How to protect your property value

One of the benefits of homeownership is your property’s equity. But not all growth is linear, so it’s important you put in the effort to ensure you’re getting the most value out of your property. Keeping reading as we explain the importance of your property value and how you can protect it.

What is property value?

Property value is the estimated monetary worth of a property, including the land and structures, based on factors like market demand, comparable sales, location, and condition. Property value may be interpreted in a few different ways: market value, assessed value, and replacement costs. Market value is exactly what it sounds like—the amount someone will pay for the property, which fluctuates with the market. Your assessed value is the value tax assessors put on the property, typically based on the previous year’s sales. Lastly, replacement costs are the amount your insurance will provide to rebuild your house. This number is often higher as it includes additional costs to clean any debris and provide new materials.

How is property value used?

Property value can be used in various ways. As mentioned, your assessed value impacts your property tax, and replacement cost value is factored into insurance coverage. And of course, property value is useful for setting a listing price when selling. But your property value is useful in other ways. When buying your home, an appraisal is done and the property value is used as justification for lenders to give you a loan. It can also be evaluated as part of other loans like HELOCs, which can provide a cushion in case of an emergency.

How to protect your property value

Your home is likely one of your biggest assets, so maintaining its value is key to your long-term wealth. So, let’s go over five ways you can protect your property value.

Regular maintenance

The easiest and best way to protect your property value is through regular maintenance of the house and the appliances inside. Inspections and regular gutter cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your roof, and you should seasonally check your air conditioning unit or furnace as well. Plumbing problems can be a major source of issues, so check your sinks, tubs, and toilets for leaks, and service your water heater regularly to avoid sediment build up or other dilemmas. Some things will eventually need to be replaced, especially if you live in an older home or are planning to live in a house for over a decade. But just because it needs to be updated doesn’t mean you need the newest or fanciest model. Some of the appliance trends will go out of style, so focus on features that matter like energy efficiency to keep your value.

Other tasks like changing the HVAC filters, resealing windows, and cleaning your dryer vent are also fundamental to keeping your house safe. And don’t forget regular cleaning! It may not be fun to scrub but doing a little bit regularly can help your home age better over time and maintain its high value.

Keep up the curb appeal

While your home’s integrity is significant, the outside is what draws people in, so you want to make a good impression—even if you aren’t selling your house anytime soon. Proper upkeep and landscaping can make a big difference in appearances while also reflecting that the home has been well maintained.

You should also note any large trees on your property. While they can be beautiful, and an integral part of the ecosystem, they may also pose risks to your house. Remove dead branches to avoid falling limbs, and when necessary, consult an arborist to ensure your trees are healthy and secure.

Update as needed

Remodeling shows on HGTV and perfect houses on Instagram can make a renovation sound tempting, but don’t go overboard or get ahead of yourself. Update necessary items before going for cosmetic improvements. Research before starting any work, too. Too many upgrades can price yourself out of the neighborhood. Lastly, be sure to hire a professional unless you’re confident in the skills and tools you have. Improper work can reduce the value of your home, or worse, cause dangerous—and expensive—complications later.

Consider a fresh coat of paint if you’re looking for a quicker and less expensive way to make updates—repainting walls (or even the ceiling) can brighten rooms. Externally, repainting is a bit more involved and may require fresh primer, but painting exterior doors can be an easy way to give your house a little facelift.

Protect yourself from pests

Pets can bring a lot of joy to your home, but not all critters are welcome, so regular pest control is crucial for protecting your home and its value. Wooden structures like porches or fences need to be defended from termites, which can cause thousands of dollars of damage. Other pests like cockroaches or rodents can carry diseases or disrupt wiring. Regularly monitor your home to stay on top of issues before it becomes an infestation and prevent future problems by implementing targeting barriers where possible. All these things can help your home remain structurally sound and maintain its value for years to come.

Review your insurance coverage

No matter how well you take care of things, accidents and natural disasters can still happen. It’s vital to regularly review your insurance coverage to make sure your house is appropriately covered and that you have the right protection. Some aspects to consider include liability insurance or umbrella insurance. If you’ve renovated your house, you’ll also want to make sure your policies reflect any changes to your home’s value. If you’re renting out any space, like for short-term vacation rentals, you may need additional policies like landlord insurance.

Key takeaways:

  • The easiest way to maintain your value is to maintain the house regularly.
  • Don’t upgrade yourself out of the market and hire professionals accordingly.
  • Review your insurance coverage to make sure you’re covered for the right things.

Homeownership can bring a lot of fun and memories, but it can also be a lot of work. Regardless of your plans to sell, your home is likely one of your biggest assets. Maintaining it and its value can help maximize your return and provide a solid source of equity should life surprise you. Have a tip for protecting your property value? Share it in the comments below!

