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How to Protect Your Accounts This Holiday Season

As the holiday lights twinkle, the Grinch is lurking in the shadows - and he's learned to use a computer. Unfortunately, while you focus on decking the halls and filling your cart, cybercriminals know they can take advantage of holiday distractions to pray on your business. Your cyber security is our primary focus, but here are some easy things you can do to protect your business this holiday season: 

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Revolutionize Effortless Banking: Enjoy the Simplicity of First Bankers Trust Checking

In today's non-stop world, every second matters for your financial decision. Imagine managing your money at 2 AM from your couch or waiting in line for your morning coffee. With First Bankers' Simply Free Checking, you don't need to imagine. Dive into a transformative banking experience designed for your busy lifestyle, where convenience meets intelligent financial management.

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Hassell and Hofmeister Join First Bankers Trustshares, Inc. Board of Directors

First Bankers Trustshares, Inc. (“The Company”) announced that Steve Hassell and Kurt Hofmeister have been appointed as members of the Board of Directors of The Company and First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. ("First Bankers"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Company. Their appointment comes on October 1, 2023.

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Gnuse Named Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking in Springfield

First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (First Bankers), a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Bankers Trustshares, Inc., proudly announces the appointment of Steve Gnuse as Senior Vice President, Commercial Banking, effective September 18th, 2023.

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Unlock the Value of Your Home: The Comprehensive Guide to HELOCs

Explore HELOCs with First Bankers. Learn how to leverage your home's value, the benefits and risks, and the application process. Start today.

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First Bankers Names Rakers EVP of Growth Initiatives and Frese Market President

First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (First Bankers), a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Bankers Trustshares, Inc., announced strategic changes to its leadership team. Dave Rakers will assume the position of Executive Vice President of Growth Initiatives, while Nathan Frese has accepted the role of Market President for the Adams County, Illinois Market.  

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First Bankers Trust Company N.A. Adds New Loan Production Office in St. Charles, Missouri.

First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (First Bankers), West-Central Illinois’ leading community bank, is pleased to announce the addition of a new loan production office (LPO) in St. Charles, Missouri.

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Oschwald Joins First Bankers Trust as Springfield Market President

First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (First Bankers), a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Bankers Trustshares, Inc., announced that Joel Oschwald has joined First Bankers as Market President in Springfield, Illinois.  

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eStatements: why, how, and when to switch

Are you considering switching from paper statements to eStatements? If so, First Bankers has your back! With our simple and secure online banking system, it’s easier than ever to make the switch. Here are three reasons why you should make the switch today:

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Real Time Alerts Coming 3/14/23

IMPORTANT Digital Banking Update Coming 3/14! As we continue to update and improve our digital banking platform, we’re excited to launch real time alerts and notifications on March 14th. ALL digital banking customers will need to go into your account and update your alert settings. Here’s how:​

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Eight Powerful Quotes for International Women's Day

Join us in celebrating International Women's Day by recognizing the trailblazing contributions of women. From leading nations to smashing glass ceilings, women continue setting examples and pushing boundaries for the next generation. 

To honor these accomplishments, we’ve compiled a list of eight powerful quotes that capture the strength, courage, and resilience of women everywhere. Let these words motivate and inspire you to continue the fight for gender equality while also applauding each other's achievements.

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How to Harness the Power of a Side Hustle or Side Business

Are you looking to make some extra money? Have an idea for a business that could generate some extra cash but don’t know where to start? Consider your options to start a side hustle! Side hustles are different from traditional jobs by allowing individuals to pursue their ideas and projects for extra money on the side of their day job.

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What Type of Commercial Loan Do I Need? A Guide to Business Loans in Illinois

As the leading community bank in West Central Illinois, First Bankers Trust understands small businesses’ crucial economic role in the communities we serve. We created this guide to help small business owners in Quincy and across West Central Illinois figure out which type of business loan is best for different situations, and how to secure the financing you need to grow your business.

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How To Protect Yourself Online in The Digital Age

How much of your personal information is stored online? From email to online accounts and social media, much of our personal data now lives online and is vulnerable to hackers. In this article, we’ll explain the most common cybersecurity threats and offer Internet security tips for protecting yourself against hackers.

