Sneaky Six: IRS Scams Taxpayers Should Watch Out For

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IRS scammers have been around for a long time and they’re sticking around because, unfortunately – people keep falling for their changing tactics. Knowing this, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) annually publishes a list of tax scams coined the Dirty Dozen, in an effort to increase awareness. Here are some of the most common scams that taxpayers should watch out for year-round, but especially during tax time.

1. Someone Using Your Social Security Number to File Taxes

A scammer might attempt to beat you to the chase – that is, beat you to claiming your own tax refund. This tax scam occurs when a fraudster uses your social security number to file and claim a tax refund. Oftentimes, the first inkling that you’re a victim is if the IRS rejects your tax return once you file. There are various reasons your tax return can be rejected, but it’s a surefire sign of identity theft if the IRS has another tax return filed in your name or a record of income from an employer you don’t work for.

There are resources available to you if someone has stolen your identity and filed a tax return with the IRS. First, you should report the identity theft to IdentityTheft.gov. This government website will aid you in creating various documents, such as an IRS Identity Theft Affidavit and personal recovery plan. You should then submit your Identity Theft Affidavit to the IRS – which notifies them of your case to begin investigating it. Alternatively, you can obtain the Identity Theft Affidavit directly from the IRS and submit it by mail. Lastly, follow the steps in your personal recovery plan to help mitigate the fallout and limit the personal and monetary damages of identity theft.

2. Ghost Tax Preparers that Disappear with Your Cash

While many tax preparers act with professionalism and integrity, tax season gives rise to unscrupulous tax preparers called “ghost preparers” who misguide taxpayers in an effort to make a quick buck or disappear with their refunds. These preparers take advantage of tax credits or deductions the taxpayer doesn’t qualify for, or invent fake sources of income to entice them with fake large refunds. They falsify tax returns in an effort to maximize the amount of the refund because they often charge a “percentage fee” based on the amount of the return. The ghost preparer typically refuses to sign the return after it is prepared, allowing them to disappear with their payment and leave you to deal with the consequences of falsifying a tax return. It is best practice to avoid any tax preparer who charges a cash only fee, does not give you a receipt, or who charges a percentage of your refund as their preparer fee. In addition, one who tries to invent false income or get tax credits and deductions you aren’t qualified for, or who deposits your refund into their own account – will typically “ghost” you.

3. Email and Text Scams

Many scams impersonating legitimate organizations begin with unsolicited emails and text messages, and IRS scams are no exception. The IRS will never demand immediate payment of a tax bill and threaten consequences for not doing so via email or text message. Similarly, the IRS will never notify you of a large tax refund via email or text message. These emails and text messages may also prompt you to click links that would download malicious software on your device or steal your personal and financial information. In the event the IRS needs to contact you, communication is typically initiated through regular U.S. mail. There are exceptions to this, as well as other ways the IRS may contact you – which can be found on the IRS webpage how to know it’s the IRS.

4. Bad Social Media Advice

In an effort to increase views and generate income, some social media influencers have been known to share bad tax advice using clickbait – or content that is designed to attract attention and entice users to click. It is hard to ignore content with headlines such as “find out how this little-known tax deduction can increase your tax refund.” Additionally, some influencers will have you pay to subscribe to gain access their exclusive “tax advice” on various platforms, but they are essentially just taking your money and sending you on your merry way – with incorrect tax advice. If you interact with this content and follow their bad advice, not only will you file a fraudulent tax return – but you also encourage these influencers to continue producing misleading content.

5. Fake Tax Bill

If you receive an urgent request to pay a tax bill with gift cards, cryptocurrency, or any other unusual yet specific method of payment – it’s a fake tax bill scam. The IRS will never call to demand immediate payment or make threats if you cannot render payment. As mentioned previously, the IRS will only contact you via regular U.S. mail.

6. IRS Individual Online Account Help Scam

An individual online account through the IRS provides taxpayers with a portal to access their tax information, such as payment history and tax records. Scammers are now posing as third parties to assist with setting up these online accounts to steal taxpayers’ personal information, submit fraudulent tax returns, and take their tax refunds. The scammer may also sell the personal and financial information to other fraudsters who may file fake tax returns and steal refunds, open loans and credit accounts in the taxpayer’s name, and ultimately steal their identity.  The IRS has a guide to establishing an IRS online account and avoiding scams.

