re not well-versed in the Internal Revenue Code. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
Robo advisors can offer a more affordable way to manage financial planning, as the fees may be lower than what traditional advisors charge. However, it’s important to know what you’re getting for the money. For example, some robo-advisors offer tax loss harvesting but not all of them do. Additionally, robo-advisors aren’t really equipped to offer one on one advice about tax planning or investing. Those are good reasons to consider working with a human advisor instead, even if it means paying a slightly higher fee.

Photo credit: ©iStock.com/Wasan Tita, ©iStock.com/Extreme Media, ©iStock.com/Charday Penn

Rebecca Lake, CEPF®
Rebecca Lake is a retirement, investing and estate planning expert who has been writing about personal finance for a decade. Her expertise in the finance niche also extends to home buying, credit cards, banking and small business. She’s worked directly with several major financial and insurance brands, including Citibank, Discover and AIG and her writing has appeared online at U.S. News and World Report, CreditCards.com and Investopedia. Rebecca is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and she also attended Charleston Southern University as a graduate student. Originally from central Virginia, she now lives on the North Carolina coast along with her two children.

Source: smartasset.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

Last Updated: June 14, 2021 BY Michelle Schroeder-Gardner – 56 Comments

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

Currently, one of our main goals is to save for a down payment for our next house. Due to this, we have been wondering about how much exactly we should save.

With our first house we didn’t put down 20% and had to pay PMI (big mistake), so we will definitely put down at least 20% on our next house.

Also, we are self-employed and I have heard that most self-employed people have to put around 25% to 30% down (and sometimes even 35%!) because banks want to see more upfront from small business owners.

Now, that’s a lot of money!

This has got us thinking. While we are aiming for 30% or more, at what point should we stop saving for our down payment and ramp up our retirement savings instead? Yes, we are still saving for retirement, but should we be saving more?

In the personal finance world, the decision seems to be split. Some are all about paying off a mortgage quickly, whereas others don’t think that’s a good idea. There is no right or wrong answer, which makes the decision a little more difficult.

Of course, I do realize that this is a good situation to be in, so I am not complaining. However, how do you decide what is best for you?

Below are positives and negatives of paying off your mortgage early or even buying your house upfront with cash.

Related content: How can I pay off my 30 year mortgage in 10 years?

Positive – Your house will be paid off early!

Of course, this is the biggest positive.

Your house will be paid off, you will be able to free up some cash each month, and you won’t have to worry about paying for a roof over your head each month.

Not having that huge amount of debt hanging over your head would be a wonderful feeling. Life would probably be a little less stressful and you may feel more financially independent.

Negative – Your money may do better if it’s invested in a different way.

While paying off your mortgage early can feel great and be a big accomplishment, mortgage interest rates right now are low.

You may do better by investing your money in other ways and earning a higher return. This can mean investing in certain companies, paying off high interest rate debt, investing in passive income, and more.

Positive – You can earn a guaranteed return by paying off your mortgage early.

On the flip side, by paying off your mortgage early, you can earn a guaranteed return.

Other investments most likely will mean that a return is not guaranteed (unless we are talking about paying off other debt), whereas when paying off your mortgage early, you will be certain what your return is.

Negative – A lot of your money is in one place if you pay off your mortgage early.

This is one big reason why I’m not sure if paying off your mortgage early is a good idea. If you have other investments and are on track for retirement, then by all means go for paying off your mortgage early.

However, if you don’t have much saved, then having everything you own in one place may not be a good idea.

Also, since all of your money is tied up with your house, it might be hard to get money if you end up needing it. Having at least some liquid money is a good idea.

Positive – You don’t have to deal with the hassle of getting a mortgage if you pay in cash.

If you have enough cash, then you might be able to skip the whole process of getting a mortgage.

Skipping a mortgage can be a positive for many reasons. Sellers love cash buyers, as it makes the buying process easier on them since they don’t have to wait for a mortgage to go through. This means you may get a discount if you buy 100% in cash or your offer may be chosen over others.

Also, if you are self-employed, skipping the mortgage process can be a good thing. I’ve heard stories of self-employed people trying to get a mortgage and it sounds like it’s a very difficult thing to do.

Are you wanting to pay off your mortgage early? Why or why not?

Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

There’s plenty to love about the Land of 10,000 Lakes, from its professional sports teams to its polite residents. For the many people who live and work in Minnesota, though, a strong economy and reasonable cost of living make it a great place to live.

If you’re in the market for a bank account in Minnesota, you’ll have plenty of choices. From national banks with branches in Minnesota to local and community bank options, the state has a little of everything.

