Blog

Phishing for information – what you need to know

August 25, 2023

In today’s digital age, phishing attempts are rampant. It’s essential to be vigilant. Consider this: You receive an email: “Your Netflix subscription has ended because we couldn’t validate your account. Click here to restart your membership…” Hold on! If your card information remains unchanged, why this email? This could be a phishing ploy, with potential […]

Digital banking: is it really more secure?

August 17, 2023

When it comes to managing finances in a digital world, headlines can be overwhelming, and sometimes, downright scary. It can be difficult to know what technology is safe to use and what products pose risks. To help sort it out, we’re offering up some insights and strategies for modern money management from Assistant Vice President […]

7 Tips for Avoiding Debit Card Fraud

August 1, 2023

Pop quiz… Could you be a victim of debit card fraud if you still physically have the card in your possession? The answer is yes! Unfortunately, technology has made it possible for thieves to steal your card without ever laying a hand on it. Beware of Skimmers Skimmers are devices that capture the data from […]

Every Business Needs a Continuity Plan

July 25, 2023

Do you have a continuity plan? Gosh, we hope so. If the past few years have taught business owners anything, it’s to expect the unexpected. While business disruption is never easy, having a business continuity plan in place can ease some of the stress and financial hardship when a disaster occurs. The plan outlines protocol […]

The Student Loan Repayment Scramble: Fidelity Bank can help.

July 19, 2023

By now you’ve likely heard some murmurings of the federal government’s Student Loan Forgiveness Plan that’s been abuzz in the news. If not, here is a quick summation: the plan promised to erase up to $20,000 of federal student debt per applicant, but was quickly met with opposition and left with the Supreme Court to […]

How Community Banking Can Help Guard Against Fraud

July 7, 2023

The way we do business has changed drastically over the past 3 years. With an emphasis on online sales, curbside and delivery services, and remote work environments, businesses have adapted to ensure the safety of their employees and customers. Unfortunately, this shift has created a golden opportunity for scam artists and criminals specializing in business […]

Tips for Business Email Compromise (BEC)

November 30, 2022

Email is by far the most common way for a business to communicate. Business Email Compromise (BEC) is a phishing email that targets businesses. Email is by far, the most common way for a business to communicate within the organization and with outside vendors or partners so this is a big threat. Since 2016, there […]

Cyber Security Tips for this Holiday Season

November 15, 2022

The holiday seasons is almost upon us but that doesn’t mean everyone is in the festive mood. Cyber criminals don’t slow down. Here are a few tips to keep in mind while shopping for the holiday.

Home Improvement

September 26, 2022

Spring is the perfect time to tackle your home renovation to-do list, but it can be a challenge to figure out which projects will yield the greatest return on your investment. If you’re thinking of refinancing your home to pay for these projects, there is a lot to consider.

How to make your home’s equity work for you

September 12, 2022

As more Americans are practicing social distancing and staying home right now, it may be a good time to make a home improvement list for the future. A Home Equity Loan is one of the most affordable ways to get money when you need it most. In short, a home equity loan allows a borrower to use the equity in his or her home as collateral. It gives you the opportunity to take the money you’ve invested in your property, and use it for other things.

7 strategies to help prevent business fraud

September 4, 2022

With an emphasis on online sales, curbside and delivery services, and remote work environments, businesses have adapted to comply with health and safety regulations. This shift has created a golden opportunity for scam artists and criminals specializing in business fraud.

Protecting Against Debit Card Fraud

September 1, 2022

Can you be a victim of debit card fraud if you still physically have the card in your possession? The answer is yes!

Save It or Shred It?

August 15, 2022

Clutter. It can sneak up on even the most well-intentioned, organized people, and it comes in many forms, from mementos and collectibles, to clothing and electronics — and even financial records. It’s estimated that 1 in 4 Americans is concerned, and stressed, about the amount of clutter in their homes. Fortunately, there is a substantial amount of information available on how to tackle those piles of financial records, and build some peace of mind.

5 Back-to-School Money Management Tips for Parents

August 8, 2022

Modern technology has given parents more shopping options than ever before, but some are discovering the benefits of more traditional back-to-school shopping money management. There are also a few modern twists on classic budgeting tips, too.