First Financial knows that tax season can be hard enough, and that’s without the worry of being scammed being added into the mix. If you have any questions or reason to suspect that your information has fallen into the hands of a scammer this tax season, don’t hesitate to contact us at 732.312.1500 or visit us at your local branch.

Celebrating Women in Business: Advice from Successful Female Entrepreneurs

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More than 12 million women-owned businesses operate nationwide, driving innovation and economic growth. March is Women’s History Month, and First Financial is celebrating women in business by sharing valuable insights from successful female entrepreneurs. We are highlighting some impactful advice from Constant Contact’s article, “9 Successful Women Entrepreneurs Share Their Best Business Advice for Women,” that just might resonate with some of our readers.

If you’re a female small business owner or you’re looking to get started, take these lessons to heart as you grow your company. Remember, First Financial is here to support you with business banking solutions, investment and retirement guidance, financial education and more.

1. “No one is going to believe in you like you do.”– Latasha McRae, Peeks Cosmetics

Latasha McRae, founder of Peeks Cosmetics, knows firsthand that self-belief is key to success. Inspired by her mother’s perseverance in raising her family while battling Lupus, Latasha was determined to create her own path.

One of her biggest challenges was knowing who to work with and who aligned with her brand. Her advice? “Use discernment when dealing with anything in life. Take your time, do your research.” Trust yourself, do your due diligence, and always be your own biggest advocate.

2. “I hope to see more and more women in small business and big business, whatever area or arena they’re looking to get into, just step up as they are.”– Julianna Curtis, The Energy Barre

Julianna Curtis, founder of The Energy Barre, recalls moments of self-doubt and struggling to balance confidence with authenticity when speaking with clients and partners. Her journey led her to embrace her true self: “I am who I am. Confident to stand next to any male or female counterpart because I am talented, I am aware, I am informed, and I know what I’m coming here for.”

No matter where you are in your journey, take time to discover your unique leadership style and step into your role with confidence.

3. “Figure out what your brand values and messaging are, and stay true to them in everything you do.”– Nicole, Jennifer, and Colette, Lime Ricki

Sisters and co-founders of Lime Ricki, a boutique swimwear brand, credit their success to staying true to their brand’s values. Nicole, Jennifer, and Colette shared that having a strong foundation has helped them navigate challenges and make clear decisions without second-guessing. “This allows us to respond rather than react to issues and challenges that arise and gives us a foundation for making decisions and directing our course of action.”

Their advice applies to marketing as well: “Consistent, relevant messaging and email marketing that maintains our brand and core values,” has been their most effective tool for driving sales. Knowing your values keeps you grounded and gives you a solid road to follow — especially in competitive industries.

4. “Remind yourself there is always room in the market for you in whichever industry you pursue.”– Marissa Tilley, Lady Black Tie

Starting a business can be intimidating, especially when entering a saturated market. When Marissa Tilley launched Lady Black Tie in 2018, the formalwear space was already filled with established brands. But rather than let that discourage her, she found ways to bring something new to the industry. “Don’t let the brands that have been around longer than you intimidate you and keep you from starting. If anything, use this competition as motivation, and recognize that you can bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to your industry.”

If you’re a new business owner, focus on the unique value you bring and remain to adapt to trends and customer preferences. Just because you weren’t the first, doesn’t mean you can’t be successful – it’s all about your brand’s unique value proposition.

5. “Join women’s entrepreneur groups.”– Karen Leonard, Innovative Global Vision

Karen Leonard, founder of Innovative Global Vision, initially questioned whether women’s entrepreneur groups would be useful. Now, she considers them one of the most valuable resources for business owners. “These groups have given me friendship, mentors, peers, and provided the sometimes not-so-easy-to-take reality checks. Sometimes an outside perspective can remove the blinders that come from being too close to a situation or issue.”

Connecting with other like-minded women entrepreneurs can provide guidance, encouragement, and fresh insights. Surround yourself with a strong support system, and don’t hesitate to lean on others who understand your challenges.

Supporting Women in Business at First Financial

At First Financial, we are proud to support women-owned businesses by offering personalized business services and banking solutions. Our goal is to help our members gain financial confidence and achieve long-term success. If you’re a small business owner in Monmouth or Ocean Counties – and are looking for financial tools and advice, we’re here to help. For more business insights and financial resources, call us at 732.312.1500, visit a branch, or explore our services online. Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more financial advice and inspiration!

