Author Archives: VP of Marketing and Business Development Jessica

Smart Ways To Use Your Credit Card Rewards This Summer

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Summer is all about soaking up the sunshine, making memories, and — ideally — sticking to your budget. If you have a rewards credit card, you may already hold the key to a more affordable and enjoyable summer. At First Financial, our Visa Signature Cash Plus Credit Card allows members to earn cash back and uChoose Rewards points that can be redeemed in various fun, practical, and rewarding ways.* Here are some great ideas to help make the most of your credit card rewards this summer.

1. Book Your Dream Vacation

Whether heading to a tropical beach or planning a relaxing weekend close to home, travel expenses can add up quickly. Luckily, your uChoose Rewards points can help offset big-ticket items like flights, hotel stays, and even cruises. With your travel partially or fully covered, you can use more of your travel budget for experiences and relaxation, without compromising on fun.

2. Live in the Moment without Breaking the Bank

Fortunately, cash back rewards can help take the sting out of seasonal expenses. Our Visa Cash Plus Credit Card allows you to earn rewards on everyday purchases, then redeem them later to help offset credit card expenses. Whether it’s gas for a weekend getaway, supplies for your next BBQ, or your weekly grocery haul – those daily swipes add up to future savings on purchases you would have made anyway.

3. Treat Yourself

Summer is the perfect time to indulge a little. Maybe it’s a fancy dinner out, a gadget you’ve been eyeing, or a spontaneous day trip down the shore. Use your earned cash back rewards as a statement credit to be applied to your next credit card bill, and turn those treats into guilt-free fun. You’ve already earned that cash back, so use it on a treat for yourself!

4. Share the Joy with Friends and Family

Your rewards can go even further when you use them to celebrate others. Use your uChoose Rewards points to find the perfect gift for a birthday, graduation, or other summer milestone. From merchant gift cards, to electronics, home goods, and accessories – you’ll have plenty of ways to spread the love. Plus, you can also redeem your rewards directly through the Apple Store for the latest Apple products, as well as on various merchant websites to reduce your total cost when PayPal is selected as a payment option during checkout.

5. Prep for Back-to-School Season

Summer may have just gotten started, but back-to-school season will creep up before you know it. Redeem your rewards to stock up on school supplies, electronics, or even new clothes for the kids. Using points for these essentials can free up room in your budget for more summer fun or help you transition between seasons a little more smoothly.

Maximize Your Rewards with First Financial

No matter how you choose to use them, your credit card rewards are a smart way to stretch your money a little further. If you’re not already taking advantage of our First Financial Visa Signature Cash Plus Credit Card, now is the perfect time to apply! For more tips on using your credit card wisely or to explore our other credit card options, visit us at firstffcu.com, call 732.312.1500, or stop by a local branch.

 *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.

Heat Up Your Small Business Marketing This Summer

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As temperatures rise, so should your marketing efforts. Summer presents an excellent opportunity for small businesses to boost visibility, build community connections, and drive seasonal sales. From refreshed branding to local partnerships, now is the time to get creative with your marketing strategy. Here are seven effective ways to turn up the heat on your marketing this summer.

1. Get Involved in Local Summer Events

Summer is packed with community festivals, outdoor concerts, markets, and parades – making it the perfect season to amplify your brand’s local presence. Whether you sponsor a local event, set up a vendor booth, or simply volunteer your services – showing up for your community builds trust and increases visibility. Be sure to promote your participation on social media, in your email newsletter, and with signage or print ads. Event involvement gets your name in front of more people while creating content opportunities you can use all season long.

2. Collaborate with Other Local Businesses

Nothing says summer like community, and that includes local business partnerships. Team up with complementary businesses in your area to launch co-branded promotions, bundle deals, or offer seasonal giveaways. You’ll increase your exposure to new audiences while reinforcing local connections that customers value. For example, a gym could partner with a smoothie shop for a “sweat and sip” deal, or a bookstore and coffee shop could offer joint loyalty discounts. Think creatively and lean into what your community loves most during the warmer months.

