Category Archives: Holiday and Seasonal Finances

6 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day on a Budget

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Valentine’s Day is about celebrating love — not emptying your wallet. Whether you’re looking to make new traditions, get creative, or simply rethink how you celebrate – there are plenty of ways to make the day special without overspending. Here are six affordable and meaningful ways to show your love this Valentine’s Day.

1. Start a Meaningful Tradition

Instead of opting for the usual romantic dinner out, create a tradition you and your partner can look forward to each year. The key is finding something meaningful and cost-effective. Have a game night with your favorite board games, visit a museum together, or spend the day volunteering for a cause you both care about. Traditions you both look forward to create lasting memories without the price tag.

2. Give the Gift of Time

A thoughtful gesture often means more than any store bought present. Instead of chocolate or flowers, take something off your partner’s to-do list. Has your significant other been stressing over a task they keep putting off? Surprise them by getting it done. Whether it’s cleaning the house, tackling a home project they’ve been asking for, or taking over dinner duty, these small acts of love can make a big impact — and best of all, they don’t cost a thing.

3. Boost Your Savings Together

Rather than spending money on gifts that won’t last, consider putting that money into a savings account for something meaningful. Whether you’re dreaming of a vacation, a new home, or another major milestone, redirecting your Valentine’s Day spending into a shared savings goal can be a powerful way to invest in your future together. It’s a lasting way to celebrate love while staying financially smart.

4. Make Your Date a Gift

Turn your date into something memorable and useful. Sign up for a pottery class and make something your partner will actually use — a mug for their morning coffee, a dish for their jewelry, or a keepsake that holds sentimental value. Not only do you get to enjoy quality time together, but you’ll also leave with a personalized gift that lasts longer than roses or candy.

5. Redeem Your Credit Card Rewards

If you have unused credit card rewards, now is the perfect time to cash them in. Many people accumulate rewards but forget to use them. Whether it’s for dining, experiences, or gifts – using your points now ensures you’re getting the most value and not allowing those rewards to expire. Holding onto your rewards might seem like a good idea, but their value will remain the same while the cost of goods and services will continue to rise. Spending your rewards sooner rather than later ensures you maximize their benefit.

6. Skip It or Take a Rain Check

One of the easiest ways to save money? Agree to skip Valentine’s Day altogether. But before making that decision, talk with your partner to ensure you’re on the same page. If Valentine’s Day isn’t important to either of you, why not focus on celebrating your anniversary instead? Love should be celebrated every day, not just once a year.

If skipping isn’t an option, consider postponing the celebration. February 15th — when Valentine’s Day chocolate and gifts go on sale, might be the perfect day to celebrate. Delaying the holiday just one day can save you money while still keeping the romance alive.

Celebrate Love Without Overspending

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With a little creativity and planning, you can make the day just as special without going over budget. Whether you start a new tradition, invest in your future, or simply spend quality time together – these budget-friendly ideas will help you celebrate love in a more meaningful way.

For more financial tips and money-saving strategies, call us at 732.312.1500 or visit a branch today. Don’t forget to subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more insights to keep your finances on track year-round!

Recovering From Holiday Spending

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The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration that often comes with financial challenges. Many of us find ourselves overspending on gifts, travel, or festive gatherings – leaving January feeling even more stressful. If holiday expenses have taken a toll on your budget, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here are some practical steps to help you recover and get your finances back on track in the new year.

1. Make a Debt Repayment Plan

The first step to recovering from holiday spending is to assess the damage. Once you know how much you owe, create a realistic debt repayment plan. Start by identifying how much you can afford to pay toward your debt each month. For instance, if you overspent by $1,000 – aim to pay $200 monthly for five months.

Budgeting is key to achieving this goal. Contrary to popular belief, a budget isn’t about restricting your spending – but rather guiding it to align with your priorities. Use tools like First Financial’s Home Budget Calculator to create a customized plan that helps you regain control of your finances without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Consider Debt Consolidation

If you’re juggling multiple balances, debt consolidation can simplify your finances by combining various debt into one manageable payment. To help you consolidate holiday expenses, First Financial is offering a limited-time Holiday Loan promotion through January 15, 2025. Members can borrow up to $2,500 with rates as low as 9.99% APR and terms up to 24 months.* With same-day approvals and no pre-payment penalties, this loan can help you pay off holiday debt quickly.

