Author: Chelsea Culp

Back-to-school season is an exciting (and sometimes hectic) time for families. Whether you’re buying backpacks for first graders or budgeting for a college move-in, a little financial planning can go a long way. At FNB, we’re here to help you head into the school year feeling organized, prepared, and financially confident. Here are a few smart tips to get your finances in top shape before the school bell rings:

1. Create a Back-to-School Budget

Start by making a list of expected expenses: school supplies, clothing, technology, activity fees, and more. Setting a budget early helps you prioritize needs vs. wants, avoid overspending, and find opportunities to save. Don’t forget to factor in lunch money, gas for school commutes, or increased daycare costs.

Pro Tip: Use FNB’s online budgeting tools to create customized spending categories and track purchases in real time: https://growwithfnb.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Household-Budget-Interactive.pdf.

2. Take Advantage of Tax-Free Weekends

Many states offer tax-free holidays for school-related purchases. Plan ahead to make the most of these weekends and stretch your budget further on clothing, shoes, and supplies. Check your state’s specific dates and qualifying items.

3. Set Up a Dedicated School Account

If you’re managing expenses for multiple kids or college students, consider opening a separate checking or savings account just for school-related costs. This helps you stay organized and monitor spending without mixing it with other household bills. Visit https://growwithfnb.com/personal-banking/ for more information on FNB’s checking and saving accounts or to open online today.

4. Enroll Kids & Teens in Financial Literacy Tools

Back-to-school is also a great time to teach kids and teens about money management. With Greenlight, powered by FNB Bank, you can give your child or teen a debit card with parental controls, while helping them learn how to budget, save, and spend wisely. FNB families get a FREE subscription to Greenlight. Learn more and get started here: https://growwithfnb.com/personal-banking/greenlight/.

5. Use Online & Mobile Banking for Convenience

Between school schedules, sports practices, and work, life gets busy. Make banking simpler with FNB’s mobile and online banking tools. Check balances, transfer funds, set up alerts, and pay bills – anytime, anywhere.

Get started with Online Banking here: https://www.growwithfnb.net/dbank/live/app/register.

Download our free Mobile Banking App (available for iPad, iPhone, and Android): https://growwithfnb.com/digital-banking/mobile-banking/.

FNB is here to help make back-to-school season less stressful and more financially sound. Whether you’re stocking up for kindergarten or prepping for college, we offer the tools, tips, and support you need to stay on track.

We’re also proud to offer Spirit Debit Cards – allowing you to show off your school spirit in a big way! FNB’s Spirit Debit Card Program allows FNB the opportunity to give back to local schools when our customers use their debit card. In 2024 we donated over $85,000 back to participating schools! FNB currently offers cards that support the Mayfield Cardinals, Graves County Eagles, Trigg County Wildcats, and Marshall County Marshals! Learn more at: https://growwithfnb.com/personal-banking/spirit-debit-cards/.

FNB Bank, Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

Summer is a season for sunshine, travel, and making memories, but it’s also a time when staying on top of your finances is more important than ever. Whether you’re hitting the road, relaxing by the pool, or simply enjoying a break in routine, FNB has you covered with these essential summer banking tips.

1. Set Travel Alerts Before You Go

Before heading out on vacation, be sure to set a travel alert on your FNB debit or credit card. Letting us know your travel dates and destinations helps prevent any disruptions in card usage while also protecting your account from suspected fraud. Setting up an alert is quick, easy, and can be done through Online and Mobile Banking or by calling our Customer Support Center at 888-934-2536.

2. Use Mobile Banking

When you’re away from home or just on the go, your FNB Mobile App makes it easy to stay in control of your finances. Check balances, pay bills, transfer funds, deposit checks, and even turn your debit card on or off with just a few taps. It’s convenience and security, right in your pocket. Download our free Mobile Banking App today (available for iPad, iPhone, and Android). Learn more here: https://growwithfnb.com/digital-banking/mobile-banking/.

3. Be Cautious at the ATM

Summer travel can mean using unfamiliar ATMs. Be sure to use trusted ATM locations and always shield your PIN when entering it. If an ATM looks suspicious or tampered with, trust your instincts and find another location.

As a reminder, FNB customers with a Best Start Student Checking, Your Club Checking, or YourStart® Checking account can also use any ATM in the U.S. free of charge! Learn more here: https://growwithfnb.com/personal-banking/personal-checking/.

4. Budget for Summer Expenses

Between vacations, camps, back-to-school shopping, and utility spikes, summer spending can add up quickly. Use FNB’s budgeting template to plan and track your expenses: https://growwithfnb.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Household-Budget-Interactive.pdf.  A little planning now can go a long way in avoiding summer money surprises.

5. Watch Out for Scams

Scammers are active year-round, and summer is no exception. Be cautious with unexpected calls, texts, or emails that request personal or banking information. FNB will never ask you to verify account details or passwords through unsolicited messages. If something seems suspicious, contact your branch directly.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed, Stay Enjoying Summer!

