Financial Considerations Before You Go Solar

Switching to solar power can be a smart move for your wallet and the planet. But before you dive into solar panel installation, there are several important financial and practical considerations to keep in mind. At First Financial, we want you to make the best choice for your home and budget. Here’s what to think about before you decide to make the switch.

1. Is Solar Worth it for You?

Whether solar makes sense for you depends on many factors, including your current electric costs, your finances, your home’s potential, and how long you plan to stay there. Start by calculating your average monthly electric bill over the past year. Then, use online tools like Google Project Sunroof, EnergySage, or SolarReviews to estimate your home’s solar potential. These types of calculators factor in your roof size, orientation, and shading to project how much energy your panels could generate and when you might break even on your investment.

Keep in mind that estimates can vary widely between tools, so use them as a guide rather than a guarantee. If you plan to move within a few years, installing solar may not offer the potential savings you need to justify the upfront cost.

2. Is Your Roof Ready?

Before you invest in solar, assess the condition of your roof. If your roof is older and in need of repairs or a replacement within the next few years, it’s best to take care of this before installation. Otherwise, you might face the costly process of removing and reinstalling your panels. Ideally, your roof and solar panels should have similar life spans. Solar panels often come with a 20–25 year warranty, so it’s smart to ensure your roofing material will last a similar amount of time to avoid added expenses later.

3. Shop Around for the Right Installer

Don’t settle for the first solar installer you find. Collect multiple quotes and research each company’s reputation, certifications, and customer reviews. Comparing options will help you find the best value and ensure you’re working with a trustworthy provider. A quality installer will also be able to walk you through financing options, local incentives, and what you can expect in terms of performance and maintenance.

4. How to Compare Solar Proposals

When reviewing solar proposals, focus on these key points:

  • Price Per Watt: Lower cost per watt typically means a better deal.
  • Warranties: Look for 25 year panel warranties and 10–25 year inverter warranties.
  • Rated Power: Aim for panels with 420W to 440W for better efficiency.
  • Annual Production Estimates: Consider whether the system will meet 100% of your current energy use, and its ability to cover more if you add an electric vehicle or appliances.
  • Equipment Quality: Research solar panels and inverters. Microinverters are generally preferred over string inverters for better reliability.

Choosing high-quality components and a reliable installer will help maximize your investment and system performance.

5. Ensure Proper Insurance Coverage

Solar panel installation can impact your homeowner’s insurance. Before starting your project, contact your insurer to confirm your policy covers potential damages during and after installation. Some cities and states also require proof of insurance to approve solar projects, so make sure you meet all local requirements before moving forward.

6. Don’t Miss Out on Rebates and Incentives

The federal solar tax credit allows homeowners to deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from their federal taxes, available through 2033. That’s a substantial savings, and it applies regardless of the amount you spend, your income level, or whether you itemize deductions.

Some states and local governments offer additional incentives, like property tax exemptions or cash rebates. Research all the available programs in your area to maximize your savings. Keep in mind that you must purchase your system to qualify for the federal tax credit — leasing disqualifies you from this benefit.

7. Financing Your Solar Investment

Solar panels can be a big upfront expense, but financing options can make it manageable. Using a First Financial Home Equity Loan can be a smart and affordable way to fund your project.*

Features of our Home Equity Loans:

  • Competitive rates
  • No pre-payment penalties
  • No application fees
  • No points or closing costs
  • Flexible terms up to 20 years
  • Fixed monthly payments

We can provide the funds you need while keeping your payments predictable.

Thinking About Going Solar? We’re Here to Help.

At First Financial, we’re committed to helping our members make smart financial choices. Whether you’re exploring solar or other home improvements, we have the tools and expertise to support your goals. Ready to learn more? Call us at 732.312.1500, visit a local branch, or apply online.

*First Financial FCU (FFFCU) will waive closing costs at inception of loan. If loan is terminated within the first 2 years of opening, closing cost waiver is revoked and the borrower(s) will be required to pay back closing costs in full to FFFCU. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Home Equity Loan, and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See FFFCU for details or visit firstffcu.com for all current rates. Rates for financing up to 80% of Appraised Value less other Mortgages.