What is smishing? How text message scams work

You’ve probably heard of phishing—when criminals attempt to get you to click on links, submit sensitive details, or download malware via email. Smishing is phishing, but through text messages. Instead of a scam email landing in your inbox, it arrives as an SMS, iMessage, WhatsApp, or other text-based notification on your phone. The goal is the same: to trick you into clicking a malicious link, sharing personal information, or downloading malware.

Just like phishing, smishing is a social engineering attack where a scammer manipulates your emotions to bypass your better judgment. Falling for a smishing scam could expose sensitive information like bank account details, passwords, or even give cybercriminals access to your device.

The good news? Once you know the signs of smishing, it becomes much easier to spot, avoid, and report these scams.

What does a smishing text look like?

The term “smishing” comes from “SMS phishing”—SMS being an older term for text messaging.

Smishing messages are sneaky. They often disguise themselves as urgent alerts from financial institutions, delivery services, government agencies, or even your boss. The goal is always the same: get you to act quickly before you think hard about the request.

Common types of smishing texts

Below are some of the more common types of smishing texts people often receive:

  • Fake delivery updates: You might get a message saying, “Your package is delayed. Update your delivery info here.” The link looks official, but the website is a scam.
  • Bank or account alerts: These messages claim there’s suspicious activity on your account. They urge you to click a link or call a number to “verify” your information.
  • Prize or giveaway scams: The text might read, “Congratulations! You’ve won a $1,000 gift card. Click to claim.”
  • Impersonations of government agencies: Some texts pretend to be from the IRS, Social Security, or even law enforcement, demanding immediate payment or personal information. Another common scam is claiming you have an unpaid toll or traffic ticket.
  • Job or money-making scams: Messages like “Make $500/day working from home. Apply now!” prey on people looking for work.
  • Account verifications: You may get texts saying that your PayPal, Netflix, Amazon, or other account is locked. Often, the scammers will say you need to reset your password, and then they steal your real password when you enter it in their fake “Password Reset” form.

These texts often include links that look slightly off. They might have domains with random numbers, extra characters, or strange endings like .xyz instead of .com. And because we tend to trust texts more than emails, scammers know you’re more likely to click without thinking.

Why smishing feels more urgent

If phishing emails try to rush you, smishing takes that pressure to the next level. Our phones are always in our hands, and texts feel more personal and immediate. Scammers are aware of this, and they exploit it.

A classic smishing tactic is creating a sense of urgency, which can be either negative or positive:

  • Negative urgency: “Your bank account is locked.” “There’s a warrant for your arrest.” “Suspicious login detected.”
  • Positive urgency: “You’ve won a prize!” “Claim your free gift before midnight!” “Exclusive deal only for you!”

These messages are designed to make you panic or get excited enough to tap the link before you think it through.

Take a few seconds before you tap

A simple pause can save you a lot of trouble. If you get an unexpected text asking you to click a link, share information, or act fast, take a breath.
Ask yourself:

  • Was I expecting this message?
  • Does the link look suspicious? (Most links in legit texts will come from simple, recognizable domains.)
  • Does the message make sense? Did I order a package? Do I really have an account with this service?

If you’re still unsure, check the situation through official channels (meaning a phone number, contact email, or website not included in the text). Open the app directly or type in the website yourself—don’t trust the link in the message.

Also, you can show the message to a friend or loved one for their opinion. A second set of eyes is a great tool for detecting scams!

When the scammer knows your name

Just like email spear phishing, smishing can be personalized. Scammers might reference your name or your workplace. They often scrape this information from public data breaches, social media, or online directories.

If a text includes your personal information, it doesn’t mean it’s trustworthy; it might mean a scammer has done their homework. Stay cautious whenever you receive an urgent, unexpected request.

What to do if you get a smishing text

If you receive a suspicious text, one of the safest things you can do is nothing. Don’t reply. Don’t click. Don’t engage. Even replying “STOP” signals that your number is active and can lead to more scam attempts. Instead, block the number. Smartphones have a built-in feature to block phone numbers and report them as spam.

You can take a screenshot of the text and share it with your family group chat to warn them of the scam. Many scams will target people in your family and friend group, so spread the warning.

Finally, delete the message. Once reported and blocked, delete the message from your phone to avoid accidentally opening it later.

Reporting smishing makes a difference

It might feel like one report doesn’t matter, but that’s not true. Phone carriers and the government use reports to shut down scam operations, blacklist malicious links, and prevent others from falling victim.

By reporting smishing texts, you’re not just protecting yourself. You’re helping stop the scam for everyone.

You have a few options to report suspected smishing:

  • Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM). This works with most major U.S. carriers and helps them block scam numbers.
  • You can report smishing attempts to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Think before you tap

Smishing relies on speed. Can a scammer get you to click before you think? Dodge smishing bait by taking a few seconds to verify the sender, inspect link URLs, and ask yourself if this text seems legitimate.

