It's finally (or should that be "already?") time to get back to school. And if you're a college student, this also means adjusting to a changing schedule, a new curriculum, and hopefully, a new budget. Here are some quick common-sense ideas to help college students keep a 4.0 in the subject of personal finances.

You can't escape it. No matter where you go--shops, office buildings, universities, even churches and cemeteries--you'll run into (sometimes literally run into) zombie-like humans wandering aimlessly and staring at their mobile phones. They're not reading texts or deeply engrossed in the weather radar.

I'd be willing to bet you a Pikachu or a super-rare Mewtwo that they're playing Pokemon Go.

In observance of World Elder Abuse [prevention] Day on June 15, I'd like to take this opportunity to wring my hands in frustration that there actually has to be an observed day for this horrible, terrible thing.

Whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, chances are you care about protecting the environment – and saving money. 

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.

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.

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.