Financial Wellness & Education

With tax season around the corner, scammers are on the prowl, targeting unsuspecting taxpayers with fraudulent schemes. Recently, there has been an alarming increase in scams where criminals impersonate the IRS, particularly through text messages, in an attempt to steal sensitive personal information. The Scam: What’s Happening? Scammers are taking advantage of the IRS’s announcement regarding automatic payments for those eligible who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit (also...

Middle Georgia—Planters First Bank is proud to announce the launch of its new Agricultural Division, a dedicated initiative to support the agricultural communities across Middle Georgia. Leading this effort is Wayne Sangster, a highly respected figure in the agricultural lending community, who has joined as an Agricultural Lending Specialist. Joining him is Cathy Sangster, who brings over 15 years of experience and deep agricultural knowledge as the new Agricultural Administrative...

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news—our Solution Center and Treasury Team have relocated to the Ocilla branch at Planters First Bank! This move is all about making it easier and faster for us to provide you with the exceptional service and expertise you’ve come to know and trust. With both teams now under one roof, we’re ready to support you with all your banking and treasury needs. Whether you have questions, need expert guidance, or are looking for financial solutions,...

Data Privacy Week is an annual expanded effort from Data Privacy Day -- taking place from January 27 - 31, 2025. The goal of Data Privacy Week is to spread awareness about online privacy among individuals and organizations. This year’s theme is “Take Control of Your Data”. All your online activity generates a trail of data. Websites, apps, and services collect data on your behaviors, interests, and purchases. Sometimes, this includes personal data, like your Social Security and...

Middle Georgia – Planters First Bank has announced its donation of $150,000 to support three rural hospitals in Georgia as part of the Georgia HEART Hospital Program. Each recipient—Crisp Regional Hospital in Cordele, Taylor Regional Hospital in Hawkinsville, and Dorminy Medical Center in Fitzgerald—will receive $50,000 to enhance their capacity to deliver quality healthcare to the communities they serve. The Georgia HEART Hospital Program is a vital initiative designed to increase...

January is Financial Wellness Month! Kick off the new year with a fresh focus on your financial health. January is the perfect time to set goals, create budgets, and take control of your finances. Whether you’re saving for a big purchase, planning for retirement, or looking to get more from your checking account, we’ve got tools and resources to guide you toward a brighter financial future. Let’s make 2025 your best financial year yet! Start Here: Your Financial Health...

Have you ever received a package with items you didn’t order? If so, you might have been targeted by a “brushing” scam. This deceptive practice involves a scammer sending packages to your address without your consent, often to boost their product’s online ratings and popularity. Here’s what you need to know and how to protect yourself. What Is a Brushing Scam? In a brushing scam, scammers use your information to pose as a verified buyer on platforms like Amazon or eBay. They...

Planters First Bank is pleased to announce that Robert J. “Robby” Redmond has joined the team as SVP, Macon Commercial Lender. With a career spanning over 25 years in the financial services industry, Robby brings a wealth of expertise in commercial lending, business development, and leadership to Planters First Bank. His deep ties to the Macon community and proven track record make him an invaluable addition to the bank’s commitment to serving Middle Georgia. Robby earned his...

Planters First Bank is pleased to announce Heather Dozier's promotion to TRID/Consumer Lender. Heather’s exceptional performance as Enterprise Support Analyst—TRID demonstrates her dedication and expertise in mortgage lending compliance and customer service. In her new position, Heather will continue to build on her experience, focusing on delivering outstanding service to our clients while ensuring compliance with TRID (TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure) regulations. "Heather has...

When you support local businesses, you’re doing more than making a purchase—you’re helping create jobs, support our neighbors, and strengthen the economic health of the communities where we all live, work, and play. Shopping small isn’t just for the holiday season; it’s a commitment that makes a difference all year long. Here are 6 great reasons to Bank, Shop, and Dine Local: Local businesses give back more to the community. Every dollar spent locally helps fund schools,...

Planters First Bank is proud to announce that we’ve been named a Best of Georgia winner for the second year in a row! This incredible honor, voted on by our customers, reflects the trust and relationships we’ve built over the years. For us, this award isn’t just a title—it’s a testament to the communities we’re privileged to serve. "Winning this award again in 2024 speaks volumes about the bond we share with our customers," said President Eli Tinsley. "At Planters First...

It’s not every day that we celebrate a monumental milestone at Planters First Bank. On December 3, 2024, we proudly cut the ribbon on our new Macon Banking Center, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our storied legacy. Let’s take a moment to reflect on where it all began. In 1896, Grover Cleveland served as President, William Yates Atkinson was Governor of Georgia, and on February 27, Hawkinsville became home to the first chartered location of Planters First Bank. More...