Remember: No legitimate organization will ever ask for sensitive information or demand urgent action over text. When in doubt, delete it.

Spring cleaning your finances

Spring is in the air—fresh flowers, sunshine, and of course, spring cleaning. But before that warmer weather brings you out of hiding, now’s a good time to review your finances and make sure you’re on track to hit your goals. If that sounds stressful, don’t worry—we’re here to help. Here are four steps to clean your finances this spring.

1. Review and update your budget

As always, the best place to start is the beginning. If you’re already working with a budget, start by comparing it with the last few months of spending. You may find that you’re spending more or less in a category than expected. This is also a great time to review your home, auto, and life insurance policies and premiums to ensure your coverage still fits your needs. Adjust your budget accordingly to stay aligned with your financial goals.

Revisit those goals, too. Some may not feel as timely or important now. Maybe you postponed your vacation until fall, or you need to prioritize saving for a new car—spring is the perfect time to refresh those goals and get back in touch with why you’re saving in the first place. If progress feels slow, consider breaking down your goal into small, more manageable steps. If you’re ahead, you may want to challenge yourself.

2. Check your credit score

Another important step is to review your credit score and pull your annual free credit reports from all three bureaus. Bank snapshots are helpful, but the full reports often reveal more—and the information can vary. If you find errors, you should report them immediately since mistakes can negatively impact your score. If you’re concerned about identity theft, you can reach out to the credit bureaus about a freeze and take the appropriate steps to report it.

3. Tackle your debts

Use your credit report as a guide to tackle debt, especially for high-interest loans. Some people prefer to take on high-interest debt first, since it can quickly grow out of control, while others prefer to pay off the smaller balances first. Whatever you decide is best for your goals, make sure your new budget reflects it.

4. Organize, digitize, and automize

Since you may be doing some housekeeping right now, how about organizing your financial documents? Between bank statements, tax documents, bills, and more, it often feels like you’re housing a whole forest’s worth of paperwork. If you prefer hard copies, tidy and update your filing system. If you don’t have a system, now’s the time to develop one so you can more easily keep track of things and find them as needed.

While you’re at it, consider signing up for eStatements or paperless billing if you’re looking to save space. If you’re already digital, or just moving over, decide where documents will live and make sure to have backups of things that are less easily replaced. And, set up automatic bill pay to save time, avoid missed due dates, and reduce stress.

Key takeaways:

  • Regular budget check-ins can help keep you on track for your goals.
  • Check your credit score and credit reports at least once a year and report inaccurate information.
  • Digital organization tools can help you stay on top of your budget, simplify bills, and manage other important documents like car titles or insurance documents.

Not many people love to clean, let alone clean their finances. But spending the time now to review things like your budget and your credit score can help you hit your financial goals and potentially save you from surprises down the road. Do you prefer to track your finances digitally or with a pen and paper? Share in the comments below!

7 steps for the perfect financial date night

Why should you have a money date night?

Regularly reviewing your finances is a great habit, regardless of your relationship status. But, as a couple, it’s important to ensure you’re on the same page regarding spending and saving. Having money dates is a great way to look at your finances and encourage communication and transparency. It also helps prevent financial issues from accumulating—you can look at your spending, see where you need to cut back, and find out what you can improve together.

Steps for a successful financial date

Don’t go into your money date blindly. Your time is valuable, so make the most of it by walking into it with a plan so you have an efficient and productive session. Following these seven steps can help you kickstart a successful financial date night:

1. Set the mood

You’re about to have a serious conversation. Start on the right foot by choosing a relaxing, comfortable, and distraction-free environment, whether it’s in your living room with your phones put away or at a quiet coffee shop. Make sure you have some grub, too! Let’s face it—no one wants to talk about money, especially on an empty stomach (getting hangry is real). Grab takeout from your favorite restaurant (if it fits within your budget, of course), or cook a meal together before you sit down.

2. Lay some ground rules

Money can be a touchy subject and is often one of the biggest disagreements couples have. Set some rules before your discussion that you’ll both follow. Respect is key. Everyone makes mistakes, so avoid judgment and pointing fingers at one another—it’ll only cause you to argue more. Don’t dwell on what your partner spent and where they spent it, either. Instead, look forward and try to focus on solutions and see how you can do better next time.

3. Create an agenda

Choose one or two topics to cover so you don’t get off track. Think about what’s relevant in your life. It could be anything from your current budget or upcoming expenses, like a vacation or remodel, to retirement planning or debt. Allot time to cover each topic so it gets the attention it deserves. Some topics may be more extensive conversations than others. For example, if your budget is on track but you still want to review it together, you may only want to dedicate 15 minutes and allow more time to discuss your retirement planning. It’s all about what works for you!