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Hattey Joins First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. as Treasury Management Banker VP

First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (the “Company”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Bankers Trustshares, Inc., announced that Jana Hattey has joined the Company as Treasury Management Banker VP. 

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Boyer Appointed Board Secretary of First Bankers Trustshares, Inc.

First Bankers Trustshares, Inc. (“The Company”) announced on October 3, 2022 that Melinda Boyer has been appointed Board Secretary of The Company and First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. ("First Bankers"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Company.

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Simple Ways to Teach Your Children About Finances

Simply showing them your own basic budgeting strategies, leading by example, and encouraging good saving and spending habits along the way, can make a major difference in their long-term financial outlook. In this post we’ll highlight some of these simple practices you can do with your children of any age to give them a solid financial foundation to help them prosper for years to come!

 

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First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. Launches MHC Funding

First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (the “Company”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Bankers Trustshares, Inc., announced the launch of MHC Funding – a division of the Company specializing in the financing of mobile home communities.

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Understanding Digital and Mobile Banking

If you aren't familiar with Digital Banking, you may be surprised to learn of all the features that are available to you online. This article you will provide you with everything you need to know to understand how to use digital banking, what the benefits are, and how to start integrating it into your financial routine.

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First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. Promotes Cain and Boyer to Executive Officers

First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (the “Company”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Bankers Trustshares, Inc., announced the promotion of Nikki Cain to Senior Vice President, Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) and Melinda Boyer to Senior Vice President, Human Resources; both Cain and Boyer will serve as executive officers of the Company.  

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How to Refinance a Car Loan in West Central Illinois

This guide will answer many common questions and concerns and tell you how you can get started if you decide that refinancing your auto loan is right for you.

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Tips For Successfully Buying a Home in a Competitive Housing Market

How can you land your dream home in 2022? Whether you’re a first-time buyer or more experienced, make sure you’re prepared for today’s competitive housing market with this guide from First Bankers Trust.

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Auto Lending Terminology 101 – A Guide to Common Terms for Illinois Car Buyers

At First Bankers Trust, we understand that confusing car buying terminology can be frustrating when you’re looking to finance your next car purchase. Rather than further complicate the process, we created this guide to give you a better understanding of common auto lending terminology.

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Guide to Buying a Car in West Central IL

At First Bankers Trust, we understand how complicated the process can be from figuring out how much you can afford to spend, finding the right vehicle, and obtaining financing to drive it off the lot. We created this guide to explain the process step by step and help you get started.

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Understanding Your Home Loan Options in West Central IL

When it comes to mortgage loans, today’s first-time homebuyers have more options than ever. More choices can be a good thing, but they also may be overwhelming. If you’re wondering, what mortgage loan is best for me in West Central IL, this article will help you understand your options so you can find the best home loan for you!

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Employees Share Their Memories - Celebrating 75 Years

Today is the day! We're proudly celebrating our 75th #anniversary. This is milestone is made possible by our rich history of wonderful customers, strong leadership, and most of all, dedicated employees. Our team celebrated with treats today and shared some of their favorite memories! Check out the memories below!

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Q&A with Allen W. Shafer - Celebrating 75 Years

As we continue to celebrate 75 years of business, Allen W. Shafer, our current President and CEO, takes a few minutes to reflect on his time with First Bankers Trust and what the future looks like for us!

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The Top 2 Cyber Security Tips You NEED to Know

October is cyber security month and First Bankers Trust is committed to keeping our customers’ accounts and information safe and secure. Security attacks are at an all-time high and while there are countless ways to keep yourself safe, there are two security tips that stand out above all others. Here is what you need to know.

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Guide to Making the Most Out of Low Mortgage Interest Rates in West Central Illinois

Have you been on the sidelines watching as friends and family refinance into ultra-low interest rates or turn their equity into affordable financing? If you’ve been wondering what to do when mortgage interest rates are low, this article is for you! We’ll walk you through three different ways to take advantage of the recent rock-bottom rates before they start to rise again. With tips for each scenario, you’ll learn how you could potentially benefit from refinancing, opening a HELOC, or buying a second home.

