Blog

How to Handle Financial Stress in Times of Inflation

05/01/2022

After the events of the past two years, money and health have become two of the biggest stressors in the average American's life, whether you're 15, 80, or anywhere in-between. It's no wonder that as inflation continues to affect families, business owners, and communities, everyone is looking for some relief. During National Mental Health Awareness Month this May, we want to help by providing some tips and resources you can use to manage your finances through tough times. 

How to Start Saving For A Home

04/01/2022

Saving for your first home can be overwhelming. Every day you hear reports of home prices skyrocketing, and you're probably wondering, how could I ever save enough for my own? Don't worry, we're here to help. We can help you figure out what changes you need to make (small or large) to get closer to your dream home.

5 Best & Worst Ways to Spend Your Tax Refund

03/01/2022

If you’re like me, you probably view tax season with a mix of dread and excitement. Dread because you have to get your taxes done at all, and excitement because you’re hoping to receive a nice tax refund.

However, it’s important not to let the excitement of getting more money distract you from putting it where it works best for you.

5 Ways to Help Your Heart & Your Wallet During American Heart Month

02/01/2022

Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death in Iowa? In 2020 alone, Iowa had more than 23,000 hospitalizations and $1.4 billion in costs due to heart disease. 

We know how hard it can be to stay on track financially when you don’t feel your best. It’s even harder to stay ahead when the average hospital stay for heart-related illnesses can be upwards of $100,000 depending on how long your stay is and how severe your condition is. Let us help you stay focused on your health and not your growing medical bills this American Heart Month with our best tips to benefit your health and wallet at the same time!

How to Stick to Financial Resolutions

01/01/2022

Well, the new year is finally here. January first has come and gone and you're probably thinking about the resolutions you've made or plan to make within the first month of this year. If you're a chronic "resolution-er" who makes lofty goals but can't seem to get the momentum to put them into action past the spring, you may be wondering what the point is of making another set of resolutions you'll never accomplish. 

How Much Money Should I Spend on Holiday Gifts?

12/01/2021

The holiday season is a popular time to spend money, especially when you're buying extra food, decorations, and gifts for all the festivities you have planned. In 2020 alone, Americans spent roughly $188.2 billion online buying gifts. This was a record high for online sales, not counting all of the transactions done in store. 

What is an HSA & How Does it Work?

11/01/2021

When you get a bill after going to the hospital for a routine or unexpected visit, do you find yourself subconsciously holding your breath while you look for the total cost out of pocket? You’re not alone.

How to Protect Yourself from Online Scammers

10/01/2021

Here at Availa Bank, we take cybersecurity seriously. We know that it can feel nearly impossible to stay safe online, especially when it seems like new scams are discovered every single day. Don't worry, we can help!

How to Start an Emergency Fund Before an Emergency Strikes

09/01/2021

You would do everything in your power to keep your family safe from natural disasters, intruders, disease, and any number of unplanned events. But many of these unplanned events can come with a hefty price tag. Are you prepared when disaster strikes?

How to Save Money on Vacation (And Still Have a Great Time)

08/01/2021

As summer starts to wind down and kids head back to school, you may be planning one last family vacation to end the season. After the year we’ve had, lots of people are eager to get back out on the road and make some memories. If you’re like most people, it may seem a bit harder to plan your family vacation this year, not only because you have to do extra research to find a place that will allow tourists, but also because you may not have enough time off to follow safe travel guidelines or are struggling with a smaller budget.

Don’t worry, we can help! It’s easier than it sounds to stay on a budget while on vacation (and still have fun). We’ve compiled a list of quick and easy money saving tips you can follow to avoid stressing when you’re supposed to be having fun.