Take Back Control of Your Data This Data Privacy Day

January 26, 2022

How to Take Back Control of Your Data This Data Privacy Day From social media to online shopping, our lives and the digital world become more and more intertwined every day. And while the digital world has afforded us a whole new level of convenience and access to information, it is imperative that consumers remember

3 days to a new financial future with a Fidelity Bank Home Equity Loan

September 8, 2021

3 days to a new financial future with a Fidelity Home Equity Loan When it’s time to make home improvements, help a college-bound student finance their education, or consolidate credit card debt, homeowners may want to consider applying for a home equity loan. With modern technology, and a few tips from Kate Abraham, Mortgage Underwriting

Is it time you consulted a Wealth Manager? We can help.

April 1, 2021

For those who may need a higher level of financial services, Fidelity Bank Wealth Management Division’s team approach can provide the necessary assistance. Members of the team provide investment and asset management, private banking, and trust and fiduciary services. From clients who are in the early stages of their careers, to those who are well-established

Ready to Remodel? 7 Tips to Plan a Successful Renovation

March 11, 2021

Working and learning remotely for the past year has caused many people to reconsider what “home” means to them. Preparing more meals at home can lead to dreams of modernized kitchen, and lack of space can quickly become apparent when everyone is home at the same time for months. For those who have not experienced

Job hunting? Follow these tips for preventing fraud

January 21, 2021

Economic uncertainty and job loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic means a record number of Americans are looking for new employment opportunities.

FDIC Insurance Coverage

January 12, 2021

FDIC insurance covers all deposit accounts including checking and savings accounts, money market deposit accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs). These accounts at Fidelity Bank are insured by the FDIC up to the standard maximum deposit insurance amount ($250,000) per depositor for each deposit insurance ownership category.

Ready. Set. Shop! (Just don’t forget your holiday budget)

November 19, 2020

With an early start to holiday shopping, and a greater variety of shopping options, sticking to your holiday budget may be more challenging than ever, but don’t worry. You can shop and support the economy without overspending. You just need a new gameplan.

College students: is it time for a credit card? What you need to know before you apply for credit

October 15, 2020

When it comes to college students and credit cards, there are plenty of opportunities to improve financial literacy, and some of the best teachable moments arrive before college careers begin.

Back-to-school budgets look different this year. Here are a few ways to save.

October 1, 2020

Whether students have returned to full-time, in-person instruction, hybrid educational models, or 100% virtual learning, one thing is certain: back-to-school budgets are looking a lot different in fall of 2020.

Are you saving enough? 6 strategies to build that nest egg

September 18, 2020

For many Americans, the answer is “no.” An article published by CNBC addressed this issue in 2019, citing some startling statistics from the Federal Reserve: 40% of Americans have not reserved $400 for an emergency, and 25 percent of Americans have nothing saved for retirement.

Mortgage rates are historically low. Make the most of it!

September 9, 2020

With historically-low mortgage rates, Americans are taking advantage of the current climate to improve their financial outlook. According to The National Association of Realtors, sales of previously-owned homes in the United States rose nearly 25% between June and July to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.86 million.

Does working remotely really save money? Let’s do the math.

June 25, 2020

For many, working from home will continue to be an option even as stay-at-home orders and social distancing restrictions are lifted. In a recent Gallup survey of employed adults, 59% of U.S. workers said they would prefer to continue working remotely as much as possible once restrictions on businesses and school closures are lifted.

A few ways to add lessons in finance while homeschooling

June 4, 2020

As families across the country are observing various stages of stay-at-home orders due to the pandemic, now might be an ideal time to sneak some math and finance lessons into the new daily routine.

Strategies for Success for Business Owners

May 28, 2020

Many entrepreneurs find themselves branching out on their own because they are driven by passion and skill in their field. From the chef who becomes a restaurateur, to the graphic designer who launches their own advertising agency, or the driver who becomes president of their own trucking company, the possibilities are endless for talented people who want to own and operate a business.

Strategies to maintain and build good credit, now and in the future

May 14, 2020

When it comes to financial wellness, the best approach is a proactive one, especially during uncertain economic times. Perhaps now more than ever, it’s important to take steps to protect, and build, credit.

