Reliabank Blog

Things Are Happening at Reliabank!

2012-01-31T11:33:00.000-08:00

Joshua Hogue has been hired as a commercial/ag lender in Watertown. A graduate of Dakota State University with a double major in Business Management and Marketing, Josh comes to Reliabank from First Fidelity Bank in Platte, SD. Besides his six years of banking experience, Hogue also has crop insurance and real estate licenses. During his time in Platte he has served on the Platte Chamber of Commerce, as President of the Lake Platte Golf Club, and has volunteered for many community events and fundraisers.

James Gordon has been hired as a commercial/ag lender in the Hartford and Humboldt areas. A graduate of University of South Dakota with a major in Business Administration, Gordon came to Reliabank after spending six years with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, most recently in the real estate underwriting department.

Tyler Feterl has also been hired as an ag loan officer in the Hartford and Humboldt communities. He will also spend time on the bank's credit review team. He grew up in Salem, SD, and graduated from Dakota State University with a double major in Business Administration Management and Business Administration Finance. Feterl is currently pursuing his MBA. Since graduating from DSU, he has worked for Bayer Crop Science and Monsanto Direct Contact.

Reid Johnson has recently been hired as a marketing consultant working out of the Tea Reliabank location. Johnson is a graduate of University of Sioux Falls with majors in Media Studies and Business Administration. Johnson also owns SportStudio 24 and is an assistant track coach at the University of Sioux Falls.

Saying Goodbye
December found us saying goodbye to Larry Peterson, Insurance Agency Manager for Reliabank. Larry and his wife Sandy, who was a Reliabank employee and retired in 2011, will now have more time for traveling, golfing, and fishing.

We also said goodbye to Sandy Krauth from our Tea Branch at the end of January. Sandy was a part of our transition team from Farmers State Bank to Reliabank in December 2010, and has worked as a personal banker for the past year. Sandy hopes to spend more time with her grandchildren!

February 1st we said goodbye to Willis DeWitt, ag/commercial lender at our Watertown North location. He and his wife Cheryl plan on spending time with family and doing odd jobs on their acreage, along with getting away to do some camping and traveling. Willis has said that he will miss all his co-workers and customers but that he will always be available for a cup of coffee.

New Website Launched

2012-01-31T11:22:00.000-08:00

After months of planning, designing and revamping, we recently launched the new Reliabank website!

If you have a moment, please take a look. We feel you will find it fresh, new and user friendly. At Reliabank, our goal for the updated website is to provide our visitors with an extremely user friendly website. The site offers more functionality and easier navigation, along with an online education center that offers video demo's and information for Online Banking, eMobile Banking, Bill Pay and more!

Launching Our New Website Look!

2012-01-25T07:29:00.000-08:00

Reliabank.com has gotten a facelift. We will be launching our new website look this Friday, January 27. All the same info will be available, as well as logging in to internet banking - only it will be in a cleaner, easier to use format.

The site’s updated look also comes with increased convenience. Menu items have been condensed to an easy drop down format, as well as each page featuring a quick link to the bank’s contact information and a login box on the left-hand side for easy access to Online Banking. Customers can keep up with the latest news from Reliabank in the News & Events section. The artwork from our Reliabank locations are prominently featured throughout the website also.

We have worked diligently to offer a website that is high tech, eye appealing and user friendly. We are confident that the site will better serve our customers, helping to keep you informed about news happening at the bank, including new products and services. Let us know what you think of the new look by either posting on our facebook page or twitter!

Bank Technology Moves at a Fast Pace. Can You Keep Up?

2011-12-29T12:05:00.000-08:00

Internet banking has evolved into one of the most popular services offered by banks, with reports indicating that nearly 60 million U.S. households are using it.

If you haven't tried online banking, is it something you should consider, even if you believe you're managing your finances just fine without it?

As more people turn to techonology for everyday tasks, Reliabank offers free interent banking, bill pay and eMobile banking as a convenience to all our customers.

•Internet banking is available 24 hours a day, so you can handle your finances on your schedule, not just when your bank branch is open.

•Online transactions, especially electronic bill-paying, are generally faster than mailing a paper check.

•It can help reduce clutter by eliminating paper bills and statements that may be piling up around your home.

•Using less paper is environmentally friendly.

Online banking is faster, more convenient, and more secure than ever and many of our customers appreciate the convenience of banking and paying their bills online, in addition to the instant access it provides to their account information.

If you own a cell phone, you may want to consider using Reliabank's free eMobile Banking. This refers to the ability to do your banking not just from your home computer but also from your cell phone or smartphone via text or mobile browser. Mobile banking can be a very convenient service for customers who travel extensively and want the option of accessing their online account from virtually anywhere.

If mobile banking is a service you are interested in, check out the eMobile Banking video on our website to understand more about the services that are available.
Here are suggestions to get started:

1. Visit with a Reliabank employee or go to our website to find out if internet banking is for you. There is no charge for using internet banking or bill pay.

2. To learn more about Reliabank's internet banking, bill pay and eMobile banking products, we encourage you to visit our Online Education Center. Here you will find video tutorials that explains all features of our products, including multifactor security.

3. Learn as much as you can upfront about how to bank safely online. Reliabank's Identity Theft protection video contains a wealth of information for anyone that uses email or surfs the internet.

Michael Benardo, Chief of the FDIC's Cyber Fraud and Financial Crimes Section suggests that you should secure your own computer by installing and automatically updating antivirus software and firewall protection, because while most banks prevent unauthorized access by using 'encryption' to scramble account numbers and other private information, you still need to take your own precautions.

What to Toss and When

2011-10-19T11:14:00.000-07:00

Bank statements, credit card bills, canceled checks and other documents can be useful for tax purposes, as proof of a transaction or payment, or for other reasons. But how long should you keep them?

FDIC Consumer News can't tell you when it's safe to throw away financial documents. One thing to remember, though, is that federal tax rules require you to have receipts and other records that support items on a return for as long as the IRS can assess you additional tax.

"In very general terms, because the IRS has about six years to assess additional tax if you underreported your income by more than 25 percent, many tax advisors recommend holding all tax records for about seven years, building in extra time for any unforeseen delays in processing your return," said Rick Cywinski, an FDIC tax policy manager. He also noted that the tax period is unlimited if the IRS suspects fraud.

With tax considerations in mind, here are suggestions that may be reasonable for many people.

Credit card and bank account statements: Save those with no tax significance for about a year, but those with tax significance should be saved for seven years.

Canceled checks: Those unrelated to anything you claimed on your income tax form and not needed to show you've paid a bill or debt probably can be destroyed after you've verified that your bank statement is correct. But canceled checks that support your tax returns, such as charitable contributions or tax payments, probably should be held for seven years.

And, you may want to keep indefinitely any canceled checks and related receipts or documents for a home purchase or sale, renovations or other improvements to a property you own. But once a home has been sold and another seven years have passed, checks related to renovations or improvements can be destroyed.

Of course, many banks no longer send cancelled checks, although they may provide copies of the originals. "You can keep the copies of your tax-related checks if you get them from your bank, but if you don't get copies with your statement, you have some options," said Evelyn Manley, a Senior Consumer Affairs Specialist at the FDIC.

"The most conservative approach is to order copies of important checks soon after your statement arrives," she said. "Another is to keep the information on your bank statement to order copies if you're audited in the future because, in general, banks that do not return original checks to customers are required to keep copies of checks for seven years."

Also, she said, if you keep records electronically, be sure to back up your data. You can store it in various ways (on CDs, flash drives and so on), but as old technology is no longer supported, you will need to transfer your old data to new media. Another option is to research different companies that provide backup storage online, either free or for a small charge.

Deposit, ATM, credit card and debit card receipts: Save them until the transaction appears on your statement and you've verified that the information is accurate. You may make an exception for receipts for expensive items. If they are under warranty or you have to file an insurance claim, the receipt may be helpful.

Finally, before tossing away any document that contains a Social Security number, bank account number or other personal information (especially financial information), SHRED IT to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft.

For additional guidance on what records to toss and when, ask your accountant, attorney or another trusted advisor.

*Article from FDIC Consumer News

Free Checking & Round UP Wednesdays!

2011-10-11T14:53:00.000-07:00

Is your bank jacking up its fees on your checking account?
Now is the time to Move Your Money

If you haven't already heard, Bank of America, Well's Fargo, and Chase have all begun charging monthly fees for using debit cards. And swiping these debit cards is causing consumers to rack up some serious monthly fees at these larger banks.

The fees are to help big regional banks (over $10 billion) make up revenue after the Durbin Amendment and the Dodd Frank Act restricted ways banks make money. But as a locally owned community bank, we are not affected by these regulations and can continue to offer our customers all the products and services of these big banks but without the fees.

PLUS we are also giving BACK to our customers, during Round-UP Wednesdays! That's right, each Wednesday from October 5-November 23 we are rounding UP deposits to the next dollar!

Giddy on over to Reliabank to see what we can offer you!

99 Days of Summer Comes to an End

2011-09-21T12:53:00.000-07:00

We were thrilled to once again be the $5,000 cash sponsor for the KXLG radio 99 Days of Summer event. KXLG window stickers were distributed to people all over NE South Dakota, people placed them in their vehicle window hoping to get "ticketed" by a radio station employee, if the did, their name then went into a drawing. If thier name was drawn live on-air, they had 99 seconds to call in and get qualified for the big cash drawing.

The evening of September 15, marked the ending to another successful summer event. Reliabank hosted 99 qualifiers and their friends and family for the big drawdown held at 6:15pm. Our parking lot was buzzing with excitement and great food from the Popcorn Shoppe and County Fair Food. Watertown Confectionary supplied chocolate candy bars to all the qualifiers wishing them good luck in the drawing. Marilyn Nipe of Watertown was the last name chosen from the barrel of qualifiers, and was the $5,000 winner!

Reliabank and KXLG also held a food drive "Feed the Need" for the Watertown Food Pantry. Qualifiers were asked to bring in non-perishable food items and for every 5 items they donated, they received a ticket into a separate $500 drawing. We collected over 700 items that evening!!

Thank you to all who particpated we'll see you next year for the big drawing!

Helping Small Businesses Streamline Finances

2011-08-31T11:57:00.000-07:00

Reliabank is excited to now offer VISA business credit cards to it's Visa line of products.
By applying for and using your community bank card, you can always count on personal service and hometown convenience along with worldwide acceptance.

With a 0%APR (annual percentage rate) introductory rate for six months, no cost balance transfer and no annual fee, this card means business!

Choose from either the Platinum Edition - recieve our most competitive APR and use the card for all you business purchases or the Platinum Rewards - that offers ScoreCard Bonus points for every qualifying dollar you spend.

Let Visa Business help you easily and effectively streamline your finances—so you can focus on running your business.

You mean business
And so does your Reliabank Visa Business credit card.
With purchasing convenience, cost savings, available credit, and detailed reporting, you’ll have what you need to nurture your small business and help it thrive. Let Reliabank help!

Click Here to Apply

Is Mobile Banking Safe?

2011-08-15T07:12:00.000-07:00

We recently announced the addition of eMobile banking to our product line-up at Reliabank. Many customers have taken to it as easily as online banking from a computer, while some still hold out on the fear of being hacked and that their financial information would be available for anyone to see. We would like to put these fears to rest.

First, what exactly is eMobile Banking?
eMobile banking is simply banking from your cell phone or smart phone. It makes shopping easier by allowing you to check your balance before you commit to a high priced item or overspending on some new must-have item. You can check your balance using your phone, and maybe make a quick transfer between accounts if necessary. But if you access your bank account information on your mobile phone, are you jeopardizing the security of your checking and savings accounts?

No, says Phil Blank, the managing director of security, risk and fraud at Javelin Strategy and Research -- not as long as you exercise some basic online street smarts.

Here is what you need to do to be sure the transactions you make using a smartphone are safe:

Do . . .

•Stick to your bank's mobile banking featuring; at Reliabank we've taken the necessary steps to minimize any risk to your accounts, whether you access them on your mobile phone or from your computer. eMobile Banking offers the same high level of security as our Online Banking platform, allowing you to bank anywhere using your mobile phone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It's completely safe and secure.

•Treat your smartphone as if it's a PC. What a smart phone really is is a PC that happens to make phone calls. If you look at your phone that way, you're minimizing your risks. For instance, install antivirus software on your phone as you would on your PC.

•Monitor the whereabouts of your phone. One big difference between your smartphone and your desktop computer is that the latter is much less likely to fall out of your pocket or purse. Check every so often to make sure your smartphone is on you when you're out and about.

Don't . . .

•Use public Wi-Fi access to conduct your banking business. You can't be sure it's secure. Opt for wireless networks that require a network security key or have some other form of security.
•Leave the keys in plain sight. Never send a text message on your phone containing sensitive information such as your Social Security number, checking or savings account number, or your account passwords. We don't give the customer the option to store anything sensitive on their phone. That's for your own protection.

•Be fooled by emails or text messages asking for personal information. Often, these "phishing" messages claim to be from your bank and ask for personal information or ask you to click on provided links to update account information. We would never ask you to provide your ID or password in an email, on your computer or over your cell phone.
Using your phone to bank on the go can be a great convenience. As long as you're smart about it, there's no reason you shouldn't use eMobile banking.

To find out more about Reliabank's eMobile banking, visit our online demo for more info.

Parts of this article: MoneyRates.com.

WHITE CHRISTMAS Performance at SF Pavilion

2011-08-08T07:05:00.000-07:00

Sunday, November 6
Just in time for the holidays, a classic holiday tale takes the stage at Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls.

After leaving the Army after W.W.II, Bob Wallace and Phil Davis team up to become a top song-and-dance act. Davis plays matchmaker and introduces Wallace to a pair of beautiful sisters (Betty and Judy) who also have a song-and-dance act. When Betty and Judy travel to a Vermont lodge to perform a Christmas show, Wallace and Davis follow, only to find their former commander, General Waverly, is the lodge owner. A series of romantic mix-ups ensue as the performers try to help the General. Its the perfect show to warm you up this winter just in time to start the Holiday Spirit!

White Christmas is a merry play for the whole family!
We have 40 reserved seats in front section of Orcherstra seating!

Cost: $90/GC member; $105 non-member.
Includes transportation and ticket to show. Pick up in Watertown and Estelline (more stops if needed). We'll stop for pie/coffee on the way home after show (on your own).