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Q&A with Don Gnuse - Celebrating 75 Years

Don Gnuse has been an integral part of First Bankers Trust for over 50 years and were lucky enough to get to talk with him about his time here. Take a look at what our former President and CEO had to say as we continue to celebrate 75 years of business!

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How to Choose a Mortgage Lender in West Central Illinois

Looking to buy your first or next home in West Central Illinois? Choosing a mortgage lender can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. We created this guide to help you understand the process of choosing a mortgage lender so the homebuying process overall will be less stressful. From home mortgage options to local mortgage lenders and the mortgage questions to ask, keep reading for everything you need to know!

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Q&A with Art Greenbank - Celebrating 75 Years

As we continue to celebrate 75 years of business, we are excited to sit down with Art Greenbank to reflect on his time with First Bankers Trust. Art currently serves on our Board of Directors and is a former President & CEO of First Bankers Trust. Hear what Art has to say below!

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First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide for Quincy, IL

Are you ready to start your first-time homebuyer journey in Central Illinois? Figuring out how much house you can afford and what you need to do to buy a home can be daunting. We’re here to help with a comprehensive guide for buying a home in Quincy. From learning about the costs associated with buying your first home, to applying for a mortgage loan, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.

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James Whitaker Named Senior Vice President of Business Development

On July 19, 2021, First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (First Bankers), a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Bankers Trustshares, Inc. (the “Company”), named James Whitaker as Senior Vice President (SVP) of Business Development.

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First Bankers Trust Announces Consolidation of Macomb Branches

First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (First Bankers) announced today that the ‘Macomb East’ branch located at 1630 E. Jackson St. in Macomb will not reopen and will be consolidated with the ‘Macomb Main’ branch. All accounts and services currently maintained and employees working at this branch will be transferred to the primary ‘Macomb Main’ branch at 440 N. Lafayette St.

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Guide to Refinancing Your Home in Central Illinois

Have you been following the news of rising home values and historically low interest rates and wondering if you should refinance? First Bankers Trust is here to help you decide if refinancing is right for you with this ultimate guide. Learn what mortgage refinancing is, how it works, the pros and cons, and more!

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Joe Davis Selected as New CCO

On June 3, 2021, First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (the “Company”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Bankers Trustshares, Inc., announced the appointment of Joe Davis as Chief Credit Officer (CCO) effective on or about July 6, 2021.

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Mask Requirement Update

As we continue to follow local, state and CDC guidance, we are no longer requiring masks at our branches for vaccinated customers and employees.

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First Bankers Trustshares, Inc. Selects Seth Runkle as New CFO

On April 22, 2021, First Bankers Trustshares, Inc. (the “Company”) announced the appointment of Seth Runkle as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) effective on or about June 1, 2021. Mr. Runkle will also serve as the Chief Financial Officer for First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. Tom Frese, the current bank Chief Financial Officer, as planned, will step down as CFO, but continue with the bank until his retirement at the end of 2021.

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First Bankers Trust Company N.A. Adds New Loan Production Office in O’Fallon, Illinois

Quincy, IL – April 19, 2021 – First Bankers Trust Company, N.A. (First Bankers), West-Central Illinois’ leading community bank, is pleased to announce the opening of its loan production office (LPO) in O’Fallon, Illinois.

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First Bankers Trustshares, Inc Announces Stock Repurchase Program

QUINCY, Illinois, March 15, 2021 – First Bankers Trustshares, Inc. (OTCBB: FBTT), (“First Bankers”, “we”, “us”, “our”), the Quincy-based holding company of First Bankers Trust Company, N.A., announced today that its board of directors authorized the repurchase of up to $4,000,000.00 dollars of First Bankers’ common stock, par value $1.00 per share, from time to time until December 31, 2021.

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2021 Economic Impact FAQ

Millions of Americans will be receiving another stimulus check from the federal government as part of the 2021 American Rescue Plan to help with economic difficulties caused by the pandemic. We know many consumers will have questions. How much will they get? When will the payment arrive? How do they get the money into their account?

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Happy Retirement, Judy Fairchild

Please join us in extending best wishes to Judy Fairchild, who is retiring from First Bankers Trust Company.

