Expecting a refund this year?  Before you invest in the boxed set of Game of Thrones DVDs or a smart watch, consider these tips from the American Bankers Association.

"Why are stores still asking me to swipe my debit card while others let me dip?" It's a great question, and you're not the only one asking it.  The good news is, we shouldn't be asking it much longer.   

You're probably thinking, "Duh. Merchant services are services for merchants."  That's what I would have thought, too...until I started working at a bank that offers such services.  While a lot of folks who use merchant services know exactly what the term means, others may know they have a need but don't know what to ask for.

The weeks leading up to April 15 – tax deadline day – are often vulnerable ones for consumers, as W-2s and tax returns containing their personal information circulate over the internet and through the mail.

Cybersecurity is a 24/7 concern for consumers--at least it should be. Here at Bank Independent, our cybersecurity team is deeply committed to protecting the personal and financial information entrusted to us by our customers. Part of that commitment includes providing consumers and businesses with up-to-date information and recommendations on measures you can take to prevent fraud at home and on the go.

Leaving the comfortable nest of your parents' home or college dorm can be exciting and frightening at the same time...whether you're moving into your first apartment or buying your first home.

One of the things we love about living in the Tennessee Valley is our rich agricultural heritage.  As a matter of fact, Bank Independent was founded by a group of farmers in 1947 when the Leighton, Ala. farming community needed a financial institution.  Our roots run deep in the Alabama soil, so helping our farm families thrive is in our blood. 

Annual physical exams.  Annual performance reviews. Annual closet clean-out.  Lots of us perform "routine maintenance" on an annual basis just to review what's changed over the past year and to make sure we're up-to-date.  Or we want to make sure we have everything we need and evaluate what we need to do differently going forward.  But have you ever thought about doing an annual checkup on your mortgage? 

How often do you hear this when checking out at a retailer: "Are you a member of our loyalty program?" or "Do you have your rewards card with you today?"  These days, consumers can easily collect a keychain full of bar-coded fobs designating their loyalty to certain merchants.  The programs aren't a passing fad.  In fact, studies show that loyalty and reward programs are growing in popularity because of the benefits they offer to both businesses and consumers.  The great news is that these programs are no longer just for the big box stores--there are some simple ways small business owners like you can show your customers how much you appreciate them, and keep them coming back!