Bank News Archives - Page 6 of 8 - SouthStar Bank, S.S.B.

by SouthStar BankAugust 10, 2020

How is my IRA affected by the CARES Act?

Learn about recent IRA changes Through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, known as the CARES Act, several provisions were made to help those financially or medically affected through these tough times. Although the CARES Act impacted more than individual retirement accounts (IRAs), the impact on IRAs is significant. IRA owners and beneficiaries of a deceased IRA owner should be aware of these changes in relation to their unique goals and circumstances. THE 2020 REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTION (RMD) HAS BEEN WAIVED IRA owners and IRA beneficiaries are not required to take a distribution. The RMD provision is applicable to any Traditional IRA, including Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) and Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees of Small Employers (SIMPLE) IRAs. If an IRA owner turned age 70.5 in 2019 and postponed his/her RMD after 2019 (until the required beginning date of April 1, 2020), the RMD is eligible to be waived. THE RMD ROLLOVER DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO AUGUST 31, 2020 If you have already taken your 2020 RMD, you may have the opportunity to return funds as a rollover contribution. This is also applicable to surviving spouse beneficiaries. Non-spouse surviving beneficiaries may rollover only the RMD death distribution amount received in 2020 back into the same IRA. AUTOMATIC WITHDRAWALS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR REVISIONS If you previously set up an annual RMD to be automatically withdrawn, you may contact your banker to revise the schedule. In most cases, including existing SouthStar Bank IRA Accounts, if you do not request an adjustment, it will be assumed that you intend the 2020 RMD to take place even though it is not required by law. It is recommended that you consult a tax professional regarding your intentions when adjusting planned disbursements. If you have questions regarding your SouthStar Bank IRA account, we’re here to help. Please reach out by emailing contact.us@southstarbank.com or contacting your nearest SouthStar Bank branch.

Bank News, Event

by SouthStar BankAugust 5, 2020

SouthStar Bank Then & Now: 1920

A look back on the Banking Industry 100 years ago. This year SouthStar Bank is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The Bank opened its doors as The Farmers and Merchants Bank of Moulton in October of 1920. The Bank was located at the present site of Moulton City Hall, and F.T. Fehrenkamp served as President along with Rudy Jaeggli as Vice President. Banking looked a bit different back in 1920: Banks offered installment loans, mortgages, and loans to stock market speculators on 90 percent margins. Printing tabulators were introduced, which not only improved speed and accuracy of balancing vault balances, but set the stage for future technology. There were no insider-trading laws 100 years later, the SouthStar Bank headquarters remains in Moulton, TX. Mark your calendar and join us to celebrate this historical milestone on October 21! 100 S. Main St. Moulton, TX | 5-7pm

Bank News, Event

by SouthStar BankJuly 23, 2020

SouthStar Bank 100th Anniversary Book Drive

Help us reach our goal of 100 books for 100 years. Over the past 100 years SouthStar Bank has built a tradition of community service, supporting past generations and the generations to come. In honor of our 100th Anniversary, we are continuing the tradition by hosting a bank-wide book drive. Every branch has partnered with one to two schools to help add some new books to their libraries this fall. Please consider helping us reach our goal of 100 Books for 100 Years. Our book drive is running now through September 8. New and gently used books for local students will be accepted at all SouthStar Bank Branches. Bins will be placed outside each location to adhere with social distancing guidelines. If you would like to donate virtually, click on one of the participating schools below to view their Amazon Wishlist: Bremond Elementary School– Bremond Calvert Elementary School– Calvert Chandler Oaks Elementary School– Round Rock East Avenue Primary School– Gonzales Hearne Elementary School– Hearne Lake Pointe Elementary School– Austin McCasland Christian Academy– Georgetown Moulton Elementary School– Moulton Mumford Elementary School– Mumford Norman-Sims Elementary School– Austin Pleasant Hill Elementary School– Leander Richard E. Cavazos Elementary School– Nolanville Roland Reynolds Elementary School– Franklin Rooster Springs Elementary School– Austin Shiner Elementary School– Shiner St. Ludmila Elementary School– Shiner Steiner Ranch Elementary School– Austin Sycamore Springs Elementary School– Austin Wild Peach Elementary School– Brazoria

