Financial Wellness & Education

Planters First Bank is committed to your financial safety and awareness, not just during National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) from March 2-8, 2025, but all year round. NCPW is a collaborative effort among government agencies, consumer protection groups, and community banks like ours to empower individuals with knowledge about consumer rights and fraud prevention. Tips to Avoid Fraud: Watch for Money Laundering Schemes – Be cautious if someone asks you to move money through...

Since our founding on February 27, 1896, Planters First Bank has been dedicated to making a lasting impact in Middle Georgia. For 129 years, we have provided personalized financial solutions, built strong relationships, and supported the growth of our communities. Our legacy is rooted in trust, innovation, and a commitment to helping individuals, families, and businesses thrive. As we celebrate this milestone, we thank our customers and communities for their trust and partnership....

Planters First Bank Announces Promotion of Shane Bell and Kent Jordan to Market Presidents Middle Georgia—Planters First Bank is pleased to announce the promotions of Shane Bell to Market President for Crisp and Dooly Counties and Kent Jordan to Market President for Warner Robins. These leadership appointments underscore the bank’s commitment to strengthening its presence and continuing its tradition of exceptional service in the communities it serves. Shane Bell – Market...

Planters First Bank Announces Executive Promotions: Chris Howe and Rose Phillips to Executive Vice President, Courtney Tomlinson to Executive Assistant/PM Middle Georgia – Planters First Bank is proud to announce the well-deserved promotions of Chris Howe and Rose Phillips to Executive Vice President, as well as Courtney Tomlinson to Executive Assistant/PM. These leadership advancements reflect the bank’s commitment to recognizing and fostering talent from within, ensuring continued...

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...