Commercial Banking Services

“When you own your own business or manage the business, many times you can’t leave your job at the office.”

What are you thinking about right now? We know that you're probably thinking about your money. So are we.

At First Bank and Trust, we know that every business has particular needs, demanding custom financial solutions. We're committed to finding the best banking services for your needs, working with you to tailor a package that works for your business today and tomorrow.

When you sign on with First Bank and Trust, you're bringing on a new business partner, one who will tend to all of your banking needs. Our bankers will support you and your business with vision and the resources to back it up. It's your business. Made personal.

Start with business checking plans that give you options and room to grow. To select yours, just use the chart below

Business Checking Comparison Chart

	Business Checking	Non-Profit Checking	Commercial Interest Checking	Commercial Analysis Checking
*Company Profile*	For firms with low to moderate transaction activity	For organizations that operate on a non-profit basis.	Available only for sole proprietorships and non-profits	Features an earnings credit for balances that may be used to offset service charges
*Account Features*	Avoid A Service Charge Maintain a minimum daily ledger balance of $1,000 or more, OR Maintain a minimum daily ledger balance of $3,500 or more in a linked Savings account, OR Maintain combined deposit balances of $10,000 or more, OR Maintain a FBT Merchant Services relationship	Avoid A Service Charge Maintain an average daily ledger balance of $700 or more	Earns interest on the daily balance. Avoid A Service Charge Maintain a minimum daily ledger balance of $10,000 or more	Can handle any size business or transaction activity. May tie in multiple checking accounts together to increase the value of the combined balances.
Monthly Service Fees	If the balance drops below the requirement -- $12.00 service charge Receive up to 150 transactions at no charge Each item over 150 is .25 each [Items include paper, electronic & ACH.]	If balance drops below the requirement -- $7.00 service charge No transactions fees are charged on Non-Profit Checking	If the balance drops below the required balance -- $10.00 service charge Activity Charges-- Per Check & Debit Items - .15 Per ACH Debit & Credit Items - .13 Per Deposit & Credit Items - .30 Per Deposited Item - $.10 [Items include paper, electronic & ACH.]	Monthly Service Charge - $12.00 Activity Charges-- Per Check & Debit Item - .15 Per ACH Debit & Credit Items - .13 Per Deposit & Credit Item - .30 Per Deposited Item - .10 [Items include paper, electronic & ACH.]
Enhancements For Business Checking Accounts
*Business Visa Check Card*	Add convenience and security to any business checking account with a Business Visa Check Card. It’s easier to use than a check and more secure than cash, your Business Visa Check Card allows you to make purchases from your checking account anywhere Visa is accepted. Just swipe, sign and go. If you need cash, you may access your account at any ATM. Sign up for a Business Visa Check Card at any branch.
*Business Online Banking*	Online Banking is a tremendous time saver that can make things easier for your business. You’ll have instant access to current account information, checks that have cleared and your account statements. You can even transfer funds between First Bank and Trust accounts. All this is available from the comfort of your office or home. Sign up for Online Banking at any branch.
*Online Business Bill Pay*	Once you have Business Online Banking, you are ready to add the convenience of our Business Bill Pay service. Set up your bills the way you need to including monthly or recurring bills, electronic presentments or invoices. Pay your bills easily and securely online. Sign up for Online Bill Pay at any branch.
*Merchant Services*	Credit and debit cards are accepted universally today. Add to your bottom line with our competitively priced credit card processing service. Direct deposit your proceeds into your First Bank business checking account.
*Image Statements*	Your checking account comes standard with images of each check that cleared that month. You’ll find balancing your account will be easier each month because images are sorted in check number order. Plus, your imaged check is legal proof of payment if you have a dispute.
*Combined Statements*	We can put your checking and savings together in one envelope each month. Saves time and makes keeping track of your statements a lot easier. Call 584-5900 to sign up or stop by any First Bank and Trust branch.
IOLTA Option	IOLTA - Interest On Lawyers Trust Account An IOLTA is for attorneys that elect to place trust or escrow funds in an interest bearing account and have the interest set aside and sent to the tax-exempt foundation of the Louisiana Bar Foundation. Normal monthly service charges are waived. Ask an FBT Banker for more details.