Bank News, Important Notice, Press Release

by SouthStar BankJune 17, 2020

SouthStar Bank COVID-19 Update 6.17.20

Serving our friends, families, and communities. We’re in this together. SouthStar Bank continues to monitor guidelines from health and government officials relating to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As a precaution, lobby access is limited across all locations. Drive thru remains open (please see below for limited hours at select locations). Customers who have a critical need to conduct an in-person transaction or access a safe deposit box should contact your local branch for an appointment. REDUCED HOURS All locations will maintain normal drive thru hours. REMOTE BANKING SERVICES We are committed to providing uninterrupted, exceptional services while balancing the interests of our clients, our employees and others we serve. For your convenience, we provide a variety of options to help manage your accounts and maintain productivity. Allpoint ATM Network: world-wide, surcharge free ATMs CardValet®: Manage and monitor debit card activity Direct Deposit: Deposit paychecks automatically into your account Mobile App: Deposit checks with a picture and transfer funds Loan Payments: Secure, online payments using a debit card, checking or savings account Online Banking: Review transactions, transfer funds, pay bills and open accounts Online Applications: Mortgage Loan or Refinance Consumer Checking or Savings Account Zelle: Person-to-person money transfer Telebanking: 24/7 account access (866.333.9064) Unfamiliar with our remote banking options? Watch our video tutorials to learn more. ONGOING MONITORING & UPDATES Our hearts go out to all those impacted by COVID-19—including not only those diagnosed with the virus, but also their friends and family, those whose jobs and schools have been impacted, and many more. We will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves, taking additional measures as public safety authorities recommend. In the meantime, we’re grateful for your support and want you to know that the health and safety of you and your family are top of mind for us.

Bank News, Employee News

by SouthStar BankJune 10, 2020

Congratulations Trip Ray! New Chief Risk Officer

Congratulations to Trip Ray on his promotion to Chief Risk Officer! Since joining the SouthStar Bank team in 2016, Trip has transformed the Past Due Reporting, Watch List, Problem Asset Reports, Loan Review Program, and developed a Stress Testing Plan. He is also responsible for all of the Bank’s loan reporting, including bank goals and risk reports. Trip is excited to step into his new role, and to navigate the unprecedented situations with COVID-19 – helping SouthStar Bank come out of the pandemic stronger than before. As Chief Risk Officer, Trip will expand his responsibility to all areas of risk for SouthStar Bank and will serve as the chair of the bank’s Enterprise Risk Management Committee. In his free time, Trip enjoys going on walks with his wife and dogs, playing golf, and spending time outdoors. Two of his best vacations were bonefishing in the Bahamas and Lake Tahoe. One of Trip’s biggest personal accomplishments is marrying his wife.

Bank News, Important Notice, SBA

by SouthStar BankApril 3, 2020

PPP Round 1: Loans for COVID-19 Payroll Assistance

What is the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)? NOTICES: The deadline to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Round 1 was August 8, 2020. Click here for more information on PPP Round 2, available through March 31, 2021. The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorizes up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses who maintain payroll during the COVID-19 crisis. Funds may be used for employee payroll (including paid sick or medical leave), employee salaries, mortgage interest payments, rent and utilities. Provides small businesses the opportunity to maintain workforce by providing funds for payroll, mortgage interest, rent and utilities Interest rate is a flat 1.0% for a max 2-year term. However, full amount may be forgiven (see PPP Loan forgiveness below) PPP loans are SBA loans, serviced through your local SBA lender – it is recommended to reach out to your primary bank or local lender first Only one PPP loan can be taken out per business (not per individual) Personal guarantees are not required What does this mean for my business? Businesses may qualify for forgivable loans in order to retain employees. The SBA can provide up to $10 million OR 2.5 times the average monthly salary over the 1-year period before the loan – whichever is less Each employee salary may not exceed $100k These loans may be used for payroll costs (including benefits), interest on mortgage obligations (incurred before Feb. 15, 2020), rent (under lease agreements in force before Feb. 15, 2020) and utilities (for which service began before Feb. 15, 2020) The first 6 months payment will be deferred, however, the loan will accrue interest Who Qualifies for a PPP Loan? All businesses which either: Have 500 or fewer employees Businesses in certain industries can have more than 500 employees if they meet applicable SBA employee-based size standards for those industries. Meet applicable NAICS Code-based size standard or other applicable SBA 7(a) loan size standard, both alone or together with its affiliates Eligible businesses include nonprofits, veterans organizations, Tribal business concerns, sole proprietorships, self-employed individuals, and independent contractors. In addition, businesses should show documentation of: Operation as of February 15, 2020 with paid employees or independent contractors Necessity of loan to support ongoing operations Funds will be used for payroll, mortgage obligations, rent or utilities How Long will PPP Funding Take? PPP applications will be accepted through your local lender and funding typically takes 2 days from receipt of completed application. Timeline is subject to change based on current volume. How do I apply for a PPP Loan? PPP applications will be accepted through your local lender beginning April 3, 2020. The SBA is continuing to provide guidance to the banks. At this time, we recommend gathering the following: Completed Paycheck Protection Program Application (SBA Form 2483) 2019 IRS Quarterly 940, 941, or 944 payroll tax reports Payroll reports for a twelve-month period (ending on your most recent payroll date), which will show the following information: Gross wages for each employee, including officer(s) if paid […]

