Financial Literacy Month

April is Financial Literacy Month. As a financial institution, we believe that this topic should be top-of-mind all year round, but recognize this as a fantastic opportunity to really focus on the importance of building and maintaining strong and sound financial habits.

Financial literacy statistics report that the 22% of Americans would describe themselves as “just getting by financially,” and that 75% of American teens lack confidence in their knowledge of personal finance.

The level of financial literacy plays a critical role in a person’s quality of life. Financial hardships like falling behind on debt and spending more than one makes can create added stress in an already hectic lifestyle. Those that practice healthy budgeting and savings habits can prepare themselves financially for the future and ease the worry and anxiety of the unknown when it comes to money matters.

As a Community Bank, we have the local knowledge and financial expertise to help our customers with some of the financial basics.

Basics like:

• Budgeting: a plan to track and manage your finances, reach your goals and save for the future.  
• Saving and investing: setting funds aside to help with the expected (and sometimes unexpected) expenses that may come up in life.
• Using credit: establishing and maintaining good credit in order to help you achieve your short and long term financial goals.
• Understanding debt: using debt responsibly and taking practical steps to pay off any debt while still maintaining financial health.

Bank of the Valley offers simple, straightforward products and services to help our customers build a strong financial foundation. Visit us at any of our seven Branch locations to learn how you can set yourself on the path to financial freedom.

Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender