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SouthStar Bank has opened two relief funds to support the flood recovery efforts in Kerr & Williamson counties. Contact your local branch to donate!

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Monthly Archives: July 2025

Welcome Clint Meyer

Clint Meyer, Senior Vice President of Lending | SouthStar Bank Leander Clint Meyer has joined the SouthStar Bank Leander branch as a Senior Vice President of Lending. Clint received his undergraduate degree from Texas Tech University and pursued further education at St. Edward’s University, where he earned his Master of Business Administration degree. A specialist in commercial and CRE lending, Clint spent more than two decades in the Central Texas commercial and industrial construction industry. In his role with SouthStar Bank, Clint looks forward to building lasting personal and community relationships as well as helping businesses within the local economy. Clint takes great pride in being a part of projects that physically shape communities. He finds it rewarding to analyze complex deals, structure financing based on each client’s unique needs, and serve as a trusted resource and partner for every deal, from concept to completion. Outside of the office, Clint enjoys spending time with his family, working on his family ranch in South Texas, and fly fishing in the Rocky Mountains. Clint also spends time giving back to his community through Meals on Wheels. Welcome to the team, Clint! NMLS #2740734

Your Home for Rural Lending

If you’re looking for a trusted partner for your rural lending needs, choosing the right financial partner matters. National banks may offer convenience, but they often fall short when it comes to understanding the unique financial needs of rural borrowers. At SouthStar Bank, we value the rural communities we work and live in. Our local expertise makes us the smart choice for individuals, families, and businesses in rural areas. With a strong commitment to local communities and decades of experience in Texas rural lending, SouthStar Bank delivers personalized service and flexible loan solutions that national lenders simply can’t match! Deep Local Knowledge and Personalized Lending SouthStar Bank’s lending team lives and works in the same rural communities they serve. This gives them a clear understanding of local land values, agriculture cycles, and the economic challenges rural Texans face. Whether you’re applying for a farm loan, purchasing rural property, or expanding your ranch, SouthStar Bank provides fast, locally made decisions backed by real expertise. Flexible Financing Options for Rural Texans No two borrowers are alike—especially in rural areas where traditional loan models often don’t apply. SouthStar Bank specializes in customized rural lending solutions, including: Farm and Ranch Loans Rural Living Mortgage Program Star Advantage Program: Mortgage Solutions for Unique Situations Lot and Construction Loans Commercial and SBA Lending Beyond living and working in our communities, we also make our decisions in house, this allows us to offer flexible terms and creative solutions tailored to your situation. Investing in Texas Communities As a true Texas community bank of more than 100 years, SouthStar Bank reinvests in the areas it serves. The money you deposit stays local—supporting other families, farms, and small businesses in your region. That means when you bank with SouthStar, you’re not just getting financing, you’re helping build a stronger local economy! Trusted Relationships, Not Transactions SouthStar Bank is relationship-focused, not transaction-driven. Our loan officers take time to get to know you and your goals, providing expertise and support throughout the entire lending process. We have worked hard for over 100 years to earn the trust of our local communities and develop relationships that last generations. Choose SouthStar Bank for Your Rural Lending Needs If you’re in need of rural lending solutions in Texas, SouthStar Bank offers the local expertise, flexible financing, and personalized service you deserve. Whether you’re buying land, financing a farm, or building your dream home in the country, SouthStar Bank is your trusted partner for success. Ready to start your Rural Lending journey? Contact your local experts today!

Transitioning Your IRA

If you’re planning for retirement and looking for a better way to manage your investments, transitioning your IRA to a trusted local bank can be a wise step. Whether you’re consolidating accounts, seeking better service, or rethinking your strategy, making the move to SouthStar Bank offers personalized support, a broad range of account options, and peace of mind for your retirement future. In this guide, we’ll walk you through why and how to transition your IRA to SouthStar Bank, and what you need to know to make the process smooth and tax-efficient. Why Consider an IRA Transfer? An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is one of the most powerful tools for long-term saving, but not all IRA providers offer the same value. You might consider transitioning your IRA if: You’re looking for more personalized, local service. You want to consolidate multiple IRAs into one, easier-to-manage account. Your current IRA has high fees or limited investment options. You’ve changed jobs and need to roll over a 401(k) into an IRA. You’re interested in a Roth conversion for tax-free retirement income. At SouthStar Bank, our experienced financial team works with you one-on-one to understand your retirement goals and help you make informed choices about your future. Benefits of Moving Your IRA to SouthStar Bank Transitioning your IRA to SouthStar Bank gives you access to: Local, personalized service from real people who know your name and care about your future Flexible IRA options including Traditional, Roth, SEP, and SIMPLE IRAs FDIC-insured IRA savings accounts and Certificates of Deposit (CDs) for low-risk investors Self-Directed IRA with Checkbook Control offering flexible investment options Simple rollover and transfer support to make the transition stress-free Whether you’re nearing retirement or just getting started, our retirement solutions are designed to meet you where you are and grow with you. How to Transition Your IRA to SouthStar Bank Review Your Current IRA Start by looking at your current IRA account. Note the type (Traditional or Roth), the investment performance, fees, and if it aligns with your long-term goals. Contact a SouthStar Bank Specialist Our team is here to guide you through every step. We’ll discuss your options, explain the benefits of different IRA types, and help you choose the best solution. Contact our IRA experts at ira@southstarbank.com or 512.384.3948. Initiate a Direct Transfer We recommend a direct trustee-to-trustee transfer, which moves your funds from your existing provider straight into your new SouthStar Bank IRA. This avoids taxes and early withdrawal penalties. Monitor and Confirm Our team will keep you informed throughout the process, and we’ll ensure your funds are moved safely and securely. IRA transfers typically take 7-14 business days, but in some cases transfers can take longer. Let SouthStar Bank Help You Plan Your Retirement When it comes to transitioning your IRA, you deserve more than just a transaction—you deserve a relationship. At SouthStar Bank, we believe retirement planning is personal. That’s why we offer tailored advice, responsive service, and a commitment to helping your savings grow. Ready to transition […]

Money Market vs Traditional Savings: What Account is Right for You?

When deciding how to save money effectively, money market accounts and traditional savings accounts are two popular and safe options offered by banks. Both types of accounts provide interest earnings and federal insurance protection, but they differ in features, interest rates, access, and minimum balance requirements. Understanding the differences in each account is crucial to finding the right account for your needs! What Is a Traditional Savings Account? A traditional savings account is a basic deposit account that allows you to securely save money while earning interest. It’s a low-risk option insured by the FDIC up to $250,000 per depositor, providing peace of mind that your funds are safe. Features of Traditional Savings Accounts Lower interest rates: Typically range between 0.01% and 0.50%. Check our current rates here. Easy access to funds: Withdrawals and deposits are simple, though federal regulations limit certain withdrawals to six per month. Low minimum deposit requirements: A Traditional Savings Account at SouthStar Bank has a minimum opening deposit of $100 (as of 6/26/25). Minimal or no fees: Monthly fees are often waived when minimum balances are maintained. What Is a Money Market Account? A money market account (MMA) combines features of savings and checking accounts, often paying higher interest rates due to investments in short-term government securities and other low-risk instruments. Like traditional savings, MMAs are FDIC insured up to $250,000. Features of Money Market Accounts Higher interest rates: MMAs generally offer better returns than traditional savings accounts. Check our current rates here. Limited check-writing privileges: You may be able to write checks, offering more transactional flexibility. Higher minimum balance requirements: Usually require $1,000 or more to open and avoid fees.   Money Market Account vs Traditional Savings Account: A Side-by-Side Comparison Feature Traditional Savings Account Money Market Account Interest Rates Typically Lower Typically Higher Minimum Deposit Low Higher ($1,000 or more) Access to Funds Limited withdrawals, no checks Checks allowed Fees Usually none or low Possible monthly fees if balance not met Safety FDIC insured FDIC insured Which Is Better: Money Market Account or Traditional Savings Account? Choosing between a money market account vs traditional savings account depends on your savings goals, balance, and how frequently you need access to your funds: If you want a straightforward, low-maintenance account to grow your emergency fund with easy access, a traditional savings account is likely the better choice. If you want to maximize interest earnings and appreciate some check-writing access with your savings, and you can maintain a higher balance, a money market account may be more suitable. Tips to Maximize Your Savings Avoid monthly fees by meeting minimum balance requirements. Use money market accounts for larger emergency funds or short-term savings that require occasional access. Use traditional savings accounts for smaller balances or savings goals with less frequent withdrawals. Both money market accounts and traditional savings accounts offer safe, insured ways to save money, but they serve different needs. Money market accounts typically provide higher interest and more access options but require larger balances. Traditional […]

Resources for Texas Communities Following the July 2025 Floods

Our hearts go out to the families and communities impacted by the devastating flooding in Central Texas this past weekend. SouthStar Bank stands ready to support those in need during this difficult time. We are committed to being a resource for our neighbors. Please note that law enforcement officials are asking the public not to self-deploy for relief efforts. However, there are many safe and meaningful ways to get involved. Below is a list of resources for everyone impacted or wanting to help during this difficult time. Residents Impacted by the Floods FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Association): Disaster assistance customer service at 800-621-3362, or by registering online at www.disasterassistance.gov. DR-4879-TX Texas Severe Storms, Straight-line Winds, and Flooding Information Disaster Distress Helpline – Call or text 1-800-985-5990 Texas Disaster Portal at disaster.texas.gov. Check Road Conditions: DriveTexas.org Flooding Resources: TexasFlood.org‍ Flood Safety Tips: Ready.gov/floods‍ Call 2-1-1 for information on evacuation shelters, or visit tdem.texas.gov/shelter‍ Homeowners Impacted by the Floods 3 steps homeowners should take after a natural disaster: Talk to a housing counselor at no cost to you by calling 1-855-HERE2HELP or schedule an appointment. Contact your insurance company Contact your mortgage loan servicer How To Help The Red Cross The Salvation Army Austin Pets Alive! World Central Kitchen SouthStar Bank Relief Fund Assistance for Small Business Owners SBA Disaster assistance: SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. SouthStar Bank Relief Fund SouthStar Bank has opened two accounts dedicated to relief efforts for communities in Kerr and Williamson County impacted by the recent floods. Donations can be made in person or, if you prefer, by check, payable to SouthStar Bank. All 16 SouthStar Bank branches will accept donations through July 31. Locations within Williamson County include Georgetown and Leander, and within Kerr County, the Kerrville branch. SouthStar Bank has initiated fundraising efforts by making a $2,500 donation to both the Kerr County and Williamson County Relief Funds. For more information, contact your local SouthStar Bank branch. Be Aware of Fraud & Scams How To Avoid Scams After Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters Frequently Asked Questions About Disasters How to/Where to report a scam Charity and Disaster Fraud Change of Address: If you need to update your address, please use the United States Postal Service website or visit a post office to make any necessary changes.

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