Contact Joyce at 605-886-7700 or Lisa at 605-873-2261 to reserve your seats today!

Treasury to End Over-the-Counter Sales of Savings Bonds

2011-07-29T06:38:00.000-07:00

July 13, 2011
WASHINGTON –

The Bureau of the Public Debt announced that as of January 1, 2012, paper savings bonds will no longer be sold at financial institutions. This action, which supports the U.S. Department of the Treasury's goal to increase the number of electronic transactions with citizens and businesses, will save American taxpayers approximately $70 million over the first five years.
But savings bonds, introduced in 1935, are not going away. Electronic savings bonds in Series EE and I will remain available through purchase in TreasuryDirect®, a secure, web-based system operated by Public Debt – where investors have been purchasing savings bonds, available 24/7, since 2002.

"Savings bonds are very much a part of this country's history and culture, and will remain a part of America's future – but in electronic form," said Public Debt Commissioner Van Zeck. "It's time for us to take a 1935 model and make it a 21st century investment tool."

Ending over-the-counter (OTC) sales of paper savings bonds at financial institutions is a continuation of Treasury's all-electronic initiative announced in April 2010. As part of the initiative, Treasury stopped the sale of paper bonds through traditional payroll plans, effective December 31, 2010. It is estimated that ending the sales of paper payroll and new issues of OTC bonds will save a total of $120 million over the next five years in areas such as printing, mailing, storing bond stock and fees paid to financial institutions for processing bond applications.

"Through TreasuryDirect, investors have an easy and convenient way to purchase and manage their bonds free of charge," Commissioner Zeck said. "Investors will no longer have to worry about misplacing, losing or storing paper savings bonds."

Opening a TreasuryDirect account is free, and, once it's established, investors can:

•Buy, manage, and redeem Series EE and I electronic savings bonds.

•Convert Series EE and I paper savings bonds to electronic through the SmartExchange® feature.

•Purchase electronic savings bonds as a gift.

•Enroll in a payroll savings plan for purchasing electronic bonds.

•Invest in other Treasury securities such as bills, notes, bonds, and TIPS (Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities).

Those currently holding paper savings bonds can continue to redeem them at financial institutions. Bonds, which have not matured, but were lost, stolen or destroyed, can be reissued in paper or electronic form.

A MESSAGE FROM RELIABANK
Beginning January 1, 2012 Savings Bonds will be all electronic. You will need to go online and create an account for yourself. If you are having difficulty or have questions, we are here to assist customers in setting up an online account to order Savings Bonds. You will need your Social Security number and Driver’s License numbers to set up an account. The Treasury will then send an email to you with your new account number and a message indicating in order to proceed you will receive an access card in the mail within 2 weeks. Customers will not be able to access the account until they receive the access card. All savings bonds purchased will be kept electronically. Current paper EE Bonds and I Bonds can be converted to electronic once a person is able to access their online account. Reliabank will still be able to redeem paper bonds for a time. The electronic bonds are redeemed online and direct deposited to the account that is entered when the online account is created at Treasury Direct.

Traveling this Summer? Planning Ahead Can Help You Keep Your Money Safe

2011-05-25T12:46:00.000-07:00

Washington, D.C. (May 23, 2011)-With the kick off of summer less than a week away and many Americans planning to hit the road or the skies for their much-anticipated summer vacation, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) and the nation's more than 7,000 community banks want consumers to have the information they need before they leave home so they can keep their money safe.

"Nothing can ruin a vacation faster than losing your wallet or running out of funds, so plan ahead and talk to your community banker about how you can protect your money while traveling both domestically and abroad," said Sal Marranca, ICBA chairman and president and CEO of Cattaraugus County Bank, Little Valley, N.Y. "Since community banks are relationship bankers who work one-on-one with their customers, they can help customers be better prepared for travel emergencies. And in the event that something unfortunate does happen, they are ready and willing to help."

Financial professionals agree that the safest and most convenient way to travel with your money is to take a small amount of cash with you. It's also a good idea to carry a debit, credit or ATM card. These cards are convenient while traveling because they are easy to carry, easy to use and often offer the lowest fees and the best exchange rates. Our Reliabank ATM/Debit Card is part of the MoneyPass network where you can find thousands of surcharge-free ATM's nationwide!

However, travelers still need to plan ahead to be prepared. To help, ICBA offers these tips to consumers about what they need to take care of before they take off:

Let your community bank know when and where you will be traveling so that you will avoid any potential for fraud alerts when out-of-the-ordinary transactions are posted.

Call or stop by your community bank to find out what ATM or debit card fees you may be subject to in this country and abroad.

If you're traveling overseas, keep in mind that ATMs in many countries only accept four-digit personal identification numbers (PINs) and some countries have keyboards with numbers only, while others do not acknowledge zeros. Ask your community bank if you should create a new PIN for your account before you take your trip.

Carry a back-up card that you keep in a separate place. Families or couples may get even greater back-up coverage if each person takes a different card.

Make copies of all the cards you'll be carrying. Be sure to copy the front and back of the card. Take a copy with you and give a copy to someone you trust back home. Be sure to also include the security code for the card and the customer-service phone number.

Bring a list of emergency phone numbers, but remember, 800 numbers can only be used in the United States and Canada. Be sure to get a number for your bank that you can call if you're out of the country.

Many credit cards provide travel accident insurance and traveler's assistance. Ask your community bank what special services are available through your card.

Check your balance before you leave. Know the limits on how much you can withdraw. Save all your receipts.

"Whether your destination is overseas or closer to home, it really is better to be safe than sorry. And your community bank can help you make sure that you're safe," Marranca said.

For more information about what to do if you your card is lost or stolen or if you need additional help, visit http://usa.visa.com/personal/using_visa/travel_with_visa.html or http://www.mastercard.us/support/lost-card.html.

Summer Promo Coming Soon

2011-05-24T09:38:00.000-07:00

Reliabank is joining forces with KXLG to offer one lucky person a $5,000 cash prize at the end of the 99 Days of Summer promotion! We are excited to be a part of this event, and had so much fun last year doing this, we couldn't imagine not being a part of it again in 2011.

Watch for the window stickers to be available all over Watertown and surrounding communities. Simply put the window decal in your car and the KXLG prize patrol will be out and about "ticketing" people throughout summer to qualify you as a contestant in the $5,000 cash drawing in September!

BONUS: Every Friday one person will get qualified and WIN a $500 gift certificate from a participating business. Qualify by listening to KXLG and when you hear your name you will have 99.1 seconds to call to become a qualifier.

RULES:

Must be 18 years old

One qualifier per household

Game Dates:

May 30th thru September 5th

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Calling All Smartphone Users: Are You Ready?

2011-05-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

Nine out of 10 Americans have a cell phone and, according to research by The Neilsen Company, more than half of them will be using a smartphone by the end of 2011. A smartphone is actually a hand-held computer that enables users to access the Internet, run applications and make phone calls. And, for a steadily increasing number of consumers, smartphones can be used for banking.

Banking with a cell phone is reality and at Reliabank we are offering our customers the opportunity to check their balances, find the nearest ATM and soon, even pay bills with eMobile banking!

Just another way we are offering increased convenience and flexibility, especially for people who do a lot of traveling.

Whether you prefer to use text messaging or web-based browser to check your accounts, you have option and we deliver. If you are interested in Reliabank eMobile Banking simply visit our website for an online demo or log into internet banking, click on the SEVICES tab and select eMobile Banking. Easy to follow set up allows you to be banking from the palm of your hand in no time.

Check us out!

Congratulations 2011 Graduates!

2011-05-18T14:01:00.000-07:00

We are so proud of all our graduating seniors - many things are headed your way as you step out into the "real world". One thing you won't have to worry about is keeping track of your money. Take us along no matter where you go. With a Reliabank checking account, free internet banking, bill pay and now eMobile banking you can stay on top of your finances anytime, anywhere!

A big congrats to our local scholarship winners!
Adam Keifer, Watertown
Amber Smith, Hamlin
David Runia, Estelline
Megan Shumaker, West Central
Alaina Struwe, Estelline
Carolyn Williams, Watertown
Kaitlin Pederson, Great Plains Lutheran
Robert Raml, Watertown
Cooper Bierscheid, Watertown
Nels Isaacson, Hamlin
Vanessa Johanneson, Tea Area
Emily Krizan, West Central
Ivar Kulla, Hamlin
Tamara Giese, Selby
Erin Jankord, Castlewood
Kenneth Knopp, Estelline
Whitney Miller, Estelline
Jayda Swenson, Deuel

99 Days of Summer Launched!

2011-04-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

KXLG radio in Watertown will be holding their second annual 99 DAYS OF SUMMER promotion and Reliabank has joined in the fun by once again, by being the $5,000 cash sponsor!

Tuesday night was the launch party of the promotion, held at Lunkers on Lake Kampeska. A wonderful event hosted by KXLG.

Get your sticker on your car window, hope to get "ticketed" by the KXLG promo squad and perhaps we'll see you at the end of summer at the BIG DRAWING for $5,000!

Reliabank Proudly Supports WHS

2011-04-14T09:12:00.000-07:00

Hugh Bartels, President and Mark Tetzlaff, VP of Reliabank recently helped the Arrow Education Foundation Prize Patrol award grants to teachers in the Watertown School District. Reliabank is a founding member and Hugh was on the original Board Of Directors.

The Arrow Education Foundation awarded grants to Watertown School District teachers for resources to “enhance educational opportunities for students”.

The Innovative Education Grant for $7000 was given to all elementary reading teachers. The teachers will each receive an iPad to motivate and equip students with important skills for learning to read successfully

The Innovative Education Foundation Grant for $750 was given to McKinley 3rd Grade. These classes will be using BananaGrams letter tiles to allow each student to manipulate the tiles as they learn to spell and build their understanding of words

The Foundation Innovative Education Grant for $3000 for awarded to WMS math students. These students will be using iPads for accomplishing lesson activities in math that will help challenge and accelerate gifted students as well as aid progress for the struggling learner.

A Foundation Innovative Education Grant for $2900 was give to WMS students. These students will be participating in the Oelweus Bullying Prevention Program. This program, one of the premier bullying prevention programs in the country, will be implemented at WMS to address the whole bullying cycle

April is Community Banking Month

2011-04-04T12:40:00.000-07:00

This month we get to toot our horn as it's National Independent Community Banking Month! We have been a locally owned bank for over 90 years and are proud of the service we offer our area communities. Why should you bank with a community bank? Read on .........

Community Bank Advantages

Community banks focus attention on the needs of local families, businesses and farmers. Conversely, many of the nation's megabanks are structured to place a priority on serving large corporations.

Unlike many larger banks that may take deposits in one state and lend in others, community banks channel most of their loans to the neighborhoods where their depositors live and work, helping to keep local communities vibrant and growing.

Community bank officers are generally accessible to their customers on-site. CEOs at megabanks are often headquartered in office suites, away from daily customer dealings.

Community bank officers are typically deeply involved in local community affairs, while large-bank officers are likely to be detached physically and emotionally from the communities where their branches are located.

Many community banks are willing to consider character, family history and discretionary spending in making loans. Megabanks, on the other hand, often apply impersonal qualification criteria, such as credit scoring, to all loan decisions without regard to individual circumstances.

Community banks offer nimble decision-making on business loans because decisions are made locally. Megabanks must often convene loan-approval committees in another state.

Because community banks are themselves small businesses, they understand the needs of small-business owners. Their core concern is lending to small businesses and farms. The core concern of the mega banks is corporate America.

If you haven't already - now is a great time to make the switch to your local community bank RELIABANK!

Join us April 22 at all our locations for a community open house
Beverages and treats will be served.

Reliabank Increases Scholarships

2011-03-29T08:54:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that we have increased our scholarship amounts this year! For all High School seniors attending a college, university or technical school in the Fall of 2011 here are the scholarship options. Make sure to get your app turned in by April 1

Reliabank Dakota (2) - $1,000

Reliabank Heritage (4) - $1,000

Reliabank Legacy (4) - $500

Reliabank Pioneer (2) - $500

LATI (1)- $1,000

Prairie Family Business and Reliabank

2011-03-14T09:16:00.000-07:00

In 2010 Reliabank joined the Prairie Family Business Association. This is a privately funded program that is managed by the USD-Business School and the purpose of this association is to help perpetuate family business from generation to generation.

Prairie Family Business Association provides quality educational resources and networking opportunities which assist business owning families and their advisors in understanding the unique issues that are part of the family business system.

Throughout the Midwest, family firms comprise almost 90% of all business enterprises. More than 30% of all family-owned businesses survive into the second generation. Twelve percent will still be viable into the third generation, with 3% of all family businesses operating at the fourth-generation level and beyond.

Families involved with the PFBA are striving to implement best practices and educational tools to assure their families continue to nurture their family values and relationships, develop profitable companies, and create competent and committed shareholders for generations to come.

Click here to learn more

Why Do U Love Your Community Bank?

2011-03-09T07:29:00.000-08:00

Independent Community Bankers Association (ICBA) “I Love My Community Bank” campaign allows customers and small businesses to share their experiences with their community banks. On the “I Love My Community Bank” website, consumers can post comments, photos and video testimonials about their community banking experiences.

So tell us why you love Reliabank.

We love being a community bank because it allows us to know each individual, we take the time to help solve problems, we are able to make decisions locally, help build relationships and watch generations grow and flourish!

National Consumer Protection Week March 6-12

2011-03-07T11:34:00.000-08:00

Consumers of all ages are increasingly turning to the Internet for help with managing their finances, but knowing where to go online for reliable, practical money tips can be challenging. That's why the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has compiled a "Top 10" list of FDIC online resources for consumers on subjects ranging from deposit insurance to shopping for a bank account and avoiding financial fraud.

The FDIC's Top 10 list was announced today in observance of National Consumer Protection Week 2011 (NCPW), which is March 6-12.

• "EDIE," the FDIC's Electronic Deposit Insurance Estimator: An online calculator that assists consumers and businesses in determining their deposit insurance coverage for each FDIC-insured bank where they have deposit accounts. EDIE also provides a printable report showing whether those deposits are fully protected or if some exceed the federal limits.

• FDIC Consumer News: The FDIC's quarterly publication for consumers offers information and tips on credit cards, bank accounts, loans, scams, money management, and much more. Consumers can also listen to articles anywhere, anytime online or by downloading to an MP3 player.

• Bank Find: Our online directory that consumers can use to locate an FDIC-insured institution, learn what happened to a bank that changed names or no longer exists, and more.

