Standard Bank Blog

Memorial Day falls on the last Monday in May; it typically marks the beginning of summer and because it is a federally observed holiday, many have the day off and take the opportunity to spend time with family and friends. 

The Windy City ThunderBolts are ready to roll into the 2013 Season with opening game Monday, May 27^th at 6:05pm against the Frontier Greys. This is where the fun begins with family and friends experiencing a ballgame together at Standard Bank Stadium in Crestwood, IL. 

Congratulations to all the recent college graduates! Now it’s time to start reaping the rewards of your hard work – starting a career, getting your first apartment … and paying off your student loans. 

As the weather is warming up many of us have already started planning all sorts of activities and vacations. Planning these events can be fun but paying for them is a different story. Carrying cash or checks can be a headache and somewhat risky, while credit cards hit you with a high interest rate. 

Summer and warm weather are right around the corner. Aren’t they? Now is the time to start planning your summer activities and trips. Luckily, we live in or near a great city so we don’t have to go far or spend a lot to enjoy some summer fun.

The fact is, we all could use a little help when it comes to managing our finances.  Money doesn’t come with instructions, and that’s why banks, businesses, schools, libraries and others are joining together to help support financial education during Chicago’s Annual Money Smart Week® – April 20^th through 27^th. 

Although it may not seem like it, let me remind you that March 20th was the first official day of spring. The terms “snow” and "unseasonably cold weather" have still been a part of our vernacular these past few weeks. And I think we probably all agree that we’ve had enough of winter.  

Have you participated in our Travel Club adventures yet? Exclusively for Standard Bank customers, they offer carefree travel, with all the details arranged by the professionals at Mayflower Tours. Not only do you avoid the hassle of making all the arrangements yourself; you also benefit from the insider knowledge and access that these industry pros provide. If you haven’t participated before, our 2013 schedule includes trips that would be a great way to get started. Check out our 2013 trips.

Good news! The amount you can contribute to an Individual Retirement Account has increased for the year 2013. The contribution limit, the maximum dollar amount you can put into a tax-favored retirement plan each year, is now $5,500, an increase of $500 over 2012’s limit of $5,000. 

Top Ten Things to Know about Mortgage Loans – Spring 2013