Bank News, Commercial, Important Notice, SBA

by SouthStar BankMarch 30, 2020

SBA Relief Loans: EIDL and PPP

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) The Small Business Administration (SBA) has implemented relief loans for businesses affected by the COVID-19 situation. Loans include Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to provide access to working capital, and SBA 7(a) Relief Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to retain workforce through debt forgiveness for payroll and other eligible expenses during a defined covered period. A Preferred SBA Lender, SouthStar Bank is here to help and discuss available options for your business. NOTICES: The deadline to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was August 8, 2020. Learn more about PPP loans. Through Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), the SBA can provide up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the Coronavirus disaster not occurred. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact. EIDL Qualification Businesses who may qualify include: Small businesses and private, non-profit organizations within designated disaster areas of a state or territory Businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19 EIDL Application To apply for an EIDL, visit disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Required documentation includes: Completed SBA loan application (SBA Form 5) Tax Information Authorization (IRS Form 4506T) for the applicant, principals and affiliates Complete copies of the most recent Federal Income Tax Return Schedule of Liabilities (SBA Form 2202) Personal Financial Statement (SBA Form 413) Other Information that may also be requested: Complete copy, including all schedules, of the most recent Federal income tax return for principals, general partners or managing member, and affiliates (see filing requirements for more information) If the most recent Federal income tax return has not been filed, a year-end profit-and-loss statement and balance sheet for that tax year A current year-to-date profit-and-loss statement Additional Filing Requirements (SBA Form 1368) providing monthly sales figures Learn more about Economic Injury Disaster Loans. SBA 7(a) Relief Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) The CARES ACT authorizes up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses who maintain payroll during the COVID-19 crisis. Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans may be used for employee payroll, salaries, mortgage interest payments, rent and utilities. Loans will be eligible for forgiveness if workforce and pay levels are maintained. PPP Qualification Businesses who may qualify include: Businesses in need of funds to maintain workforce Businesses utilizing funds for payroll, mortgage obligations, rent or utilities All businesses with 500 of fewer employees. Businesses in certain industries may qualify with more than 500 employees if they meet applicable SBA employee-based size standards for those industries. PPP Application PPP applications will be accepted through your local lender beginning April 3, 2020. The SBA is continuing to provide guidance to the banks. At this time, we recommend gathering the following: Completed Paycheck Protection Program Application (SBA Form 2483) 2019 IRS Quarterly 940, 941, or 944 payroll tax reports Payroll reports for a twelve-month period (ending on your most recent payroll date), which will show the […]

Bank News, Important Notice, Press Release

by SouthStar BankMarch 27, 2020

Loan Modification Options

Personalized assistance to aid customers affected by COVID-19 As a community financial services provider, SouthStar Bank strives to function as an integral part of the communities around us – including in trying times like these. With the financial unknowns of the coronavirus, we want our borrowers to know that SouthStar Bank is committed to helping qualified customers weather the challenges ahead. If you are suffering financial hardship caused by COVID-19, please contact your local SouthStar Bank Branch or Loan Officer to discuss loan modification options. Unprecedented times call for unique solutions and we are ready to help. Initiatives are in place to assist the people and communities we serve withstand the extraordinary pressures triggered by COVID-19 and be better positioned to recover from its effects. SBA Disaster Loans In addition, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has implemented relief loans for businesses affected by the COVID-19 situation. Loans include Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to provide access to working capital, and SBA Paycheck Protection Loans (PPP) to retain workforce through debt forgiveness for payroll during a defined covered period. Please refer to SBA.gov for the latest information. The SouthStar Bank SBA Team is here to help and discuss available options for your business. Contact us at sba@southstarbank.com. As always, our mission is to provide friendly, flexible, common-sense financial solutions – Texas Style!

