#banking basics

What Is FDIC Insurance and Why It Matters | PersonalOne January 11, 2026 By Don Briscoe, a personal finance educator with over 12 years of experience guiding everyday people through smarter banking, credit, and money decisions. TL;DR – Quick Summary FDIC insurance protects your bank deposits up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank, per ownership category. Your money is safe even if your bank…

“Maybe instead of getting upset over this make a teachable moment?” It would have been met with the classic response this-is-my-kid-it’s-none-of-you-business type of the answer, but on the contrary, it was received with an open mind as it stopped the lady from seething in anger over her child’s erratic behavior, “How?” “Teach him the value of money.” “Money doesn’t grow on trees!” That was my…

If your bank merges, should you shop around or stay put? | Personal finance

Chanelle Besette Banking mergers and acquisitions happen regularly and can lead to streamlined services and better offers for consumers, but they can also sometimes create challenges like reduced branch access or customer service difficulties. If your bank merges or undergoes an acquisition, it will likely try to make the transition process of moving your account as smooth as possible. But if…

If your bank merges, should you shop around or stay put? | Personal finance

Chanelle Besette Banking mergers and acquisitions happen regularly and can lead to streamlined services and better offers for consumers, but they can also sometimes create challenges like reduced branch access or customer service difficulties. If your bank merges or undergoes an acquisition, it will likely try to make the transition process of moving your account as smooth as possible. But if…