4. Be transparent and honest (and listen up!)

This is your time to be upfront with your partner. Come prepared to share all relevant information, like any big-ticket purchases that may have impacted your budget, and print out your account balances so you can review your income, debt, and spending habits. Don’t try to hide anything from each other.

Listen actively when your partner is speaking. Be fully present and wait for them to finish before responding. On that note, don’t just listen to respond—listen to understand where they’re coming from. Avoid blame and judgment, and don’t use absolutes such as, “You always,” “You never,” or “Every time.” Use “I feel” statements, instead.

Below are some examples of active vs. passive listening in the context of a money date:

Active vs. Passive Listening
Active Listening Passive Listening
Making eye contact and putting away distractions (e.g., phone, TV) Nodding occasionally but checking your phone or multitasking
Paraphrasing what your partner says to confirm you’re understanding (“So you’re saying you’d like to save more money for travel this year?”) Responding with short phrases like “Okay” or “Got it” without elaborating
Asking open-ended questions to dive deeper (“What would reaching that savings goal mean for you?”) Not asking follow-up questions or quickly changing the subject
Acknowledging emotions and validating concerns (“I can see why that expense made you anxious.”) Dismissing concerns with responses like “It’s not a big deal” or “Don’t worry about it”
Summarizing key points before making decisions together Forgetting details of what was discussed and making assumptions later

5. Discuss financial goals

Talk about your shared long-term goals—what you want to accomplish, why you want to accomplish them, and how you’ll achieve them together. Include as much detail as possible, and set realistic expectations. Use the SMART formula (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Timebound) to develop your goal.

Here’s how you’d use the SMART formula to set a financial goal of saving for a down payment on a house:

  • Specific: We want to save $20,000 for a down payment on a house.
  • Measurable: We’ll save $500 per month by setting up an automatic transfer to a dedicated savings account.
  • Achievable: We’ll adjust our budget by lowering our discretionary expenses, like going out to eat, to make room for this goal.
  • Relevant: Owning a home is important to us, and this savings goal aligns with our long-term financial plans.
  • Timebound: We’ll reach our $20,000 goal in 40 months (around 3 years and 4 months).

6. Make an action plan

Decide on what steps you’ll take together based on your conversation, and bring solutions to the table. It could be anything from mutually agreeing to lower your dining out spending by only eating out once per week or building your emergency fund by opening a joint high-yield savings account and setting up automatic transfers from your paychecks. Whatever it is, be sure it’s something you both agree on and are willing to put in whatever work necessary to achieve it together.

7. End on a high note and schedule your next money date

End the night positively and reflect on your wins, big or small. It’ll help reinforce positive financial habits and strengthen your relationship. You can celebrate financial wins, like agreeing on a plan to tackle debt faster; communication wins, like listening to each other without judgment; or relationship wins, like finding a compromise on a big financial decision.

Make it a habit to regularly review your finances, whether that’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Pick whatever works for your schedule so it’s something you’ll stick to and enjoy! You can even add a recurring date on each other’s calendars so you don’t have any excuses to skip out.

Bottom line

Money dates aren’t just about dollars and cents—they’re about strengthening your relationship by fostering trust, transparency, and teamwork. By setting aside time for open and honest financial conversations, you and your partner can align on goals, reduce stress, and celebrate progress together. Even small steps, like actively listening and acknowledging each other’s perspectives can make a big difference. The key is consistency: regular money dates can help you build a strong financial foundation and a more connected partnership.

Did you and your partner follow these tips on your money date? Let us know in the comments how it went!

What does it mean to build wealth?

In recent years, the topic of wealth has become more common. On social media, trends like quiet luxury and wealth continue to circulate, and news reports highlight a looming “great wealth transfer.” Unfortunately, the idea of wealth can still feel abstract or unattainable. That’s why we’re breaking down what it really means to build wealth.

What is wealth?

First, we need to discuss what wealth actually means. Research shows that for many people, wealth includes more than financial success and assets—it also involves physical and mental well-being, with happiness valued nearly as highly as money.

These areas are often interconnected and related to finances. So, in many ways, wealth isn’t about how much money you have, but how your money works for you and helps you reach your personal or financial goals.

So, how can we more concretely define wealth? In this post, we’re focusing on financial wealth, which includes all the resources you control, such as money in the bank, retirement and investment accounts, properties, and intangible assets like patents. Simply put, financial wealth is defined as your total assets minus your debts, or your net worth.

Rich versus wealthy

Before exploring how to build wealth, it’s important to understand that wealth isn’t the same as your income. Your income is a stream of money, like dividends, wages, or salary, that are received periodically and can vary per source. Wealth takes time to accumulate and includes your income, your house, and more.

