Author: americafirst

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Security Update: Staying Protected in an Online World

In today’s 24/7 culture, where everything is electronic and moves at lightning speed, it’s essential to stay alert and protect yourself against fraud. Here are some tips that can help:

• Review your credit at least once a year from each of the three national reporting agencies. These are available to you without a cost here.

• Monitor your account activity as often as possible, easily and conveniently, with free Online & Mobile Banking. Check for unauthorized transactions, verify your purchases, and accomplish so much more.

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You’re Covered with America First

We have all your home loan needs under one roof.

Apply at an America First location near you for the best in affordable:

• Mortgages

• Home Equity Loans

• Home Equity Lines of Credit

• Construction & Lot Loans

Click here to learn more.

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Security Update: Online Employment Scams are on the Rise

More and more, people are seeking employment online but some may be inadvertently placing themselves at risk of identity theft.

The FBI has investigated scams where criminals are searching job boards for personal information, particularly posted resumés with Social Security numbers and other details.

Here are some tips to help protect yourself:

•Don’t include your identifying data or physical address — simply list an email at which you can be reached.

•Never agree to wire a portion of a check or deposit back to a company representative who tells you this is required to be hired. Most times, the initial check or deposit is fraudulent and will be returned against your account, which means you’ll be liable for the entire amount.

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Hot Loans, Cool Prizes

Summers are always great. But at America First, they’re even better.

Make the most of the sizzling season with our financial services — and you’ll have a chance at some seriously sweet giveaways!

Get affordable financing, open a new account, or use your America First Visa® Credit Card and you’ll be automatically entered to win our grand prize: a $10,000 loan payout!

Plus, we’ll be offering a host of other items perfect for summer with our Pick your Prize contest.
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Security Update: Keeping Kids Safe Online

Summer is in full swing and, although there are lots of outdoor activities going on, it’s also a season when children remain tethered to electronic devices. To follow are a couple of tips for keeping your kids cyber-secure.

• Many youngsters carry smartphones these days, which keep them connected to each other and able to reach their parents in emergencies. It’s wise to be knowledgeable about the apps your kids are using on these phones and make sure they are downloaded from reputable stores, with the proper privacy disclosures and settings.

• Apps sharing locations with friends and family can be useful, but take care with these programs and understand the risks generated by putting any personal information online. That’s especially good advice for young people.
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Handling your 401k when Changing Jobs

When you make a career switch, you also need to decide what you’re going to do with your 401k.

Should you leave the funds where they are or take your plan with you? Should you roll the money into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or transfer it to your new employer? Here are some choices:

• Take the money and run — You can withdraw your 401k in a lump sum and use the funds to meet expenses or invest elsewhere. Because these distributions involve complex tax issues, it’s always wise to consult a professional for more information.

• Another option is to simply leave resources in your old employer’s 401k and let them grow tax-deferred. However, you may not always have this opportunity, because some companies require you to take your money or withdraw it once you reach normal retirement age.
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