12 Best Banks in Minnesota

To help you find the right bank account to fit your needs, here are some of the best banks in Minnesota.

1. Associated Bank

Associated Bank is a regional bank with branches in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois. You’ll find branches throughout the region, but you’ll also have cash access while traveling at more than 30,000 MoneyPass ATMs nationwide. There are several checking account options, including a fee-free checking account with no minimum balance requirements.

Fees:

No monthly maintenance fees
$32 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

$25 opening deposit
No minimum balance requirements

ATMs:

Fee-free at Associated Bank ATMs
Fee-free at 30,000+ MoneyPass ATMs nationwide
$3 for each non-Associated Bank ATM transaction

Interest on balance:

Up to 2.50% APY on savings accounts
Up to 4.50% APY on CDs
Up to 1.25% APY on money market accounts

Additional perks:

$50 grace zone on overdrafts
Multiple debit card designs available

2. CIT Bank

CIT Bank provides online banking solutions to consumers and small business owners. Although CIT Bank has no ATMs, you’ll pay no ATM fees, no matter which ATM you use, and CIT Bank reimburses up to $30 of the fees you’ll pay other banks for using their ATMs.

The best thing about CIT’s checking account is that you’ll earn interest. Balances below $25,000 earn 0.10% APY, while balances of $25,000 and over earn 0.25% APY.

Fees:

No monthly maintenance fees
No overdraft fees

Balance requirements:

$100 minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance requirement

ATMs:

Up to $30 in waivable monthly fees for out-of-network ATMs

Interest on balance:

Additional perks:

Competitive rates on financing for small business owners
Competitive rates on no-penalty CDs

3. Wings Financial Credit Union

Credit unions are a great way to get perks and competitive rates, as long as you qualify for membership. Wings Financial Credit Union was originally founded to serve Northwest Airlines employees, but it has recently expanded to include those in certain states and counties.

Wings Financial is headquartered in the Apple Valley area, with branches throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. Currently, Wings Financial is offering a $300 bonus for opening a new checking account and setting up a recurring direct deposit of at least $600 a month. You’ll also need to make at least five debit card transactions of $25 or more.

Fees:

No monthly maintenance fees
$30 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

$5 nonrefundable donation required for credit union membership
No minimum balance requirement

ATMs:

Fee-free at Wings Financial ATMs
Fee-free at 80,000+ Co-Op, MoneyPass, and Allpoint ATMs nationwide

Interest on balance:

Up to 3.04% APY on checking accounts
Up to 1.56% APY on savings accounts
Up to 4.59% APY on CDs
Up to .25% APY on money market accounts

Additional perks:

$300 bonus for eligible new checking account
Competitive rates on mortgage, auto, and boat loans

4. GO2bank

Another online banking option is GO2bank, which offers a savings account with 4.50% APY, and a checking account with no fees, as long as you have at least one payroll or government benefits direct deposit each month.

Otherwise, you’ll pay $5 a month for checking. One feature that sets GO2bank apart, though, is its cash access. Not only can you withdraw cash at Allpoint ATMs nationwide, but you can also deposit cash at more than 90,000 retailers.

Fees:

$5 monthly maintenance fee (waived with requirements)
$15 overdraft fee (24-hour grace period)

Balance requirements:

No minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance required

ATMs:

Fee-free at Allpoint ATMs nationwide
$3 out-of-network ATM fee

Interest on balance:

4.50% APY on savings accounts

Additional perks:

5. Wells Fargo

Although Wells Fargo is a national bank, it’s only available in 37 states. This could be a problem if you travel outside those areas, as you’ll pay $2.50 for each out-of-network ATM withdrawal.

Wells Fargo offers a selection of checking and savings accounts, including a checking account that has no monthly fees if you can maintain a $500 balance or have at least $500 monthly in qualifying deposits. Currently, Wells Fargo is offering a $300 bonus for new checking accounts with at least $1,000 in qualifying direct deposits in the first 90 days.

Fees:

$10 monthly fee (waived with requirements)
$35 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

$25 minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance required

ATMs:

Fee-free at Wells Fargo ATMs nationwide
$2.50 out-of-network ATM fee

Interest on balance:

Up to 2.51% APY on savings accounts
Up to 4.51% APY on CDs

Additional perks:

$300 bonus on new checking accounts
Robust mobile banking services

6. Chime

Chime is an online banking solution that works best for those who rarely need to deposit cash. The mobile banking app comes with everything you need to pay bills, transfer funds, and monitor your checking account.