How you use your income can impact your wealthiness—both financial and overall wealth. People who contribute to their retirement accounts, have emergency funds, and budget responsibly would be considered wealthier than someone with a higher income but more debt, and less savings.

How to build wealth

1. Set your goals

As we mentioned, wealth is more than just money. Start by setting personal and financial goals. Some people prioritize travel, while others want to focus on saving for future higher education expenses or buy a house where they can retire. Whatever your goals are, list and then prioritize them. Listing them may help you see a larger theme or cause you to revisit your reasoning for some goals. Once your list is ready, flesh out your goals with details and measurable outcomes that you can track over time.

2. Create a budget

With your goals established, create a plan and a budget to achieve them. One popular method is the 50/30/20 rule, which divides your after-tax income into three categories: needs, wants, and savings. 50% of your budget goes towards needs, 30% will go towards wants, and the remaining 20% goes towards savings like an emergency fund or a down payment on a house. If you’re actively in the market for a house, your down payment may fall under the need category for you, so remember these are just suggestions—not hard rules.

3. Start saving

A key part of building financial wealth is saving money. Because people have diverse goals, different savings strategies work for different needs. And it’s not unusual to have several types of savings accounts for specific purposes. Accounts like high-yield savings, CDs, and money markets are best for achieving short-term financial goals, like vacations or saving for a down payment. On the other hand, an IRA is tailored specifically for long-term retirement planning. And then on top of everything, you should also maintain a dedicated emergency fund.

4. Explore investments

Retirement accounts support long-term goals because they’re investment accounts, often holding a mix of assets like stocks or mutual funds. There are multiple types of IRA accounts, each with its own features and benefits. But all are long-term, tax-advantaged savings accounts available to individuals with earned income. Withdrawals before age 59½ incur a steep penalty, so this is a great way to build your financial wealth, plan for the future, and provide peace of mind.

Beyond retirement, additional investing can help your money grow and potentially create new income streams. Options include real estate, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, art, and other collectibles. Research your choices or consult with a trusted financial advisor to discuss different options.

5. Build credit and manage debt

Debt also affects your wealth. Debt isn’t inherently bad, and some debt is beneficial. Establishing consistent, on-time credit card payments can help you build credit, and loans like mortgages can also be considered “good debt” when they help you build equity. Debt becomes harmful when it becomes unmanageable, and you’re constantly maxing out your credit limits. This negatively impacts your credit scores, which limits access to essentials like housing, transportation, and even education. If you’re struggling, look into debt management strategies like consolidation. Overall, to build wealth, aim minimize bad debt and grow your assets (and credit score).

6. Protect yourself

Once you begin building your wealth, it’s time to protect your assets. You may not have considered it, but insurance plays a major role in proper wealth management. Just like your emergency fund is needed for life’s surprises, insurance can add another layer of protection.

When shopping for insurance, create a list of what you want and need covered, so you can look for products that match your goals and budget. Your credit can also influence the price of your policies. Common types of insurance include property, auto, health, and life insurance.

7. Keep going

Life happens, and setbacks are normal, even if you’re doing everything right. You may have a pipe burst, and between your insurance and your emergency savings, you’ve got it covered. But now your emergency savings account is totally drained, and starting again feels daunting. Or worse—you made a costly financial mistake, and now you feel like getting back on track is impossible. Regardless of your situation, the most important thing is to give yourself grace and keep moving forward. Remember: progress over perfection.

Key takeaways:

  • Financial wealth is defined as your total assets minus your debts.
  • To build financial wealth, increase assets through budgeting, saving, and investing, and decrease liabilities through proper debt management.
  • Overall wealth is more than money—it’s time, mental and physical well-being, and living a full and meaningful life.

Wealth can feel abstract, but we hope this makes the idea of building wealth less daunting. While your financial wealth is dependent on growing money, your overall wealth is about making smart financial decisions that allow you to live the life you desire, whatever that looks like. But this takes time, so start as early as possible and give yourself some grace during the curveballs. What does wealth mean to you? Share in the comments below!

Get prepared for the upcoming Nacha (Network) rules

Company batch header requirements—effective March 20, 2026

Reduce ACH fraud risks: PAYROLL and PURCHASE descriptions are coming soon

As part of the ACH Network’s ongoing efforts to reduce fraud and improve the recovery of funds, two new rules will take effect on March 20, 2026. These amendments introduce standardized Company Entry Descriptions—“PAYROLL” and “PURCHASE”—to bring greater transparency to transactions and strengthen risk mitigation. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and protect your business.

Effective date and early adoption

The rules officially take effect on March 20, 2026, but originators may begin using the descriptors sooner. This provides flexibility for businesses to update systems and processes ahead of the compliance deadline.