Smart Strategies for Managing Debt

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Managing debt effectively is key to achieving financial stability and long-term success. If debt is weighing you down, know that you’re not alone — and that there are proven strategies to help you regain control. Whether you need to adjust your spending habits, create a structured repayment plan, or explore consolidation options, taking proactive steps today can set you up for a more secure financial future. Here’s how to get started:

1. Identify the Root Causes of Your Debt

Before tackling your debt, it’s important to understand how you got there. Ask yourself:

  • Are you overspending on non-essentials?
  • Do you lack a clear financial plan?
  • Have unexpected expenses left you struggling to catch up?

Debt is often a symptom of deeper financial habits. Acknowledging the behaviors that led to debt allows you to make meaningful changes. By recognizing these patterns, you can create a plan that pays off what you owe and prevents future debt from piling up.

2. Stop Adding to Your Debt

The first step to getting out of debt is to stop accumulating more. Here’s how:

Stick to a Budget: A well-planned budget helps you manage debt and daily expenses. When you take on debt, you’re using future income to pay for today’s expenses, making it harder to reach your financial goals. Use First Financial’s Home Budget Calculator and our other budgeting tools to take control of your spending.

Build an Emergency Fund: Creating a safety net of 3-6 months’ worth of expenses prevents you from relying on credit cards or loans in times of financial strain.

Get the Right Insurance Coverage: Medical bills, home repairs, or car accidents can derail your finances. Proper insurance — whether health, auto, home, or renter’s insurance, can prevent major unexpected expenses from pushing you further into debt.

3. Develop a Realistic Debt Payoff Plan

Paying off debt requires a sustainable plan tailored to your financial situation. Consider:

  • Your Income and Expenses: Determine how much extra you can realistically put toward debt each month.
  • Your Financial Priorities: Do you have other obligations – such as rent, childcare, or savings goals?
  • Opportunities to Increase Income: Can you take on extra work or reduce expenses to accelerate debt repayment?

Depending on your situation, one of the following common strategies may work to help you pay down debt efficiently:

The Snowball Method: Focus on eliminating smaller debts first for quick wins that keep you motivated.

  1. List out your debts from the smallest to the largest balance.
  2. Make minimum payments on all your debts except the smallest one.
  3. Put all your extra funds toward paying off the smallest debt first.
  4. Once the smallest debt is gone, roll that payment into the next smallest debt.

The Avalanche Method: Prioritize high-interest debts to save the most money over time.

  1. List your debts from the highest to lowest interest rate.
  2. Make the minimum payment on all debts except the one with the highest interest.
  3. Apply any extra funds to the debt with the highest interest rate first.
  4. Repeat the process until all debts are eliminated.

Choose the method that best aligns with your financial situation and motivation style.

4. Consider Debt Consolidation

For those with multiple high-interest debts, consolidation may be an effective strategy. Debt consolidation involves taking out a new loan to pay off existing debt, allowing you to combine payments into one manageable monthly bill — ideally at a lower interest rate.

Benefits of a First Financial Debt Consolidation Loan:

  • Fixed monthly payments
  • Flexible terms up to 60 months
  • No pre-payment penalties

This option works best if you qualify for a lower interest rate than your current debt has, otherwise – you may only be shifting debt rather than reducing it. Apply for a First Financial Consolidation Loan today and simplify your repayment process while saving money on interest.*

Take Control of Your Debt Today

Managing debt doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. We’re here to help you make steady progress toward financial freedom. For more financial resources, advice, and loan options – call us at 732.312.1500, visit your local branch, or explore our services online. Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for ongoing tips and insights to keep your finances on track!

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Actual rate will vary based on creditworthiness and loan term. Subject to credit approval. Loan repayment terms range from 12 to 60 months, and APRs range from 10.24% APR to 18% APR. Minimum loan amount is $500. A First Financial Federal Credit Union membership is required to obtain a Personal or Consolidation Loan or Line of Credit, and is open 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. 

