Protect Yourself from Fake Checks

Fake check scams can lead to significant financial losses. Scammers use counterfeit checks to deceive individuals and businesses into sending money or goods. Unfortunately, spotting a fake or fraudulent check is difficult due to advancements in technology. But understanding how to identify these scams and learning how to spot a fake check will help protect you.

Keep in mind that even a fake check can initially clear and appear as available funds in your account. However,...

For over 30 years Joe Patoka has been a successful journeyman plumber in the Portage County area. A familiar face, Joe built a reputation for reliable, expert plumbing service, tackling everything from minor repairs to major installations.

In 2023, Joe and his wife Jodi heard that the previous owner of Best Septic Services was ready to sell the business. Recognizing the opportunity to take on ownership of an already successful business, Joe and Jodi were ready for a...

Juneteenth (June 19) is the nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Being a federal holiday, Prevail Bank offices were closed, but that didn’t stop team members from getting to work on other projects. The nine offices across the state chose different organizations to volunteer at, taking time to connect with each other and to their communities.

“I’m so thankful that our service-minded staff continues to find...

No one enjoys thinking about death—especially their own. But as uncomfortable as it might be, preparing for the inevitable is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can leave behind for your loved ones. When someone passes away, the emotional burden on the next of kin is already immense. Compounding that with the stress of unraveling financial accounts, notifying institutions, and tracking down essential documents can be overwhelming.

That’s where smart, forward-thinking...

Prevail Bank understands saving money can be a struggle sometimes. There are bills to pay, groceries, taking care of family needs, emergencies, etc. You may often question yourself – “How can I even begin to save?” We get it and we’re here to help.

Tip: Saving money doesn’t always have to be in large amounts at a time. Start Small!

We implemented a program called “Saving Makes Cents.” ...

(2025) Sustainability is based on the principle that our survival (the human population) is dependent on the natural environment, and that we should be using our resources in such a way that they will continue to be available in the future. Prevail Bank is certainly doing its part.

Prevail Bank is a community bank that takes seriously its commitment to sustainability and building a better tomorrow for its customers, their families,...

Are the high home prices and interest rates kiboshing your plans of home ownership? It doesn’t have to be hopeless. Follow these tips so when the right house, the ‘affordable’ house, is available, you can confidently make an offer.

You can still prepare yourself to be a homeowner. Here’s what you should do. Prepare with these 8 tips.

Despite the fact that check use has declined by 25%, reports of check fraud have soared. In fact, they’ve nearly doubled since 2021. If you’re using checks, please remember you’re exposing your personal information (name, contact information) and bank account info with each one you write. Criminals are becoming more sophisticated every day, finding new ways to steal your financial information and ultimately your money.  

Retirement may seem like a distant concept when you're in your 20s, but this is the best time to start laying the foundation for your future. The decisions you make today, no matter how small, can have a major impact on your financial stability decades from now. Whether you're fresh out of college or just getting established in your career, now is the time to begin planning for the life you want later.

While you don’t need...

Steph Schmid’s business name, Wisco Branding, proudly reflects both local heritage and her commitment to amplifying genuine brand voices for sustainable growth.

Before starting Wisco Branding, Steph Schmid worked in radio as a digital marketing consultant, gaining experience in scriptwriting and commercial production. Recognizing she could better serve customers with personalized and flexible solutions, she dove into entrepreneurship and launched Wisco Branding....