Search

Filter Search Results

Type of Content

Reset Filters

Resources

How to Make the Most of Merchant Services

Despite the reasons behind the rise of touchless payments, the need for well-rounded merchant services to address and manage these payments has also increased. Thankfully, banks that work with local businesses are helping businesses level up their game by providing various merchant service options to meet consumer payment needs and how to make the most of these services.

What is Positive Pay?

Positive Pay is an automated cash management system that helps eliminate the risk of losing money from fraudulent checks. We use this system to coordinate financial payment security efforts with your business; this allows your business to monitor payments and ensure that only your payee receives the approved funds. If we receive a check that doesn't match your Positive Pay file, we will contact you to verify payment details before honoring it.

ICYMI– Best Practices for Business Finances

The importance of well-organized business finances cannot be overstated. Keeping accurate and well-organized financial data is critical for knowing the status of your business, tax season, and especially when seeking financing.

Bank & Brews Waco | Utilizing Google Web Tools in Your Small Business Marketing Strategy

Take a deep dive into some of the essential (and free) Google website tools that all businesses should be utilizing. For our August Bank & Brews workshop, Extraco’s own Digital Marketing Specialist, Carina Yebra, walked attendees through what she considers to be essential, and often underutilized, tools for all businesses– Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager, Google Search Console, and Google My Business. 

Finding new business verticals

Finding new business verticals. Extraco Banks is committed to building businesses throughout Central Texas. Whether you're a startup or looking to create a succession plan for your business, we have the resources to help you achieve your business goals.

Business Insurance You’ll Need

If you’ve been procrastinating on business insurance, consider this: small businesses are much more likely than larger companies to be devastated in the event of an unforeseen loss, and business insurance needn’t be costly. Read more to learn about the business insurance you need.

Benefits of Gift Card Programs for Your Business

Want to attract new customers and keep existing ones returning? A gift card program can help! In this blog, we'll highlight four benefits of using gift card programs. Here at Extraco Banks, we offer Cashback+ to our customers to purchase digital gift cards with bonus offers any time they want using funds directly from their checking accounts.

Identifying Your Business Drivers

Identifying and monitoring the key drivers of your business will help track what’s happening and trigger red flags for when remedial action is needed. A whole range of internal and external factors affects the performance of every small business. Read our resource article to learn more!

How Entrepreneurs Can Get a Business Scholarship Award

Are you an entrepreneur looking to further your education? If so, you might be eligible for a business scholarship award! These awards help business owners finance their education and continue their business ventures. We'll go over how to start your search, standard eligibility requirements, and the types of scholarships available. We'll also provide you with some success tips for completing your applications. So, if you are ready to level up your business skills, read on.

ICYMI– Bank & Brews Temple | Business Plans

A solid business plan is essential for all businesses. Jason Ehler of the Small Business Development Center and Brian Reinhardt of Extraco hosted a great session on what to include in your business plan (as well as what NOT to include), how often to revisit your plan after the COVID-19 pandemic, and resources that all business-owners should be utilizing.

Tips to Keep Your Business Secure Online

Consider Yahoo, Marriott International, Adult Friend Finder, Anthem, and Target. What do these companies have in common? They’ve all experienced some of the largest data breaches in history. The scary thing is that you can’t protect all your data all the time, but there are many things you can do to guard against a cyber-attack.

What to Know Before Launching a New Business in 2023

Are you thinking about launching a new business in 2023? We like to think of starting a new business as a journey. Launching a business is a big step and one with the potential to help you realize your dreams. Taking your time and launching your business the right way is wise. So, having patience and discernment will prime your business for growth and success.

Spring Cleaning Your Finances

Just as you declutter your closets and tidy up your living space, now is the perfect time to give your financial situation a thorough once-over. At Extraco Banks, we understand the importance of keeping your financial house in order, which is why we've put together 10 simple, yet effective, tips and tricks to help you freshen up your finances.

ICYMI— The Human Resources Lifecycle of a Business

We want to share our expertise and knowledge about the lifecycle of an employee – from hiring to firing – with you. Below is a recap of our October Bank & Brews workshops focused on four aspects of human resources which are vital to a business (and improving the bottom line): hiring, building, coaching & disciplining employees. Make sure to download the templates from each workshop!

ICYMI: Killeen Business After Hours Event

On April 18, 2024, we had the pleasure of hosting the Killeen Business After Hours event at our Killeen Branch. From 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., we welcomed members of the community for an evening of networking,  and a special tribute to our local heroes.