You’ll get fee-free ATM access at more than 60,000 partner ATMs nationwide. If you have electronic deposits each month, you’ll qualify for SpotMe, which covers you for up to $200 in overdrafts, as well as early access to your paycheck.

Fees:

No monthly maintenance fees
No overdraft fees

Balance requirements:

No minimum deposit to open
No minimum daily balance required

ATMs:

Fee-free at more than 60,000 ATMs nationwide
$2.50 out-of-network transaction fee

Interest on balance:

2.00% APY on savings account balances

Additional perks:

SpotMe covers up to $200 in overdrafts
Access to paycheck up to two days early

7. Home Federal Savings Bank

Those looking for a local bank should consider Home Federal Savings Bank, which has 14 branches and 2 loan production offices in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa. Home Federal has fee-free checking account options, but those who travel outside the service area may want to take a look at ATM fees.

The checking account comes with four free out-of-network transactions a month. After that, you’ll pay $2 for each withdrawal. In all instances, you’ll pay third-party ATM fees for each transaction.

Fees:

No monthly maintenance fees

Balance requirements:

$25 minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance required

ATMs:

Fee-free use at Home Federal ATMs
$2 per out-of-network ATM transaction (4 free per month)

Interest on balance:

Up to 2.02% APY on checking accounts

Additional perks:

$10 off your first box of checks
Robust business checking account options

8. Huntington Bank

Huntington Bank is another regional bank with branches in 11 states. You’ll get fee-free ATM access at more than 1,400 Huntington ATMs, as well as competitive rates on CDs and money market accounts.

If you receive at least 1,000 in deposits each month and keep a daily balance of $200, your checking account may qualify for Standby Cash. With Standby Cash, you’ll get interest-free access to a line of credit as long as you repay it with automatic payments within three months.

Fees:

No monthly fees
$15 overdraft fee (waived up to $50)

Balance requirements:

No minimum deposit to open
No minimum balance required

ATMs:

Fee-free at more than 1,700 ATMs within service area
$3.50 out-of-network ATM transaction fee

Interest on balance:

Up to .06% APY on savings accounts
Up to 5.13% APY on CDs
Up to 4.18% on money market accounts

Additional perks:

Standby Cash issues no-interest loan as needed
Early Pay gives you two days early access to your paychecks

9. MidWestOne Bank

MidWestOne Bank is a community bank with branches in Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Florida, and Colorado. You’ll find multiple checking accounts, including one free option with no minimum daily balance requirements. You’ll get fee-free access to cash while traveling at any MoneyPass or Presto! ATM.

Fees:

No monthly maintenance fees
$35 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

$100 minimum deposit to open
No minimum daily balance required

ATMs:

Fee-free at MidWestOne ATMs
Fee-free at MoneyPass and Presto! ATMs nationwide
$1 out-of-network transaction fee

Interest on balance:

Up to .10% APY on savings account balances
Up to 4.28% APY on CDs
Up to 4.25% APY on money market accounts

Additional perks:

Customized debit cards available
Competitive rates on personal loans and lines of credit

10. TruStone Financial Federal Credit Union

If you live, work, worship, volunteer, or go to school in a qualifying Minnesota or Wisconsin county, you’ll qualify for membership with TruStone Financial Federal Credit Union. You’ll get plenty of perks with your membership, including a debit card that earns you 1 point for every $5 you spend on purchases.

You’ll need a share savings account to qualify for a checking account with TruStone Financial, but new checking accounts currently earn a $150 bonus with qualifying activities.

Fees:

No monthly maintenance fees
$30 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

$25 minimum deposit to open
No minimum daily balance required

ATMs:

Fee-free at TruStone ATMs
Fee-free at 65,000+ ATMs nationwide
$2 out-of-network transaction fee (5 free per month)

Interest on balance:

.30% APY on savings account balances
Up to 4.75% APY on savings certificates
Up to 2.00% APY on money market accounts

Additional perks:

Rewards on debit card transactions
Up to $150 bonus on new checking accounts

11. BMO Harris Bank

BMO Harris offers banking services in Minnesota, as well as Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Arizona, Florida, and California. You’ll get all the features you need through the banking app, including mobile check deposit, online bill pay, and the ability to transfer funds back and forth from your savings account to your checking account.

