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Links

Credit Bureaus
www.transunion.com
www.equifax.com
www.experian.com

FDIC Frequently Asked Questions can be found on the government website at:
https://www.fdic.gov/edie/fdic_info.html

Check Orders - www.deluxe.com
Free Annual Credit Report – www.annualcreditreport.com
ID Theft – www.ftc.gov/bcp
FDIC – www.fdic.gov

SBA Loan FAQ: www.sba.gov

Articles

• Information Compromise and the Risk of Identity Theft – Guidance for Your Business
• Protecting Personal Information – A Guide for Business
• To Buy or Not To Buy – Identity Theft Spawns New Products and Services to Help Minimize Risk

Tips

How to avoid deposit service fees

Protecting myself from overdrafts

The best way to avoid overdraft and bounced-check fees is to manage your account so you don't overdraw it. Here are some tips to help you:

• Keep track of how much money you have in your checking account by keeping your account register up-to-date. Record all checks when you write them. And don't forget to subtract any fees such as monthly service charges or check orders.
• Pay special attention to your electronic transactions. Record your ATM withdrawals and any fees, debit card purchases, and online payments.
• Don't forget about automatic bill payments you may have set up.
• Keep an eye on your account balance. Remember that some checks and automatic payments may not have cleared yet.
• Review your account statements each month. Between statements, you can find out which payments have cleared and check your balance by using Home-bank, calling Home Federal or at an ATM.
• Sign up for overdraft protection from Home Federal.

For additional information on service fees that may apply to this account, please contact your nearest banker, or call 1-888-489-5355.

Tips for homebuyers

• Start by learning how much you can afford to pay for a new home. Contact a Mortgage Loan Officer near you or try our mortgage calculator for an estimate.
• Get expert advice. Search for your new home with the help of an experienced real estate agent.
• Save time and energy by narrowing your search. Focus on homes in areas you already know you like.
• Don't let excitement get the best of you. Resist the temptation to buy beyond your budget.
• Be clear about your requirements for your new home. Carefully distinguish between what you need and what you want.
• Get a second opinion. If shopping alone, bring a friend or relative with you when you find a home you are considering.
• Find out about all costs associated with a particular home. For example, get an estimate on homeowner's association fees and utility bills.
• Give the house a test drive. Try your potential new commute in rush hour to learn about traffic patterns and travel time.
• Get a feel for the neighborhood. Visit the home at various times of the day to learn if the area is peaceful or bustling with activity.
• Consider the cost to upgrade. If the home requires renovations, be sure to include that figure in the overall price tag.
• Don't short change yourself. Check out other properties for sale. You might miss a great opportunity if make an offer too quickly.