Planning a Side Hustle: What you need to think about before starting a side business

According to software company Zappier, 40% of Americans have a side hustle, and that number is growing. Planning a side hustle is a great way to pad your savings, pay down debt, save for a specific goal, or give you some extra wiggle room in your monthly budget. However, if you’re looking to add a side hustle, there are a few things you should know before you begin, and it starts with a plan.

What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Means for You

In July of 2025, the federal government signed into law the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—a sweeping piece of legislation that reshapes the tax landscape for individuals, families and business owners alike. Whether you're an investor, a retiree or a business owner, this new law carries implications for your financial strategy.

How Extraco Empowers Entrepreneurs to Manage Multiple Ventures

Extraco empowers entrepreneurs by providing the essential tools and support needed to manage multiple ventures effectively. From streamlining operations and simplifying financial management to offering strategic planning assistance, we are committed to supporting entrepreneurs so they can thrive without being held back.

Financial Tips for Recent Graduates

Congratulations, graduates! As you transition into this new phase of life, managing your finances effectively is key to achieving your goals. Whether you're preparing to enter the workforce, further your education, or pursue other endeavors, now is the perfect time to focus on your financial well-being. Let's explore some essential tips for navigating financial success after graduation.

Virtual Assistants in Banking: Get Fast Answers to Banking Questions

You’re already familiar with the concept of a virtual assistant. Chat bots and virtual assistants have been around for a while, but they aren’t always as helpful as we’d like them to be. Newer technology, however, has improved this to provide you with the best answers to some of the most common questions we receive. You may have a question that falls outside the norm. Never fear! Our brand new chat feature also helps you to reach a real Extraco Relationship Banker to streamline the process from question to solution.

ICYMI: November Bank & Brews | Digital Marketing 101

The November edition of our Bank & Brews virtual workshop series was all about Digital Marketing in the era of COVID-19 and beyond. The workshop was led by Gordon Law, President of Swimming Duck, a marketing agency based out of Dallas. Gordon is also a professor at SMU where he teaches marketing and digital media. He has over 40 years of marketing and advertising experience and is a great friend of Extraco Banks. We were thrilled to have him lead our final virtual workshop of 2020. 

The Difference Between Cash Flow and Profit

Cash coming into your business and the actual profit you make are two very different things, and almost always never total up as identical amounts. Read more to learn the difference between cash flow and profit.

How to Shop Local for Fun and Unique Gifts

Finding the right gift, especially for someone who has virtually everything, is challenging. While you could do a web search to find gift ideas, why not take another approach by supporting your local businesses and finding something unique?

Ways to identify new markets and customers

Ways to identify new markets and customers. Extraco Banks is committed to building businesses throughout Central Texas. Whether you're a startup or looking to create a succession plan for your business, we have the resources to help you achieve your business goals.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Credit Card

In a 2020 Bankrate survey, 59% of U.S. adults reported carrying a credit card, yet 31% did not redeem their rewards. Whether you already have a credit card or are shopping around for your first one, getting the most out of your credit card is essential.

Managing seasonal demand

Managing seasonal demand. Extraco Banks is committed to building businesses throughout Central Texas. Whether you're a startup or looking to create a succession plan for your business, we have the resources to help you achieve your business goals.

How Can You Save Money With Home Insurance?

Need home insurance but could use some help figuring out where to start? We can help! Homeowner's insurance is essential to protecting your home and property. Your home is your biggest investment. So, you'll want to ensure it is well-protected should something happen that causes damage or liability concerns. And homeowner's insurance protects your home against loss or damage.

Extraco Banks - Who We Are

Read our latest blog to learn more about what sets Extraco Banks apart from other central Texas banks. When you bank with Extraco, you bank with the best

How to Inspire Employee Health with Office Wellness Programs


2023 is off to a good start, but as with the beginning of any year, now is the time when most people are focused on New Year’s resolutions. Resolutions vary by person but often center around money and health. For that reason, you can better encourage your employees with the help of an employee health and office wellness program.

Does Being Frugal Make You Feel Richer?

It's easy to rationalize why frugality makes sense today. We’re seeing higher prices at the pumps, the grocery stores, and everywhere else. When costs climb, it’s time to focus on the things that truly matter and identify those that could wait a bit longer.