• Customer Assistance Form: An easy-to-use form to submit a question to the FDIC or a complaint regarding a financial institution. Of course, consumers with questions or concerns can also call the FDIC toll-free at 1-877-ASK-FDIC, which is 1-877-275-3342.

• Consumer Alerts: Warnings about financial frauds and scams.

• Small Business Web Page: Useful information for small businesses, especially regarding access to loans, plus an online form to ask the FDIC a question or register a concern.

• The FDIC YouTube Channel: Videos on topics such as deposit insurance and Internet fraud and messages from FDIC Chairman Bair.

• Money Smart: A financial education curriculum concentrating on the development of consumers' financial skills and positive banking relationships.

• Foreclosure Prevention Toolkit: A Web page that provides easy access to helpful information for homeowners on avoiding foreclosure and foreclosure "rescue" scams.

• E-mail updates: Sign up to receive e-mail notices of each new issue of FDIC Consumer News, Consumer Alerts, and other announcements and publications from the FDIC. Consumers can also follow the FDIC on Twitter and Face

iHELP Available at Reliabank

2011-03-04T12:54:00.000-08:00

iHELP loans are designed for the "gap" between the cost of education and the amount you can borrow under the federal programs. This programs is provded through the Independent Community Banks of America and are originated and serviced by Student Loan Finance Corporation (SLFC).

To learn more and apply for your iHELP loan we've set up a page on our website: Click Here for details.

iHELP Investing in the Education of America

Retirement Party!

2011-03-01T06:48:00.000-08:00

Last Friday our wonderful friend and co-worker, Sandy Peterson, retired after 48 years of service in the banking industry!

Reliabank in Watertown hosted a beautiful open house for her full of flowers, food, friends and gifts.

Many people stopped by to wish Sandy a happy retirement

What are your plans for retirement? The very first thing I am going to do is take a trip to Arizon and Texas. Hopefully the snow will be gone when I return and I can go golfing anytime that I want to!

What have you enjoyed most about working at Reliabank? What I have enjoyed the most is working with the customers, some of which I have worked with for the majority of my banking career. I have also thoroughly enjoyed working with my fellow employees at Reliabank and they have become my extended family.

What do you remember as the biggest changes you’ve seen since you started at the Bank? The biggest change I have seen during my banking career is the advancement of technology. When I started, virtually everything was done by hand and now very little is done without the assistance of some form of technology.

Looking back, do you have any memories regarding the bank that you’d like to share? My favorite memories of the bank will be the interactions with fellow employees and customers. Also having Mr Johnson take the time to sit at my desk and visit about sports and our families. It has been a pleasure to work at Reliabank Dakota!

Have fun in your retirement Sandy and don't forgot about us!!

2011-02-23T08:48:00.000-08:00

ICBA and RELIABANK Encourage Americans to Save During America Saves Week February 20-27

Washington, D.C. (February 20, 2011)—The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) and RELIABANK are proud to add their voices to the nearly 1,000 organizations nationwide that are encouraging Americans to save as part of America Saves Week, Feb. 20-27.

“Saving is key to financial stability and independence,” said Jim MacPhee, ICBA chairman and CEO of Kalamazoo County State Bank in Schoolcraft, Mich. “Studies show most Americans have too much debt and not enough savings. The recent economic crisis demonstrated just how important it is to have a cushion to help you weather the unexpected. Now more than ever, people need to develop good saving habits. By participating in America Saves Week, ICBA and our nearly 5,000 member community banks are helping raise awareness of how important it is for community bank customers to make saving a part of their everyday lives.”

ICBA and RELIABANK offer the following simple tips to help you boost your savings:

• Pay yourself first. Join a retirement plan at work that automatically deducts money from your paycheck. You can also have money automatically withdrawn from your checking account into your savings or an investment vehicle. Many employers offer automatic payroll deduction, one of the best ways to start and keep saving.

• Create a spending plan. Unlike a strict budget, a spending plan is a guide to help you take better control of your finances by tracking where your money goes. In a spending plan, you list expenses, compare them to income and then make changes based on your priorities.

• Start small. Save your loose change. Setting aside just 50 cents a day for one year can garner you a $500 emergency fund.

• Long range, aim to have an emergency savings of six to nine months of living expenses.

• Use your credit cards wisely so that you don’t take on too much debt and minimize interest charges.

It is also important to consider these factors in choosing where to place your savings:

• Access. How quickly can you access your money? Community banks are local and use up-to-the-minute technology so that customers can access their money when and where they need it.

• Safety. How safe is your money? At community banks, the FDIC insures deposits up to $250,000 per depositor and $250,000 for certain retirement accounts. No one has ever lost a penny of FDIC-insured funds. Talk to your community banker for more information.

• Earnings. How much money will you earn? Community banks offer personalized customer service tailored to individual needs and savings products and services at rates that are comparable to or often better than larger institutions.

“Fortunately, it’s never too late to start saving,” Hugh Bartels, President of Reliabank in Watertown said. “We here at RELIABANK can help you create a savings plan to help you reach your financial goals.”

America Saves Week is a nationwide campaign in which a broad coalition of nonprofit, corporate and government organizations help individuals and families save and build wealth. Through information, advice and encouragement, America Saves Week assists those who wish to pay down debt, build an emergency fund or save for a home, education or retirement. Learn more about why saving is so important and how to get started on building a nest egg at www.icba.org and www.americasavesweek.org.

About ICBA

The Independent Community Bankers of America, the nation’s voice for community banks, represents nearly 5,000 community banks of all sizes and charter types throughout the United States and is dedicated exclusively to representing the interests of the community banking industry and the communities and customers we serve. For more information, visit www.icba.org

Turn Your Winter Blues Into Green!

2011-02-23T07:10:00.000-08:00

You could win $10,000 just by paying your bills with Reliabank's Online Bill Pay!

Don't let the bill paying routine make you blue this winter. With Reliabank's Online Bill Pay, you control who, when, and how much to pay. And right now, pay at least 3 bills using Online Bill Pay in February and March, and you'll receive an entry into the sweepstakes.*

Take a look at what Online Bill Pay can do for you:

Change, edit or stop pending payments, unlike auto-debit
Add billers quickly with minimal information
Pay anyone who you normally send a check
Pay all your bills from one convenient location

Each bill you pay online increases your chance of winning
GRAND PRIZE: $10,000
FIRST PRIZE: $1,000
SECOND PRIZE: $500

Get started today at http://www.reliabank.com/.

*NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY. Sweepstakes ends 3/31/11. Open to legal US residents residing in any of the 50 United States or DC, who are 18 years of age or older and have a unique, personal and valid social security number at the time of entry. Subject to full official rules available at http://impact.fiserv.com/sweepsrules. Void in Puerto Rico, US territories and possessions, outside of the US and where restricted or prohibited by law.

Watertown Farm Show a Big Hit in 2011

2011-02-15T13:12:00.000-08:00

Walk around the Watertown Winter Farm Show and you will see many different ages taking in the sites. All come out to support this 5-day event held at the Watertown Armory and The Extension Complex. Booths vary from farm equipment to radio stations, banks to home cleaning equipment - there's something for everyone. Not to mention the great food offered by the 4-H members!

We thank the Watertown Chamber Ag Committee who put numerous hours into this event to make it such a huge success each year.

We have a great time working our booth, giving away prizes and visiting with everyone! Join us March 4-6 at the Watertown Home Show for more prizes and giveaways!

Beware of Vishing Attacks

2011-02-04T11:48:00.000-08:00

VISHING: a social engineering scam that involves fraudsters pretending to be associated with a financial institution or well-known business requesting personal or account information through the telephone or voice-enabled software on your computer. The term "vishing" is a combination of "VoIP" and "phishing."

Fraudsters using vishing scams are more inclined to leave a message on a machine rather than directly speak to individuals, it is significantly easier to recognize a vishing attempt rather than a phishing attack. However, these types of scams can appear to be very real messages. They often use urgent or official sounding language to convey the need for you to "confirm" your personal or account information.

How it works:
A fraudster will call your home or cellular telephone number pretending to be a representative of a financial institution or well-known business and leave a message requesting your urgent attention about your account or online profile being compromised. The message will include a number for you to return a call reminding you about the urgent need to secure your information as soon as possible.

When you return the call, the posing fraudster will ask you for your personal or account information.

Once they have the information, your identity and account are now susceptible to fraud.

There may be times they request this information from you if you answer the telephone. If this happens, do not provide the caller with any information. Instead, identify the organization they are representing and the name of the caller and inform them you will call them back from a more secure line and hang up. Look up the public number for the organization they said they were from, and call that number. Explain to their representative why you are calling and you suspect you are being vished and ask to speak with the individual that contacted you.
Remember: Do not use the number the potential fraudster has provided you. It is imperative you verify if the caller is with the organization they claim to be with.

Similar to most of the other types of social engineering, you remain in control of your information. Fraudsters are trying to get this information from you, so by using extra caution and some common sense, your information will remain perfectly safe.

A recent VISHING attack is under way where consumers receive a call from SHAZAM (ATM/debit card provifer) demanding account information. This is a scam and has not been authorized by Shazam ATM/debit card services. Some calls that consumers have received, have referenced “Visa® debit” or "MasterCard® debit". Some have included recorded messages while others have had a live operator or callback option. Anytime you receive a call like this please remember to NEVER give out personal information over the phone or in an email. Simply hang up on them.

Scholarships Available!

2011-01-26T11:37:00.000-08:00

Attention High School Seniors!
We now have our scholarship application available online for you to print off and complete. Simply Click Here and you will be taken to our home page where the scholarship banner allows you to download the application. You can also pick up an application at any Reliabank location and many area High School counselors will have apps available also.

• RELIABANK DAKOTA SCHOLARSHIP: Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to two high school seniors attending any four-year accredited school in South Dakota. Given in conjunction with the South Dakota Bankers Association.

• RELIABANK HERITAGE SCHOLARSHIP: One $1000 scholarship will be awarded to a high school senior attending a four-year accredited school in state or out of state.

• RELIABANK LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP: One $500 scholarship will be awarded to a high school senior attending a four-year accredited school or a two-year technical school in state or out of state.

• RELIABANK PIONEER SCHOLARSHIP: Two $500 scholarships will be awarded to two high school seniors attending a four-year accredited school or two-year technical school in South Dakota. Given in conjunction with the South Dakota Bankers Association.

• RELIABANK LATI SCHOLARSHIP: One $500 scholarship will be awarded to a high school senior attending LATI in Watertown.

Good Luck Class of 2011!

Cut Back on Clutter with eStatements!

2011-01-14T07:32:00.000-08:00

If your New Year's resolution is to get organized, (and become more green) we can help! Reliabank's eStatements are a no-cost option within Online Banking that lets you access your account statements with a few clicks of your mouse.

Convenience
With Reliabank eStatements, you have access to your account statements on any computer with internet access. Gone are the frustrating days of keeping track of old paper statements.
Anytime. Anywhere you have a computer.

Security
We use the highest level of data encryption available. Your statement information is secure. And because Reliabank eStatements are paperless, it is much harder for identity thieves to get their hands on your personal information. Not only are you doing your part to protect against financial fraud, but you also won't have to worry about shredding your old statements!

Speed
Reliabank's eStatements become available to online banking members the day statements are processed - giving our customer's statement information sometimes up to a week faster than the paper statements arriving via mail.

Go Green
Many customers like the environmentally friendly aspect of eStatements. No paper means no trees are being used!

So get rid of the clutter on your kitchen table! Get organized this year with eStatements from Reliabank. Simply log into your online banking, click on SERVICES and scroll down to Electronic Statement to select which accounts you want to receive paper statements for.

HAPPY 2011!

Our Family is Growing!

2010-12-20T09:16:00.000-08:00

As you've probably already heard, our Reliabank family has grown by two new locations in the last week. On December 16 we acquired the Tea and Humboldt branches of Farmers State Bank Marion. Our whole staff needs to be commended on a great job of making sure this acquisition went seamlessly for us and for the new branches. Our conversion team worked endless hours to ensure that all customer data was transferred successfully.

We want to welcome the Tea and Humboldt communities to our family!

Watertown Farm Appreciation Banquet

2010-11-29T08:32:00.000-08:00

Reliabank hosted the 2010 Farm Appreciation Banquet held in Watertown the evening of November 18. Over 900 people attended this event to honor our local farmers. Food was catered by the Wheel Inn and the entertainment was provided by "Diva's Through the Decades".

Commemorating our 90th Anniversary

2010-11-15T11:29:00.000-08:00

Stop by our Watertown North Hwy 81 location and you will be greeted by a little boy and his dog. This statue "the Check Up" is to commemorate our 90th anniversary.

David W. Johnson, CEO, appreciates art of all kinds, especially originals. This was purchased at Sculpture Walk, which is a Sioux Falls annual art appreciation project where they bring sculptures and other forms of visual art to Phillips Ave to be on display for about 10 months. Dave decided that "Check Up" would have broad appeal to bank customers such as parents & grandparents, pet lovers, professionals like medical doctors and veterinarians, and just about anyone who appreciates a simple Norman Rockwell illustration.

We feel this statue represents to customers, how we as a community bank are here for all clients financial "check ups" now and for future generations.

Reliabank Makes Donation

2010-11-04T08:58:00.000-07:00

During the month of October, if you stopped at any of our bank locations, you probably noticed the small orange pumpkins hanging around. Our front line staff sold these pumpkins as part of a fundraiser for the Cystic Fibrosis Organization. Thank you to all who participated and donated to this great cause. Today we are sending off a check for $406 to CF!

We have the best customers and the best staff!

Great job!

Be Aware of Phishing Attempts

2010-11-03T10:59:00.000-07:00

There has recently been a new phishing scheme targeting Internet Banking customers. Phishing is the criminally fraudulent process of attempting to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by masquerading as a trustworthy business in an electronic communication. Phishing is typically carried out by e-mail or instant messaging, and it often directs users to enter details at a fake website whose look and feel are almost identical to the legitimate one.

The best plan of action is to be extra-cautious when online. If you are ever contacted about an account needing to be "verified" (or any other topic used by phishers), it is a sensible precaution to contact the company from which the e-mail apparently originates to check that the e-mail is legitimate. Alternatively, the address that you know is the company's genuine website can be typed into the address bar of the browser, rather than trusting any hyperlinks in the suspected phishing message.