First Financial Business Member Spotlight: Nino’s Bistro Express

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We’re thrilled to once again shine the spotlight on Nino’s — featuring their latest expansion, Nino’s Bistro Express in Neptune, NJ! Following the success of their original Nino’s Coal Fired Pizza in Brick Township, owner Anthony Schifilliti and his son Joey, saw an opportunity to bring their well-loved menu to Monmouth County. With a focus on high-quality food at a faster pace, Nino’s Bistro Express is all about delivering an elevated and efficient dining experience.

Bringing Nino’s to Monmouth County

“We named it Bistro Express because we wanted it to be fast and accessible,” says Joey. Expanding to a new location is no small feat, but with a state-of-the-art kitchen and a streamlined approach, Nino’s Bistro Express ensures customers get the same incredible flavors they’ve come to love — just quicker! “People are getting high-quality food at a faster pace. It’s a win-win.”

Banking That Moves as Fast as Nino’s

For the Schifilliti family, First Financial has been the go-to financial institution that makes business banking seamless. “First Financial has always been the easiest for us. It’s always been the most accessible, whether it’s through the employees or online banking,” Joey shares.

One of the biggest advantages? Personalized service that makes banking effortless. “When I go to a branch with my dad, they call us by our first names,” he says. “When payroll time comes around and my dad needs quick transfers, First Financial gets it done the fastest every time.”

For small businesses like Nino’s, having a financial partner that values efficiency and personal relationships makes all the difference. At First Financial, that’s exactly what we’re all about.

Visit Nino’s Bistro Express

Whether you’re in the mood for pizza or another fan-favorite dish, you can enjoy the same quality that made their Brick location a success — now on Rt. 66 in Neptune, NJ. Visit their website for hours, menu, and ordering information.

How to Join First Financial

If you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in NJ, you’re eligible to become a member. Businesses in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and our community partners are also eligible for membership. To join, all you have to do is open a savings account with $5, and once you’re a member – your immediate family can also sign up.

To get started, head to firstffcu.com, call us at 732.312.1500, email info@firstffcu.com, or stop by any of our local branches.

Investing for the Future

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Building a retirement portfolio takes patience and diligence. Your goal is simple: accumulate enough wealth to sustain you through your post-retirement years.

Easier said than done, right?

The key is to take the steps that will help you save enough to support your lifestyle standards. Here are a few things you can do to make sure that your plan is on track.

First, check in and check in often. It may have been several years ago when you first crunched the numbers and arrived at your bottom-line figure for what you’ll need to retire. Revisit those numbers regularly to guard against any large changes, as well as to adjust to any market volatility.

Calculate your Social Security income, any pension money, accumulated savings, and personal investments, and determine whether together they can cover your living expenses. Account for swings in the market, estimating any projected gains conservatively. If you find that your number is coming up short, talk to a financial professional who can help you reconfigure or rebalance your portfolio, as needed.

Next, manage your inflation risk and the impact it can have on your investments. That doesn’t mean replacing everything with less risky assets, but it does mean you should consider moving some of your equity investments into fixed income and cash, reserving enough growth-oriented investments that together will have the potential to help you sustain significant losses.

Develop an estate plan that preserves your assets for future generations. This can get complicated if you have a lot of assets, and you’ll benefit from consulting with an attorney who specializes in this area. They can help you draft a trust and various types of insurance tools to help protect your assets from estate taxes.

Finally, revisit your financial plan and goals with a financial professional regularly, addressing any potential problems before they impact your savings.

Questions about this topic? 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:

This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal.

This material was prepared by LPL Financial, LLC

Tracking #1-05363552

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this March 2025

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You’re in luck – there are plenty of free and inexpensive activities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties to enjoy with your family and friends all month long! We hope March begins to warm up and you can get outside to enjoy these first happenings of spring.

March 1

Downtown Irish Festival (Toms River) – Join Downtown Toms River in celebrating Irish culture from 12pm-6pm on Washington Street. Live entertainment will be provided by The Ryan Express, along with a live bagpipes and drums performance – all of which will introduce you to the sounds of Ireland as you check out local vendors, businesses, and Irish fare. Admission is free for all ages. Click here for additional information.

March 2

Belmar’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Get your green on at the Belmar’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, kicking off at 12:30pm on Main Street. A staple of the Belmar community, this tradition features a lively march with vibrant floats, live pipes & drums bands, and thousands of marchers. Spectating is fun and is no cost. To learn more details about this day of immersion into Irish culture, click here.