Banking at home: there’s an app for that!

April 23, 2020

Embracing the latest technology can be helpful on so many levels. From gaining increased flexibility in the workplace, to making everyday tasks easier and more efficient, there are countless ways to improve quality of life with digital services.

When business is disrupted, businesses spring into action

April 9, 2020

Successful small business owners know they must be resilient, in good times and in times of uncertainty. As the world copes with the COVID-19 pandemic, entrepreneurs have swiftly modified their business models and adopted new operational and management procedures.

Small Business Interruption Loans

April 2, 2020

On Friday, March 27, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security, or CARES, Act was signed into law to help support businesses and families through the on-going novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Preparing for Retirement

March 5, 2020

While balancing work, family, and friends, it can be easy to let certain financial subjects lie dormant in the “let’s think about that later” section of the brain. Saving for retirement can be one of those subjects, but it’s important to resist that tendency. Regardless of one’s financial situation, it’s always a good idea to evaluate retirement savings options. It’s never too late to start, or modify, a plan.

When it comes to preparing for a pandemic, take a proactive approach to finances

February 27, 2020

With the spread of Coronavirus continuing across the globe, Americans have officially been placed on notice to prepare for a pandemic. What does this mean in terms of finances?

When it comes to car shopping, always do the math

February 20, 2020

Ever wonder about the people who are financially comfortable and choose to drive older model vehicles? Well, don’t wonder. Instead, do the math. There just may be a method to their madness — and it’s pretty smart.

The Financial Analysis: what it is, and why every small business owner should be doing it

January 30, 2020

Angelo DeCesaris, Vice-President and Business Relationship Manager at Fidelity Bank in Kingston, explains the basics of financial analysis and why regular evaluation is critical to the success of every small business.

The best time to start teaching kids about money? Today!

January 23, 2020

Money management isn’t part of the curriculum in most American schools, but it’s an important skill set for every child to develop. There are lots of ways parents can incorporate financial management lessons into daily life, and the best time to start is now.

Healthy personal finance tips for the small business owner

December 5, 2019

Kevin McCormick, Vice President & Business Banking Relationship Manager, and Lauren Luongo, Business Relationship Manager, share some tips on what every small business owner should focus on as one year closes, and another begins.

Do this, not that: Remedies for a few common financial mistakes.

October 31, 2019

Overspending, relying too heavily on credit cards, and investing in a home that’s just too costly are among the most common financial mistakes even smart people make.

Ready for holiday shopping? Consider creating the tradition instead of the gift

October 24, 2019

To avoid post-holiday bill blues in January, Jill Valentini, Assistant Vice President & Retail Branch Manager, Fidelity Bank in Dunmore, offers a few strategies on making a holiday budget, checking it twice, and sticking to it. With a little creativity and determination, it can be done.

How to Avoid Shimming

October 18, 2019

While many consumers are well-versed in the perils of skimmers, they may not realize that criminals have upgraded their tactics with Skimmer’s evil cousin — the Shim. What’s the difference between the two?

Overcoming financial stress, one strategy at a time

October 3, 2019

There’s no doubt about it: even though some aspects of the economy have improved since the Great Recession of 2008, financial stress continues to be an issue for most Americans. The American Psychological Association (APA) 2015 Stress in America Survey revealed that 72 percent of Americans reported feeling stressed about money at least some of the time during the prior month. Transcending gender, race and socio-economic status, the issue is particularly prevalent among parents and those under age 50.

How technology has given banking a modern makeover

September 26, 2019

Today, modern banking can be done with the click of an app on a smart phone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Some people rarely, if ever, visit their local office. It’s amazing how far the industry has come in just a short time. Take a look at some of the advantages technology adopted by Fidelity Bank affords today’s clients that previous generations never could have imagined.

Dream of being an entrepreneur? 5 Tips for Startup Success!

September 5, 2019

The road to entrepreneurship can be exciting, and daunting. It requires a certain type of personality, a high level of skill, and a lot of planning – including financial. Small businesses make a big impact on the economy of local communities, and the country as a whole.