Busting Harmful Money Myths

When it comes to managing money, misinformation is everywhere. From outdated advice to widely believed myths, these misconceptions can make it harder to reach your financial goals. At First Financial, we’re here to help you navigate your finances with confidence. Let’s clear up some of the most common money myths and set the record straight.

Myth #1: Debit is Always Better Than Credit

While debit cards can help prevent overspending, credit cards – when used responsibly, have their unique benefits. With a good credit card, you can earn rewards, build your credit history, and even get purchase protection. Read up on when it’s best to use cash, credit or debit in our blog post about this topic.

Our Visa® Cash Plus Credit Cards offer cash back and uChoose Rewards that can be redeemed for merchandise, gift cards, and more.* Using a credit card for everyday purchases while paying off your balance in full each month — can improve your credit score and help you qualify for better loan terms in the future.

Myth #2: Buying a Home is Always Better Than Renting

Homeownership is often seen as the ultimate financial milestone, but it’s not always the right choice for everyone. Buying a home comes with long-term responsibilities, maintenance costs, and upfront expenses like closing costs and property taxes. You can learn more about this in our recent blog post on the true cost of homeownership.

If you prefer flexibility, aren’t ready for the commitment, or live in an area where renting is more affordable – renting might be the smarter choice for your current lifestyle. Owning a home can be a great investment, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Schedule a phone call or video chat with a First Financial mortgage expert to help decide what’s right for you.**

Myth #3: My Partner Manages the Finances, So I Don’t Need to

It’s okay for one person to take the lead on budgeting and bills, but all adults in a household should be financially informed. Whether you’re married, in a long-term partnership, or living with roommates – understanding your household’s finances is essential.

Life can change in an instant. If something happens to your partner or the financial leader of the home, you need to be prepared to manage accounts, pay bills, and make smart financial decisions. Financial literacy is a shared responsibility. Check out our financial tools and publications to help yourself prepare to manage your household budget.

Myth #4: I Can Rely on Credit Cards for Emergencies

While credit cards can bridge short-term gaps, they’re not a reliable plan for true emergencies like a job loss or a medical crisis. Interest and other fees can quickly turn your emergency into overwhelming debt. Instead, build an emergency savings fund with 3–6 months’ of essential expenses. This safety net offers peace of mind and keeps you from relying on high-interest borrowing when the unexpected happens.

Myth #5: Emergency Savings Aren’t That Important

One of the most harmful money myths is that you don’t need emergency savings. This type of account isn’t for vacations or a new car — it’s for life’s curveballs.

Having a separate emergency fund from all other checking and savings accounts ensures you’re financially prepared for unexpected events like car repairs, medical bills, or job loss. It’s not a luxury — it’s a necessity. Start small and build over time; even saving a few dollars a week adds up!

Myth #6: I Make Enough Money — Budgeting Isn’t Necessary

Even if you earn a comfortable income, budgeting is still important. Without a spending plan, it’s easy to lose track of where your money goes — or accidentally overspend.

A clear budget helps you make intentional decisions, prioritize saving, and avoid lifestyle inflation. Use our Home Budget Calculator to track your expenses and identify areas of improvement. Whether you’re saving for a house, planning a vacation, or just trying to live within your means – budgeting helps you stay focused.

Get the Facts with First Financial

Smart financial decisions start with reliable information. We’re here to help you build habits that support your financial well-being, and that are free from myths and misinformation. Call us at 732.312.1500 or visit your local branch to learn more. Don’t forget to subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for ongoing financial resources and ideas.

*Your First Financial Visa® Cash Plus Credit Card will earn cash back based on your eligible purchase transactions. The cash back will be applied to your current credit card balance on a quarterly basis and be shown cumulatively on your billing statement. Unless you are participating in a limited time promotional offer, you will earn 1% cash back based upon eligible purchases each quarter. APR varies up to 18%, when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. This APR is for purchases and will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fees. Other fees that apply: Balance Transfer and Cash Advance Fees of 3% or $10, whichever is greater; Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties.

**APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Subject to credit approval. Credit worthiness determines your APR. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history and are for qualified borrowers. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. Higher rates may apply depending on terms of loan and credit worthiness. Minimum mortgage loan amount is $100,000. Available on primary residence only. The Interest Rates, Annual Percentage Rate (APR), and fees are based on current market rates, are for informational purposes only. Rates and APRs listed are based on a mortgage loan amount of $250,000. Mortgage insurance may be required depending on loan guidelines. This is not a credit decision or a commitment to lend. If mortgage insurance is required, the mortgage insurance premium could increase the APR and the monthly mortgage payment. See Credit Union for details. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Mortgage and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. Standard text messaging and data rates may apply.

