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

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April showers not only brought May flowers, but they brought free and inexpensive activities to enjoy with your family and friends in Monmouth and Ocean Counties all month long.

May 3

Boujee Foodiecon (Oceanport) – If you consider yourself a “foodie” and want to sample some adventurous bites, head over to Fort Monmouth from 12:30pm-7pm on May 3rd or 12:30pm-6pm on May 4th. With appearances from over 40 vendors, as well as family-friendly games and music all day – this event will have something for everyone to enjoy. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door, with children 10 and under being free to attend. This event will be held rain or shine. Click here to purchase tickets and view the list of vendors.

Cinco de Mayo Celebration (Toms River) – Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Downtown Toms River on Washington Street from 12pm-6pm. The vendors, music, food, and drinks will give you a taste of authentic Mexican culture and cuisine without having to leave Toms River. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here for more information.

Made in Monmouth (Lincroft) – Made in Monmouth is making it easier than ever to shop local, bringing together over 250 Monmouth County vendors from 10am-4pm at the Robert J. Collins Arena & Recreation Events Center at Brookdale Community College. Selling everything from home décor to baked goods, jewelry and craft beverages – you can shop while supporting Monmouth County’s small businesses. Entry is free for all to attend. For more information, click here.

Ocean County Children’s Festival (Toms River) – Bring your little ones down to the Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library from 11am-3pm for a fun-filled day. This event promises to have indoor and outdoor programs and activities geared toward children, as well as resources and community connections for families. All children who attend will have the chance to make an original piece of art to take home. The event is free for all to attend, and registration is not required. Click here for additional information.

May 10

Designer Bag Bingo (Surf City) – If playing bingo isn’t enticing enough, you have the chance of winning a designer bag when you play at the Surf City Volunteer Firehouse – with doors opening at 4:30pm and games beginning at 6pm. In addition to bingo, there will be a 50/50 raffle, designer wristlet/wallet raffles, and other raffle baskets to win if you purchase additional tickets. Admission is $35 and includes 13 rounds of bingo and a door prize ticket. If you don’t play, you can’t win – click here to learn more information and try to make that designer bag yours.

May 11

iPlay America Moms Play Free (Freehold) – Treat your mom to a day of fun at iPlay America, opening at 11am on Mother’s Day. Moms get a free 2-hour unlimited video game pass, $10 bonus card, and a carnation flower all day long. Other attendees can add ride, game, or arcade packages to join in on the fun with mom. Click here for additional information.

Spring Bazaar (Asbury Park) – If you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate the mothers of all kinds in your life, bring them down to Convention Hall from 12pm-5pm on May 10th, and to Convention Hall and the Asbury Hotel from 12pm-5pm on May 11th. This weekend promises to be full of shopping from local makers, fresh flower bouquets, photos in front of unique stations, delicious food and libations (for those 21+), and live music. There is no entrance fee for all to attend, and there will be various goodies from vendors available for sale. Click here to view a sneak-peak of Mother’s Day weekend at the Spring Bazaar.

May 12

Dave & Buster’s Grand Opening (Freehold) – Join in on the fun at the Dave & Buster’s Grand Opening at the Freehold Raceway Mall at 11am. A longtime staple of family-friendly entertainment and dining, Dave & Buster’s brings together classic and modern arcade games and a full-service restaurant and bar under one roof. The first 100 people in line at the exterior entrance will get free gameplay all day. Click here to learn more about how you and your loved ones can be part of the Dave & Buster’s Grand Opening.

May 16

Jazz Night (Belmar) – The Belmar Arts Center will transform into a lively jazz club from 7pm-10pm. Whether you want to groove out to some smooth tunes or bring your instrument to jump in on a musical number or two, Jazz Night is the place to be to indulge in the rhythms of jazz. You can also bring snacks and drinks (BYOB for those 21+) to enjoy during the evening. There is a $5 entrance fee for all who attend. You can find additional information and purchase tickets here.

May 17

Green Fair (Brick) – Although Earth Day has passed, Brick Township is giving you the chance to learn about how you can keep the Earth green, while putting more “green” back in your pocket from 10am-2pm at the Bob Anstett Cultural Arts Center. This community-wide event is geared toward inspiring people of all backgrounds to embrace sustainable living in budget-friendly ways. There will be educational exhibits, presentations, vendors, giveaways, and door prizes. Admission is free for all who attend. Click here to learn more.

May 18

Runaway Farm Animal Sanctuary Meet and Greet (Bayville) – Bring your family and friends to Runaway Farm from 11am-3pm to meet some furry and feathered friends and learn about the animal sanctuary’s mission. In addition to meeting the friendly faces of the animal sanctuary – there will be live music to enjoy, vendors to shop, baked goods to purchase, and fun giveaways as you explore the farm. Admission is free for all who attend. You can learn more here.