Shopping for a new bank? Consider the benefits of relationship banking.

July 29, 2019

Genuine, honest client feedback is critical to the success of any business, and that includes banking. This makes an annual survey conducted by Forbes Magazine and the analytics firm, Statista, particularly relevant to Fidelity Bank clients.

Baby on the way? A few tips for expectant parents to get their financial house in order

July 25, 2019

Jody Lewis, Branch Manager in Moosic, (and, incidentally, the mother of triplets who knows a little something about planning) offers a few financial tips to help expectant parents get their financial house in order, before and after, baby’s arrival.

Financing a College Education

July 18, 2019

Kristi Cleveland, Branch Manager, Fidelity Bank in Peckville, shares 5 things every college-bound student and parent should know about preparing to pay for college.

First time homebuyers: make a list and check it twice!

June 27, 2019

This week, our experts discuss grants and programs available to first-time homebuyers, and they’ve created a checklist that every first-time homebuyer needs.

Buying Your First Home: Part 1

June 20, 2019

n Part I of our first-time home buying series, Paul Arvay, Vice President and Mortgage Consultant in Dunmore, and Michael Coury, Assistant Vice President & Mortgage Consultant in Kingston, give us our assignments, and walk us through the exciting world of first-time home buying — from start to finish.

Estate Planning: What You Need

June 13, 2019

Estate planning. It may not be something we care to think about when we’re healthy, building our careers, and enjoying family life, but that’s exactly when we should be thinking about it. By being proactive now, we can ease the burden our loved ones may face in the future.

Beyond the Piggy Bank: Teaching Your Kids Healthy Money Management Skills

May 30, 2019

How young is too young to talk about finances? When should they start saving? How should teens handle money, and what will new college graduates need to know before they enter the workforce? Our experts have a few tips (and tricks) up their sleeves.

Empowered. Proactive. How women approach finances in 2019.

May 23, 2019

This week, they share insight into how women can be more proactive in their financial futures (and, spoiler alert, these tips will work for men, too!)

Careers in Banking That Just May Surprise You

May 16, 2019

If you or someone you know is looking for an interesting career opportunity, it may be the perfect time to consider the world of banking. Mary McNichols, Senior Vice President and Director of Human Resources, and Rhonda Grover, Human Resources Administrator, explain.

Can you spot a scam? 10 warning signs everyone should know.

April 25, 2019

When it comes to swindling people out of their hard-earned money, scam artists are on top of their game. Continually crafting new schemes to prey upon people of all ages and backgrounds, anyone can become a victim if caught unprepared.

Want to apply for a mortgage online with a local bank? There’s an app for that!

April 18, 2019

Fidelity has been the number one mortgage lender in Lackawanna County for the past 12 years, and this new technology is making it easier than ever for home buyers and builders to apply safely and conveniently online.

Financial Advice: Millennial to Millennial

April 11, 2019

If you were born between 1981 and 1996, your generation is facing some unique challenges when it comes to finances. You likely have higher student loan payments than your older siblings with a lifestyle including conveniences that come with a cost. Using smart phones, tablets, and ordering meals through an app adds up.

Wise ways to spend your tax refund

March 14, 2019

With another tax season upon us, it’s an ideal time to evaluate financial plans and consider options for spending or investing refunds that may soon be on the way. Theresa Hinton, Vice President and Trust Officer at Fidelity Bank, shares four wise ways to put that refund to good use.

Important changes to the tax code for business owners

March 11, 2019

From large corporations to small business owners, this year’s tax season brings some noteworthy changes. Rosemarie Coyne, CPA, AVP, Financial Reporting Specialist at Fidelity Bank, highlights a few new regulations that every business owner should be mindful of as the deadline for filing approaches.

Long-term savings: Why you need an emergency fund, and how to start one today.

February 28, 2019

Last week, we talked about short-term savings and gave you some practical tips on getting started. (If you missed it, click here to catch up). This week, we’re going long! If you don’t have a plan for long-term savings, there’s no time like the present to start building your fund.