Open your account today, just fill out the Commercial Deposit Application to open your account or stop by any of our branches.

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Comparison Chart For Savings, Money Market and CDs

	Business Savings	Katrina Recovery Savings	Money Manager Commercial	Black & Gold Money Market	Certificates Of Deposit
*Product Profile*	Business Regular Savings provides business clients with a flexible savings plan. It is a limited transaction account. †	Katrina Savings is a high rate savings account. It is a limited transaction account. †	Money Manager Commercial has liquidity and access to the funds by check. It is a limited transaction account. †	Celebrate the return of the Saints with a sound investment account. You’ll have liquidity and access to the funds by check. It is a limited transaction account. †	A Certificate Of Deposit (CD) locks in your rate for the term of your investment.
*Account Features*	Earns interest on the daily balance and interest is paid quarterly. Avoid A Service Charge Maintain a minimum balance of $200 or more.	Earns interest on the daily balance and interest is paid quarterly. Avoid A Service Charge Maintain a minimum balance of $200 or more.	This product is tiered and offers higher rates as balances increase. Avoid A Service Charge Maintain a minimum balance of $2,500 or more.	This product is tiered and offers higher rates as balances increase. Avoid A Service Charge Maintain a minimum balance of $15,000 or more.	Terms are available for 30 days up to 5 years. Interest can be paid monthly, quarterly or annually. You may receive interest at maturity if the CD term is one year or less; for longer term CDs, the interest must be received at least annually.
*Monthly Service Fees*	If the balance drops below the requirement - $3.00 service charge If your account has over six (6) withdrawals per quarter, there is a fee of $2 each.	If the balance drops below the requirement - $5.00 service charge If your account has over six (6) withdrawals per quarter, there is a fee of $2 each.	If the balance drops below the requirement - $10.00 service charge If your account has over six transfers in a statement cycle, there is a fee of $15 each. The following are unlimited transactions—deposits, in person withdrawals or transfers at a teller or ATM.	If the balance drops below the requirement - $20.00 service charge If your account has over six transfers in a statement cycle, there is a fee of $15 each. The following are unlimited transactions—deposits, in person withdrawals or transfers at a teller or ATM.	There are no maintenance fees on a CD.
*RatePaid*	For the current rate and annual percentage yield, please call any FBT branch at 504-584-5900.
*Opening Amount*	Opening deposit amount is $200.	Opening deposit amount is $200.	Opening deposit amount is $2,500.	Opening deposit amount is $15,000 & $15,000 must be new funds to the Bank.	Opening deposit amount is $1,000.

† Federal Banking regulations limit the number of withdrawals or transfers that can be made on a money market deposit account or savings account during a monthly statement cycle. You may have six (6) pre-authorized, telephone transfers to your accounts or 3rd parties during any statement cycle; no more than three (3) of which may be made by check, draft or debit card. If you routinely exceed these limits, we may choose to close your account.

Open your account today, just fill out the Commercial Deposit Application to open your account or stop by any of our branches.

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SEP- IRA —A Simplified Employee Pension in an IRA plan

A retirement vehicle created specifically for self employed or small business owners. This retirement saving plan has numerous benefits including larger contributions than a standard IRA. Contributions are tax-deductible. Employer determines if contributions are made and for how much each year. Signing up is easy. All contributions and earnings are tax deferred until withdrawal.

Who may have a SEP - IRA Plan?
Sole proprietors, business owners and partnerships are eligible. All self employment income qualifies as long as it was earned income.
What are the contribution limits?
A business owner may shelter up to 25% their compensation each year. For 2007, the limit is $45,000; in subsequent years it is subject to a cost of living adjustment.
Do these plans require funding each year?
No, contributions (and the amount contributed) remain a decision of the firm. However, if a plan is funded, the same percentage must be distributed to each employee.

