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October is Crime Prevention Month

Protect Your Federal Benefit Payments with One Easy Step

Beecher, Illinois (October 17, 2011) - If you receive federal benefit payments by paper check, did you know that criminals can steal your check from the mailbox and cash it, making you a victim of financial crime?

Ensuring you get your money the safest way possible is one reason why the U.S. Department of the Treasury is getting rid of paper checks for federal benefits. Payments will instead be made electronically, which eliminates the risk of stolen checks and helps protect you from financial crime. You must switch from paper checks to electronic payments by March 1, 2013.

Don’t leave your money at risk by waiting for the deadline. Making the switch to direct deposit is fast, easy and free. Your federal benefit payment will go straight into your checking or savings account on payment day each month. To make the switch, visit First Community Bank and Trust. Or, sign up online at www.GoDirect.org or call (800) 333-1795.

Source: U.S. Department of the Treasury, Financial Management Service

About First Community Bank and Trust
First Community Bank and Trust is a privately owned bank. Established in 1916 First Community Bank and Trust has been serving Beecher, IL, Peotone, IL and the surrounding communities for over 95 years. Our commitment to providing the best banking products and services is matched only by our outstanding customer service. We offer traditional community banking services, including mortgage, consumer, and commercial lending, as well as state of the art electronic banking services.

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Press Contact:
Steven D. Koehn, VP
First Community Bank and Trust
(708) 946-2246
skoehn@firstcbt.com