Archive - January 2019

Estate planning can be a scary topic to discuss. After all, it’s tough to talk about what happens to your possessions after you’re gone. But it is an essential part financial planning — to make sure your loved ones are taken care of in your absence.

It’s a complex process as well, with a variety of taxes and classifications to factor into each decision. Before jumping into action to start your planning, understanding key steps and components is essential in the...

You’ve made the decision that you are tired of renting and ready to step into the world of home ownership. Good for you! You may be wondering what your next steps should be in order to be financially prepared for this major investment. Here are some creative ways to ramp up your savings for this exciting adventure!

Is the place you’re living now truly the most cost effective...

What’s the secret to having a large savings account? Spending less money is, of course, a simplified answer. But what does that look like in your daily life? We have gathered some out of the box tips that you may have not considered before. Get ready for ideas that will challenge your spending in a new way!

This concept is very counter to the message that society...

Credit cards can be a wonderful tool — if used wisely. In addition to the many points and rewards associated with today’s countless card options, credit cards can also be a key ingredient in building up and maintaining a healthy credit score.

But what comes with the good is the potential bad.

Credit cards can be a tempting way to spend lots of money — more than some people can afford. Pair overspending with high interest rates, and that spells trouble. According...

In response to the federal government shutdown, Peoples Bank is assisting affected customers in the form of short-term, low-interest loans.

Peoples Bank has established a pool of $5 million to help customers who have felt the effects of the shutdown. Assistance will be made in the form of low-interest loans payable in six months or when the government reopens and paychecks resume. Normal underwriting and credit standards apply.

Customers affected by the...

Peoples Bank’s Giant Piggy Bank program has been steadily growing since it was implemented in west-central Iowa in the middle of 2018. The program, which aims to teach students how to properly manage and save money, is serving Crossroads Park Elementary in West Des Moines, Greene County schools and Adair-Casey/Guthrie Center schools.

Here’s how the program works: Each of the participating schools designates a Giant Piggy Bank day — usually once per week — when...

Welcome to 2019, where concocting elaborate New Year’s resolutions seems commonplace. Resolutions are great motivating tools, but they don’t have to be huge, complicated schemes. They can be as simple as becoming more healthy or financially responsible.

We want to help you maximize the upcoming 12 months. Here are three simple ways you can improve your finances.

Create a comprehensive budget

Any financial goal you have needs to start here....

Every month, we will write a short profile highlighting the employees who make Peoples Bank an integral part of each community. Our employees take the initiative and truly make each branch feel warm and welcoming.  

Mary Schultz likes to take a more flexible approach to her job. While other banks may give clients a sheet with predetermined options, Schultz, Peoples Bank’s...