Fees:

No monthly maintenance fees
$15 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

$25 minimum deposit to open
No minimum daily balance required

ATMs:

Fee-free at BMO Harris ATMs nationwide
Fee-free at 40,000+ ATMs nationwide
$3 out-of-network transaction fee

Interest on balance:

Up to 4.50% APY on savings account balances
Up to .25% APY on CDs

Additional perks:

Wealth management services available to account holders
View all accounts in one dashboard, including those with other banks

12. Bremer Bank

With a service area that includes Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin, Bremer Bank has one of the best customer service ratings of all the banks in Minnesota. Whether you’re looking for a personal or business checking account, Bremer Bank is worth considering.

The basic checking account is fee-free as long as you enroll in free online statements, maintain a $1,500 average balance, or are under age 21 or over age 64.

Fees:

$3 monthly service fee (waived with requirements)
$35 overdraft fee

Balance requirements:

$100 minimum deposit to open
No minimum daily balance required ($1,500 to waive service fee)

ATMs:

Fee-free at 37,000+ MoneyPass ATMs nationwide
$2.75 out-of-network transaction fee

Interest on balance:

Up to .30% APY on savings account balances
Up to 3.00% APY on CDs
Up to 3.30% APY on money market accounts

Additional perks:

First order of Bremer Bank checks is free
Agriculture and business checking account options available

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bank in Minnesota?

Minnesota banks have worked hard to keep up with the latest banking trends. In 2023, customers not only want great rates on savings accounts and plenty of checking account features, but they also want the convenience of managing their accounts using a mobile app.

While the in-person customer service you get with a local bank is valuable, it’s easy to do everything from your phone, so that feature might not be as important.

What is the most financially stable bank in the US?

Stability is an important feature in a bank. This is one area where a national bank will tend to be a better option than a local or regional bank. Wells Fargo is largely considered one of the most financially stable, with more than $1.8 trillion in assets. Traditional banks can tend to be more reliable in general than newer banks simply because they have a long history in the industry.

Do I need good credit to open a Minnesota bank account?

You don’t need good credit to open a savings or checking account. However, when you apply with a national, local, or regional bank, the bank will likely pull something called a ChexSystems report.

This will provide information on any deposit accounts you’ve held before. This includes any joint accounts that used your Social Security number. If you have a history of closed accounts, you may find that your application is denied.

Can I get a bank account if I don’t have a job?

Banks don’t typically factor employment into account approvals. You can even find a bank that will accept your application without any money. Look for a bank that requires no minimum opening deposit. In some cases, you may find you’ll pay monthly fees or that you won’t be eligible for some features without direct deposit.

Can an online-only bank meet all my banking needs?

Online banking has more financial products than ever. In many cases, you’ll be able to do all your banking using only the app. If you like to be able to visit a local branch, online banking might not suffice, but some banks provide live teller access through the app. Also, make sure your online bank offers cash deposit and withdrawal without charging massive fees.

Our Methodology

Although this list certainly doesn’t include all the checking and savings accounts available in Minnesota, it’s a great snapshot of what’s available. We strove to include a combination of online banks, local banks, regional banks, and national banks to help you see the pros and cons of each.

When looking at a bank, we considered a variety of factors. A bank may have no fees on checking accounts but offer few ATM cash withdrawal options, which may mean out-of-network fees each month. We also looked for banks that pay competitive rates on savings accounts or on high-yield checking accounts to help you make the most of your money.

The best banks in Minnesota can vary dramatically from one person to another. By narrowing down the types of financial products that matter most to you, you’ll be able to save money while also getting the features you need.

Source: crediful.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 6, 2023 by Brett Tams

By Peter Anderson 3 Comments – The content of this website often contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if you buy through those links (at no cost to you!). Learn more about how we make money. Last edited March 11, 2010.

If you’re a self employed person or are looking at taking the plunge and becoming an entrepreneur, one thing you have to consider is how you will save for retirement. Since you won’t have the option of a 401k, there are several other retirement account type options that you will want to think about using. Among them are:

SEP IRA
SIMPLE Plan
Solo 401(k)
Keogh Plan

Today I want to look at what many consider one of the better options for tax deferred investing for self employed individuals, the SEP IRA

What Is A SEP IRA?

First of all, let’s get the definitions out the the way. What does SEP IRA stand for? When I first started researching the topic I was reading lots of articles talking about how self employed individuals were taking advantage of the accounts, so I assumed it meant “Self Employed IRA”. After reading up on it a bit more I realized that my assumption was wrong. SEP IRA actually stands for Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Arrangement. It is basically an easy way for small businesses to set up a retirement account option for their employees with minimal administrative costs or paperwork.

The SEP IRA is pretty much like a traditional IRA account, although it does have some differences, especially as it relates to the contribution limits. The contribution limits for a SEP IRA are higher.