For more information on SEP-IRAs, please consult your tax advisor.

To open a SEP-IRA, please see your FBT Banker.

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Business Visa Check Card — Convenience in your pocket

With First Bank and Trust’s Business VISA Check Card you will have the flexibility you need to make purchases or get cash quickly. Just sign and go— no purchase orders and no hassles with checks.

Business control has never been easier. Your Business Visa Check Card is more convenient than writing a check and each of your purchases are itemized on your checking statement. You can use online banking to see when a purchase has posted to your account.

With a Business Visa Check Card you’ll be able to:

Access your funds 24 hours a day
Get cash from an ATM anytime, anywhere
Check your balance or transfer funds at any First Bank and Trust ATM
Customize the card limit for each card issued
Have no annual fees

How do you get started? Just ask your FBT banker for an application and drop it off at any branch location.

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Commercial Lending Solutions – Let us tailor a loan for you

At First Bank and Trust, we want to help you succeed. Our lending solutions are customized to fit your situation and to meet your objectives. We have numerous lending options to help you meet any short or long term need--

Fixed and variable rate loans
Purchase equipment or vehicles
Re-finance or re-structure debt
SBA Preferred Lender
Business Credit Cards

Commercial Real Estate

Talk to us about your project— acquisition of commercial property, business expansion or purchase, or real estate loans for owner-occupied property. Our bankers will provide the local expertise and fast turnaround you expect from one of the top community banks in our area.

Business Loans

What are your needs-- working capital, cash flow for operating expenses, a new building, funds for expansion? We’ll tailor the loan term and payments to fit your firm’s situation.

SBA Loans

Consider an SBA loan to start or build your business. An SBA loan offers longer maturities than conventional financing which will give you lower monthly payments and improved cash flow.

You can use an SBA loan to:

Purchase land or make improvements
Pay for construction and renovations
Make leasehold improvements
Purchase equipment, fixtures or inventory
Provide working capital

First Bank and Trust is an SBA PREFERRED LENDER. We offer expedited loan approval so your loan is complete on time.

Just fill out the Commercial Loan Application to apply for your loan. You may also contact your account officer or stop by any First Bank and Trust branch.

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Merchant Services – For Better Credit Card Processing Service

In today's competitive marketplace, you need every advantage to make sales. We can give your business the ability to accept and process any card you want (credit or debit cards) in a cost efficient manner. First Bank's affiliation with Payment Alliance creates a highly competitive Merchant Services capability with an advanced network to provide fast authorizations 24/7.

Our electronic credit card processing can provide you with:

Highly competitive processing rates
Ability to handle what you need including Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) or check authorization
Toll-Free Help Desk and customer service access. Online account access to transactions
Enhanced cash flow – second business day availability of funds for most MasterCard and Visa transactions
Experienced sales consultants who can help you determine how to most effectively meet the needs of your business

Stop by or call your FBT Banker today to learn more.

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Business Visa Card – A convenient way to pay and track business expenses

A Business Visa Card can help keep your business and personal purchases separate. Use your card for travel and entertaining, office supplies and equipment, and for any of your normal operating expenses. Plus, there are Summary Reports available to help you organize your expenses for tax purposes.

Other Business Credit Card features:

Credit Limits from $1,000 to $100,000
Special rate—Wall Street Journal Prime + 5.15% APR
$12.00 annual fee (waived if card is used 12 times or more each year)
Set individual cardholder and transaction size limits.
Free Travel Accident Insurance – When you travel throughout the world and charge your fare on a Business Visa Card, you’re covered. Plane, train, bus, or taxi if you pay a fare you have $250,000 in Visa’s Travel Accident Insurance.

