Blog

The holidays are a time for reflection, joy, and family. Unfortunately, they’re also a time for falling victim to scams. As online shopping increases in anticipation of the holiday season, so do scammer’s efforts to take advantage of consumers. Here at Middlefield Bank, we want to help our customers stay safe so they can enjoy a scam-free holiday season, so we’ve put together a few practical tips to help you stay vigilant against the ever-present threat of scammers. 1. Fake...
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Thanksgiving is a time to gather, give thanks, and enjoy a delicious meal with loved ones. But with food and travel costs continuing to climb, many families are left searching for ways to come together without overspending. At Middlefield Bank, we believe smart budgeting starts with smart planning, and there’s no better time than right now! Here are some simple, effective ways to make your Thanksgiving feast more affordable — without sacrificing flavor or tradition. 1. Compare Store-Brand...
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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, and...
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Fall in Ohio is a season filled with apple cider, vibrant foliage, and cozy traditions that bring people together. Whether you’re a college student looking for a weekend outing or a parent planning memory-making moments, there’s something for everyone across the Buckeye State. Here are five can’t-miss fall activities to try this season, plus a few ways Middlefield Bank can help keep your finances festive and stress-free. 1. Visit a Pumpkin Patch or Apple Orchard Nothing...
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Imagine this: you're sipping your morning coffee when a text pops up: “You have an unpaid traffic ticket. Click here to avoid penalties.” It looks official, urgent, and scary. But it’s not from the DMV — it’s a scam. This type of fraud is called smishing, and it’s on the rise. Here’s how to recognize, avoid, and respond to smishing scams — and how Middlefield Bank helps protect your financial information. What Is Smishing? Smishing is...
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Back-to-school season is an exciting time... but it can also bring serious financial stress for families across Ohio. Between school supplies, sports fees, lunches, and transportation, it’s easy for costs to pile up fast. But with a little proactive planning and the right financial tools, you can set up a budget-friendly routine that supports your family without breaking the bank. Here are smart, practical tips to start the school year strong. 1. Save on Transportation Costs Whether...
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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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