Please keep in mind that Reliabank (including our Internet Banking system) will NEVER ask you to enter personal or account information during the login process or for any Internet Banking pages where the information requested is not relevant to the transaction. Customers should not enter sensitive data if they are prompted to do so. Also, always make sure when using Internet Banking that your anti-virus and anti-malware are installed and the software definitions are kept up-to-date.

PROJECT HOPE

2010-11-01T11:41:00.000-07:00

Reliabank is joining forces with the Watertown Area Homes of Hope "Project Hope" on Monday, November 15 at Grace Lutheran Church (202 Second St SE in Watertown). This informational and service program, which runs from 4:00pm-8:00pm, is being held for those citizens that are challenged by today's economy.

Local agencies will be available to provide information about services, assist in filling out applcations and provide referrals for the assistance you may need.

Free Blood Pressure Testing/ Legal Advice/ Pharmacist/ Family Photo/ Other Important Life Services

The purpose of Homes of Hope is to empower clients and give them the direction they require to end the cycle of poverty and homelessness. Homes of Hope works with individuals in the Watertown community who are willing to work on making their lives better for them and their families.

Reliabank is proud to help support this imporant community project. For more information on Homes of Hope we encourage you to contact 886-6730.

How Do Thieves Get Your Personal Information?

2010-10-26T11:38:00.000-07:00

Despite your best efforts to manage the flow of your personal information or to keep it to yourself, skilled identity thieves may use a variety of methods to gain access to your data.

So, how do thieves get your information?
They get information from businesses or other institutions by:

stealing records or information while they're on the job
bribing an employee who has access to these records
hacking these records
conning information out of employees

They may steal your mail, including bank and credit card statements, credit card offers, new checks, and tax information. Always shred any document with personal information.

They may rummage through your trash, the trash of businesses, or public trash dumps in a practice known as "dumpster diving." Again, shred personal information.

They may get your credit reports by abusing their employer's authorized access to them, or by posing as a landlord, employer, or someone else who may have a legal right to access your report.

They may steal your credit or debit card numbers by capturing the information in a data storage device in a practice known as "skimming." They may swipe your card for an actual purchase, or attach the device to an ATM machine where you may enter or swipe your card.

They may steal your wallet or purse.

They may complete a "change of address form" to divert your mail to another location.
They may steal personal information they find in your home.

They may steal personal information from you through email or phone by posing as legitimate companies and claiming that you have a problem with your account. This practice is known as "phishing" online, or pretexting by phone. Remember to never give out personal information over the phone or internet if you are not positive who you are dealing with. A bank will NEVER contact you to verify personal info.

99 Days of Summer Cash Giveaway

2010-09-21T11:53:00.000-07:00

The months of June, July and August seemed to fly by while we kicked up our heels and celebrated our 90th anniversary. During those months we also collaborated with Watertown radio station KXLG for their 99 Days of Summer Giveaway. Reliabank sponsored the $5,000 cash prize and the giveaway took place on Sept 16 at our North Reliabank location. Registration began at 5:15pm and the process of elimination started promptly at 6:15pm. There were 99 qualifiers from the radio station who showed up to be included in the big cash giveaway. Tension and nerves built up as one by one people's names were drawn and they left with parting gifts of t-shirts and other prizes. It came down to the final two, who were both so nervous everyone in the crowd could feel the emotions. The winner's name was drawn - Brenda Foster of Watertown was the lucky $5,000 grand prize winner!

We had a great time hosting this event, and want to thank everyone who participated. It was the perfect end to a perfect Summer.

Avoid OD's and Bounced Checks

2010-08-27T11:53:00.000-07:00

We live in a society that is very consumer driven and often people lose sight of just how much they are actually spending, how many checks they are writing and how much debt they are piling on to their credit cards.

At Reliabank, we want to help you get more out of your money and make smarter financial decisions. And to help our valued customers avoid the hassle, expense, and embarrassment of overdrafts here are some steps you can take to protect yourself.

The best way to avoid overdraft and bounced-check fees is to manage your account so you don’t overdraw it. It's as simple as that. A few minutes a day writing transaction into your check register could save you big dollars in overdraft fees.

Keep an eye on your account balance by using Reliabank's free online banking. Check your balances, transfer between your accounts and see what checks have come through your account. Anytime. Anywhere.

Pay special attention to your electronic transactions. Record your ATM withdrawals and fees, debit card purchases, and online payments.
Don't forget about automatic payments. If you have automatic payments and deductions from your account, such as your mortgage payment or health club fee, remember to set aside money for them and to record them in your register.

Record all transactions immediately and do not assume that they will take days to post to your account. Information from checks that you write to pay for purchases or expenses (such as credit card or utility payments) may be used to make a one-time electronic transfer from your account. Funds from these transactions may be withdrawn from your account as soon as the same day you make the payment.

Review your account statements each month. Sign up for free eStatements with Reliabank and get you statement mailed directly to your Inbox!
Sometimes mistakes happen. If you do overdraw your account, deposit money into the account as soon as possible to cover the overdraft amount plus any fees and daily charges incurred. Depositing money into your account can help you avoid additional overdrafts and fees.

What are some other ways to cover overdrafts?

Link your checking account to a savings account you have with the bank. If you overdraw your checking account, we can transfer funds from your savings account to your checking account.

Set up an overdraft line of credit. You need to apply for a "line of credit" just as you would apply for a regular loan. If you overdraw your account, the bank will lend you the funds by using your line of credit to cover the overdraft. You will pay interest on this loan, and there may be an annual fee. But the overall costs may be less than the costs for a return check or overdraft charge.

The best rule of thumb is this: Good account management is the lowest-cost way to protect your hard-earned money.

Helping Students Handle Credit Wisely

2010-08-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

As the nation’s college students head back to school, and with a growing number of them planning to use credit cards during the school year, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) and the nation’s nearly 8,000 community banks, including Reliabank, want to encourage students to be responsible when using their credit cards so they can maintain their finances and establish solid credit.

New rules governing credit cards aimed specifically at protecting students went into effect in February 2010. Credit card companies are now prohibited from issuing cards to anyone under the age of 18, and those under 21 need either an adult co-signer or proof of income. Educational institutions must disclose any agreements they have with credit card companies that market to students, and credit card companies may no longer entice students with free gifts. All other provisions in the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure (CARD) Act that cover consumers—such as advance notice of changes, more time to make payments and terms that are easier to understand—apply to students as well.

But even with these safeguards, the best protection against getting deeply in debt is knowing the pitfalls and how to avoid them. ICBA offers the following tips to help students use credit cards wisely:

Set up and follow a budget that includes paying off a credit card balance. “Maxing out” or charging up to your card’s credit limit can make sticking to your budget more difficult.
Remember that cash advances, unlike purchases, generally have finance charges that apply immediately.
Pay on time, every time. Whenever possible, pay more than the minimum payment owed (for example, 150 percent of the minimum) to pay off the balance faster and save on finance charges.
Keep records of your account number, expiration date and the phone number of your card issuer in a safe place.
Keep your account information confidential.
Never give out your credit card number, card verification number (which appears on or near the signature panel) or expiration date over the phone, unless you initiated the call and know who you’re dealing with.
Elect to receive your statement information online. Many sites offer an alert for unusual transactions and reminders of when your bill is due.
Consider making your credit card payment online wuth Reliabank's free bill pay, to ensure it is received by the monthly due date.
Routinely access your account information online to track your spending and to quickly identify fraudulent transactions. If you see a transaction that is not yours, notify your card issuer immediately.
If there’s an error on your account, report it immediately by notifying your card issuer. Look for complete instructions on your monthly statement or your bank’s website and follow them carefully to protect your rights.
Keep a copy of your sales receipts so you can compare what you bought with the charges on your bill.
When making online transactions, be sure the site is secure. Don’t let others see you enter card information.
Don’t lend your credit card to anyone, not even a friend. Ever.
If you move, notify your card issuer immediately.

If you want to learn more about credit cards and how to manage your credit, we encourage you to stop in and visit with a Reliabank employee. As a community bank we are a common-sense lender that provides credit cards as a valuable service to our customers.

~Reliabank and ICBA

Paying Bills Online Could Win YOU Cash!

2010-08-05T13:38:00.000-07:00

It's the $25,000 Instant Win Game and Sweepstakes!

WIN A FORTUNE BY PAYING YOUR BILLS ONLINE
WITH RELIABANK'S FREE ONLINE BILL PAY!
Every bill you pay online at reliabank.com by September 30, 2010 is another entry into our Sweepstakes for $25,000.

Login to online banking at http://www.reliabank.com/ to get started.

Plus, we'll also enter you into the Sweepstakes each time you play the Instant Win Game at http://www.reliabank.com/. Play everyday for a chance to win $100 instantly.

PAY PLAY WIN

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. LEGAL RESIDENT OF THE 50 STATES (D.C) 18 YEARS AND OLDER. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Promotion ends 9/30/10. For official rules, alternative method of entry, prize descriptions and odds disclosure, visit www.fiservpromotioneprize.com/fortune

The New Consumer Protections on Credit Cards: An Overview

2010-08-04T09:19:00.000-07:00

Prohibitions and Restrictions on Interest Rate Increases: Card issuers generally can’t increase the interest rate on a credit card for one year after an account is opened, and after that, the rate can generally only rise on new transactions. However, there are several exceptions that allow for rate increases during the first year and on existing balances. For example, card companies can increase the interest rate on an existing balance when the advertised, market-based “index” (such as the prime rate) that a variable-rate card is tied to goes up, a promotional rate expires or the consumer is more than 60 days late on payments.

Card issuers also must generally provide a 45-day notice before applying an interest rate increase to new transactions (those made more than 14 days after the date of the notice). For example, if customers receive a notice from their card company stating that the Annual Percentage Rate will increase to 24.9 percent, and the notice is provided July 1, that higher rate would apply to transactions made on or after July 16. However, interest on new transactions would only be charged at the higher rate if there is still a balance due after August 15 (the close of the 45-day notice period). As always, if you pay the balance in full by the due date, you can avoid interest charges.

Restrictions on Fees: As with a rate increase on new balances, card issuers also must generally provide a 45-day advance notice of other significant changes, such as new fees or increases in existing fees. However, in addition, cardholders must be notified that they now have special rights when they reject a change in fees. Those who say they want to cancel the account because of the change cannot be required to immediately repay the outstanding balance. The card company can either continue offering the existing payment method on the outstanding balance, give the consumer five years (or more) to pay the balance, or increase the minimum payment up to double the current level.

In addition, consumers will no longer be charged a fee when a transaction causes an account to exceed its credit limit unless the consumer has agreed in advance.

And, initial fees are significantly limited for subprime cards (for consumers with a limited credit history or a bad credit record). In the first year, and with the exception of three types of fees — those for late payments, going over the credit limit or returned payments due to insufficient funds — total fees cannot exceed 25 percent of the card’s initial credit limit.

Note: Proposed rules governing card fees are pending at the Federal Reserve Board. One proposed rule would prohibit credit card issuers from charging penalty fees (including late payment fees and over-the-limit fees) that exceed the dollar amount associated with the consumer’s violation of the account terms. Another proposed rule would ban inactivity fees. Final rules will take effect on August 22, 2010. For updated information, visit http://www.federalreserve.gov/

Money Management in Your 20's

2010-07-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

Your 20s is the most important decade of your life financially. Really. It is a crucial decade in learing how to manage your money. Unfortunately, many do not learn (or prefer to wait to learn) until their 30's and 40's.

In your 20’s and don’t think that you need to worry about your security later on down the line, right? You can always start saving in your 30's and 40's right? WRONG. Often times, rather than saving, investing, and building a career, many 20-somethings instead use these years to rack up debt and enjoy a lifestyle beyond their means. While there are many things that 20-somethings should focus on, here is a list of five that can get you started:

Oh yea, before we start, you might want to consider this idea: if you begin saving around $1,500 a year, beginning at the age of 25 years old, and you save this for 40 years, by the time you retire you would have $600,000 saved to tack onto your retirement pay. If you wait until you are 40 years old, you would only have $375,000 by the time of retirement. That’s a whopping $225,000 difference!

1. Spending Less Than You Earn
The most important financial habit that a young person can learn is to spend less money than he or she earns.
In order to master this principle quickly, make sure your fixed expenses such as rent are not too high. Then, begin to find ways to keep your spending (entertainment, dinner out, clothes, etc.) in check. Learn to balance your checkbook monthly by using internet banking to keep on top of our accounts. Make whatever adjustments are necessary in order to make sure that you spend less than you earn every single month.
2. Become A Regular Saver
Try to put a little bit into a savings account each month (or each paycheck). Setup your savings account to auto transfer money each month from your checking account into savings — even if it’s only $10 a month. The habit you establish is the important part! Also try to increase the amount that you save each month. Rather than letting your lifestyle grow larger as the years go by, try growing your savings! If you get a raise at work, raise the amount of money you are putting into savings. It's that simple.

3. Become A Regular Investor
After you mastered the art of regular saving, it’s time to become a regular investor. The most common method is through 401(k) participation. If you have a 401(k) offered at work, it’s a great option for you because you can automatically deduct money from your paychecks. If you don’t, then you have to manually move money from your savings to retirement accounts such as an IRA.

A great way to get started in the stock market is by stopping in and visiting with one of our financial advisors at Raymond James Financial. they can help you set up a plan that fits your income and your lifestyle.
4. Build Your Skill Set
Focusing now more towards your career, you need to continue to develop your skill set. Most people learn more in their first few years in the working world than they do in four years of college. Use the opportunities at work to develop skills that will benefit you both today and years from now. Take on unique challenges so that you can gain the experience and the skills they offer. The more experience and range of skills that you develop over time, the more opportunities will be available for you as you progress through your career.

5. Build Your Network
Just as important as your skills, the relationships that you develop will also increase your opportunities exponentially. Networking, especially early in your career can be the difference between a fast track career and a stagnant career. Get to know people in your company, in your industry, and even in other industries. You really never know when a certain relationship will pay off. You may find yourself looking to switch jobs in a few years, and these relationships will be excellent resources to help you reach your objective.

While finances may not sound like a fun part of being 20, think of it as getting a head start on retirement that will pay off big down the line.

ID TheftSmart Protection

2010-07-08T12:42:00.000-07:00

Did you know? As many as 10 million Americans a year are victims of identity theft.

Identity theft is defined as someone using your personally identifying information (like your name, social security number, or credit card information) to pretend to be you. The identity thief does this for his own personal gain at the expense of his victim.