6 Tips for Short-Term Savings

February 21, 2019

You’ve likely heard this famous Jonathan Winters quote, encouraging us to be proactive in life. We shouldn’t wait for great things to come our way. We should take charge and make great things happen. Perhaps we can apply this approach to our finances, too. If our ship is financial stability, then saving for the future is our way of swimming out to meet it.

Bid farewell to debt, and have a bright 2019

February 14, 2019

When holiday joy is replaced with feelings of impending doom because January credit card statements are due, it’s time to call in the experts. This week, we’ll strategize with Jill Valentini, Assistant Vice President & Retail Branch Manager. She’ll give us advice on how to cope with holiday debt and continue the new year on solid financial footing.

Welcome to Financially Fit with Fidelity

February 7, 2019

Banking is so much more than finances. It’s about relationships. It’s about trust. It’s about sharing information. It’s about commitment to one’s community. Through this new blog, the Fidelity Bankers will share their expertise on a variety of topics as diverse as the communities we serve. From budgeting and saving, to debt reduction, first-time home buying, retirement planning — and everything in between — we’ll explore strategies that you can start implementing today.

Turning Your Business Idea into Reality

September 8, 2016

Fidelity Bank is dedicated to helping local business to succeed. Recently we invited Matt Orr, Owner of Orr Industries LLC along with Michelle Pane, Business Relationship Manager at Fidelity Bank, on our radio show, “Fidelity Bank – On Business” to share some of the ways to successfully implement your business idea.

How Do You Finance Your Business

July 7, 2016

Financing is essential for starting a business, growing a business and continuing to prosper. Without lending and obtaining business credit, a new or existing business will struggle to reach their goals. In order for a lending institution to grant a loan or extend business credit, the business owner will have to prove their personal credit worthiness and show that they possess the needed skills and appropriate business plan that will lead to success.

Cyber-Security and Your Business

April 12, 2016

We all love today’s advanced technology, especially to help manage a business, such as iPhone apps, online and mobile services, social media, etc. With all of this advanced technology comes the issue of security breaches.

Tips to Manage Your Business Cash Flow

March 24, 2016

The #1 obstacle for small business owners is managing cash flow but with careful planning, discipline, and good financial management tools you can get over the hurdle much easier.

Borrowing Basics and SBA Loans

March 2, 2016

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is a vital financing tool when starting or growing a small business. The SBA is a government agency that provides support to maintain and strengthen small businesses.

Tips to Master Tax Season

February 8, 2016

With tax season in full swing, we can all benefit from additional tips, knowledge, and insight to help improve the financial outcome of our tax returns. Whether you visit an accounting professional or calculate your own tax returns, this three month period can be a stressful time.

Tips on making your wireless network secure

May 8, 2015

As the name suggests, wireless networks, sometimes called Wi-Fi, allow you to connect to the internet without relying on wires. If your home, office, airport or even local coffee shop has a wireless connection, you can access the network from anywhere that is within the wireless area.

What to Know About Phishing

At Fidelity Bank, we want to make sure you’re aware of “phishing” scams that can put you at risk. Phishing is a term used to describe a technique that gains your personal information. These emails may appear to come from Fidelity Bank and may even contain images that look like our logo.

What is Social Engineering?

Criminals can use sophisticated methods to try to gain access to your computer, or they can use something simpler and more insidious- social engineering.

Fight Back Against Identity Theft

May 7, 2015

You know there is only one you. DNA analysis can even prove it scientifically. Even so, a crafty criminal may be able to “clone” you for purposes of committing fraud. With sufficient information, a con artist can become “you” and use your identity to order new credit cards, make counterfeit cards or checks, or otherwise go on a spending spree in your name. It’s called identity theft or ID theft, and it’s a serious problem. Here’s why.

Using Social Media Wisely

As the popularity of these social media grows, so do the risks of using them. Hackers, spammers, virus writers, identity thieves, and other criminals follow the traffic. Here are some useful tips and hints for staying safe while enjoying social media.

Important Information When Traveling Overseas

March 10, 2015

Visa® Check Card Usage May Be Affected In order to protect your safety when traveling overseas, the fraud monitoring system Fidelity Bank has in place may be activated. This means that your Personal or Business Fidelity Visa® Check Card may be declined at ATMs or points-of-sale outside the United States. Please note that this is