How do you get started? Just ask your FBT banker for an application and drop it off at any branch location.

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Cash Management Services — Add efficiency to your business banking

Maximize the productivity of your money and minimize the time it takes to manage those funds with cash management services. Utilize our cash management options to tap into your information, make decisions and improve your cash flow.

Your FBT Banker will work with you to tailor our services to meet your needs. Please review your options below--

Wire Transfers – Move your money faster by wire

Transfer funds securely by initiating domestic or international wires to or from your accounts at any bank anywhere for same day availability. Receive electronic notification of incoming wires. Now you can initiate wires through online banking.

ACH Origination — A secure way to electronically move money

Connect directly from your PC thru the secure online connection to the national electronic payments system. You can use ACH origination to create your own entries to fund—

direct deposit of payroll,
electronic tax payments (state and federal) or
payment of pre-authorized electronic invoices.

These transactions utilize the national Automated Clearing House (ACH) for electronic services that are now available through First Bank and Trust's Business Online Banking service. Whether it’s paying your employees directly or paying your taxes, you will save time and money by using our ACH service.

Positive Pay — Additional security from check fraud

Our Positive Pay Service helps discover checks & payments that are unauthorized to clear through your firm’s account. Positive Pay reduces check fraud and features online notification and exception reporting back to you for authorization.

We match the check number and amount issued from your records with the checks presented for clearing at the Bank so only the positive matches are paid. Any exceptions are reported to you, so you can instruct us to pay them or not.

Controlled Disbursements – Daily information on your accounts

First Bank and Trust’s Controlled Disbursement Service provides the information you need on your account each morning. You will know what funds are needed to clear checks that night, as well as what funds are available to invest or put to other uses. You can receive the information by phone, fax or through Online Banking.

Zero Balance Account - Automate your daily concentration of funds

Select a master account (commercial checking) to concentrate all the funds into every night. Set up your specialty accounts (payroll, operations, petty cash) as zero balance accounts by linking them to the master account. Although the specialty accounts maintain a zero balance to eliminate any idle funds each day, any checks posted to these accounts will be automatically funded from the master account each night. These automatic transfers between accounts save you time in monitoring balances and manually transferring funds each day.

For more information or to sign up for Cash Management Services, call your FBT Banker today.

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Health Savings Accounts

A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged way to save for health care expenses. If an individual is enrolled in a qualified High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), the HSA provides triple tax-benefits! An individual saves three ways – 1) Contributions made individually or by an employer are excluded from income, 2) Any interest earned is tax deferred and 3) If the HSA funds are used for qualified medical expenses, they are never taxed.

Contributions to a HSA may occur in two ways – An individual may make contributions or an employer may contribute for an employee. Both individual and employer contributions are aggregated to reach the allowable annual contribution limit. Employer contributions to an HSA are not taxable to the employee. And if an employer offers a ‘cafeteria plan’ or ‘salary reduction’ plan employees may make contributions on a pre-tax basis. Check with your Human Resources or tax advisor for more information.
Learn More about qualifications, contributions and how a Health Savings Account works.

First Bank and Trust’s HSA is free. You’ll earn interest on an HSA and can access health care funds with a Visa Check Card, checks or online banking.

First Bank and Trust’s HSA is easy to use –
• No balance requirement, no monthly fee
• No transaction fees
• No set-up fees
• Free Visa Check Card
• Free Online Banking and Online Bill Payment
• Optional check access
• Tiered rates increase your interest with higher balances
Make deposits by 1) direct deposit, 2) at a teller or 3) transfers from other FBT accounts.

Ask your banker about opening a Health Savings Account today.

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Our Goal Is To Serve Your Business

At First Bank and Trust, we value you and your business. This is why we offer a full range of business services to meet your needs. By building an ongoing and personal relationship with your firm, your FBT Banker will provide the quality banking services to help you succeed. Call (504) 584-5900 to speak with an FBT Banker today.

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