Required Description Detail
PAYROLL This description must be used for PPD credit entries related to wages, salaries, and similar compensation payments. It allows Receiving Depository Financial Institutions (RDFIs) to monitor payroll activity more effectively, potentially supporting logic for early funds availability and helping reduce payroll fraud risks.
PURCHASE This descriptor applies to WEB debit entries (and certain TEL entries under Standing Authorization) for eCommerce transactions, including recurring purchases first authorized online. Note: Georgia’s Own Credit Union does not originate WEB or TEL entries. While ODFIs are not required to verify the accuracy of the descriptor, its standardized use can enable better identification of e-commerce transactions.

Anticipated benefits

  • Enhanced fraud prevention through better identification of transaction purposes.
  • Improved monitoring capabilities for receiving institutions, particularly for payroll transactions and e-commerce debits.
  • Standardized data can help streamline risk management practices and improve the overall quality of ACH transactions.

How to prepare

  • System updates: Work with your third-party service providers and internal IT teams to ensure systems you use to create files (e.g., Wave, QuickBooks, Gusto, etc.) can accommodate the required company entry descriptions. This includes updating software to automatically populate the correct descriptors for applicable transactions.
  • Policy review: Review your organization’s internal ACH policies and procedures to align with the upcoming changes.
  • Early adoption: Consider implementing the descriptors before the mandatory deadline to ensure a smooth transition and avoid last-minute compliance challenges.

 

Stay Ahead of ACH Fraud: Preparing for New Monitoring Rules

Starting in March 2026, Nacha is introducing new fraud monitoring requirements that will impact originators, third-party service providers (TPSPs), third-party senders (TPSs), and ODFIs with high ACH origination volumes. As a treasury management or cash management professional, understanding these changes early will help your business stay compliant.

What’s changing?

  • Phase 1 (Effective March 20, 2026): Applies to ODFIs and non-consumer originators, TPSPs, and TPSs with six million or more ACH originations in 2023.
  • Phase 2 (Effective June 19, 2026): Expands to all remaining non-consumer originators, TPSPs, and TPSs.

What’s required?

  • Entities must establish risk-based processes and procedures to identify ACH entries initiated due to fraud.
  • Processes should be tailored to the entity’s role in the ACH network and reviewed annually.
  • ODFIs can consider fraud monitoring steps already implemented by other participants (e.g., originators and TPSPs) when designing their own procedures.

Fraud scenarios to address

The rules highlight false pretenses, including fraud involving:

  • Business email compromise (BEC)
  • Vendor impersonation
  • Payroll impersonation
  • Account takeover schemes

These scenarios focus on payments induced by misrepresentation but don’t cover scams involving fake goods or services.

How should you prepare?

  1. Evaluate current processes: If your business already monitors fraud in WEB debits or micro-entries, you may be ahead of the curve. However, you should assess whether your current systems can handle expanded fraud detection responsibilities for other transaction types.
  2. Collaborate with us: We may reach out to discuss compliance requirements or request proof of your fraud monitoring procedures. Be proactive in asking questions and seeking guidance to ensure your systems align with the new rules.
  3. Begin planning now: The effective date may seem far off, but preparing early can help avoid last-minute compliance challenges.
  4. Stay informed: These rules are part of a broader initiative to reduce fraud and improve ACH transaction quality. We’ll continue to provide information on additional rules changes or clarifications.

Anticipated benefits

  • Enhanced fraud prevention: Expanding monitoring responsibilities across more ACH participants improves detection of fraudulent activity, especially in credit-push payments.
  • Improved transaction quality: Risk-based monitoring reduces fraud attempts, leading to a cleaner ACH network and better outcomes for all participants.

Business email compromise

Businesses worldwide are encountering a rapidly growing cybersecurity threat: business email compromise (BEC). This sophisticated form of cyberattack has become one of the most financially damaging crimes, targeting companies of all sizes to steal sensitive information and funds.

What is business email compromise?

Business email compromise is a type of cyberattack in which criminals use email fraud to manipulate employees, executives, or financial teams into transferring funds, providing access to sensitive accounts, or disclosing confidential data.

Hackers often impersonate trusted individuals (such as CEOs, vendors, or business partners) by using tactics like phishing, domain spoofing, or email account takeovers.

BEC attacks are particularly dangerous because they rely on social engineering rather than malware. This makes it harder to detect using traditional cybersecurity tools.

Common scenarios of BEC attacks

  • Invoice fraud: Cybercriminals impersonate vendors or suppliers, requesting payment for fake invoices.
  • Executive impersonation: Hackers pose as senior executives and instruct employees to make urgent wire transfers.
  • Payroll diversion: Attackers trick HR departments into redirecting an employee’s paycheck to fraudulent accounts.
  • Gift card scams: Fraudsters request bulk purchases of gift cards, claiming it’s for corporate purposes.

How companies can protect themselves against BEC

Given the sophistication of BEC attacks, businesses must adopt a multi-layered approach to defend against this threat.

