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.
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:
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.
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
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.
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!
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.
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 savings accounts offer simplicity and low minimum deposits, making them great for beginners or smaller savers.
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.
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.
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.
When planning for retirement, most consumers assume that traditional options, such as 401(k)s, IRAs, or employer-sponsored plans, which typically include mutual funds and stocks, are the only available options. However, many people long to have more control over their retirement and are unaware of the other options available. Enter the Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) — a powerful yet often overlooked retirement account that puts the customer in control of their investments. Understanding the benefits of using a self-directed IRA will help an investor optimize their retirement planning.
Benefits of Self-Directed IRAs:
Expanded Investment Options
Unlike traditional IRAs, SDIRAs allow account holders to invest in a variety of investment options, including:
Real estate (residential, commercial, raw land)
Precious metals (gold, silver, etc.)
Tax Liens
Private Equity/Companies
Having investment control opens up opportunities for higher returns, better diversification, and investment in areas where investors have personal knowledge and expertise.
Diversification Outside of the Stock Market
Relying solely on the stock market can expose your retirement to volatility amidst economic downturns. With a SDIRA, investors can hedge against inflation and market risk by investing in hard assets or alternative markets. For instance, real estate or private lending can provide stable, passive income streams even when the stock market is down.
Tax Advantages
Just like traditional and Roth IRAs, SDIRAs offer tax-deferred growth depending on the account type:
Traditional SDIRA: Contributions are tax-deductible, and growth is tax-deferred until withdrawal.
Roth SDIRA: Account holders make contributions after tax, but qualified withdrawals are tax-free.
Greater Control and Flexibility
With an SDIRA, the account holder has complete control over their investment. They decide which assets to invest in and when to make a move, which is especially attractive to experienced investors or entrepreneurs who want more input in the use of their retirement funds.
Potential for Higher Returns
By investing in assets, the account holder will typically invest in options that they have a strong understanding of and feel confident will be a beneficial investment. One commonly chosen investment is real estate used as rental properties. Building a portfolio centered around unique investments may generate higher returns than a traditional stock-based portfolio. While these investments may carry higher risk, they also offer the potential for substantial rewards.
Before Opening a SDIRA
While SDIRAs offer numerous advantages, they also include additional responsibilities for the investor. For example, account holders must avoid prohibited transactions (such as self-dealing or using SDIRA assets for personal benefit) and follow IRS rules carefully. It’s critical to work with a qualified custodian, such as SouthStar Bank, and consult with financial or legal professionals who have experience working with SDIRAs.
In Conclusion
A Self-Directed IRA isn’t for everyone, but for investors looking to diversify and take control of their retirement planning, it could be a top account option. Whether you’re a real estate investor or simply looking to escape market dependency, an SDIRA gives you the flexibility to build a retirement portfolio on your terms.