Victims spend from 3 to 5,840 hours repairing damage done by identity theft. This difference is due to the severity of the crime - for example a lost credit card versus the use of your social security number to become your "evil twin." The average number of hours victims spend repairing the damage caused by identity theft is 330 hours.

This is where Reliabank’s new ID TheftSmart™ Protection Plan steps in to help out the victim. As the primary owner of our Ultimate Checking account, you can receive this service free of charge!*

As an ID TheftSmart™ member, you'll have exclusive access to your own experienced, licensed investigator in the event your identity is compromised. He or she will take care of the majority of paperwork and hours of legwork required to reclaim your identity to pre–theft status and regain your financial standing—including areas most people don't even think of as being affected by identity theft.

Contact your Reliabank location for more information.

*A nominal fee of $2/month per person will be charged for all other account holders

We Have Your Passport to Win!

2010-07-01T13:30:00.000-07:00

Announcing the new SHAZAM debit card promo that offers you the chance to win a $500 travel card!

This summer during the Passport to Explore campaign you can go where you want to go and do what you want to do when you use your Reliabank debit card to pay for purchases. Every time you use your debit card to make a purchase between July 1 and September 30, 2010, you’re automatically entered for a chance to win some great prizes in the Passport to Explore campaign!

*Grand Prize $500 travel card
*First Place Prize GPS system, valued at $300.00
*Monthly Winners Bushnell® Imageview® binoculars, valued at $50.00

A debit card is your passport to a world of possibilities! The more you use your debit card, the more chances you have to win! If you don’t have a debit card, apply for one today.

Reliabank has joined with Shazam to offer one lucky Reliabank customer a $50 gift each month during this promotion.

No purchase is necessary to win. A purchase will not increase your chance of winning. Void where prohibited. Promotion period starts 07/1/10 and ends 09/30/10.
Visit www.shazam.net/rules_passporttoexplore.html for official rules and complete contest details.

Is Your Child Money Savvy?

2010-06-25T07:45:00.000-07:00

It's a known fact: kids learn from parents behavior. Ask yourself, are you a saver or a spender? This article offers easy ways to help your child (and maybe even yourself) be more money savvy!

Teach your child to make a pros/cons list before spending money on an expensive item.
Ask your kid to think about something he recently bought that he really wanted. What were his feelings about the item before he bought it, and what his your feelings two weeks later? Was it worth the money?
Ask your kids what interests them about money? What bores them about handling, saving, or spending money?
Discuss an emergency fund of money and the reasons it's important. How could kids benefit from starting an emergency fund of money ?
Have regular conversations about money skills and financial literacy – what is it, why do we need it, how do we get it, where do we keep it, how does it relate to the things that are important to us?
Ask your kids...does a free kitten come with hidden expenses? If so, what are they?
Make financial literacy fun by teaching money trivia along with money skills! For instance, the dollar bill lasts 21 months before it wears out. The five dollar bill has the shortest life, at 16 months.
As an incentive to save money, match your child's savings dollar for dollar...or fifty cents for each dollar saved.
What is your best money habit? Share it with your kids.
Discuss with your kids some things money can't buy.
Discuss with your kids which is more important...buying a video game or paying back lunch money borrowed from a friend.
Discuss with your kids the advantages and disadvantages of saving money.

Kids LOVE to have their own savings account; it makes them feel "grown-up." If you child doesn't have one yet, take time to open one...and consider funding it with a few dollars. This is a great way to get them in the healthy habit of saving and thinking about achieving financial goals. Our Super Eagles Kids Club account teaches children 12 and under good money management and they receive cool stuff for saving their money!

Teach your tween/teen how to fill out a check by having them write the next one.

Give your 6-8 yr old $2 and your 9-13 yr old $5. If your 6-8 yr old still has it after a week and your 9-13 has it after two weeks, double their money. Great delayed gratification practice!

Discuss needs versus wants with your kids.

We recommend bringing your child to the bank with you, teach them how to fill out their own deposit slip and make the transaction themselves. Your child will take great pride in his/her ability to do things on his/her own. Help you child sets goals of dollar amounts ie: how long till I have a $100.? He is now at almost $300 Get them excited about SAVING!

Money Saving Tips

2010-06-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

Now days everyone is looking to save money - whether it be by not eating out as often, walking instead of driving, or staying home more - all of these can add up to some big savings in a year.

Here are a few money saving tips we have gathered from friends and family:

The average person spends $6.60 on lunch away from home. Bring your midday meal just twice this week and save $13. Do it eight times this month and save $52.

Rather than buy individual hand soaps just buy a large, inexpensive bottle of shampoo. Fill a pump container with half water and half shampoo and use as hand soap.

Extend the life of your kitchen sponge by tossing it in with a load of dishes in the dishwasher every couple of days or so. This will sanitize it and give you several additional weeks' use.

Repurposing old T-shirts and cloth diapers as dishrags and cleaning cloths cuts down on waste, so it's better for the environment. (just like our PAPERLESS Ultimate checking account that pays you top interest!) The average American family uses 1 1/2 rolls of paper towels per week, so cutting down to just one a month could save you roughly $45 a year.

After your dishwasher's final rinse, open the door and pull out the racks. Let the dishes air-dry to save electricity.

Did you know coffee grounds can keep your refrigerator smelling nice and fresh? Rather than wasting a whole box of baking soda, place the grounds, new or used, in a bowl and remember to replace them every month or two.

Spend less by avoiding the dollar bins. How many of those items do you actually need? Probably none. Steer clear of this impulse zone, which is often placed near the front of the store to catch your eye as you walk in.

Keeping your fridge and freezer colder than necessary can boost your energy consumption--and your bills. Your fridge should be set between 37°F and 40°F, the freezer between 0° and 5°F.

Trees and shrubs are great for beautifying your yard. But did you know they also shield your home from sun and wind? You could save up to 30 percent in home heating and air conditioning costs by planting some natural protection. (Open any new checking account or loan at Reliabank during our summer promo and we'll give you a nice little potted spruce tree to add to your landscaping!)

Make your own cleaners - mix 1 cup each of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Use it to clean counters, soap scum in the shower and toilets. Try baking soda to clean bathroom surfaces, stainless steel appliances, sinks and stove tops. Lightly wet the surface, sprinkle baking soda on top, scrub with a sponge and rinse.

With the $$ you save you can add to your Reliabank savings account or your Ultimate Checking account! Earn money by saving money!

June is National Homeownership Month

2010-06-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

ICBA Offers Tips for Homebuyers

Washington, D.C. (June 7, 2010)— June is National Homeownership Month, and the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) and the nation’s nearly 8,000 community banks continue to help Americans in communities throughout the country become, and remain, homeowners each year through the personal attention that only a local community bank can provide.

“Community banks take the extra steps necessary to give potential homebuyers the service and attention they need,” said Jim MacPhee, ICBA chairman and CEO of Kalamazoo County State Bank in Schoolcraft, Mich. “They can help their customers evaluate whether the time is right for them to purchase a home, determine the most affordable mortgage options for their situation and provide them with information to help the process go more smoothly.”

We offer the following suggestions for homebuyers:

Know all the sources and amounts of your monthly income and know your budget, including how much you spend on rent, utilities, entertainment, clothing, food and transportation.
Gather and organize paperwork, such as pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns and bank and investment statements.
Check your credit report and bring it to your bank. Credit reporting agencies must give you one free report annually. Access your credit at www.ftc.gov/freereports.
Work with one of our mortgage lenders to figure out how much you can borrow and which mortgage product is right for you. They will carefully explain the mortgage options of each mortgage product available, including rate adjustments, fees and other loan features, so you aren’t surprised by payment increases down the road.
Talk to us before you begin looking for a home. We can tell you what current mortgage rates are and help you understand how that translates into monthly mortgage payments. This will help you shop for a home that fits your budget and shows sellers you are an educated homebuyer.
Learn as much as you can about the home-buying process.
Check with your local state, city and county government agencies for special first-time-homebuyer loan or grant programs available to assist with down payment and closing costs.
Once you have spoken to a Reliabank mortgage lender, and know what you can afford, stop by real estate open houses to see what’s available in your price range.

We encourage you to visit a Reliabank location to learn what your mortgage options are. Not only are community banks, such as Reliabank, interested in helping homebuyers purchase a home, we also want to help borrowers find a mortgage they can afford and afford to keep.

Contact on of our mortgage experts:
Michelle O'Farrell - Watertown
886-6000
Jeremy Kaiser, Hartford
528-4000
Pat Biederstedt, Hayti
783-2616

We Could Make You a Winner!

2010-06-08T12:02:00.000-07:00

We have partnered with KXLG 99.1fm radio in Watertown as the major cash sponsor in the 99 days of summer promotion! Pick up your window clings at any Reliabank location, put it in the back window of your vehicle and HOPE to get ticketed by KXLG! If you receive a large red ticket on your window, simply fill in the bottom, and drop off at various businesses in Watertown. When you hear your name on KXLG you'll have 99.1 seconds to call in and get your name entered in the big $5,000 drawing to be held downtown Watertown on September 13.

Visit http://www.mykxlg.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=182&Itemid=69
for more information!

Drop Off Points:

Watertown:Cowboy Country Stores (1,2,3), Cowboy Liquor Stores, Cowboy Bait and Ammo, Sheehan Cycle, Watertown Ford Chrysler and County Fair Foods

Clear Lake: Cowboy Country Store

Milbank: Food-N-Fuel
Ortonville:Cenex Convenience Store

Webster: A&W Restaurant

90 days of SUMMER 90 years of GROWTH

2010-06-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

Today officially kicks off our summertime promotion. Celebrating 90 years as YOUR community bank!

CD Special 990 Days of sweet savings 2.45%apy*

Summer Toy Loan Special
4 years $20,000 @ 5.95%apr**

4.07% apy Ultimate Checking Account now with ID Theft Protection!***

Visit us online for details http://www.reliabank.com/

* Annual Percentage Yield (APY) available as of 6/1/2010. 6 month penalty for early withdrawal. New money only. Minimum opening deposit of $2,500 required. Stated APY available with checking account and debit card. Lower rate will apply if requirements are not met. Offer available for a limited time.

** Annual Percentage Rate (APR) available as of 6/1/2010. Payment example: 48 monthly payments of $469.31. Automatic payment from Reliabank checking account required to earn stated rate. Other terms and rates available ependent on loan amount and credit qualifications. Visit with a Reliabank loan expert to review your options.

*** Ultimate rate 4.07% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) paid on balances between one penny and $25,000.00, and 1.01% APY paid on all amounts above $25,000.00 each cycle the minimum qualifications are met. If you do not meet the qualifications per cycle, your account will still function as a free checking account earning Base Rate 0.10% APY. Rates effective as of publication date. We may change the interest rate and APY at any time after the account is
opened. No minimum balance required, however, you must deposit $50 to open this account. Available to personal accounts only. No monthly service charge. Visit with a CSR to learn about the qualifications.

Why Opt-In on Reg E?

2010-05-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

Federal lawmakers have created new rules governing overdraft protection programs that go into effect on July 1, 2010. As a result, you now have an option concerning whether you want to have our overdraft service cover your ATM and everyday debit card transactions. Please take note that this opt-in rule applies only to ATM and everyday debit card transactions, and does not pertain to overdraft protection services associated with written checks or recurring debit transactions, such as regularly scheduled bill payments.

WHY OPT-IN?
The vast majority of our customers do not overdraw their accounts and incur fees, however life doesn't always go according to plan, and overdrafts do occur. Without overdraft protection, your ATM and everyday debit card transactions may be declined if you attempt to make a transaction without sufficient funds.

For existing accounts: if you do not opt in, beginning August 15, 2010, your ATM and everyday debit card transactions may be declined if we know they will create an overdraft.

For new accounts; if you open a new account on or after July 1, 2010, your ATM and everyday debit card transactions may be declined if we know they will create an overdraft unless you opt-in.

We encourage you to visit with any Reliabank customer service employee if you have any questions regarding this regulation.

Could it be? Ultimate Checking just got BETTER!

2010-05-19T07:03:00.000-07:00

In an effort to continue making our Ultimate Checking bigger and better – we have added an enhancement called ID TheftSmart™. Effective June 1, all Ultimate Checking accounts will qualify for FREE ID theft protection! This service is free to the primary account hold and only $2/month per person for additional people on the account.

(Also only $2/month per person on any other Reliabank checking account)

Did you know? 8,400,000 Americans reported being victimized by identity theft in 2009 alone!

As an ID TheftSmart™ member, you'll have exclusive access to your own experienced, licensed investigator. In the event your identity is compromised, he or she will take care of the majority of paperwork and hours of legwork required to reclaim your identity to pre–theft status and regain your financial standing—including areas most people don't even think of as being affected by identity theft.

Identity theft is a crime that is not easy to detect right away. Many victims don’t discover the theft for an average of just over three months, giving the thief ample time to go on spending sprees, make a mess of your credit, or even commit crimes in your name.

Contact any Reliabank location for more details!

Hat's off to graduating seniors!

2010-05-17T12:47:00.000-07:00

May..... anniversaries, weddings, summer vacation, graduation!
As a community bank we are committed to helping area students further their careers. Each year we offer seven scholarships based on academic achievement, community service and essay.
We are proud to announce this years Reliabank scholarship recipients:

Reliabank Dakota - Nolan Clarke, Estelline
Reliabank Dakota - Taylor Bach, Florence
Reliabank Heritage - John Foley, Watertown
Reliabank Legacy - Corey Sisco, Canistota
Reliabank Pioneer - Katelynn Krause, Estelline
Reliabank Pioneer - Mary Isaacson, Hamlin
Reliabank LATI - Cheyenne Trumm, Hamlin

We wish all 2010 graduating seniors the best of luck in your chosen paths.
If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door (Milton Berle)

ID Theft Now Offered on Checking Accounts

2010-05-13T06:36:00.000-07:00

How could we possibly have improved on our Ultimate checking account? By adding an enhancement called ID TheftSmart™ to all Ultimate Checking accounts - protecting you if your identity is ever stolen.
Did you know? 8,400,000 Americans reported being victimized by identity theft in 2009 alone!

As an ID TheftSmart™ member, you'll have exclusive access to your own experienced, licensed investigator. In the event your identity is compromised, he or she will take care of the majority of paperwork and hours of legwork required to reclaim your identity to pre–theft status and regain your financial standing—including areas most people don't even think of as being affected by identity theft.