3. Tap into Wedding Season

Between May and September, wedding season is in full force and the marketing opportunities are endless. Even if your business doesn’t fall directly into the wedding industry, there’s likely a way to get involved. Promote custom gifts, beauty products, catering, rehearsal dinner spaces, dessert options, and more. Market services to the bridal party or newlyweds – such as florals, financing, or travel planning. Tailor your messaging to speak to this massive audience, including wedding guests looking for last-minute accessories, gift ideas, or travel accommodations. Any business can also offer small discounts to newlyweds and/or bridal parties.

4. Refresh Your Ad Designs for Summer

Give your advertising a seasonal facelift by incorporating summer themes into your visuals and messaging. Bright colors, sunny imagery, and seasonal motifs like beaches, fruit, or backyard barbecues can help your ads feel fresh and relevant. If you’ve been running the same creative for months, this is a great time to re-engage customers who may have started to tune it out. A simple refresh can make your business feel more vibrant and top-of-mind.

5. Give Your Social Media a Seasonal Makeover

Update your profile banners, imagery, and content calendar to reflect the fun and relaxed tone of summer. Whether you’re using tropical color palettes, summer puns, or photos of your products outdoors – embrace the vibe of the season to strengthen emotional connections with your audience. Don’t forget to adjust your posting schedule for summer habits. People tend to scroll more in the mornings or evenings, so time your posts accordingly – and consider batching content in advance to keep up with vacation schedules.

6. Launch a Summer Contest or Sweepstakes

Rather than cutting prices during a peak sales season, consider running a contest or giveaway to boost engagement and incentivize purchases. For example, customers who spend over a certain amount and follow your social channels would be entered to win a grand prize revealed at the end of the summer. This boosts sales during busy months, while helping you gather leads and keep customers engaged as the season winds down.

7. Don’t Overlook Back-to-School Marketing

When summer draws to a close, smart businesses start shifting their focus to back-to-school needs. The best part? Nearly every business can find a relevant angle. Cafés can offer grab-and-go breakfast deals or boxed lunches. Fitness studios can promote classes designed to help parents decompress. Tailors can market uniform alterations. Whatever your niche, look for creative ways to support families preparing for the fall.

Fuel Your Business Growth with First Financial

First Financial is here to help your small business succeed. From business checking accounts to newsletters and virtual retirement planning seminars, we offer the resources you need to grow through every season. To learn more about our business services or to speak with a representative, visit your local branch. Don’t forget to subscribe to the First Scoop Blog for more expert tips on financial wellness and small business success!

Financial Milestones to Reach in Your 20s

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Your 20s are a time of major transitions – you may be graduating from college, starting a career, moving into your own place, and taking on new responsibilities. While the future might feel far away, this is one of the most important decades to lay the foundation for long-term financial health. At First Financial, we’re here to help you make the most of it. Here are some key financial milestones to aim for in your 20s.

1. Build an Emergency Fund

Life in your 20s can be unpredictable. Whether it’s to cover a surprise car repair, medical bill, or job loss – a financial safety net is crucial at all stages of life. Aim to save three to six months’ worth of expenses in a savings account that doesn’t get touched unless it’s a true financial emergency. This emergency fund will offer peace of mind and keep you from relying on high-interest credit cards or loans in a pinch. Start small — automate savings transfers from each paycheck, even if it’s not much at first. Every dollar saved is a step toward financial stability.

2. Strengthen Your Credit Score

A good credit score is your ticket to future financial opportunities — from renting an apartment to getting approved for a car loan. The earlier you start building credit, the better. Make on time payments, keep your credit utilization low, and avoid opening too many new accounts at once. Using First Financial’s First Step Credit Card responsibly is a great way to build credit when you are just starting out.*

3. Explore Additional Income Streams

Looking to boost your savings or pay off debt faster? Your 20s are a great time to start a side hustle or find creative ways to earn extra income. Whether freelancing, teaching a skill online, or starting a small business – building an additional income stream can provide more financial flexibility. Even better, if you can create a source of passive income, like selling digital products or affiliate marketing – you can earn a little extra while you sleep. Find something you enjoy that fits with your lifestyle.