Bank News, Important Notice, SBA

by SouthStar BankMarch 20, 2020

EIDL: Texas Disaster Loans for COVID-19 Assistance

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is providing Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to businesses affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19). While Texas has been added to the current declared disaster areas , this is no longer required for eligibility. Businesses in all 50 states may begin the application now. What are Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs)? Loans available through the SBA to businesses suffering substantial economic injury Substantial economic injury is defined by a business’s inability to meet obligations and pay the regular operating expenses required. Provide necessary working capital to help small businesses stay afloat during disasters causing temporary loss of revenue The interest rates will not exceed 3.75% percent per year. Long-term payments are available (not to exceed 30 years). Repayment terms are determined by the borrower’s ability to repay the loan. The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses and 2.75% for non-profits Businesses with credit available elsewhere are not eligible What does this mean for my business? The SBA can provide up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the Coronavirus disaster not occurred Loan amount is based on actual economic injury and your business’s financial needs, regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact Who Qualifies for an EIDL Loan? Small businesses and private, non-profit organizations within designated disaster areas of a state or territory – due to the current COVID-19 crisis, all 50 states are eligible Businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of Coronavirus Businesses who are unable to otherwise secure credit How Long will EIDL Funding Take? Typically, up to 4 weeks, through the three steps below. Apply Online Loan Processing Information is verified and credit checked Forecasts are completed to determine the loan amount An SBA case manager will contact you to make a recommendation and discuss next steps Decisions typically take 4 weeks Loan Closes and Funds Sign and submit loan documents Initial disbursement of $25k within 5 days An SBA Case Manager is assigned to assist you moving forward How do I apply for an EIDL Loan? Apply online: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance You may also contact the SBA disaster customer service center: 1.800.659.2955 disastercustomerservice@sba.gov TTY: 1.800.877.8339 In addition to the loan application, you will need to complete IRS Form 4506-Ts for: Owner Each principal that owns 20% or more Each general partner or managing member Each owner who owns more than 50% of an affiliate business At least two years complete business tax returns with all schedules Personal Financial Statement for each applicant Schedule of Liabilities for all fixed debts Optional: Items above plus 2 years complete financial statements P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow Monthly revenue records for at least two years What other loan options are available? SBA 7(a) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans are also available. Click here to learn more about the difference between EIDL and PPP. Borrowers may apply […]

Bank News, Important Notice, Press Release

by SouthStar BankMarch 16, 2020

SouthStar Bank COVID-19 Update

LIMITED LOBBY ACCESS: Drive Thru and Online Banking Recommended We greatly appreciate the trust and confidence you have placed in SouthStar Bank. As we continue to monitor, plan and implement our strategy to address COVID-19, we want to assure you that the safety and well-being of our customers and employees are our top priorities. With these intentions, we have decided to take precautionary action and limit non-essential traffic within all SouthStar Bank branch lobbies. The Bank remains open to serve and help our customers through this crisis. Limiting access to our lobby and public areas will serve to protect employees and customers as we increase sanitation and implement social distancing as suggested by the CDC. Our drive thru will remain open. In addition, some branches may be operating with reduced hours. Currently, branches with reduced drive thru hours include: SouthStar Bank Harker Heights: Drive Thru Open Monday-Friday, 8am – 5pm If you wish to meet with a banker or conduct in-person transactions, please call the branch for an appointment. REMOTE BANKING SERVICES We are committed to providing uninterrupted, exceptional services while balancing the interests of our clients, our employees and others we serve. For your convenience, we provide a variety of options to help manage your accounts and maintain productivity. Allpoint ATM Network: world-wide, surcharge free ATMs CardValet®: Manage and monitor debit card activity Direct Deposit: Deposit paychecks automatically into your account Mobile App: Deposit checks with a picture and transfer funds Online Banking: Review transactions, transfer funds, pay bills and open accounts Zelle: Person-to-person money transfer Telebanking: 24/7 account access (866.333.9064) If you haven’t already: Download the SouthStar Bank Mobile App > Enroll in SouthStar Bank Online Banking > FRAUD PREVENTION The Federal Trade Commission has warned about scammers who are taking advantage of fears surrounding the Coronavirus. We ask communities to be vigilant against this type of fraud. Remember, if we reach out to you, we won’t ask for confidential information such as your name, password, personal identification number (PIN) or other account information. CONTINUED MONITORING & UPDATES SouthStar Bank has faced many challenges throughout its 100-year history. We are in this together and have every confidence that we will meet this new challenge and once again demonstrate our commitment to the communities we serve. We plan to regularly review, expand, and evolve these and other preventative measures as we learn more from the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control, and other health experts about how to combat the spread of this virus. In the meantime, please know we are committed to doing all that we can to keep our communities safe. We will continue to provide updates to you through our website, over social media channels and by email. We appreciate your feedback. For comments or questions please reach out to your branch representative or email contact.us@southstarbank.com.