At FNB Bank, we’re here to help you enjoy your summer with peace of mind, whether you’re close to home or miles away. If you have questions about travel alerts, mobile banking, or account security, don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Support Center at 888-934-2536. Your summer should be about fun and relaxation, not financial stress.

FNB Bank, Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

In recognition of National Homeownership Month, FNB and the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) are encouraging consumers to consult their local community bank about how to make the homebuying process simple, efficient, and more affordable.

“An important component in building financial independence is owning a home,” stated Annie Suiter, AVP/Senior Mortgage Loan Officer. “At FNB, we want to simplify the homeownership process to make it as easy and affordable as possible. After we assess your needs, we can help find suitable options to finance your home, from first homes to forever homes.”

Whether you are refinancing or purchasing your home, FNB can help you determine:

• The ideal loan amount and products to meet your budget considerations. We can review the mortgage process in detail and flag ideal programs and loan features.
• How mortgage rates, terms, and related expenses (including property taxes and insurance premiums) affect payments. This will help you set a home budget and manage your homeownership expenses.
• Your rights and obligations under your mortgage contract. Today’s consumers have many financing options—each with unique stipulations outlined in the fine print.
• Suitable government-sponsored programs. In addition to federal homeownership and home-buying assistance programs, we can recommend state, local government, and specialty programs for consideration.

“Homeownership is an important step for many Americans in establishing financial stability and strengthening community roots,” said ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey. “Your community bank can help guide you through the process and provide tips to improve your position as informed buyers.”

For more information on how FNB can support your homeownership needs, visit us at Home Mortgages – Grow With FNB.

About FNB

FNB Bank, founded in 1875, is one of the oldest banks in the state of Kentucky with assets exceeding $689 million. FNB ranks among the highest in the nation in the area of safety and soundness and has earned three consecutive ‘Outstanding’ ratings for the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) by the FDIC. FNB is a 2021-2024 ‘Best Places to Work in Kentucky’ Small Business Category Award Winner. The bank currently has ten locations located in Graves, McCracken, Calloway, Trigg, and Marshall County. FNB is Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. FNB Bank, Inc. NMLS ID: 556336.

About ICBA
The Independent Community Bankers of America® has one mission: to create and promote an environment where community banks flourish. We power the potential of the nation’s community banks through effective advocacy, education, and innovation.

As local and trusted sources of credit, America’s community banks leverage their relationship-based business model and innovative offerings to channel deposits into the neighborhoods they serve, creating jobs, fostering economic prosperity, and fueling their customers’ financial goals and dreams. For more information, visit ICBA’s website at icba.org.

May 29 (5/29) is known as National 529 Day—a dedicated reminder to start planning for your child’s future education with a 529 college savings plan. At FNB Investments, we believe there’s no better time than today to begin building a strong financial foundation for tomorrow.

What Is a 529 Plan?

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings plan specifically designed to help families save for education expenses. Whether you’re saving for a four-year university, trade school, or even K-12 tuition, a 529 plan offers flexibility and peace of mind.

Benefits of a 529 Plan

Tax Advantages
• Tax-free growth on earnings when used for qualified education expenses
• Tax-free withdrawals for tuition, books, room & board, and more

Use at Eligible Schools Nationwide
• From colleges to vocational programs, your savings can go where your child’s dreams take them.

Minimal Impact on Financial Aid
• As a parental asset, 529 plans have a relatively low impact on FAFSA calculations.

You Stay in Control
• The account owner—not the student—retains control of the funds, regardless of age.

Why Start Early?

Saving early—even in small amounts—can have a powerful impact thanks to compound growth over time. Delaying even a few years could significantly reduce what’s available. The earlier you start, the better your chances of reducing future debt for you and your child.

It’s a Family Affair

A 529 plan also makes a thoughtful gift. Grandparents, relatives, and even friends can contribute to the plan. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate birthdays, holidays, and milestones.

How to Get Started with FNB Investments

At FNB Investment Services, we’re here to help you navigate your college savings options with confidence. Our team can walk you through:
• How a 529 plan works
• Which plan fits your family’s goals
• How to open and manage your account
• Long-term strategies for education and beyond

Visit your nearest FNB Bank branch or contact FNB Investments today to learn more.

Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses associated with municipal fund securities before investing. This information is found in the issuer’s official statement and should be read carefully before investing. Investors should also consider whether the investor’s or beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits available only from that state’s529 Plan. Any state-based benefit should be one of many appropriately weighted factors in making an investment decision. The investor should consult their financial or tax advisor before investment in any state’s 529.

Securities offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, a registered investment adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

Investments are: Not FDIC/NCUSIF insured • May lose value • Not financial institution guaranteed • Not a deposit • Not insured by any federal government agency.

Registered Branch Address: 101 E Broadway • Mayfield, KY 42066