How Small Businesses Can Make a Difference This Earth Day

While environmental challenges like climate change and pollution may seem overwhelming, every business — big or small, has the power to make a positive impact. With Earth Day on the horizon, now is a great time for business owners to evaluate their operations and implement small changes that will make a big difference.

At First Financial, we believe sustainable business practices aren’t just good for the planet, they’re also smart for your bottom line. Here are a few easy ways your business can go green this Earth Day.

1. Rethink Your Waste Habits

Start by taking a closer look at what your business throws away. Whether packaging, breakroom or food waste, reducing how much ends up in the trash can significantly lower your company’s carbon footprint. Encourage employees to recycle properly, set up clearly labeled bins around the workplace – and evaluate how often supplies are tossed when they could be reused or repurposed. Every item that gets recycled instead of landfilled counts.

2. Recycle Old Electronics and Office Equipment

E-waste is one of the fastest growing types of waste, and businesses can play a role in keeping it out of landfills. Instead of tossing old electronics, look for certified recycling programs or donation centers that take items like computers, printers, and monitors. Recycling electronics responsibly helps conserve valuable resources and keeps toxic materials from polluting the environment.

3. Go Paperless Where You Can

Cutting down on paper is a win-win for the environment and your business. Digital documents and cloud storage can reduce clutter, lower supply costs, and streamline collaboration. If your operations allow it – switch to paperless invoicing, emailed receipts, digital forms, and online customer communications. It’s a small shift that can have a lasting impact.

4. Choose Greener Packaging

Switching to biodegradable or recycled packaging materials is a meaningful step. Consider materials like plant-based plastics or recycled paper that decompose naturally and reduce your environmental footprint. Many customers also appreciate and support eco-conscious packaging choices, which can boost your brand’s image.

5. Power Down to Save Energy

Leaving electronics running when not in use, leads to unnecessary energy waste and higher utility bills. Turn off lights and equipment at the end of the day, and consider smart surge protectors that automatically cut power to unused devices. If available, enable power-saving settings on computers and other office electronics to minimize energy usage during idle times.

6. Upgrade to LED Lighting

Lighting may not seem like a big issue, but it’s one of the easiest places to save energy. Switching from incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient LED bulbs can reduce electricity use by up to 75% and these bulbs also last significantly longer. Take it a step further by installing motion sensors in lesser-used areas like restrooms or storage rooms to ensure lights are only on when needed.

7. Make Energy-Efficient Building Improvements

Commercial buildings contribute significantly to carbon emissions, but simple improvements can lower your impact. Try:

  • Sealing windows and doors to prevent energy leaks.
  • Using blinds or shades to regulate indoor temperatures.
  • Upgrading insulation to reduce heating and cooling needs.
  • As old light bulbs need to be changed, switch to energy-efficient lighting.

Ready to make an even bigger change? Consider renewable energy options like installing solar panels or energy management software that adjusts usage based on building activity.

Start Small, Think Big

Every environmentally conscious decision you make — no matter how big or small, can lead to significant results over time. As a business owner, your choices set the tone for your team and customers.

At First Financial, we’re proud to support small businesses in building stronger, more sustainable futures. For more tips on business banking and smart financial solutions, call us at 732.312.1500 or visit your local branch. Don’t forget to subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for ongoing resources and ideas.

Living Greener on a Budget

With Earth Day around the corner, it’s the perfect time to think about ways to reduce our environmental footprint without stretching our wallets. Living a more sustainable lifestyle isn’t just good for the planet, it can also improve your health, foster a sense of community, and help you save money in the long run.

At First Financial, we believe in making smart choices that support your future, financially and environmentally. Here are six affordable ways to start living a little greener.

1. Swap Single Use for Reusable Alternatives

One of the simplest ways to reduce waste is to ditch disposable items in favor of reusable ones. Every day, disposable items add up – both in the landfill and on the wallet. Swap out the disposables for reusable shopping bags, water bottles, coffee mugs, or silicone food storage bags. Reusable products often last much longer and perform better than their single-use counterparts. A little upfront investment can go a long way for the planet and your budget.