March 8

St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Seaside Heights) – If you haven’t been able to enjoy the Irish cheer yet this month, join Seaside Heights for their St. Patrick’s Day parade beginning at 12pm on the Boulevard. Various local businesses, teams, and community members will march alongside a float displaying Irish heritage. More information about the parade can be found here. And you’re in luck – to add to the fun, Casino Pier will be selling $30 Arcade Cards for $15, and will have various food and drink specials between 1pm-5pm. You can find more details about Casino Pier’s St. Patrick’s Day parade party here.

March 9

Belmar Dine & Discover will take you, your tastebuds, and the foodies in your life on a tour of Belmar’s beloved dining establishments from 11:30am-3:30pm, beginning at the Belmar Municipal Building. Participating restaurants will open their doors and offer samples of their various creations – everything ranging from Louisiana-inspired Cajun, to sushi that will make you feel like you are right in Japan. Wristbands are $35 in advance and $40 at the door, and can be picked up at select times during the weekend of the event. Trolleys will be running to take you around town every twenty minutes, so leave your transportation worries (but not your appetite) at home. Click here to learn more, view the participating restaurants, and to purchase tickets.

Comic Book & Toy Show (New Egypt) – Whether you’re hunting for a rare collectible or looking to interact with other comic enthusiasts, come down to New Egypt Elks #2457 from 10am-4pm for a day full of nostalgia. If the promise of exciting collectibles, vintage action figures, and modern toys isn’t enticing enough – the first 100 admissions will receive a free comic pack, and additional door prizes will be given out at random throughout the day. Admission is $5 per person, and children ages 12 and under are free. Click here to learn how you can check out the ‘action’ – no pun intended.

March 12

Flavor of Freehold will transport your tastebuds to Ireland from 5pm-8pm on March 12th and 13th. Equipped with a “Shamrock Passport,” this two-day event allows participants to sample some of the Irish flavors of Freehold’s favorite establishments. The Shamrock Passport is $25 and grants participants access to the participating establishments and their signature samples. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

March 15

Giant Bubble Show (Holmdel) – We know you’re curious at how giant a bubble can be, and we’re sure your friends and family are too, so head down to Bell Works Theater at 12pm or 3pm to see just that. Ringling Brothers’ alumnus Logan Jimenez will bring together circus stunts and artistic ability to create a jaw-dropping bubble show. Ticket prices are $30 and include a facility fee. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

Spring Fling Sip & Shop (Toms River) – “Spring” into the season at the Spring Fling Sip and Shop Vendor Market from 12pm-4pm at Garden State Distillery. You will have the chance to support local makers, artisans, and small businesses while enjoying craft drinks for those 21 and older. There will be various unique items for all to explore, including jewelry, candles, clothing, beauty products, décor, and more. Admission is free for all ages. You can find additional information here.

March 22

Maple Festival (Manalapan) – Bring your friends and family to Happy Day Farm to learn how tapping trees and boiling sap turns into a pancake’s best friend – maple syrup. Visitors will embark on a tractor ride of the 130-acre farm, followed by an inside look into the process of making maple syrup and an opportunity to give tapping a try. Visitors will be able to purchase pancakes and maple syrup as well. Tickets are $18 for adults and children ages 2 and up, and must be purchased with cash. No reservations are required, and the tour only takes place at select times. Click here for additional information, including time slots for the demonstration.

March 23

Beyond the Counter – Adult Craft Workshop & Tea Tasting (Wall) – Your parents or grandparents might have given you tea as a remedy for any and everything, and the Historic Village at Allaire will explore their reasoning at a tea tasting from 2pm-4pm. Visitors will explore the health and wellness benefits of various teas and herbal infusions as they were seen in the 19th century through today. You will have the opportunity to taste teas and take samples of your favorite concoctions home. Tickets are $25 per person, pre-registration is required, and the event is for adults only. Click here for additional information and to purchase tickets.

March 30

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny (Barnegat) – The Easter bunny is hopping over to Lefty’s Tavern for a special breakfast from 8am-10am. Breakfast is $15 per plate, and all proceeds will go toward developing Barnegat Little League’s team and complex. Seats must be reserved in advance. The last seating is at 9:30am. To learn more and reserve seats for an “egg-cellent” breakfast with your family and friends, click here.