When you start narrowing down on the type of equipment your business needs, it’s a good idea to thoroughly consider the pros and cons of leasing versus buying. There are certain situations when the cost-benefit of one option may strongly outweigh the other. 

When lending to business for equipment I always seem to get a similar question.  Is it better for me to lease or buy a piece of equipment?  For business owners who need certain equipment to operate and make their business successful, there is a lot to consider.  It goes beyond just looking at the overall costs of buying or leasing a piece of equipment, you also need to consider maintenance, tax deductions, flexibility and more.

Ahhh...the empty nest.  At first, it's bliss. You finally have privacy!  You no longer have to stock the fridge with pizza rolls! Your laundry and dishwashing tasks are cut in half!  Soon, though, you notice that your voice is echoing through the empty halls and your spare rooms are growing spider webs.  Is it time to consider downsizing?

You have your dress, the tux and the rings.  You've booked the venue and the caterers. You've even finalized your post-wedding living arrangements.  But in all this excitement, don't forget one other joint collaboration: your bank accounts.

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.