Identity theft is a crime that is not easy to detect right away. Many victims don’t discover the theft for an average of just over three months, giving the thief ample time to go on spending sprees, make a mess of your credit, or even commit crimes in your name.

As an Ultimate Checking account holder, membership is automatic.This service is offered to all other checking account holders for $2/month per person. A small price to pay for peace of mind. For further information contact any Reliabank office.

Did you celebrate earth day?

2010-04-22T13:08:00.000-07:00

David W Johnson, CEO and other Reliabank employees spent this morning planting trees in celebration of Earth Day. These trees will be used as giveaways to customers during a summer promotion.

Why should every day be Earth day? Forty years after the first Earth Day, the world is in greater peril than ever. While climate change is the greatest challenge of our time, it also presents the greatest opportunity – an unprecedented opportunity to build a healthy, prosperous, clean energy economy now and for the future.

It's up to all of us to help our communities go green.

DID YOU KNOW....

Every aluminium drink can you recycle saves enough energy to keep your TV running for three hours.

Americans dispose of 10.5 million tons of plastic garbage every year, and about 8% of the world's annual oil production is used toward the creation of plastic products. A single plastic bottle can spend anywhere from 100 to 1000 years in a landfill

Passenger vehicles contribute 20% of greenhouse gas emissions in the US. 13% of polluted rivers are impaired by urban run off of pollution like that left behind on roads and parking lots from cars. Walk, ride a bike, and use public transportation to help curb climate change!

Taking care of the Earth is not just a responsibility -- it's a privilege.

E-mails: To Forward or Not to Forward

2010-04-19T12:02:00.000-07:00

While this blog doesn't have much to do with banking or offering finance tips, maybe this will curtail the amount of time (and thus money) wasted by people who forward hoax e-mails both at home and work.
Are you tired of all the forwarded e-mails you receive (often called urban legends or chain mail) that take up your in-box? Messages about free money, children in trouble, and other items designed to grab you and get you to forward the message to everyone you know? For some reason people feel the need to keep these going by forwarding to everyone in their address book.

If you receive an e-mail that you suspect may be a hoax, take the time to check it out on http://www.snopes.com/ . You can use the Snope Web site to research the information you receive to determine its accuracy. If the e-mail message is a hoax, you should delete it when you receive it instead of forwarding it. E-mail hoaxes are a problem because they invade our inboxes, waste our time reading and forwarding them, exploit our fears, and cause us to worry about things that aren't true. Worst of all, some recent hoax messages have been shown to contain computer viruses that will infect and destroy data on your computer and on the computers of everyone that you forward the message to.

So the next time you get ready to hit the "forward" icon on your in-box - take a moment to actually see if the information is accurate. More often then not - it won't be.

WHAT MAKES A COMMUNITY BANK SPECIAL?

2010-04-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

There are nearly 8,000 community banks, including commercial banks, thrifts, stock and mutual savings institutions, with more than 50,000 locations throughout the United States. Assets may range from less than $10 million to $10 billion or more. Community banks constitute 97 percent of all banks! We are proud to be your locally owned community bank.

So what is it that makes a community bank so special. Check out these facts:

• Unlike many larger banks that may take deposits in one state and lend in others, community banks channel most of their loans to the neighborhoods where their depositors live and work, helping to keep local communities vibrant and growing

• Because community banks are themselves small businesses, they understand the needs of small-business owners. Their core concern is lending to small businesses and farms. The core concern of the mega banks is corporate America.

• Local residents control the bank as shareholders and/or account holders.
• Community banks are the primary funding source for most local construction projects and residential mortgages.

• Community banks make many financial donations to civic groups and many bank employees are members of local civic groups.

• Community banks support many of the area's small businesses.

• Community bank employees and board members volunteer their time and support to local community projects.

Community Banking Month in Full Swing.....

2010-04-12T13:10:00.000-07:00

So much going on this month at Reliabank. While we celebrate Community Banking Month, we have contests going on in all our bank lobbies. Stop by and take a peek at our Employee Baby Picture contest. Take a guess at who those cute babies are, and enter to win a Reliabank prize package.

KIDS! We have a coloring contest going on at all bank locations, stop by and pick up your entry form. When you return your colored picture you'll receive a $1 Dairy Queen certificate! Winners in each age category will win $10 in gold coins!

Our customer appreciation open house will be held Friday, April 23.
Join us for goodies and bevearges all day.

WHAT IS A COMMUNITY BANK?

Community banks are locally owned and operated.

Community banks reinvest deposits almost exclusively within the local community.

Nearly 95% of the bank's investment is put right here in our community through residential mortgages, small business loans, and agricultural loans.

Decisions are made at the local level.

Community banks' philosophy of management is community

April is Community Banking Month!

2010-03-31T09:41:00.000-07:00

In celebrating our 90th anniversary this year, we realize as a community bank how integral we are to our area communities and engage in community reinvestment and development on a daily basis—one of our key missions is to ensure our local communities are vibrant and thriving.

One advantage of saving at a community bank is that because we are local, we want to build lasting relationships with our customers so we work hard to deliver superior customer service. A house down payment, retirement, college, adoption expenses, vacation, emergency funds—to name a few—are all goals families and individuals may have that require savings and are great reasons to start a savings nest egg at Reliabank now.

Come celebrate with us all month long! We will be having a kids coloring contest at each of our bank locations, and April 23 will be our community appreciate open house at all locations - serving up beverages and treats! Stop in and see what a locally owned community bank can do for you!

Keeping Up with Online Scams - FACEBOOK

2010-03-26T06:33:00.000-07:00

Facebook is no longer a Web site -- it's rapidly approaching the scale of the Internet itself. With over 350 million users, many young users spend more time on Facebook than on e-mail. That means scammers are now crawling all over Facebook, since they always go where the people go. There are hundreds of Facebook scams, such as phishing e-mails, Trojan horse infections, and misleading advertisements. The most current scam involves a notice appearing on the wall of user profiles as a message from a friend, saying “Hey, I got a new facebook account. Im going to delete this one, so add my new profile” then with a link that appears to be a link to the new profile.

Users fooled into resubmitting their Facebook details on this page then have their Facebook accounts hijacked and all of their contacts receive a similar message, propagating the phishing scam.

It’s not clear yet exactly what the phishing scammers are planning on using the compromised accounts for, or how far it has spread.

But the crime you should most worry about is Facebook impersonation. A criminal who hacks into your Facebook account can learn a staggering amount of information about you. Worse yet, he or she can gain trusted access to friends and family. We've seen plenty of stories that show Facebook friends can easily be tricked into sending money in response to believable pleas for help.

For this reason, it's time to upgrade your Facebook password (make it a strong password with letterS, numbers and symbols). Treat it like an online banking site. The stronger the password, the less chance of being hacked!

PLEASE BE VIGILANT WHEN IT COMES TO THE INTERNET - DON'T BE FOOLED BY ADVERTISEMENTS THAT SEEM TO GOOD TO BE TRUE, LINKS THAT ARE QUESTIONABLE, OR POP UPS THAT CLAIM YOUR COMPUTER NEEDS TO BE UPDATED. THE MORE CAUTIOUS YOU ARE, THE BETTER OFF YOU WILL BE.

Gift and Travel Cards Available at Reliabank

2010-03-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

Graduations? Upcoming weddings? Reliabank makes it easy for YOU to give the perfect gift with a Visa® Gift Card. No need to worry about finding the perfect gift, we have it right here for you! When you give your family, friends, or co-workers the gift of a Reliabank Visa® Gift Card, they can use it anywhere a Visa® logo is displayed, including retail stores and online merchants. These cards are great gift ideas for Holidays, Birthdays, Graduations, or Just Because! Gift Cards can be purchased at Reliabank in amounts from $10 to $500 for a fee of $2.50 per card.

Reliabank Visa® Travel Cards take the worry and stress out of travel. More convenient than traveler’s checks and more secure than cash, the reloadable Visa® Travel Card is essential gear wherever you travel. The Visa® Travel Card can be replaced if it is lost or stolen, making it a smart choice to take along with you on your travels. Visa® Travel Cards can be purchased at Reliabank in amounts from $10 to $10,000 for a $3.50 fee per card.

Advantages of BANKING ONLINE

2010-03-12T08:50:00.001-08:00

With the increasing popularity of online banking, many people have heard of it, but the majority have yet to give it a try. Perhaps it's because many of us prefer working with real people and real paper when it comes to money matters rather than performing transactions in an unknown cyberworld. While it can simplify life for some people, for others it is just plain intimidating.

Is it safe? YES! At Reliabank we take every precaution to make sure that your accounts are secured and protected. We use an encryption system along with an enhanced authentication that ensures your info is secure. This authentication is an image and phrase that verifies your ID and also verifies to you who we are. For more on this, we encourage you to visit our online banking demo on our website http://www.reliabank.com

So, what are the advantages of online banking?
It is convenient. It allows you to perform transactions, pay bills and check balances 24/7. At Reliabank we virtually never close because online banking is as accessible as your PC or laptop. No matter where you are in the country or in the world, you can visit our website and handle money matters. You can even schedule to pay several bills ahead of time rather than keeping up with paper bills or trying to remember when to visit a payee's web site to make an online payment. With free bill pay, we automatically send the payments on your behalf in the amounts and on the dates you specify.

Second, online banking is fast, efficient and effective. In addition, online banking gives you the ability to handle several bank accounts (checking, savings, CDs, IRAs, etc.) from one site.

If you have not visited our online banking site, we encourage you to take the demo, view our online education and get signed up. We will be here to help you every step of the way.

Helping Small Businesses Grow

2010-03-04T11:29:00.000-08:00

Starting as a small home-based machine shop, First Manufacturing originally opened in Rocklin, California and relocated in 2003 to South Dakota. Kevin and Emily Berg, both engineers, first contacted the Sioux Falls SBDC office in November 2006. As a small business, they had questions about hiring employees, marketing and growing their sales. This relationship soon expanded into obtaining financing to support
this growth. In 2008 the SBDC assisted the Bergs in leveraging their own investment dollars to obtain financing through a local lender and the APEX loan program of the South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development. With these monies, the Bergs were able to purchase additional equipment and the former grocery store building in Humboldt to further grow and have room to manage the contracts they were landing.

Taking advantage of historically low interest rates, First Manufacturing again contacted the SBDC in 2009 to assist in putting together a plan to refinance as well as obtain some additional working capital to support ongoing expansion. This was done through an SBA loan provided by John Roers of Reliabank. The more advantageous loan terms allowed the Bergs to obtain the working capital necessary for the business while minimizing the impact on the monthly cash flow.

Since 2006 First Manufacturing has tripled in size, providing CNC milling,CAD/CAM work, turning, inspection and assembly. First is experienced in a wide variety of materials including aluminum, steel,stainless steel, plastics and composite materials.

Emily says of working with the SBDC: “We contacted the SBDC in early 2008 to discuss how to create a business plan and to determine different financing options available to small businesses. As the details of our project emerged, we worked with Mark Slade to create financial projections for a major capital expansion involving equipment and a new building in 2008. We contacted him again to update projections in order to refinance and add working capital in late 2009. The process was extremely thorough, and the information provided gave valuable insight as to the capabilities of our business, different options available, and challenges ahead.”

*South Dakota Small Business Development Center
By Mark Slade, Regional Director
Sioux Falls SBDC

Reliabank Video

2010-02-25T07:41:00.000-08:00

Small Business Owners Now Being Targeted Online

2010-02-19T11:01:00.000-08:00

Small Businesses Face Growing Threat: Online Bank Fraud

This article from the Wall Street Journal is a must-read for small business owners.
It seems that online crime syndicates are no longer satisfied with stealing credit card information and Social Security numbers from individuals. Now they're finding ways to drain the accounts of small businesses with the click of a mouse. Fortunately there are ways to protect your business. As a bank, we are dedicated to protecting our customers and we strongly advise that you keep your anti-virus software up to date on your computer.

This article from microsoft takes you through four steps to help you protect your computer.
http://www.microsoft.com/security/pypc.aspx

Extra Measures Taken with Online Purchases

2010-02-05T13:02:00.000-08:00

There are a few websites that ask for a secure code when Shazam debit card holders are trying to make a purchase online. This is an extra security measure to insure it is the actual cardholder that is making the purchase. If you have a Reliabank Shazam ATM/Debit Card, to receive a secure code, you need to log on to www.shazam.net/securecode (you can also click here to read more information on this process) and enter your 16 digit card number. You will then begin the registration process. It will ask you some personal information, so if someone got a hold of your card they would not be able to use it.
If you have any questions on this matter please contact any of our Reliabank CSR's.

What's Happening at Reliabank

2010-01-29T09:09:00.000-08:00

We would like to wish Brenda Jager, CSR at our Hayti location, all the best in retirement. Friday, Jan. 29 is her last day - so if you are in Hayti today stop by to wish her well!

We welcome Jeremy Keizer to our Hartford staff. Jeremy is the new RE lender and is available to help you with all your home lending needs. Before coming to Reliabank, Jeremy was Senior Loan Officer at Frontier Bank.
Reliabank * Hartford W Hwy 38
Ph. 605-528-4000

WELCOME TO THE TEAM JEREMY!

Looking to Switch Banks? Look to Us - Your Locally Owned Community Bank

2010-01-26T13:30:00.000-08:00

Choosing the right bank can affect whether you get a mortgage for your new home or a loan for your small business. It may mean better rates and lower fees. The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) recommends that Americans bank with community banks, which offer better rates and fees, high-quality service and personal attention from members of your community.

Community bank advantages include:
*Quality service. Community banks focus on the needs of local families, small businesses and farmers.
*Local deposits. Community banks lend in the community where their depositors live and work, keeping local communities vibrant and growing.
*Expertise. Because community banks are themselves small businesses, they understand the needs of small-business owners. Their core concern is lending to small businesses and farms. In fact, community banks make almost half of all small-business loans in cities and towns throughout America.
*Responsive. Community banks offer nimble decision-making on loans because decisions are made locally. And community bank decision-makers are accessible to their customers in person.
*Trust. Because their success depends on establishing long-term relationships, community banks always look out for the best interests of their customers. They work hard to deliver only the financial services and loans their customers truly need and want. Many community banks are willing to consider character, family history and discretionary spending in making loans.
*Civic loyalty. Community bank officers are typically deeply involved in making their local communities better places to live.

