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A new year brings new opportunities to take control of your finances. Whether you’re aiming to pay down debt, save for a big purchase, or plan for retirement, a financial reset can help you start fresh and stay on track. Here are seven practical tips — complete with examples — to make 2026 your best financial year yet. 1. Review Your Current Financial Picture As the old saying goes, you must walk before you can run.  Start by gathering your bank statements, credit card...
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Your credit score is one of the most important aspects of your financial health. A strong score can save you money and open doors to new opportunities, from qualifying for loans to securing lower interest rates. If you’re looking to improve your credit in 2026, here are five helpful tips to get you started on the road to financial freedom. 1. Pay Bills on Time, Every Time Payment history is the single biggest factor in your credit score. Late payments can stay on your report for years,...
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As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time for business owners to reflect, recalibrate, and prepare for a successful 2026. Whether you're running a small local shop or managing a growing enterprise, financial readiness is key to thriving in the new year. Here’s a checklist to help you close out 2025 with confidence and start 2026 on solid financial footing: 1. Review Your Year-End Financial Statements Start by analyzing your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow reports....
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As snow blankets the landscape and twinkling lights appear across town, Ohio becomes a winter wonderland filled with cozy charm and holiday magic. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or looking for budget-friendly fun close to home, there are plenty of seasonal activities to enjoy, many just a short drive from your nearest Middlefield Bank branch. And here’s a bonus: Your Middlefield Bank credit card makes it easy to fund your winter fun, and earn rewards while you do it. Let’s...
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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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