If our Holiday Loan isn’t on the right timeline for you, First Financial also offers competitive Personal and Consolidation Loans as well as Personal Lines of Credit. Our representatives can help match you to the option that’s right for your financial needs. Get started by filling out our quick website inquiry form or calling 732-312-1500, Option 4.

3. Utilize Your Cash Back Rewards

If you used a rewards credit card for holiday shopping, now is the perfect time to redeem your cash back. Apply these rewards toward your next credit card bill to lighten the load and ease your financial recovery. Using cash back strategically can take some of the pressure off while you get your spending and saving habits back on track. It’s tempting to hold onto these rewards and let them grow, but don’t be afraid to use them when you need them!

4. Go on a No Spend Diet

For a short-term financial reset, try a no spend challenge. Commit to spending only on essentials like groceries and bills for a month or longer, if you can. Trimming unnecessary expenses allows you to save more and pay down debt faster. Zero discretionary spending is not sustainable long-term, but a no spend month can help you restrain your spending habits in the future.

5. Boost Your Income

If you need extra cash to tackle holiday debt, consider finding ways to increase your income. Pick up additional hours at work or start a side hustle, even a short-term income boost can make a big difference. Popular side gigs include virtual tutoring, pet sitting, delivery driving, or freelance writing. Keep reading our First Scoop blog, we’ll be featuring a post on side hustle ideas in the coming weeks.

Remember, this doesn’t have to be a permanent commitment. A few months of extra income can go a long way toward eliminating unwanted debt and regaining financial stability.

Recover Smarter with First Financial

Recovering from holiday spending may feel daunting, but with a clear plan and the right tools – you can regain control of your finances.

For more tips on money management and reducing debt, call us at 732.312.1500 or visit a branch today. Don’t forget to subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for ongoing financial advice and strategies to keep your finances on track.

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. APR as low as 9.99%, terms up to 24 months, minimum loan amount is $500, and maximum loan amount is $2,500. Loan payment example: A $1,000 Personal Loan financed at 9.99% APR for 24 months, would have a monthly payment amount of $46.14. Actual rate will vary based on creditworthiness and loan term. Subject to credit approval. One holiday loan open per member. Refinance option for prior holiday loan is available, see credit union for details. Maximum dollar amount able to borrow is based on creditworthiness and loan term. 

Tips for Buying Thoughtful Holiday Gifts on a Budget

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The holiday season is a time to show appreciation and love through gift-giving, but that doesn’t mean you have to overspend. With a little creativity and planning, you can give meaningful presents while sticking to a budget. Follow these tips to make your holiday shopping both memorable and affordable.

1. Set a Budget and Plan Ahead

Start your holiday shopping by setting a clear budget. Decide how much you can afford overall, then allocate specific amounts for each person on your list. Focus on spending more on close family members and keeping gifts for extended family or friends more modest. Early planning allows you to take advantage of sales and avoid last minute overspending.

2. Time Your Shopping for the Best Deals

Shopping at the right time can make all the difference. Look out for major sales events and retailer emails that offer significant discounts. Additionally, end-of-season sales can be a great opportunity to find hidden treasures at reduced prices. If you shop early, you can also avoid the stress of shipping delays during the holiday rush.

3. Create DIY Gifts

DIY gifts can be a heartfelt and budget-friendly way to show you care. Consider making:

  • Homemade candles or soaps with customized scents and colors.
  • Baked goods like cookies, cakes, or brownies can never go wrong during the holidays.
  • Knitted or crafted accessories like scarves or mittens to share the warmth of the season.
  • Write down your favorite recipes to craft a custom cookbook that can be passed down for generations.

These gifts offer a cost effective solution while also showing the thought and effort you put into them.

4. Shop Secondhand for Unique Finds

Thrift stores and online marketplaces are treasure troves for one-of-a-kind and affordable gifts. Look for vintage jewelry, home decor, or gently used books with character. Grab a nice wicker basket and fill it with items that remind you of the person you’re shopping for or create themed baskets like ‘pasta night’ and fill it with cookbooks, cooking tools, olive oil dispensers, and so on. Shopping secondhand is also an eco-friendly way to celebrate the holidays while staying on budget.