2. Rethink Every Purchase

Being mindful of what you buy is one of the most effective ways to live sustainably. Ask yourself:

  • Do I really need this?
  • Will I use it regularly?
  • Could I borrow or buy it secondhand?

By purchasing less and choosing higher-quality, longer-lasting items – you’ll reduce waste and save money in the long run. Opt for goods with minimal packaging, shop locally when you can, and consider checking thrift stores, yard sales, or resale apps before buying something brand new.

3. Make Your Own Cleaning Products

Many store bought cleaners contain harsh chemicals and come with a hefty price tag. Making your own cleaning products is a budget-friendly and eco-conscious alternative. Basic ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and essential oils can tackle everything from countertops to windows. For an all-purpose cleaner, try mixing equal parts water and vinegar with a few drops of your favorite essential oil or lemon rinds.

4. Consider Refurbished Electronics

Looking to upgrade your tech? Save money and reduce electronic waste by buying refurbished gadgets. From laptops to smartwatches, refurbished electronics often come with warranties and are restored to like-new condition. Websites like Amazon Renewed can offer great deals without sacrificing quality — plus, you’ll be giving products a second life.

5. Shop Secondhand and Save

Shopping secondhand is not only cost-effective — it’s also great for the environment. When you buy pre-owned clothing, furniture, or home goods, you help keep usable items out of landfills and reduce the demand for new production. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online platforms like Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp make it easy to find affordable, one-of-a-kind pieces. Bonus: Secondhand shopping is a fun way to uncover hidden gems and fulfill that exciting shopping experience without breaking the bank!

6. Stay on Top of Home Maintenance

Proactive maintenance can extend the life of your home and appliances, reduce energy usage, and help avoid costly emergency repairs. Routine tasks like checking for leaks, cleaning filters, and inspecting insulation — can make your home more efficient. Create a seasonal checklist to keep up with tasks throughout the year. This helps ensure your home runs smoothly and can help you spot issues before they become expensive problems. Don’t forget to build an emergency fund in case of large unexpected expenses, like water heater or roof replacements.

Make Greener Living Part of Your Financial Plan

Living sustainably doesn’t mean spending more — it often means spending smarter. Whether you’re starting with small changes or making larger lifestyle shifts, your choices matter. We’re here to support your journey toward a healthier planet and a stronger financial future. To learn more about managing your money wisely, visit your local branch or subscribe to our First Scoop Blog.

Debt After Death: What Happens to Debt When Someone Dies?

Losing a loved one is never easy. In addition to the emotional challenges you may face, you might also be worried about what will happen to their debt once they are gone. Generally, with limited exceptions, when a loved one dies you will not be liable for their unpaid debt. Instead, their debt is typically addressed through the settling of their estate.

How are debts settled when someone dies?

The process of settling a deceased person’s estate is called probate. During the probate process, a personal representative (known as an executor in some states) or administrator if there is no will, is appointed to manage the estate and is responsible for paying off the decedent’s debt before any remaining estate assets can be distributed to beneficiaries or heirs. Paying off a deceased individual’s debt can significantly lower the value of an estate and may even involve the selling of estate assets, such as real estate or personal property.

Debts are usually paid in a specific order, with secured debt (such as a mortgage or car loan), funeral expenses, taxes, and medical bills generally having priority over unsecured debt, such as credit cards or personal loans. If the estate cannot pay the debt and no other individual shares legal responsibility for the debt (e.g., there is no cosigner or joint account holder), then the estate will be deemed insolvent and the debt will most likely go unpaid.

Estate and probate laws vary, depending on the state, so it’s important to discuss your specific situation with an attorney who specializes in estate planning and probate.

What about cosigned loans and jointly held accounts?

A cosigned loan is a type of loan where the cosigner agrees to be legally responsible for the loan payments if the primary borrower fails to make them. If a decedent has an outstanding loan that was cosigned, such as a mortgage or auto loan, the surviving cosigner will be responsible for the remaining debt.

For cosigned private student loans, the surviving cosigner is usually responsible for the remaining loan balance, but this can vary depending on the lender and terms of the loan agreement.

If a decedent had credit cards or other accounts that were jointly held with another individual, the surviving account holder will be responsible for the remaining debt. Authorized users on credit card accounts will not be liable for any unpaid debt.