May 24

Memorial Day Bike Parade (Point Pleasant) – Point Pleasant is putting a unique spin on celebrating Memorial Day at 10am, beginning at the For Shore Pool Parking Lot. Everyone is invited to decorate their “wheels” whether they are bikes, strollers, or wagons – in red, white, and blue to march in the parade. If you are interested in participating, you are encouraged to meet in the parking lot at 9:30am. The parade will end with a service honoring our Fallen Heroes at Veteran’s Memorial Park by Little Silver Lake. Admission is free for all who attend. Click here to learn more.

Memorial Day Festival (Bradley Beach) – Bradley Beach is honoring those who have served our country all weekend long during their Memorial Day Festival, beginning on May 24th at 9am on Ocean Avenue and ending on May 26th at 11am at Riley Park. This festival will feature vendors, a parade, and a service. There will also be live entertainment from a variety of local artists all weekend long at the 5th Avenue Beachfront Gazebo. Admission is free for all who attend. Click here to learn how you can join – whether it’s for one, two, or all three of the festival days.

May 25

Sunday Funday at Double Trouble State Park (Bayville) – Enjoy a sunset hike and make a gift to honor our veterans on the night before Memorial Day at Double Trouble State Park, beginning at 7pm. The hike will introduce you to the Pine Barrens ecosystem and offer a window into its history. Since the event begins at 7pm, the park kindly encourages attendees to not only consider bug spray – but dress appropriately for the weather. Admission is free for all ages. Registration ahead of the event is not required. Click here for more information.

May 26

Memorial Day Parade (Farmingdale) – Join Farmingdale in celebrating and honoring those who have served our country at their 52nd Annual Memorial Day Parade, beginning at 1pm on Main Street. The streets of Farmingdale will come alive with music, dancing, classic cars, horse drawn carriages, and more. For the first time in the history of Farmingdale’s Memorial Day Parade, and for those who enjoy shopping – vendors will be selling their unique goods beginning at 11am. Children are encouraged to bring bags to collect thrown candy, and all attendees are encouraged to bring flags to wave as the floats ride by. Admission is free for all who attend. To learn more, click here.

Memorial Day Parade (Freehold) – Join in on the biggest and longest running Memorial Day Parade in Western Monmouth County at 10am, beginning at the corner of Brinkerhoff Avenue and Main Street. There will be countless organizations participating, each bringing different forms of entertainment and creative floats to enjoy with your family and friends. The parade will go all around town, offering plenty of viewing spots. To view the parade route and see how to get a bird’s-eye view, as well as get additional details – click here.

May 31

Ocean Grove Spring Market – You won’t need a metal detector to search for hidden treasures at the Spring Market, taking place at the Great Auditorium on Ocean Pathway from 9am-3pm. Ocean Grove welcomes vendors selling vintage, antique, handmade, and new items – making this event a shopper’s paradise. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here for additional information.

Home Sweet … Home Improvement Scam?

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Deciding to take on a home improvement can be a big commitment, especially when you have to entrust a contractor with turning your dreams into reality. Unfortunately, scammers posing as trustworthy contractors are promising to do the work – and leaving your home and wallet to take the hit. Before you hire a home improvement contractor, consider these red flags that could indicate that a home improvement scam is happening to you.

What is a Home Improvement Scam?

A home improvement scam begins with receiving a flyer in the mail, viewing an advertisement on social media, or being met with an unsolicited knock on the door from a contractor. The so-called “contractor” will say they were working on another project in your neighborhood and had leftover supplies or were looking for new projects to take on because they would be working “in the area” for the foreseeable future. They are hoping that you have a home improvement need, or that you have been waiting to find a contractor that can meet your requirements. The contractor will somehow check off all the boxes – whether it’s completing the project in a short timeframe or within your budget. However, before you hire the contractor and even after the contractor begins your project – the red flags will start to come out. In the end, your home improvement project might cause additional damage to your home or financial situation, or not be completed at all.

Signs of a Home Improvement Scam

It might seem difficult to tell the difference between a trustworthy and not-so-trustworthy contractor. Below are some red flags that can signal you’ve been approached by a scammer.

  • Pressure to Make an Immediate Decision: A real contractor knows that undertaking a home improvement project isn’t a decision that can always be made immediately. Whether it’s consulting others that should be involved in the decision-making process, or confirming that the project is in your budget – there are countless reasons to “sleep on it.” Plus, getting the green light from your partner and your budget – will make you confident in your decision. A fraudster will persuade you into making an immediate decision so you don’t have time to pick apart the interaction or analyze any red flags.
  • Unrealistic Budget or Timeframe: There might be a reason that the contractors before this one could not complete your project to your specifications. Be cautious if you are approached by a contractor who says they can complete your project in half the time or for half the price that other contractors have given you.
  • Asking for Payment Upfront or Only Accepting Cash: This could signal that a contractor is not planning on completing the project, or that they are not planning on completing the project correctly. If a contractor asks you for payment upfront to “buy the materials,” be cautious.

Tips to Avoid Home Improvement Scams

Here are ways you can protect your home, and your wallet – from home improvement scams.