5. Personalize Your Presents

Personalized gifts make even simple items feel special. Custom photo calendars, engraved ornaments, monogrammed bags, or mugs with a favorite quote can leave a lasting impression without breaking the bank. Adding small, personal touches to affordable and useful items can make any gift more meaningful.

6. Stay Organized and Stick to Your Plan

Keeping track of your purchases and sticking to your budget is key to avoiding overspending. Use a spreadsheet or budgeting app to log each gift and its cost. Take advantage of discounts, free shipping, and promotional deals wherever possible. Sticking to a detailed shopping list will help you limit impulse buys and keep your finances on track.

Celebrate Thoughtfully Without Overspending

The holidays are about showing gratitude and love, not how much you spend. By following these tips, you can give meaningful gifts while maintaining financial stability. At First Financial, we’re here to help you make smart financial decisions during the holidays and year round too.

For more financial tips, subscribe to our First Scoop blog for ongoing advice and inspiration!

Amazon Scams to be Aware of this Holiday Season

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The holiday season is a time of joy and giving, but it’s also a peak time for scammers to target unsuspecting shoppers. With online shopping surging during this period, Amazon scams have become a growing concern. These scams aim to trick you into providing sensitive information or making unauthorized payments. By understanding the most common scams and learning how to avoid them, you can keep your finances and personal information safe this holiday season. 

Common Amazon Scams:

1. Order Confirmation Scams

These scams often involve unexpected, fake communications about unauthorized purchases. Scammers alert you of an unauthorized purchase, urging you to act quickly by clicking a link to confirm or cancel the transaction. They may attempt to convince you to share payment information and login details, or even purchase gift cards to resolve the issue.

2. Tech Support Scams

Scammers create fake websites offering “tech support” for Amazon devices or services, luring victims to call a fraudulent number. They may request remote access to your device or ask for sensitive information. Always go directly to the help section of Amazon’s website when seeking help. If you use a search engine, use caution. Legitimate Amazon links contain Amazon.com such as Amazon.com/support.

3. Prime Membership Scams

These scams falsely claim that your Prime membership is at risk or you owe a large membership fee. Scammers may request payment details or bank information to “reinstate” your membership. Amazon will never ask you to provide payment information for products or services over the phone.

Visit the Message Center on the Amazon website or mobile app to review authentic emails from Amazon. To verify your Prime membership status or make payments, log in to your Amazon account, then go to Your Account and select Prime.

4. Account Suspension/Deletion Scams

These scams claim your Amazon account will be suspended or deleted unless you take immediate action, such as providing login credentials or clicking a suspicious link. Always remember that Amazon will never ask you to disclose your password or verify sensitive personal information over the phone or on any website other than Amazon.com.

How to Spot and Avoid Scams:

Go Directly to the Source

Amazon will never ask for your password or sensitive information via phone or email. Check your account status by logging into Amazon directly and reviewing notifications in the Message Center.

Verify All Communications

Legitimate Amazon messages are stored in your account’s Message Center. Always check within your account if you receive suspicious emails, texts, or calls claiming to be from Amazon.

Beware of Urgency Tactics

Scammers often try to create panic or urgency, pressuring you to act quickly. Legitimate companies rarely demand immediate action.

Use Official Channels

Always make payments or update account details through the Amazon website or mobile app. Never enter sensitive information into third-party websites or unsolicited links.

Secure Your Login Credentials

Never share your password or sensitive information over the phone or through email. Enable two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security.

Monitor Financial Activity

Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges. Contact First Financial immediately if you notice anything unusual or believe you have been a victim of fraudulent activity on your First Financial accounts.

Report Suspicious Activity

If you encounter a scam, report it directly to Amazon using their self-reporting tool or contact their customer service team.

If you think you’ve been targeted by a scammer, visit Amazon’s Identifying a Scam webpage. Amazon has partnered with the Better Business Bureau to provide consumers with a searchable Scam Tracker. This enables you to search for suspicious communications reported by others via email, URL, phone number, and more. Scams are constantly changing and adapting as consumers become aware of new tactics – visit Amazon’s Latest Scam Trends page which is updated monthly with new scams and details you should know.