Are there special rules for community property states?

If the decedent was married and lived in a community property state, the surviving spouse is responsible for their spouse’s debt as long as the debt was incurred during the marriage. The surviving spouse is responsible even if he or she was unaware that the deceased spouse incurred the debt.

How much debt Americans expect to leave behind when they die:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Source: Debt.com Death and Debt Survey, 2024

What if you inherit a home with a mortgage?

Generally, when you inherit a home with a mortgage, you will become responsible for the mortgage payments. However, the specific rules will vary depending on your state’s probate laws, the type of mortgage, and the terms set by the lender.

Can you be contacted by debt collectors?

If you are appointed the personal representative or administrator of your loved one’s estate, a debt collector is allowed to contact you regarding outstanding debt. However, if you are not legally responsible for a debt, it is illegal for a debt collector to use deceptive practices to suggest or imply that you are. Even if you are legally responsible for a debt, under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), debt collectors are not allowed to unduly harass you.

Finally, beware of scam artists who may pose as debt collectors and try to coerce or pressure you for payment of your loved one’s unpaid bills.

Questions about this topic or looking to get started with estate planning? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534.  You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal professional. LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial. Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC, TN and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2025.

How to Protect Personal Information on Your Phone

Smartphones are like digital vaults. They hold our conversations, banking information, emails, passwords, photos, and more. But all that convenience comes with risk — if your phone falls into the wrong hands or gets hacked, your personal information could be compromised.

At First Financial, we know how important it is to keep your information safe. Follow the steps below to protect the personal data stored on your phone.

1. Lock Your Phone with a Strong Passcode

Start with the basics: Set a secure lock screen. Whether it’s a passcode, fingerprint, facial recognition, or a combination – this is your first line of defense against unauthorized access. If you use a numeric passcode, make sure it’s at least six digits long, and avoid obvious choices like 123456 or your birthdate.

2. Keep Your Phone and Apps Updated

Software updates aren’t just for new features, they’re critical for patching security vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates for your phone’s operating system and all installed apps when new versions become available. Updates often include fixes that block hackers from exploiting weaknesses. It’s one of the easiest — and most important — ways to protect your device.

3. Use Two-Factor Authentication

Many apps on your phone, like banking, email, or shopping – contain sensitive information. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on those accounts whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, like a temporary code sent to your phone, in addition to your password. Even if someone manages to steal your password, they won’t be able to access your account without that second factor.

4. Create Strong, Unique Passwords

Strong passwords are a must, but they can be hard to remember. Consider using a password manager app, like Google Password Manager, to generate and store unique passwords for all your accounts. That way, you’re not relying on the same one or two passwords for everything. When creating a password, aim for at least 15 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easy to guess information, like birthdays or pet names.

5. Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s also risky. Hackers can intercept data on unsecured networks. Avoid accessing sensitive accounts like your bank or credit card when using public Wi-Fi at a coffee shop, airport, hotel, etc. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection and add a layer of privacy when on public networks.

6. Turn On Phone Tracking and Remote Wipe Features

If your phone is ever lost or stolen, tracking and remote wipe tools can help. Enable “Find My iPhone” (Apple) or “Find My Device” (Android) so you can locate your phone, lock it, or even erase the data remotely if needed. This ensures your private information stays out of the wrong hands — even if your phone doesn’t make it back to you.

7. Be Selective About App Permissions

When you download a new app, it may request access to your contacts, location, camera, or other sensitive areas. Only grant permissions that are necessary for the app to function, and/or only when the app is being used. Review your existing apps regularly and revoke any permissions that seem excessive.

8. Watch Out for Phishing Messages

Scammers can send text messages or emails that look like they’re from a trusted source. These messages may include links that install malware on your device or ask for personal information. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, and never provide personal details unless you’re absolutely sure of the sender. Check out our Important Alerts & Scams blogs to learn more about phishing and how to protect yourself.

Stay Secure with First Financial

Your phone holds a lot of personal information — do everything you can to keep it secure. Taking just a few simple steps can greatly reduce your risk of identity theft and fraudulent activity.

Need help protecting your finances or setting up First Financial mobile banking security features and alerts? We’re here to help. Call us at 732.312.1500 or visit your local branch.