  • Employee awareness and training: Since BEC attacks rely heavily on social engineering, employee education is the first line of defense. Regularly train staff to recognize phishing emails, verify unusual requests, and avoid clicking on suspicious links. Ensure that employees understand the tactics used by attackers and know how to respond.
  • Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA): MFA adds an additional layer of security by requiring users to verify their identity through multiple methods, such as a password and a mobile authentication app. This makes it significantly harder for hackers to gain access to email accounts, even if credentials are compromised.
  • Verify requests independently: Encourage employees to double check financial requests or changes to payment details by contacting the requester via a known, trusted communication channel, such as a phone call, rather than replying to the email. Avoid relying solely on email for sensitive financial transactions.
  • Secure email accounts and enforce strong passwords: Ensure email accounts are protected by strong passwords and encryption. Regularly monitor for unauthorized access and implement security tools to identify suspicious activity. Consider using anti-phishing software to flag malicious emails before they reach employees.
  • Adopt domain-based authentication protocols: Set up domain-based email authentication protocols, such as DMARC, SPF, and DKIM, to prevent email spoofing. These measures help verify that incoming emails are genuinely from the claimed sender.
  • Limit access to sensitive information: Restrict access to financial accounts, payroll systems, and other sensitive data to only those employees who need it. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized transfers or leaks.
  • Create a response plan: Develop a clear response plan for BEC incidents. Employees should know whom to contact and what steps to take if they suspect they’ve been targeted. Quick action can prevent financial losses or reduce their impact.

The human factor: a key vulnerability

Human error remains the most common entry point for attackers. Cybercriminals count on employees to act impulsively or fail to verify requests. By combining technology with ongoing employee education, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these attacks.

By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and implementing robust defenses, businesses can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and ensure their financial security.

Accounts payable fraud

Fraud is an ever-present threat for accounts payable (AP) departments. Unfortunately, the increasing sophistication of fraudsters has placed the AP team squarely in their crosshairs. From phishing scams to invoice fraud, cybercriminals are constantly devising new ways to exploit vulnerabilities and redirect funds into their own pockets.

Why accounts payable is a prime target

The accounts payable department handles large volumes of transactions, including payments to vendors, suppliers, and contractors. Since AP deals directly with money, it’s a lucrative target for fraudsters. Common tactics used to exploit AP teams include impersonating vendors, submitting fake invoices, or manipulating payment instructions. Fraud impacts a company’s bottom line and can damage its reputation and vendor relationships. For AP professionals, understanding fraud risks and implementing preventative measures is crucial to avoiding costly mistakes.

Common types of fraud in accounts payable

  • Invoice fraud: Fraudsters create fake invoices that mimic real vendors, hoping AP teams will pay them without verifying authenticity. This scam often relies on urgency, pressuring AP staff to process the invoice quickly.
  • Vendor impersonation (business email compromise): Cybercriminals pose as legitimate vendors or suppliers, often using email spoofing or hacked accounts to request payment or changes to bank details. AP teams may unwittingly send funds to fraudulent accounts.
  • Duplicate payments: Fraudsters exploit AP systems to submit invoices multiple times, hoping duplicates will slip through unnoticed. This can occur due to manual entry errors, weak controls, or poor visibility into payment history.
  • Payroll diversion: While typically aimed at HR departments, payroll diversion can also affect AP teams. Fraudsters send requests to update payment details for employees or contractors, redirecting funds to their own accounts.
  • Internal fraud: Fraud isn’t always external. Rogue employees in the AP department may manipulate invoices, create fake vendor accounts, or approve payments to themselves. Lack of oversight and segregation of duties can enable internal fraud.

Possible fraud red flags

  • Urgent or rushed payment requests: Fraudsters often use urgency to bypass standard checks.
  • Requests to change vendor payment details: Always verify such changes independently and not through the same channel as requested (e.g., contact the vendor directly and do not respond in the same manner requested).
  • Unfamiliar or suspicious invoices: Cross-check invoices with purchase orders and vendor records.
  • Duplicate invoices: Look for identical invoices submitted multiple times or slight variations in invoice numbers.
  • Emails with grammar errors or unusual tone: These may signal phishing attempts or impersonation scams.

What to do if fraud occurs

If you suspect fraud, act quickly to minimize damage:

  1. Freeze the transaction: Stop payment immediately if the fraudulent request hasn’t been processed yet.
  2. Inform your IT and security teams: They can investigate compromised accounts and block further access.
  3. Contact your financial institution: Report the fraud to your financial institution to recover funds or prevent additional transfers.
  4. Notify management and legal counsel: Keep leadership informed and consult legal teams for next steps.
  5. Improve processes: Analyze how fraud occurred and update policies to prevent future incidents.