Stay Safe This Holiday Season with First Financial

At First Financial, we’re committed to helping our members protect their finances and personal information during the holiday season and beyond. By staying informed about common scams and following best practices, you can shop online with confidence. For more financial tips or to report suspicious account activity on your First Financial account, call us at 732.312.1500 or visit a branch today.

 

5 Simple Ways to Save Money on Holiday Travel

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The holidays are a magical time for reconnecting with family and friends, but traveling during this season often comes with steep costs. Fortunately, with a bit of planning and strategy, you can enjoy your holiday travels without overspending. Here are five simple ways to save on holiday travel in 2024 while making the most of the season.

1. Use Miles or Points for Flights and Hotels

Reduce your travel expenses by redeeming credit card points, airline miles, or hotel rewards you’ve accumulated throughout the year. Many cards and loyalty programs allow you to book flights, hotels, and even rental cars with points – saving you from dipping into your savings.

Key Tip: Don’t hold onto your points for too long, as “points inflation” can devalue them over time.

First Financial’s Visa Signature Cash Plus Credit Card offers 1% cash back on all purchases and uChoose Rewards, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and cruises.* Additionally, some hotel loyalty programs provide perks like free nights when booking with points — perfect for extended holiday trips.

2. Be Flexible with Travel Dates

Timing is everything when it comes to holiday travel savings. Flights tend to be cheaper on less popular travel days, such as the holiday itself. For example, flying on December 24th or 25th could cost significantly less than flying on the 22nd. Similarly, shifting your arrival or return date by a few days can help you snag better deals. Depending on your work situation, try to travel early and see if you can work remotely from your destination before and after the holiday. Being flexible with your travel dates can make a noticeable difference in cost.

3. Consider Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment by purchasing travel insurance, which can cover unexpected disruptions such as cancellations, delays, or lost luggage. While it’s an added cost upfront, travel insurance can save you significant money and stress in the event of unforeseen issues. It’s especially helpful if your plans involve non-refundable bookings or international destinations. Compare policies to find one that suits your needs and provides peace of mind.

4. Lock in Currency Exchange Rates

If your holiday travels take you abroad, consider locking in favorable currency exchange rates. First Financial offers convenient foreign currency exchange services, allowing you to secure your currency at a branch or have it delivered to your home. Currency price protection ensures that fluctuations in exchange rates won’t cost you extra, making it easier to stick to your travel budget.**

5. Use Apps to Monitor Flight Prices

Stay on top of flight deals using tools to track airfare changes. Apps like Expedia and Google Flights allow you to set alerts for price drops, ensuring you book your tickets at the lowest possible cost. If your travel dates are flexible, these tools can help identify the most budget-friendly options. Signing up for travel newsletters or airline sale alerts is another effective way to catch last-minute deals.

Enjoy Stress-Free Holiday Travel

With these simple strategies, you can save money on your holiday travel and focus on what truly matters — spending time with loved ones. At First Financial, we’re here to help you make the most of your finances all year round.

For personalized financial advice or assistance, call us at 732.312.1500 or visit a branch today. Don’t forget to subscribe to our First Scoop blog for more money-saving tips and financial insights.

*APR varies up to 18% for purchases, when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. The APR is 18% APR for balance transfers and cash advances. APRs 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 Fee. Other fees that apply: Cash advance fee of $10 or 3% of the total cash advance amount—whichever is greater (no maximum), Balance transfer fee of $10 or 3% of the balance—whichever is greater (no maximum), 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, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. 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.

**You may purchase Currency Price Protection (CPP) for an additional $10.00 in order to protect the purchase rate of transaction. The protected dollar amount may vary based on selection of currency. There is also a purchase/shipping cost for $14.50 per transaction.

There’s Deals and Then There’s Nightmares: Black Friday Scams

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As people around the United States hurriedly gobble down their Thanksgiving dinner in hopes of securing their spot in store lines, scammers are gearing up to take advantage of one of the most lucrative weeks of the year. While scammers are likely not lining up at storefronts, blending into the crowds of Black Friday deal-seekers, they are doing one thing—preying on the people who conduct their Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping online.

Here are some current scams you can protect yourself from this upcoming Cyber Week.

