Empowering Financial Futures

Empowering Financial Futures: F & M Community Bank Highlights the Importance of Financial Literacy

F & M Community Bank is celebrating Financial Literacy Month in April by encouraging Americans to take control of their financial future and learn fiscally responsible habits that can benefit them at every age and stage of their financial journey. Twenty-seven percent of Americans report that “just getting by financially or finding it hard to get by” describes them completely or very well. Meanwhile 59% want financial advice, but only a third (32 percent) turn to registered financial advisors for help, despite the fact that 68 percent indicated a personalized financial plan based on their goals is important.

"Financial literacy is a lifelong journey, and at F & M Community Bank we're committed to being a trusted partner every step of the way," said Scott Rustad, Registered Representative at F & M "Count on us for personalized guidance and support to help you make informed decisions about your financial well-being whether you’re just starting to save, looking to invest, or planning for retirement."

Often referred to as America’s favorite lenders, community banks are financial experts with a wealth of knowledge and local expertise to help consumers with:

• Budgeting to help you track income and expenses and build a plan to manage your finances, reach your financial goals, and create a nest egg.
• Saving and investing to help you assess savings and investment goals and vehicles.
• Using credit to establish and maintain good credit so you can reap the benefits from this convenient and flexible form of payment without the consequences of mismanagement.
• Understanding debt load and available options like debt consolidation before taking out a loan.

Understanding key financial principles, like budgeting and managing credit wisely, is essential for achieving long-term financial security. Community banks like F & M are trusted advisors, offering the local expertise and personal connections that help individuals achieve financial independence.