“The community banking industry has been the bright spot in this economy,” states R. Michael Menzies, ICBA Chairman. “We have long differentiated ourselves by the quality of our customer service and our strong local ties. And we’ve become more sophisticated in the services we can offer, including remote deposit capture and even mobile banking, to match the larger banks. But the bottom line for us is relationships with people, not just transactions and numbers. The best way for consumers and small-business owners to learn about community banks is to visit their local bank and talk with their banker."

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

2010-01-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

Reliabank is a proud supporter of high education and is once again offering scholarships to High School seniors. Deadline to turn in applications is April 1, 2010.

Click here http://reliabank.com/reliabank-scholarship-2010.pdf for the application in a pdf format, or visit our website http://www.reliabank.com/ and click on 2010 Scholarship.

ATM & Credit Card Fraud Prevention Tips

2010-01-14T08:53:00.000-08:00

Awareness prevention and rapid response are the keys to keeping your ATM, Debit and Credit cards safe from fraud.

*Sign your new card in ink
*Keep a list of all your credit cards in a safe place. If lost or stolen, notify each issuing company immediately.
*If you have a Personal Identification Number (PIN), don't write it on your card or on anything you carry with the card.
*Don't let others borrow your card or give your PIN number to a friend.
*Don't let the cashier take your card away from the cash register.
*When using your card, don't give the merchant any personal information, such as your address or telephone number. Visa regulations forbid merchants from asking you for such information. A valid card and ID should be all that's required.
*NEVER give your card number to someone who has CALLED YOU.
*Always make sure transaction is complete and obtain a receipt
*Block others from viewing your card and PIN number when at an ATM
*Check your bank statement regularly

Make the Move to Your Community Bank

2010-01-06T09:27:00.000-08:00

The idea is simple: If enough people who have money in one of the big four banks move it into smaller, more local, more traditional community banks, then collectively we, the people, will have taken a big step toward re-rigging the financial system so it becomes again the productive, stable engine for growth it's meant to be. This comes from a blog by journalist Arianna Huffington of the Huffington Post. She launched the Move Your Money campaign urging Americans to send a message to big, bailed-out national banks by joining smaller, more stable community banks.

Reliabank, as you know, is one of those strong, stable community banks that have served our communities since 1920. We strive to treat our customers like people and members of the community. We also help local businesses thrive and keep money in the local economy.

Click here to read Ms. Huffington's article:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/move-your-money-a-new-yea_b_406022.html

We're Celebrating 90 Years!

2010-01-04T11:31:00.001-08:00

Reliabank opened its first office as the Farmers State bank of South Shore, SD in 1920. In 1926 the charter was moved to Estelline, which is the present location. What began 90 years ago with a few employees and all work done manually, has grown today to a financial institution that employees 50+ staff and serves five cities in eastern South Dakota. With a focus on personal touch and a frontrunner in technology, we have helped thousands of customers grow and prosper and plan their financial future.

We are marking our 90th anniversary with a year of celebration, and have planned a series of special events to take place at many of our branches throughout the course of 2010.

As a locally owned community bank you can be assured that we will be here for you and future generations to come. We are strong, stable and secure.

GO GREEN with Shazam and Reliabank

2009-12-29T08:56:00.000-08:00

Use Your Debit Card and Go Green!

Go green by rethinking how you pay! Every time you use your Reliabank debit card to make purchases between January 1 and March 31, 2010, you will be automatically entered for a chance to win an Amazon® Kindle DX wireless reading device (total value $500)! One first place winner will receive a $300 garden gift card, and each month of the promotion, six lucky winners will receive a Brita® water pitcher and filters (total value $50).

Visit https://public.shazam.net/rules_gogreen.html for official rules and complete contest details.

Reliabank has joined with Shazam to guarantee one lucky Reliabank customer will receive a gift valued at $50 each month of this promotion. The more you use your card, the more chances you have to win! Don’t yet have a Shazam ATM/CheckCard? Stop in to apply today

Holiday Security Tips

2009-12-17T07:37:00.000-08:00

While most of us are preparing for joyous gatherings with family and friends, fraudsters are taking advantage of this busy time to catch people off guard.

Here are some tips to help keep you safe during the holidays.

Traveling
*Keep an eye on your laptop at all times. At busy airports, it could be easy for a thief to steal your computer.
*Avoid using your laptop in public places. Someone may be behind you, watching your keystrokes in an attempt to gain information.
*Use a plain laptop bag, or better yet, something that does not resemble a laptop bag.

Shopping
*Keep your card in view. Do not let a store employee leave your line of sight with the card, as fraudsters can swipe it to get valuable information.
*When using your debit card, prevent others from watching you enter your PIN.
*Be leery of deals sent to you by e-mail. Do not click on suspicious offers from unknown sellers, as phishing schemes are very popular this time of the year.

Source: SHAZAM Secure Sentinel

We Are On the Move!

2009-12-07T13:19:00.001-08:00

When driving around Watertown you may notice that Reliabank is "on the move". We are now featured on the back of the Watertown area transit bus displaying our Ultimate Checking account.

Pictured is David W Johnson, CEO of Reliabank and Hugh Bartels, President.

Watertown Holiday Lighted Parade

2009-11-30T12:45:00.000-08:00

Reliabank won best theme at the Watertown Lighted Parade on Friday! "To Grandmother's House We Go"

Piece of Mind When Using Your Debit Card

2009-11-23T08:53:00.000-08:00

Everyone, at some time or another, has felt a little bit anxious about using a debit card. With all of the wicked ways that people work to steal your private information, we don't blame you. However, with these five tips, you can rest a little easier.

1. Watch your account with online banking. With our free, online banking, you get real-time access to see what is coming through your account.

2. Know who you do business with. If you shop online with your debit card, do it carefully and make sure you only give information to established merchants that you trust. Make sure the website address is https: - the "s" means it's a secured site.

3. Read the fine print. When shopping online, you may order from a merchant and unknowingly authorize them to pass your information (including your debit card number) to “affiliated third parties”. Make sure you read the fine print before you submit an order.

4. If there is a problem, go to the merchant first. If you discover a charge to your account, call the merchant first to try to resolve it. They will be able to give credit to your account faster and MasterCard rules (which we have to follow) require that you give the merchant a chance to make it right. The best way to find the contact information for the business is to do an internet search. If you don’t get satisfaction from the merchant, go to the next step.

5. We can dispute the charge on your behalf. If you are unable to resolve an unauthorized charge with a merchant, contact us to dispute the charge. It is a slower process, but will usually yield results.

This Holiday Season Shop Locally

2009-11-10T06:56:00.000-08:00

As the holiday season gears up, many people are making their lists and checking them twice. Have you thought about WHERE you are going to make those purchases? Reliabank strongly encourages shopping locally. By supporting businesses in our local communities, you keep our economy growing, create employment, and fund important services such as education and health care. You help create jobs, fund more services through sales tax, invest in neighborhood improvement, and promote community development.

By shopping close to home you save on the high cost of gas and enjoy a wide variety of unique specialty shops within our area.

Make a commitment to spend your holiday dollars in our local businesses.

Some ideas include gift certificates from local restaurants, retail stores and day spas. If you plan on attending one of the many upcoming holiday events sponsored by the Uptown Watertown Association, (home to over 200 businesses - retail, service, hospitality and professional) browse and spend time in the many unique, independent businesses.

LET THE HOLIDAY SHOPPING BEGIN!

FDIC Issues Warning

2009-11-02T09:15:00.000-08:00

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has released information warning the public about fraudulent email messages purporting to come from the FDIC. These email messages provides a link to a fraudulent FDIC website. Users are then instructed to download their "personal FDIC Insurance File. Users are encouraged to take the following measures to protect themselves from this type of phishing scam:

1. Do not follow unsolicited web links received in email messages.
2. Verify the website by manually typing the URL when attempting to connect to web sites recommended in an email.
3. Refer to the document @ http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/tips/ST04-014.html for more information on social engineering attacks

DO NOT give sensitive information to anyone unless you are sure that they are indeed who they claim to be and that they should have access to the information.

Beware of Mailed Check Scams

2009-10-26T09:56:00.000-07:00

A recent scam involves fraudsters mailing large checks to people along with letters stating they have either won a contest, are being solicited to be mystery shoppers, or some other similar story. These letters look legitimate, and the checks are large enough to entice anyone into cashing them.

Some letters instruct recipients to call a phone number to activate the check, which is actually an attempt to gain personal information. In other instances, recipients are told to keep a portion of the check and wire the rest to an individual named in the letter. No matter the scheme, the results can be devasting, time-consuming, and costly to you!

MYSTERY SHOPPER
In an actual report of this scam, an individual received a $3,350 check in the mail with an offer to become a mystery shopper.

A letter instructed the person to cash the check, use Western Union to wire $3,000 to an individual named in the letter, and provide feedback about his or her experience with Western Union. After that, the person was told to use $200 of the remaining cash to buy whatever he or she wanted at a specific department store chain, rate the shopping experience, and keep the merchandise. The remaining $150 was to be kept as a gift. Eventually, the check will be returned for non-sufficient funds (NSF) and the person will be liable for any money spent.

Always remember - if the offer seems too good to be true, it usually is.

We're On Facebook!

2009-10-23T08:44:00.000-07:00

If you are on Facebook - look for Reliabank and become a fan! Updated regularly, you can be the first to know about new products, services, community events, and much more.

Log on and become a fan!

Dow Hits 10,000

2009-10-21T12:33:00.000-07:00

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (an unmanaged index of 30 widely held stocks) finished Wednesday, October 14, at 10,015.86, which represents a gain of 52.9% since its March 9 low of 6,547.05. The NASDAQ Composite (an unmanaged index of common stocks listed on the NASDAQ National Stock Market) closed the day at 2,172.23, up an astonishing 71.3% from its March 9 close at 1,268.64, while the S&P 500 (an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks) ticked up to 1,092.02, a gain of 61.4% from its March 9 close at 676.53.

Investors who have been in the market for a long time will note that while these figures are encouraging, they are still far beneath the record highs reached in October 2007. But those who invested in the market earlier this year have seen values increase dramatically.

While investors generally have been positive during the markets’ recent climb, it has been noted with alarm by analysts that the volume of equity holdings has actually decreased. Worried investors have been withdrawing equity holdings in favor of bonds, indicating that a significant number of investors missed out on the equity market rally.

Certainly, recent market and economic activity has been encouraging, but major questions remain. If you have questions about the markets in general or want to discuss your portfolio feel free to contact the financial advisors at RJFS http://www.raymondjames.com/reliabank/

Securities offered exclusively through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are NOT a deposit, NOT insured by FDIC or any federal government agency. NOT GUARANTEED by the fianncial institution. Subject to risk and may lose value.

Great Gift Ideas

2009-10-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

The holidays will soon be here and if you have some hard to buy for people on your shopping list, look no further than Reliabank for unique gift ideas!

We offer state quarter stuffed bears, keychains, coin collector folders, ornaments (that can be engraved!) proof sets, and much more. Looking for something special? Contact Lisa at Reliabank 873-2261

HAPPY HOLIDAY SHOPPING!

WWYE-Mail

2009-10-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

We Want Your Email! To better serve you, we are asking customers, and anyone else that would like to be informed of Reliabank happenings, to please stop in at any of our locations and give us your email address.

Having your email address on file will help us serve you more efficiently:

notify you about changes happening at Reliabank
notify you about upcoming events
alert you to scams that may have surfaced in our community
alert you to new banking services and products
share our quarterly newsletter

Give us your email address during the month of October and you will be entered into a drawing for an iPod Touch! Drawing will be held on October 31.

HONORING CUSTOMER SERVICE

2009-10-07T14:24:00.000-07:00

Customer Service Week (October 5-9) is a national event devoted to recognizing the importance of customer service and honoring the people on the front lines.

At Reliabank we believe that customer service is what makes a business truly unique. We are proud of the staff we have and as many of you know - our front line people are simply the best. So whether you stop in at our banks occassionally, or everyday - let us know how we are doing. We love the feedback and its because of customers like you that we enjoy what we do!

Happy Customer Service week!

New Mortgage Lender at Reliabank

2009-09-30T14:06:00.000-07:00

Reliabank is proud to announce the addition of Michelle O'Farrell as mortgage lender in Watertown.

Michelle comes to us from CitiFinancial and is looking forward to helping you with all your home financing needs in Watertown and the surrounding area.

Frauds Tied to the Economic Slowdown

2009-09-21T08:48:00.000-07:00

With the economy impacting many people, please beware of a variety of frauds tied to current economic difficulties.

Scams tied to the Obama Administration's economic stimulus package. The Federal Trade Commission has warned about fraudulent Web sites and e-mails asking consumers for bank account, credit card and other personal information, supposedly for help getting money from the stimulus fund or for direct deposits of government payments. Instead, these scammers are collecting information to make unauthorized charges to credit cards or to withdraw money from bank accounts.

Bogus "help" with credit and debt problems. In some cases, con artists "guarantee" loan approvals to people with credit problems, then they disappear after collecting a nonrefundable fee and without delivering any services. Others involve companies that advertise credit counseling or promise to settle debts for less than is owed. They charge high fees and provide little or no assistance.

Con artists preying on people who need jobs. One common example involves attractive offers to work part-time from home but the end result is that the new "employer" commits identity theft or check fraud. Another involves "mystery shopper" programs for which consumers are supposedly hired to report on their experience doing business at a retailer but instead lose money in a fake check scam.

You can protect yourself from these and other financial scams by being extremely skeptical of unsolicited offers that involve "updating" or "confirming" personal information or requirements that you send a payment or provide bank account information before receiving anything in return.

Also, walk away from any offer from a stranger that would involve a large check to be deposited into your account and instructions to wire any of that money back, perhaps to someone in another country. In this type of scam, victims may end up owing thousands of dollars to the financial institution that wired the money.
*FDIC

Want to Pay Your Bills Online?

2009-09-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

You have dipped your toes into the pool of online banking and can now check your balances, make transfers and view your statements via email. Online banking with Reliabank offers you instant access to your accounts, without having to go to a teller, and you can transfer funds freely among your accounts.

So the next logical step is to begin paying your bills online. Online bill pay can help you manage your bills without having to worry about paper bills and checks. You can pay bills on a regular schedule without having to send or write checks and pay for postage.

How does it work? Reliabank offers bill pay as a service that sends money out of your bank account to whoever you wish. If the company you want to send payments to is setup within the banks system, we will simply transfer the money electronically when you use online bill pay.