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Tips for Data Privacy Day

Did you know that 71% of all data breaches are financially motivated? (source: Fortunly)

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Branch Reopening Update

As we continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 cases in our area and the impact that it has on our customers, we are reopening our branch lobbies at the start of business on Monday, January 25.

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Koch's Lane Branch to Reopen

Our branch location at 24th and Koch’s Lane will reopen at 8 a.m. on Monday, January 11.

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Employee Holiday Recipes

As part of the First Bankers Trust Company Holi-DAYS of FUN, we asked our employees to share their favorite holiday recipes and treats. Check them out below and give them a whirl!

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Holiday Hours Update

All First Bankers Trust branches will be closing at noon on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. We will also be closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

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Buck Land Funding Hires Shawn Ryan as Relationship Manager

Buck Land Funding, a Division of First Bankers Trust Company, N.A., hired Shawn Ryan as Relationship Manager. Shawn brings with him over 30 years of experience in the outdoors and hunting industry. He has worked with brokers and buyers throughout the Midwest. Shawn has an extreme passion and understanding of the outdoors and has developed countless relationships with key stakeholders in the industry.

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How First Bankers Trust is Responding to the Coronavirus Pandemic

Our employees, customers and communities have been significantly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. At First Bankers Trust Company, we are proactively doing our part to help limit the spread of the virus, while supporting the needs of our customers and employees.

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Tips for Safe Holiday Shopping Online

With the pandemic impacting how everyone will be doing their Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping this year, it is more important than ever that you prepare yourself for safe holiday shopping online. Online fraudsters will be preying on customers like never before. Here are tips to help you keep yourself and your information safe and secure.

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Branch Hours Update

As the number of positive COVID-19 cases in our area continues to grow, we remain committed to proactively taking the steps and precautions to best serve our customers and our employees. For this reason, we are making adjustments to the hours of operation in some of our branches and drive-up lanes that start on Monday, November 23rd.

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Macomb Branches Update

Due to the continued increase in positive COVID-19 cases in our area, we proactively closed our branch lobbies and they will remain closed until further notice. In addition, we fully closed our Macomb Main (Lafayette) branch location temporarily. In order to best serve our customers, we are making the following adjustments to our Macomb branch operations:

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What is MOBILE DEPOSIT?

You’re busy. We get it. Your schedule is full of things like schooling, activities, errands and other responsibilities, let alone finding some you-time. Making a special trip to the bank is the last thing you want to add to your to-do list, but you want your check deposited as quickly as possible. That’s where mobile check deposits with the FBTC Mobile App come in.

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Lobby Access Updates

As the number of positive COVID-19 cases increase in our region, we are taking a proactive approach and doing our part to keep our employees, families, customers, and communities safe by temporarily closing our lobbies beginning Wednesday, November 4th.

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Double Your Deposit

Will you be 1 of 5 lucky winners to win up to $1,000? Enter our Double Your Deposit Sweepstakes, running November 1 through November 30! Here's how...

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Tips to Avoid Identity Theft

A digital footprint is the information about a particular person that exists on the internet as a result of their online activity. Each of us has a digital footprint whether we want one or not. That means some combination of your personal information is floating around in cyber space in some form; secured, unsecured, or in the cyber-criminal underground. This puts you and your account information at risk of identity theft and impersonation.

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Why Password Management Is Important

One of the easiest and most effective ways to defend yourself and your account information from cyber security risks is to prioritize strong, unique passwords. Here are some tips to help you strengthen your password usage.

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HOW TO BE CYBER SECURE AT WORK

2020 has been a year of change. The pandemic has altered the way we live and changed how we work, learn, interact and operate. Due to the pandemic response, many businesses have implemented or expanded work from home options. Here’s what you should know to stay cyber secure with work.

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Personalized Alerts and Notifications

We understand that not all of our customers want to bank the same way. With First Bankers Trust Company eBanking and the FBTC Mobile App, you can customize and personalize your alerts and notifications to fit your needs.

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New and Improved Website

We are extremely excited to announce the launch of our new and improved website at www.FirstBankers.com. The website launch took place in early September, 2020. Throughout a lengthy and detailed process, we maintained a focus on the needs and the experience of our customers. We wanted the new website to be more mobile responsive, user-friendly, faster, and easier to navigate.

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