1. Fake Shipping Notification Emails and Text Messages

The holiday season provides the types of distractions scammers need to carry out their defrauding attempts. The FTC has urged consumers to heighten their awareness of potential fake shipping notification emails and text messages, whereby scammers capitalize on common emails or texts you might expect to see after a spree of online shopping. You might receive an email or text message saying you missed a delivery attempt, or need to update shipping preferences so that your item can be shipped to you. The email or text message will often claim to be coming from a large retailer, such as Amazon, or a courier such as USPS. However, once you click the link within the message, it will either collect the personal and financial information you enter or install harmful malware on your device.

Here are some tips for protecting yourself against fake shipping notification emails and texts:

  • If you are not expecting a package delivery: Do not click on the link or further interact with the message.
  • If you are expecting a package delivery: Contact the retailer or shipping company using a phone number or website that you know is real—never use the information contained within the message. Additionally, you can go to the site you ordered the item to check the shipping and delivery status.

2. Counterfeit Products

Although the saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” is regarded as cliché—it does have some truth to it. Picture this: an item you have been eyeing has finally slashed its price on Black Friday, but it is sold out on numerous reputable platforms. You navigate over to Amazon in hopes of finding it, and you find that not only is it in stock, but at a cheaper price point, too! There are two red flags present here, both the fact that such a sought-after item is in stock through such a high-traffic retailer and it is selling for cheaper than other reputable websites have it listed for. If you click the “Add to Cart” button and go through with purchasing the item, you’ll find that it is often counterfeit or made with low quality materials — the chief reason it was heavily discounted to begin with, and that is if you receive the item at all.

If you didn’t catch those red flags, here are some tips to prevent yourself from purchasing a counterfeit or low-quality item:

  • Remain Wary of Low-Priced Items from Unknown Brands: If a seller has an unknown name, or one that is not associated with the product, do your due diligence.
  • Read Verified Product and Seller Reviews: If a seller doesn’t have reviews or their products have few, if any, ratings and verified reviews – steer clear. The same goes the opposite way — stay away from products or sellers that have an unusual number of 5-star ratings without detailed comments.

3. Website Spoofing

When you look up your go-to online shop, you expect that it will be one of the first few results due to its popularity, and how often you visit it (no shame there)! When you add items to your cart and provide your personal and financial information during checkout, you probably don’t think twice when you click “Place Order.” Maybe it was after the fact that you thought something seemed a little off, such as an outdated user interface or incorrect grammar. You might have fallen victim to website spoofing, where a scammer creates a fraudulent website that mimics the real website you intended to visit, stealing the information you entered or downloading malicious software onto your device.

Here are some ways to spot website spoofing before your personal and financial information falls right into the lap of a scammer:

  • Incorrect Spelling and Grammar: Businesses often hire entire teams dedicated to webpage design to ensure that so much as a comma is not out of place. If you are noticing even a few incorrect spelling or grammar choices, the website you are visiting is likely not the intended one.
  • Marketing is Inconsistent: Strong and consistent branding is key to successful marketing, and professional organizations will ensure that the business name is spelled correctly, slogans and taglines are always consistent, and brand colors are never a hue off.
  • Unsecure Site: Ensure the site you are visiting has a “lock” or green icon next to the URL, as well as https:// in the URL. This is often a solid piece of evidence indicating that the website is legitimate, since it means the link is encrypted and your sensitive information is protected. However, browsers can be deceived as well — so consider this factor in addition to others when determining if a website is legitimate.

While scams can come in all shapes and sizes, here are some general tips that can help protect you from many scams this upcoming Cyber Week:

  • Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi Whenever Possible: Whether while making purchases, or entering your personal or financial information online.
  • Credit Cards > Debit Cards: Credit cards generally offer more fraud protection than a debit card, and credit card purchases aren’t deducted right from your checking account.
  • Strong Passwords Make All the Difference: Avoid using the same password for any two accounts, and make sure it is a password that would be hard for a scammer to crack.
  • Ensure Your Software is Up to Date: Device, app, and software updates often push out the latest and greatest protections, minimizing vulnerabilities that scammers can try to take advantage of.

First Financial is here to help if you believe your personal or financial information, or one of your First Financial accounts has been compromised. Don’t hesitate to contact us at 732.312.1500 or visit one of our local branches. Stay safe when shopping this holiday season!