4. Align Spending with Your Values

A smart budget doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your money — it just means you can spend in ways that reflect what matters most to you. Start by tracking your current spending. Then, create a realistic budget that covers your essentials – rent, groceries, debt payments, and leaves room for the things you care about like travel, experiences, or giving back. Use our free Home Budget Calculator to get started and adjust your financial plan as your goals evolve.

5. Tackle Debt Strategically

Many young adults carry some form of debt, especially from student loans, credit cards, or car payments. Create a repayment strategy that prioritizes high-interest debt like credit cards first, then work your way down. Always try to pay more than the minimum so you can start seeing a decrease in that debt faster. Be sure to set-up automatic payments from your paycheck to make things even easier.

6. Invest in Yourself

The best investment you can make in your 20s? You. Whether it’s continuing education, attending industry conferences, learning a new skill, or simply building a strong professional network – these investments can lead to higher earning potential down the line. Think of personal development as an essential part of your financial plan. The earlier you invest in growth, the more you’ll gain over time.

Start Your Financial Journey with Confidence

Building a strong financial foundation in your 20s sets you up for a lifetime of success. At First Financial, we’re here to help — whether you’re starting your first budget, applying for your first credit card, or planning your next big goal. Visit us at your local branch, call 732.312.1500, or explore our online resources to get started. And don’t forget to subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more expert tips and advice.

*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. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan.

Life Insurance in Retirement

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What role can life insurance play in your retirement plan? Most of us think of life insurance as protection against financial loss should we die prematurely. But when we reach retirement and the kids are all self-sufficient, do we still need life insurance? The answer is maybe. Here are some situations where life insurance may make sense for retirees or those close to retirement.

Provide a Source of Retirement Income

While life insurance is designed to protect against unexpected economic loss, cash value life insurance also may provide a source of income during retirement. Earnings on the cash value accumulate tax-deferred, and in some instances, cash-value distributions can be received income tax-free. However, loans used to access cash values from a life insurance policy will reduce the policy’s cash value and death benefit, could increase the chance that the policy will lapse, and might result in a tax liability if the policy terminates before the death of the insured.

Help Pay for Long-Term Care

Some cash value life insurance policies provide multiple sources of protection. Along with the death benefit and potential cash value, these policies may also provide a long-term care benefit. Often, these policies allow for a portion or all of the death benefit to be “accelerated” if used for the payment of qualifying medical and long-term care expenses.

Provide for a Dependent Family Member

Sometimes, even in retirement, there are family members who depend on you for financial and/or custodial support. Should you die unexpectedly, life insurance may help provide funds needed to support dependent family members with disabilities.

Replace Income for a Surviving Spouse

While Social Security provides retirement income for many of us, at the death of a spouse, his or her benefits end, reducing the total benefits available to the surviving spouse. Life insurance can be used to replace the loss of income for the surviving spouse.

Pay Off Debt

While past generations often retired with little or no debt, it is not uncommon for today’s retirees to leave the workforce while still carrying a mortgage, car loan, and credit card debt. Life insurance can provide the cash to pay off these debts, which is especially beneficial for a surviving spouse.

Help Cover Final Expenses

Unfortunately, the expense of dying is often overlooked or underestimated. Uninsured medical bills, funeral costs, debts, and estate administration costs can add up. Typically, these expenses are paid in a lump sum, which can reduce savings for surviving spouses and dependent family members. Proceeds from life insurance can be used to help pay for these final expenses, which may help preserve savings for other needs.

Leave a Legacy

For many approaching retirement, as well as for those already there, a primary concern is having enough money to live comfortably. While conserving savings and keeping track of spending in retirement are important, all too often retirees will forgo spending on themselves in order to fulfill a desire to leave a legacy. Having life insurance can help you feel freer to spend more in retirement because you know you’ll be leaving something behind for your loved ones.