SEP IRA Rules

As an employer there are rules and regulations you need to follow when you open a SEP IRA. Most of the rules that apply to Traditional IRAs also apply to SEP IRAs. Among the SEP provisions:

All eligible employees must be provided with plan benefits, and a separate IRA account. If you are self employed with no employees besides yourself, it isn’t an issue. If you have employees, it is something to consider.
Part time employees who are 21 years of age who have worked 3 out of the preceding 5 years, earning $500 or more annually will be eligible.
Only the employer can contribute to the SEP IRA. If you work for a company that provides one, only your employer can contribute to the account.
You have until the tax filing deadline of April 15th to establish and fund your SEP IRA.
Withdrawals from a SEP IRA are treated the same as withdrawals from an IRA account – with a 10% early withdrawal penalty, and taxes charged at your current rate.
Only income from the business can be contributed – you can’t contribute money from your day job if you have one.

SEP IRA Contribution Limits

Contributions to the SEP IRA are subject to yearly limits, however, they are higher than many other similar account types. For example, for tax years 2009 and 2010 you can contribute up to 25% of an eligible employee’s compensation, up to a limit of $49,000. Extrapolated from the 25% rule the income threshold for a SEP IRA is then $196,000.

Example: Let’s say you make $100,000 a year and you’re self employed. Under a SEP IRA you would be able to contribute 25%, or $25,000 to your plan.

No catch-up contributions are permitted for older employees.

Benefits Of The SEP IRA

There are several benefits to having a SEP IRA account. Among them:

If you are an employee at a small business that has a SEP IRA plan, you are 100% vested in the contributions your employer makes, right away. The money is yours!
Tax deferred investing!
High contribution limits for self employed individuals.
Easy to setup. Usually can be done simply by filling out IRS Model Form 5305-SEP
Less paperwork and administrative costs after the plan is setup.
Flexible annual contribution obligations – a good plan if cash flow is an issue. You can contribute 10% one year, and then 5% the next if you want.

Do you contribute to a SEP IRA as a self employed individual, or do you have one through an employer? How has it worked out for you? Have we missed any important details about the SEP IRA? Tell us about it in the comments.

Source: biblemoneymatters.com

Overview of the best peer-to-peer lending sites

Prosper: Best for those with high credit scores

Borrowing with Prosper

Investing with Prosper

BlockFi: Best for crypto-backed loans

Borrowing with BlockFi

Investing with BlockFi

Upstart: Best for young people

Borrowing with Upstart

Investing with Upstart

SoLo Funds: Best for a payday loan alternative

Borrowing with SoLo Funds

Investing with SoLo Funds

FundingCircle: Best for small businesses

Borrowing with FundingCircle

Investing with FundingCircle

Kiva: Best for first-time borrowers

Borrowing with Kiva

Investing with Kiva

What is peer-to-peer lending?

How does peer-to-peer lending work?

Is peer-to-peer lending safe?

Pros & cons of P2P lending for investors

Pros

Cons

Pros & cons of P2P lending for borrowers

Pros

Cons

Summary

Read more:

Get a $500 Cash Bonus.

What Are Interchange Fees?

How Interchange Fees Work

Structure & Calculation of Interchange Fees

Participants in the Interchange Fee Ecosystem

How Interchange Fees Impact Consumers

Funds Secure & Ever-Larger Payment Card Systems

Increases Prices

Limit or Discourage Card Payments

Funding Rewards Programs

Interchange Fee Impacts on Small Business

Creates a Financial Burden

Increases Pricing Pressure

Limit Negotiating Power

Requires Technological Investment

Causes Cash Preference

Interchange Fee Regulation & Evolution

Regulatory Efforts & Policies

Technological Advances & Future Trends

Final Word

Temporary Inability to Pay the Mortgage?

Almost Half of the 50 Most Vulnerable Counties Are in Florida and New Jersey

Only Seven Risky Housing Markets in the Midwest and West

15 Best Banks in Florida

1. Huntington Bank

2. Chime

3. Revolut

4. Ally Bank

5. Regions Bank

6. Bank of America

7. Chase Bank

8. Fifth Third Bank

9. TIAA Bank

10. Capital One

11. Raymond James Bank

12. PNC Bank

13. Discover Bank

14. Wells Fargo

15. My eBanc

​​Types of Banks in Florida

National Banks

Regional Banks

Community Banks

Online Banks

Bottom Line

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the largest banks in Florida?

Should I choose an online bank?

What is the best bank for in person service?

How do I open a bank account in Florida?

Types of Banks in Florida