Commerce Bank Shares Five Financial Tips to Help Affected Federal Employees Navigate the Government Shutdown

St. Louis, MO – Commerce Bank believes that every financial situation is unique and deserving of a personal response. We understand that the current government shutdown and prolonged financial uncertainty is a very difficult situation for many Americans.

Commerce Bank is working directly with its customers impacted by the government shutdown to better understand their individual financial situations and to help identify possible solutions. It also is sharing best practices that all consumers — Commerce Bank customers or not — should be aware of when working with their financial providers during this or other challenging circumstances. Those best practices are:

1. Communicate. Most financial services providers will be more understanding if they know what’s going on. If you think you may need some assistance, reach out to your bank or other financial institution early to explain what’s going on.


2. Ask. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Accommodations are usually made on a case-by-case basis, so you likely won’t find an answer on your bank’s website.


3. Stay in touch. Be sure to let your providers know if or when your situation changes. New information may help them help you.


4. Understand your full financial picture. Look into the terms of your mortgage, credit card and other financial agreements to ensure you know what the penalties are in the event you are unable to make a payment or are late. Where possible, seek to pay at least the minimum payment amount on a credit card or bill and call your provider to discuss your future options.


5. Plan ahead. Life is complicated and unexpected circumstances happen. Use this moment as an opportunity to look ahead and ensure you have the financial plans in place to provide a cushion or “emergency fund” should another unexpected event take place. Reach out to your financial partner to have a conversation about savings strategies.

“Commerce Bank is supporting its customers through this unforeseen financial challenge by serving in a role very familiar to us – a trusted partner who is here to listen and offer possible solutions,” said Darryl Collins, Director of Consumer Banking for the St. Louis Region. “We sympathize with those who certainly couldn’t anticipate this financial disruption, and we’re responding by combining our best-in-class banking expertise and compassion to personally assist affected customers.”

If you are a Commerce Bank customer who has been impacted by the government shutdown, call us at 833-518-3458  to discuss your current accounts and future options.

About Commerce Bank

With $25.1 billion in assets¹, Commerce Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBSH) is a registered bank holding company offering a full line of banking services, including payment solutions, investment management and securities brokerage. Commerce Bank, a subsidiary of Commerce Bancshares, Inc., leverages more than 150 years of proven strength and experience to help individuals and businesses solve financial challenges. In addition to offering payment solutions across the U.S., the Company currently operates banking facilities in nine key markets including St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, Central Missouri, Central Illinois, Wichita, Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Denver. Commerce Bank also maintains commercial offices in Dallas, Houston, Cincinnati, Nashville, Des Moines, Indianapolis, and Grand Rapids. Commerce delivers high-touch service and sophisticated financial solutions at regional branches, commercial offices, ATMs, online and through a 24/7 customer service line.  Learn more at www.commercebank.com.

1. As of September 30, 2018