Ready to give it a try? Simply log in to your internet banking, click on bill pay tab and select which checking account you want the withdrawal taken from. This initiates your enrollment to bill pay, and will take about one business day to process. Go in to bill pay the next business day and there will be an email notifying you that your bill pay account has been set up. From there you can set up your merchant accounts and begin paying your bills online. If at any time you have questions there is an 800# to contact - and remember, you can always contact your Reliabank branch location for assistance too!

Rememberance Day

2009-09-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

Where were you the morning of 9-11-01? Everyone has moments of that day carved into their memory that will never be forgotten. Today marks the 8th anniversary of the attack on our country. In rememberance of those who lost their lives and who lost loved ones.

Why Use an ATM/Check Card?

2009-09-09T06:37:00.000-07:00

So you are trying to decide which plastic works best for you - credit card or check card? While each card has their own unique advantages, here are some basic reasons why you should be using an ATM/Check Card

1. Safer than using cash or checks. Anyone can spend stolen cash or forge checks. With a photo ATM/Check Card its nearly impossible to use by a thief

2. Because the amount you purchase is taken directly out of your account, there is no interest to pay and no annual fees

3. You're not using money that you don't have. Because its taken from your account, you don't accumulate debt to be repaid later

4. Check Cards are accepted world wide - personal checks are not. Have you noticed stores that are starting to use the "no personal checks accepted" policy?

5. They also offer you access to cash; many can be used at ATM's to withdraw cash from your account

6. Accurate Record Keeping – With monthly statements, it’s easier to keep track of where your money goes

7. Convenient - Simplifies the payment process; eliminates the need to fill out a check, present ID, give out personal information and wait while that information is verified

Debit Cards are now the wave of the future. They are easy, quick, and can help balance a budget. When you know how much you have to spend, it is very easy to then log into your checking account to verify the funds you have, and what has been taken out. Visit with a customer service rep at any Reliabank location to find out more information on our SHAZAM ATM/CHECK CARDS

Did you know? There is expected to be an overwhelming, 5 BILLION debit cards in usage by the year 2012!

Karing Kapers

2009-09-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

Watertown Karing Kapers 2009 is presenting Silver Screen Sensations at the DD Miller Auditorium September 10-12 at 7:30pm each evening. Money raised from this production will help fund the Watertown Town Players endowment fund. Come out and enjoy an evening of entertainment while supporting the local community theater.

Reliabank is a proud sponsor of Karing Kapers

LABOR DAY

2009-09-03T06:19:00.000-07:00

Hard work spotlights the character of people: some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don't turn up at all. - Sam Ewing

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

DID YOU KNOW?
The holiday originated in Canada out of labor disputes ("Nine-Hour Movement") in the 1870s, which resulted in a Trade Union Act which legalized and protected union activity in 1872 in Canada.

The first Labor Day in the United States was celebrated on Sept. 5, 1982

Only Canada and the U.S. celebrate Labor Day in September. Most other countries celebrate it on May 1; which we commonly know as May Day.

Wishing you all a safe and happy Labor Day weekend.
All Reliabank locations will be closed Saturday, Sept 5th through Monday, Sept 7th in observance of Labor Day.

Text Message Scammers

2009-08-31T13:50:00.000-07:00

You recieve a text message that appears to be from your bank, telling you there has been suspicious activity on your account. You call the return telephone number to see what's going on, and before you know it, you are a victim.

For quite some time now, scammers have been using text messages to prey on financial institutions and their customers.

Here is how it works. The criminals pick a financial institution, then bombard every cell phone in that area code with a phishing (criminally fraudulent process of attempting to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, etc) message. the message tells the victims to call a fake 800 number that looks like it is from a local financial institution. Because they are targeting a bank in the region, the bad guys have a pretty good chance of hitting real financial institution customers who may not have heard about the scam.

The scammers use open-source asterisk software to set up a fake voice-operated system and steal information when people enter their account numbers, passwords, and other sensitive information to authenticate themselves on the system.

We ask that you never respond to any request asking you to confirm or validate personal or account information, no matter how legitimate the request appears. If you have any doubts, contact your bank.

Let's Talk About ID Theft... It Can Happen to You

2009-08-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

While nothing can guarantee that you won’t become a victim of identity theft, you can take specific steps to minimize your risk, and minimize the damage if a problem develops. These steps make it more difficult for identity thieves to steal your identity.
It’s about following the "3 D’s" of identity theft protection—Deter, Detect, Defend

DETER
Deter identity thieves by safeguarding your information.
■Shred financial documents and paperwork with personal information before you discard them.
■Protect your Social Security number. Don’t carry your Social Security card in your wallet or write your Social Security number on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use another identifier.
■Don’t give out personal information on the phone, through the mail, or over the Internet unless you have initiated the contact and know who you are dealing with.
■Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails; instead, type in a Web address you know. Use firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-virus software to protect your home computer; keep them up-to-date. Visit OnGuardOnline.gov for more information.
■Don’t use an obvious password like your birth date, your mother’s maiden name, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
■Keep your personal information in a secure place at home, especially if you have roommates, employ outside help, or are having work done in your house.

DETECT
Detect suspicious activity by routinely monitoring your financial accounts and billing statements. Be alert to signs that require immediate attention:
■Mail or bills that do not arrive as expected
■Unexpected credit cards or account statements
■Denials of credit for no apparent reason
■Calls or letters about purchases you did not make
Inspect:
■Your credit report. Credit reports have information about you, including what accounts you have and your bill paying history.
The law requires the major nationwide consumer reporting companies—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—to give you a free copy of your credit report each year if you ask for it.

Visit www.AnnualCreditReport.com or call 1-877-322-8228, a service created by these three companies, to order your free credit reports each year. You also can write: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

■Your financial statements. Review financial accounts and billing statements regularly, looking for charges you did not make.

DEFEND
Defend against identity theft as soon as you suspect a problem.
■Place a "Fraud Alert" on your credit reports, and review the reports carefully. The alert tells creditors to follow certain procedures before they open new accounts in your name or make certain changes to your existing accounts. The three nationwide consumer reporting companies have toll-free numbers for placing an initial 90-day fraud alert; a call to one company is sufficient:
Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742)
TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
Placing a fraud alert entitles you to free copies of your credit reports. Look for inquiries from companies you haven’t contacted, accounts you didn’t open, and debts on your accounts that you can’t explain.
■Close accounts. Close any accounts that have been tampered with or established fraudulently.
*Call the security or fraud departments of each company where an account was opened or changed without your okay. Follow up in writing, with copies of supporting documents.
*Use the ID Theft Affidavit at ftc.gov/idtheft to support your written statement.
*Ask for written verification that the disputed account has been closed and the fraudulent debts discharged.
*Keep copies of documents and records of your conversations about the theft.
■File a police report. File a report with law enforcement officials to help you with creditors who may want proof of the crime.
■Report your complaint to the Federal Trade Commission. Your report helps law enforcement officials across the country in their investigations.
*Online: ftc.gov/idtheft
*By phone: 1-877-ID-THEFT (438-4338) or TTY, 1-866-653-4261
*By mail: Identity Theft Clearinghouse, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580

We encourage you to visit www.ftc.gov/idtheft for more information

Regulating the Financial Giants

2009-08-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

Over the years, the interests of taxpayers and our economy have been placed behind those of a few giant financial conglomerates. It was only in the wake of the financial markets crisis that policymakers could no longer ignore what seemed so obvious to the rest of us.

Now the Obama administration has a plan that will help ensure that we don’t repeat the errors that caused the current financial crisis. But parts of the plan, however well intentioned, would harm our economy if adopted.

Without a doubt, we need to do something to reduce the risk that too-big-to-fail institutions pose to our financial system. The largest financial institutions should hold more capital reserves to cushion against potential losses, and they--not taxpayers--should bear the costs for the extra risks they create. They should pay more for federal deposit insurance and finance an additional reserve fund to protect taxpayers.

While the administration supports reforms for tighter regulation of large institutions, it backs one idea—a Consumer Financial Protection Agency—that would undermine small community banks and could cause more harm than good.

Community bankers agree that we need to safeguard consumers from abusive and improper practices. After all, community banks succeed by maintaining long-term business relationships with our neighbors. We offer our customers the products and services that meet their needs best.

Unfortunately, the new consumer protection agency would separate consumer protection from safety and soundness supervision. That means more costs and complications, and that would mean fewer affordable options for everything from home mortgages to credit cards to installment loans. Without intending to, the proposed Consumer Financial Protection Agency would punish consumers for the largest financial institutions’ mistakes.

A better direction: Streamline overly complicated and ineffective banking regulations. Today’s long, mandatory disclosures in bureaucratic and lawyer language do more to confuse than inform consumers. We community bankers believe in making sure consumers have the information they need to understand banking products and services, because the best-informed consumers tend to bank with us. However, this proposed agency would go in the opposite direction—complicating rather than simplifying our consumer protections.

By implementing new measures to regulate giant financial firms and reduce the risks they pose, Congress can begin restoring the citizens’ faith in our financial system. Any new regulatory regime should fix those too-big-to-fail institutions while not hurting the community banks that didn’t contribute to the current economic crisis. Let’s get it right for the long term. Future generations of Americans are counting on us.

*ICBA

LATI Street Fair

2009-08-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

If you are a new student to Lake Area Tech in Watertown, make sure to stop by Reliabank's booth at the vendor street fair on Monday, August 24th. We'll have lots of fun giveaways - you won't want to miss us!

Time to Think "BACK TO SCHOOL"

2009-08-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

If you've been out shopping lately, you have noticed that the stores have changed from summertime fun to back to school essentials lining the isles. Where did Summer go? Time to think back to school already? While your checklist may include pens, folders, calculators and laptops, don't forget to help your child gain financial independence also.

At Reliabank we offer an account specifically designed for students with no balance requirements or monthly maintenance fees that's simple, convenient, and affordable. Our STUDENT CHECKING account includes free checking, free ATM CheckCard, free online banking, free school spirit checks (yes, for every school spirit check order (designated local schools) we will donate$3 to the school!) and a free drawstring backpack perfect for toting your supplies around.

Student checking accounts may be one of the best ways to help a student, either high school or college bound, learn how to budget, account for, and manage their own funds. Stop in and visit with a customer service person at Reliabank. As a community bank, we will be there every step of the way.

Here's to another year!

Something to Think About - Endorsing A Check

2009-07-31T11:15:00.000-07:00

At one time or another, we’ve all been taught how to properly endorse a two-party check. Endorsing a check means to sign the back of it in order to cash it, deposit it or sign it over to someone else. Learning to endorse a check is an important early lesson in personal finance. Typically, when endorsing a two-party check to deposit into your account, we’ve all been told to write “for deposit only to account #12345”.

Nowadays, with the threats of identity theft and stolen account numbers, this may not be such a good way to endorse a check. Think about it, someone writes you a check for a product or service you provided, say you sold your car. So you take that check to your bank and want to deposit it. You endorse it by writing “for deposit only to account #12345” on the back of the check. (The person’s check who you may not even know that well!) When that person receives their cancelled checks in a statement they will now have your account number and your signature.

The best way to endorse it would be to simply put “for deposit only” and then your signature.

We know there are many other ways for thieves to get your bank information, but this is one simple thing that can easily be done as an ounce of prevention.

A BANKER'S VIEW OF WHAT'S HAPPENING OUT THERE

2009-07-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

Those of us who lived through the turbulent economic times of the early 1980s remember when then-Fed Chairman Paul Volcker slowed the growth of the US money supply to defeat inflation which had caused NY Prime to go to 21%. That unilateral action was swift and left agriculture and other sectors of the economy that depend upon borrowed money and exports in a lurch. Today, we are faced with the high level of the Bush Administration deficient spending, and add to that the Obama stimulus package, leading to a suspicion that inflationary pressure might be right around the corner, with tightening of the money supply by the Fed’s Ben Bernanke soon to follow. Will history replay itself? I recently sat in on a webinar put on by ICBA Securities and came away convinced that history will not repeat itself. Let me share some of the highlights.

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is still shrinking although it’s first quarter 2009 level of -5.5% is slightly better than 4th quarter 2008. Unemployment is at 9.5% and is expected to climb to over 10%, although there are 109,000 fewer initial jobless claims this quarter vs. last (674,000 vs. 565,000). Continuous jobless claims have not come down yet, peaking at 6,702,000. All of housing statistics are what you’d expect with housing starts at the lowest level since they began keeping records in 1969. The one favorable chart is that the supply of new homes for sale peaked in January of 2009 at 12.4 million and now sits at 10.2 million, but neither number includes foreclosed properties. The Institute for Supply Management measures such things as new orders, inventory levels, exports, imports, and backlog orders. Their composite index has improved by 4.7% over the past month. Businesses are still liquidating inventories and will eventually need to rebuild their stock of goods once the economy turns around.

The bottom line in all this is as follows: A)There are no signs of inflation for at least two years as the US Personal Consumption Expenditure index and Consumer Price Index (Core) are at 1.8% and are headed to 1.5%. Last month oil was priced at $69/barrel compared to its current level of $60. The question is now will it get to $50. B) Savings rates have spiked to 6.9% meaning that Americans are finally getting serious about making it through these hard times. C) The economy should bottom out during 2009 with a very slow recovery process. The restructuring of the American auto industry, for example will take years as car companies develop new technologies for more efficient cars and determine the proper level of production. In the past five years, GM, Ford and Chrysler simply built too many cars that were too expensive and it will take time to work all these things out. D) Interest rates into the foreseeable future will remain low since there is a surplus of liquidity and the demand for money is not expected to increase for many, many months.

The bond trader that put on the seminar said, “We have been going down so long, that small drops in the key numbers, look like up.” Right now, American consumers are saving their money, while living in a home that might have a debt on it that is close to its value. Just like the painful lessons that we learned in the 1980s, if we are patient and have sufficient capacity to weather this storm, the future will eventually be brighter.

David W. Johnson, Chairman

Updated Look Coming Soon to Internet Banking!

2009-07-10T13:24:00.000-07:00

For the past couple months we've been working on a new template for Reliabank's internet banking webpage. In about a week we will be launching the new page and we hope those of you that use our Internet Banking website will like the user friendly, updated look.

As always, we welcome comments and hope that you will share with us, suggestions on making it even better.

Lisa
Marketing Director
lisal@reliabank.com