Blog

Starting college is a huge milestone — congrats! Whether you’re moving into a dorm, commuting from home, or taking classes online, the transition into college life can feel exciting, overwhelming, and everything in between. But don’t worry: you’ve got this. With the right mindset, smart planning, and helpful tools (including your bank), you can thrive during your first year. This freshman survival guide is packed with practical tips on staying organized, managing money,...
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Identity theft is a huge issue in today’s ever-evolving world of scams and cyberattacks. You may be aware of the dangers to yourself and your significant other, but did you know that your children can be the target of identity theft schemes as well? Many families don’t realize that a child’s identity is valuable to cybercriminals. At Middlefield Bank, we’re here to help you stay informed and proactive. Here’s what you should know to keep your child safe. What Is...
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We’re in the thick of summer with sunshine, road trips, and backyard BBQs top of mind. But while December and Christmas might feel far away, now is actually the perfect time to start building a savings plan for the holidays (and for whatever else life throws your way). Here at Middlefield Bank, we believe that taking a little time now to prepare for what’s ahead can save you a lot of stress during an already stressful time. Whether you’re planning for festive family gatherings,...
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Purchasing a new home can be a wildly exciting time. It can also be an especially stressful one, particularly when unexpected expenses arise that catch you off-guard. Understanding what costs to expect during the process and how you can save on them can not only make the process more affordable and smooth, but can save you a lot of undue stress. We at Middlefield Bank have put together a guide to help you understand what closing costs are, how much you can expect to pay for them, and some tips...
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Cybersecurity threats are evolving fast—is your business keeping up? Cyberattacks aren’t just a big-business problem. In fact, 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses—and the consequences can be devastating. With limited IT resources, small business owners often feel overwhelmed by the fast-changing cybersecurity landscape. That’s why we put together this no-nonsense guide to the must-have cybersecurity protections every small business should implement in 2025. Understanding...
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Graduation is an exciting milestone—and if you’re one of the many high school or college grads who received financial gifts from family and friends, you might be wondering: What’s the smartest way to use this money? Whether it’s $100 or a few thousand, how you use your graduation money can have a meaningful impact on your financial future. So, keeping that in mind—let's look at some smart, practical ways to put your graduation money to good use in 2025 and beyond. 1....
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Starting a business is exciting—but let’s be real: figuring out finances can feel like a confusing maze. One thing that often gets overlooked early on? Building business credit. Whether you’re launching your first side hustle or scaling your LLC, strong business credit can unlock opportunities—like better financing, bigger vendor limits, and more freedom to grow. And the best part? You don’t need to be a finance expert to get started. At Middlefield Bank, we work...
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Spring in Ohio is a time of renewal — longer days, warmer weather, and endless opportunities to get outside and enjoy the season. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly fun, local festivals, or ways to make the most of your Middlefield Bank rewards, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of exciting, affordable, and even free activities you can enjoy this spring! Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy the Fresh Air 1. Visit Ohio’s Beautiful State Parks (Free!) Ohio is home...
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Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, and refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move — if done correctly. Whether you’re looking to lower your monthly payment, reduce your interest rate, or tap into your home’s equity, refinancing can help you achieve your financial goals. At Middlefield Bank, we’re here to make the refinancing process easy to understand. This guide will walk you through how refinancing works, when it makes sense,...
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Tax season is here, and many of us are eagerly anticipating that much-awaited tax refund. According to the IRS, the average tax refund is around $2,910. Instead of letting that money sit idle or splurging on a big purchase, why not use it to enhance your financial health or upgrade your lifestyle? Let’s dive into some strategic ways to leverage your tax refund: 1. Start Paying Off Some of Your High-Interest Debt High-interest debt, such as credit card balances, can quickly accumulate...
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