Fraud is a constant risk for accounts payable departments, but vigilance and proactive measures can significantly reduce exposure. Remember, fraud prevention isn’t a one-time effort. It requires ongoing attention and adaptation to evolving tactics. If you’re in accounts payable, beware of fraud and always verify before you pay.

8 ways to romanticize your life on a budget

Romanticizing your life has become a popular concept online, often paired with images of European cafés, perfectly styled homes, and expensive routines. But real life doesn’t usually look like that, and it doesn’t need to. Learning how to romanticize your life on a budget is about shifting your mindset, not draining your bank account.

At its core, romanticizing your life means choosing to see beauty in the everyday, slowing down, and being intentional with your time and energy. You don’t need more money to do that. You just need to start noticing the life you’re already living.

Here’s how to romanticize your life without overspending—and actually enjoy it.

What does it mean to romanticize your life?

Romanticizing your life is about treating your daily routines, small moments, and personal time as meaningful instead of mundane. When you romanticize your life, you stop waiting for “someday” and start appreciating what’s happening right now.

On a budget, this means learning how to create joy and calm by intentionally using what you already have, rather than consuming more.

1. Redefine luxury

One of the biggest mindset shifts you can make is redefining what luxury means. Luxury isn’t always expensive. It’s often quiet, unhurried, and simple.

Having time to drink your coffee slowly in the morning can feel more luxurious than buying it from a café. A clean, peaceful home can feel richer than a bigger space filled with clutter. Going to bed early and waking up rested is a form of luxury that money can’t buy.

When you stop associating happiness with spending, you open the door to enjoying what’s already around you.

2. Turn everyday routines into meaningful rituals

Start romanticizing your life with the things you already do every day. Morning routines, meals, and evenings are powerful opportunities to create a sense of calm.

Instead of rushing through your mornings, try moving more slowly. Play music while you get ready. Open a window. Sit down while you eat breakfast, even if it’s a protein bar. These small changes turn routine moments into rituals without costing anything.

At night, create a wind-down routine that signals rest. This could be lighting a candle, journaling, stretching, or simply putting your phone away earlier. Rituals add meaning to moments that might otherwise blur together.

3. Update your space

You don’t need to redecorate or buy new furniture to feel good in your home. Romanticizing your life often starts with simplifying, not adding more.

Rearranging furniture, decluttering one small area at a time, or putting your favorite items on display can completely change how a space feels. Wearing your favorite clothes on an ordinary day instead of saving them for special occasions is another powerful shift.

When you treat your everyday environment as worthy of care, it naturally feels more special.

4. Embrace slow living

Slow living doesn’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul. It starts with choosing presence over productivity whenever possible.

Going for walks without rushing, spending time at your local library, or sitting outside for a few minutes each day can ground you. These moments don’t need to be Instagram-worthy—they just need to be intentional.

Being a “regular” somewhere, even if it’s just a walking route or a park bench, adds rhythm and familiarity to your life. That sense of routine can be deeply comforting and fulfilling.

5. Enjoy being alone

One of the most underrated ways to romanticize your life is learning to enjoy your own company. Alone time doesn’t have to feel like something to fill or escape from.

Instead of defaulting to scrolling, try reading, journaling, cooking yourself a meal you enjoy, or taking a long walk. Treat time alone as something valuable, not temporary.

When you become comfortable with solitude, your life feels fuller, even on quiet days.

6. Make your evenings feel special again

Many people focus on romanticizing mornings, but evenings matter just as much. Creating something to look forward to at the end of the day can transform your mindset.

This could be a simple movie night, a skincare routine using what you already own, or a phone-free hour before bed. The goal isn’t productivity—it’s rest.

Romanticizing your evenings helps your days feel more complete and less rushed.

7. Celebrate small wins and everyday joy

You don’t need big milestones to celebrate. In fact, romanticizing your life means recognizing progress in small moments.

Finishing a difficult week, choosing rest, sticking to a budget, or honoring a boundary are all worth acknowledging. Celebrating doesn’t have to be expensive. It can be as simple as pausing to appreciate yourself.

When you notice these small wins, life starts to feel more intentional and rewarding.

8. Curate what you consume

What you watch, read, and listen to directly impacts how you feel about your life. Constant comparison can make it hard to appreciate what you have.

Curating your social media feeds, reducing content that makes you feel behind, and choosing more inspiring or calming inputs can dramatically improve your mindset.

Consider a digital detox occasionally, too, whether it’s choosing to be screen-free for 20 minutes or something long-term.

Final thoughts

You don’t need more money, a different job, or a new phase of life to start enjoying where you are. Romanticizing your life on a budget is about choosing to be present and intentional today.

Your life isn’t on hold. It’s happening right now, and it’s worthy of care, joy, and appreciation exactly as it is (no extra spending needed).