Author Archives: VP of Marketing and Business Development Jessica

Living Greener on a Budget

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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?

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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

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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.

What to Do Financially if You’re Laid Off

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Losing your job can be overwhelming, emotionally and financially. Whether you were given notice or it was completely unexpected, a layoff can leave you scrambling to cover your bills and figure out your next steps. While it’s a stressful time, there are some key moves you can make to regain stability and protect your financial future.

1. File for Unemployment Immediately

Don’t wait — apply for unemployment benefits as soon as possible. While unemployment likely won’t replace your full paycheck, it can help keep you afloat while you search for your next opportunity.

Every state has different requirements and processes, so head to dol.gov to find the correct resources for your location. If you qualify, consider having taxes withheld from your unemployment checks to avoid an unexpected tax bill later.

2. Evaluate and Adjust Your Budget

Now is the time to review your spending and cut any unnecessary expenses. If you haven’t been using a budget, create one now and prioritize essentials like housing, food, and utilities. Try to avoid relying on credit cards to cover the gap, as debt can add up quickly.

Use First Financial’s Home Budget Calculator to help map out a clear spending plan based on your new financial situation.

3. Review Health Insurance Options

If your health insurance is still active through your former employer, schedule any overdue doctor or dental appointments as soon as possible – as health coverage typically ends shortly after a layoff. Begin researching health insurance options through COBRA, your state’s healthcare marketplace, or look into temporary health coverage plans to avoid going uninsured.

4. Consolidation Debt

If you have high-interest credit card debt, it can quickly spiral out of control without a steady income. Look into consolidation loans to combine debt and reduce your monthly payments.

Our Consolidation Loans offer fixed payments, flexible terms, and no pre-payment penalties, making it easier to manage your obligations during a difficult time.* Once you consolidate, stop using credit cards, stick to your updated budget, and only buy what you have the money to pay for or that is an absolute necessity.

5. Pause Discretionary Spending

While it’s important to maintain some normalcy, this isn’t the time for splurging. Cut back on non-essentials like subscription services, dining out, buying new apparel, and entertainment. Instead, try home-cooked meals and budget-friendly activities to keep your costs low. Not knowing how long a layoff will last, means your safest bet is to cut expenses wherever possible until you have stable income again.

6. Save Your Severance Package

If you receive severance pay, try to deposit as much as possible into a high-yield savings account and use it only for essential bills. It may be tempting to use the money for comfort purchases or to maintain your old lifestyle, but it’s smarter to stretch it out as long as you can. Your severance package may also include extended health benefits, outplacement services, or payment for unused vacation or sick days.

Navigating a Layoff with First Financial

While losing a job is never easy, having a plan in place can help you regain control of your finances. At First Financial, we’re here to support you during life’s unpredictable moments. Call us at 732.312.1500, visit your local branch, or explore our financial wellness resources online.

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Actual rate will vary based on creditworthiness and loan term. Subject to credit approval. Personal Loan repayment terms range from 12 to 60 months, and APRs range from 10.24% APR to 18% APR. Minimum loan amount is $500. Loan payment example: A $2,000 Personal or Consolidation Loan financed at 10.24% APR for 24 months, would have a monthly payment amount of $92.51. A First Financial Federal Credit Union membership is required to obtain a Personal 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.

Protect Yourself from Mortgage Closing Scams and Wire Fraud

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Closing on a new home is one of life’s most exciting milestones, but it also comes with financial risks — especially due to increasing mortgage closing scams and wire fraud. Scammers have been known to target homebuyers during the closing process, attempting to divert large sums of money into fraudulent accounts through phishing schemes. Falling victim to one of these scams can mean losing your down payment and closing costs, sometimes totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.

At First Financial, we want to ensure our members are informed and prepared during primetime for buying a home – spring. Here’s what you need to know about mortgage closing scams and how to protect yourself from wire fraud.

How Mortgage Closing Scams Work

Fraudsters will often use sophisticated phishing tactics to deceive homebuyers into sending their closing funds to fake accounts. Here’s how they do it:

  • Email compromise: Scammers may hack into or spoof the email accounts of real estate agents, lenders, title companies, or attorneys. They will create similar email addresses, changing just a letter or number which often goes unnoticed. If successfully hacked, email conversations are monitored to identify upcoming closings.
  • Fake wire instructions: Once they’ve gathered enough details, the scammer will send an email impersonating a trusted party. These emails usually contain official-looking branding, logos, and signatures to appear legitimate.
  • Urgent request for a wire transfer: The fraudulent email will instruct the homebuyer to send funds to a different bank account, often citing last minute changes or updates.
  • Quick withdrawal of funds: Once the money is wired, the scammer will immediately withdraw or transfer the funds – making recovery extremely difficult, if not impossible.

These scams can be incredibly convincing, and even careful homebuyers can fall victim if they don’t take proper precautions.

Signs of Mortgage Closing Scams & Wire Fraud

  • Unexpected last minute changes to wire instructions – If you receive an email stating that your payment details have changed, be extremely cautious and call the title company or lender directly.
  • Emails with urgent or high-pressure language – Scammers typically try to create a sense of urgency, making you feel like you must act immediately.
  • Slightly altered email addresses – Fraudsters will create emails that look nearly identical to those of real estate professionals, often with minor spelling changes or different domains (e.g., @company.com vs. @company-mail.com). Always double check the email addresses you are responding to before sending money or financial information.
  • Requests for financial information via email – Legitimate real estate professionals, lenders, title agencies or attorneys will never ask for sensitive financial details through regular unsecure email.
  • Links or attachments from unknown sources – Clicking on malicious links can give scammers access to your email account and financial details.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Verify wire instructions in person or over the phone – Before wiring any funds, call your lender or title company using a trusted phone number — not one from an email. Confirm the payment details with someone you have spoken to over the course of the mortgage process.
  • Avoid emailing financial information – Email is not secure, and sensitive financial information should never be shared via email. If you need to send any documents, ask about secure portals or encrypted options.
  • Be wary of last minute changes – Scammers will often introduce urgent changes to wire transfer details right before closing. If you receive unexpected instructions, verify them with your lender or title company in person or via a known phone number.
  • Use multi-factor authentication – Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your email and financial accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification when logging in.
  • Monitor your transactions – Follow up immediately with your title company or lender after any transactions to confirm they were received. Any discrepancies should be reported immediately.
  • Establish a security code with your real estate team – Work with your real estate agent and title company to create a unique security phrase or code word to use when discussing financial transactions.

What to Do If You Become a Victim of Mortgage Wire Fraud

  • Contact your bank – Request a wire recall to try to recover the funds.
  • Report any fraud to the FBI – File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov.
  • Notify your real estate agent, title company, and lender – They may be able to assist with stopping the transaction or preventing further fraud attempts.

Time is critical — the faster you act, the better your chances of recovering your money.

Protect Your Home Purchase with First Financial

We’re committed to helping our members navigate the homebuying process safely. Whether you’re applying for a mortgage, looking for home financing advice, or seeking fraud prevention tips – we’re here to help.

To learn about our mortgage services check out our Homebuyers Guide and website, call us at 732.312.1500, or visit a branch. Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more expert advice on protecting your finances!

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!