Life insurance provides protection for your family’s financial future should you die during your working years. However, life insurance may provide other benefits that can be useful during your retirement. Whether life insurance should be part of your retirement plan is best determined based on your individual circumstances and goals. You may want to talk with an insurance or financial professional before making this decision.

The cost and availability of life insurance depend on factors such as age, health, and the type and amount of insurance purchased. Before implementing a strategy involving life insurance, it would be prudent to make sure that you are insurable. As with most financial decisions, there are expenses associated with the purchase of life insurance. Policies commonly have mortality and expense charges. In addition, if a policy is surrendered prematurely there may be surrender charges and income tax implications. Any guarantees associated with payment of death benefits, income options, or rates of return are based on the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the insurer.

Questions about this topic? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534.

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.

Received a Package You Didn’t Order? Brushing and QR Code Scams

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Have you received a surprise package at your doorstep recently? Packages from an unknown sender, especially those including a QR code – are likely part of a dangerous new brushing scam. With new scam tactics evolving constantly, knowing what to look out for and how to respond is important. At First Financial, we’re here to help you recognize these schemes and protect your personal and financial information.

What is a Brushing Scam?

A brushing scam is when someone receives packages they didn’t order, often low-cost or counterfeit items like beauty products or small electronics, from a seller trying to boost their online reputation. The scammer uses the recipient’s personal information (often obtained through data leaks) to create fake customer reviews, falsely increasing the legitimacy of their product listings. While the merchandise may seem harmless, the real concern is that your personal information – name, address, or even online account details, have likely been compromised.

The New Twist: QR Code Scams in Packages

Scammers are now also including QR codes in these unexpected packages. The note may say the QR code will reveal who sent the gift, provide return instructions, or offer a bonus or prize. But in reality, scanning the code could redirect you to a phishing website designed to steal sensitive information like your login credentials or credit card number. Even worse, it may install malware on your device, giving hackers access to your data and apps.

How to Protect Yourself from QR Code and Package Scams

Don’t Scan Unfamiliar QR Codes: If you receive a package you didn’t order, avoid scanning any QR codes inside. These can be designed to mimic legitimate company branding and lead to fake websites that steal personal data.

Check Your Online Shopping Accounts: If the package came from a known platform like Amazon or eBay, login to your account and look for any unauthorized orders. If you see suspicious activity, change your password immediately and report the fraud to the platform.

Change Your Passwords: It’s a good idea to update your passwords on shopping accounts and your email if you received a suspicious package. Always use strong, unique passwords and consider enabling two-factor authentication for extra security.

Don’t Contact the “Sender”: Don’t attempt to reach out, even if a name, phone number, or website is included in the package. Scammers may use this opportunity to trick you into providing more personal details under the guise of resolving the issue.

Monitor Your Credit and Accounts: Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to review your credit report and look for any unfamiliar accounts or inquiries. Also, check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.

Consider Freezing Your Credit or Adding a Fraud Alert: If you believe your personal information may be at risk, take additional steps like placing a fraud alert on your credit report or freezing your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.

Keep Devices Secure and Updated: Ensure your phone and computer software are continuously updated with the latest security patches. A secure device is your first line of defense against malware and phishing attempts.

Use Trusted QR Scanner Apps: If you must scan a QR code, use a QR code scanner app that shows you the destination URL before redirecting you. This provides a chance to spot suspicious links before it’s too late.

What to Do if You Think You’ve Been Scammed

If you received an unsolicited package, scanned a QR code, or noticed suspicious activity on your accounts:

  • Change your passwords immediately – Update and strengthen passwords for your financial and email accounts right away.
  • Contact your financial institution – Report the incident and monitor for any unauthorized transactions.
  • Monitor your credit – Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to review your credit report and closely check for suspicious inquiries or accounts.
  • File a report with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and, if necessary, start a recovery plan at IdentityTheft.gov.

Stay Safe with First Financial

We’re dedicated to helping our members stay informed and protected from scams. If you ever suspect fraud or have concerns about any of your accounts, call us at 732.312.1500 or visit one of our local branches.

Financial Considerations Before You Go Solar

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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.