Life moves fast. Between work commitments, school runs, errands, and precious family time, finding a spare moment to manage your finances can feel impossible. If you’ve ever tried to follow a rigid budget only to feel overwhelmed, you are not alone. Many traditional budgeting methods seem designed for a world with more free time than…
Online shopping has transformed the way we purchase everything from groceries to gadgets. However, this convenience comes with risks. Cybercriminals have developed sophisticated methods to exploit unsuspecting shoppers, stealing personal information and hard-earned money. At Heritage Bank NA, we want to help you shop safely online. Understanding common scam tactics and implementing protective measures can…
Life events require immediate attention to financial planning to prevent costly mistakes and family disputes down the road. Whether you are getting married, welcoming a new child, or facing the loss of a loved one, these transitions demand a thorough review of your financial accounts and legal designations. For expert insights on this topic, you…
On Thursday, October 9th, there was a remarkable evening of celebration at the Awards in Philanthropy, an event that recognized individuals who make a significant difference in their communities. We are incredibly proud that two members of the Heritage Bank family, Wayne Nelson and Smitty Luschen, were honored for their outstanding contributions. Wayne Nelson Receives…
Applying for a mortgage is a significant financial milestone, but for many homebuyers, it has also been an open invitation for a flood of unwanted calls, texts, and emails. This frustrating experience is about to change. A new era of mortgage privacy is on the horizon, thanks to the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act, which was…
Buying a home represents one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make. For most people, it’s their biggest single investment, often requiring decades to pay off. Yet many buyers rush into the process without proper financial preparation, leading to costly mistakes that can impact their finances for years to come. The home-buying process…
Willmar’s housing market is a hot topic, with homes selling quickly and buyers wondering how to navigate the competitive landscape. To get a clear picture of what’s happening, we are turning to the experts. This post captures the key insights from Heritage Bank’s own Jared Williamson and Chris Vraa, who recently shared their knowledge on…
Millions of federal student loan borrowers are facing a harsh reality this summer: wage garnishment could hit their paychecks within months. As of April 2025, 31% of borrowers are 90 days past due on their payments. It is important to understand how delinquency can lead to default and wage garnishment. If you’re having trouble with…
Heritage Bank is proud to announce the addition of Jared Williamson to its mortgage team. With an extensive background in mortgage lending and a commitment to exceptional client service, Jared brings a wealth of experience and a customer-first approach that aligns perfectly with Heritage Bank’s mission to help people succeed financially. Since starting his career…
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced significant changes to FHA mortgage regulations in July 2025, marking the most substantial regulatory rollback in recent years. These FHA loan changes in July 2025 represent a pivotal shift toward making homeownership more accessible and affordable for first-time buyers. For prospective homeowners navigating an increasingly…
Navigating the Minnesota real estate market can be daunting, especially for first-time homebuyers. With increasing housing prices, limited starter home options, and economic factors influencing mortgage rates, understanding the market dynamics is critical. To shed light on these challenges and offer expert advice, KWLM sat down with Doug Frazzini, Capital Market Specialist at Heritage Bank,…
Banking security has never been more critical today, when technology plays a significant role in our daily lives. Kelly Pickle, the Director of Enterprise Risk at Heritage Bank NA, recently appeared on KWLM’s ‘Ask the Expert’ segment. She highlights how community banks, like Heritage Bank, are taking significant steps to protect their customers from cyber…
Get ready to tee up for a day of fun, community connection, and philanthropy! The 16th Annual United Way Golf Tournament is coming in June, and Heritage Bank NA is proud to sponsor this Willmar, Minnesota, event. Mark your calendars for Friday, June 20th, and join us for a tournament that brings local businesses, community…
Phishing scams are on the rise, targeting individuals and businesses alike, often leaving victims in financial ruin. For online banking users and security-conscious individuals, understanding and preventing phishing attacks is critical to protecting one’s financial future. Ruth McDonnell discusses how you can safeguard your financial future in the KWLM Ask the Expert segment. This guide…
Building a home is an exciting milestone, but if you are like many first-time builders, the construction loan process can feel overwhelming. Whether you are a future homeowner, a Willmar resident looking to build a new home, or someone planning your dream project, understanding how construction loans work is essential. Heritage Bank NA, located in…
For many small business owners, securing the right financing is essential for growth and long-term success. Whether you’re launching a startup, purchasing an existing company, expanding operations, or investing in equipment, Small Business Administration (SBA) loans offer flexible funding options to support your goals. As Jeremy Goltz, Relationship Manager at Heritage Bank NA, discussed on…
At Heritage Bank, our mission is to help you make the most of your money. Recently, KWLM sat down with Jon Liesener, Banking Apprentice, and Mandy Fleming, Market Manager, to discuss smart financial resolutions. Their expert tips will help you save money and use high-interest checking accounts. This will guide you to financial success in…
Improving and maintaining a good credit score isn’t just a financial goal—it’s necessary for anyone planning a significant purchase, like buying a home or a car. Yet, many of us don’t fully understand the factors that impact credit scores or how to improve them effectively. That’s where Brandie Wenham, a seasoned credit expert and private…
In a recent segment of Ask the Expert on KWLM, Chuck Nolting, Ag Relationship Manager at Heritage Bank NA, shared valuable information about the challenges and opportunities currently facing farmers and the agricultural industry. With over 25 years of experience in agronomy (the science of soil management and crop production) and agricultural finance, Nolting has…
Are you trying to maximize your healthcare budget while maintaining access to quality care? Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) could be the solution for you. They offer substantial financial advantages and allow more flexible and affordable access to various medical services. But what is an HSA — and how does it work? Learn about HSAs: eligibility,…