  • Ask for References: Scammers will be reluctant to hand over references, namely because they do not have good ones. Additionally, scammers won’t want to wait around for you to do your homework because they know they won’t get your business based on what you find. Reputable contractors will gladly hand over references so you can confidently make the decision in hiring them to complete your home improvement project. Their references will speak to the quality of work you can expect if you hired them to take on your project. If someone you know and trust recently completed a home improvement project, consider asking them for recommendations.
  • Get Multiple Estimates: Obtain written estimates detailing the work to be completed, the materials needed, and the anticipated price and completion date. If one estimate is substantially lower than all of the others, consider why this estimate is the odd one out. It might be tempting to go with the lowest estimate. However, this low estimate might end up costing you more in the long-run if the work is completed poorly, is completed using substandard materials, or isn’t completed at all.
  • Do Your Research: Check with organizations, like your local Home Builders Association, to see if any complaints were made against a contractor. You should also look up the business or contractor’s name with words like “scam,” “fraud,” or “complaint.” The Better Business Bureau also has a tool to find BBB Accredited businesses near you.
  • Know the Law: Ensure that the contractor you hire has the proper identification, licensing, and insurance needed to complete the project in your state. Additionally, if you are signing a contract to complete work – ensure that the contract includes all the specifics of completing the project.

First Financial knows that finding the right contractor is important. If you believe that you have fallen victim to a home improvement scam and your financial information has been compromised, don’t hesitate to visit a local branch or call us at 732.312.1500.

If you have found the right contractor and are looking for a way to finance your home improvement project, be sure to check out our Home Improvement Loan. We’ve got great rates, up to 10-year terms, and fixed monthly payments.* Apply online 24/7!

*Available on primary residence only. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Home Improvement Loan and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth of Ocean Counties. See credit union for details. Rate will vary based off of applicant’s credit rating. Not all applicants who apply will be approved, subject to underwriting guidelines and credit approval. Lien position and appraisal valuation may affect the maximum loan amount. Not all applicants will qualify for maximum Loan to Value (LTV) ratio. It will be based off of creditworthiness, property type, occupancy, lien position, and loan amount. Rates will be affected by LTV or combined LTV if there is another lien on the property. Loan amounts over $7,500.00 will be required to give First Financial FCU a security interest in their property. Rates will vary based off of lien position and whether the loan is mortgage secured or unsecured. For mortgage secured Home Improvement loans 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 are required to b

Busting Harmful Money Myths

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

Myth #1: Debit is Always Better Than Credit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Myth #5: Emergency Savings Aren’t That Important

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

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

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

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

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

Get the Facts with First Financial

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

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

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

The True Cost of Homeownership

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Achieving homeownership is a common goal amongst adults in the U.S., and is to some – considered to be a right-of-passage into the adult world. The home of your dreams might come with a hefty price tag – and that selling price is really just the tip of the iceberg.  From insurance to property taxes, maintenance and utilities – the total price you will pay to live in your home boils down to more than just your monthly mortgage payment. While you determine what you can afford to pay for your home, be sure to factor in these common expenses associated with homeownership so they don’t catch you off guard.

Insurance

Homeowners Insurance protects homeowners from the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property, as well costs that would arise from someone getting hurt while on your property. Although different policies offer various levels of coverage, homeowners insurance is meant to protect you from the nearly impossible feat of paying out-of-pocket to replace your home if an incident should occur. It is important to remember that even the most comprehensive insurance policies exclude certain events, so it is important to try and expect the unexpected by also setting emergency funds aside. According to NerdWallet, the average annual cost of homeowners insurance is $2,110 per year, or approximately $176 per month – for $300,000 worth of dwelling coverage.

Property Taxes

Property Taxes are fees charged on real estate by state and local government to pay for services and upkeep. The amount of taxes you owe typically depends on your area’s tax rates and the assessed value of your property, usually based on an annual appraisal. Unfortunately, these are an unavoidable aspect of homeownership. However, do remember that your property taxes are to thank for services that aid the local community, such as schools and police.

HOA Fees

Homeowners Association (HOA) Fees are only charged if your home is part of a homeowners association. A homeowners association is an organization that enforces rules on properties and residents, as well as collects fees to maintain common areas and facilities. The HOA fees you may be charged depend on numerous factors, such as the type of property you own, the location, and the amenities that are made available to residents. For example, you may be charged higher HOA fees than someone in another local development because you have access to a community pool or gym. If you live in a major metro area, you can expect higher HOA fees due to location. According to Homes, the national average HOA fee is $243 per month.

Maintenance and Upkeep

A common expense associated with homeownership is maintenance on your home. If you have ever asked a homeowner to recall the price of replacing their roof or their hot water heater and they have reacted with absolute horror, it’s because those replacements cost a pretty penny.  According to Consumer Affairs, home maintenance costs can range from $50 to over $12,000 depending on what needs to be repaired or replaced. As you might expect, there is a big difference in the cost of repairing your roof versus replacing your roof. One way to save money on home maintenance costs in the long-run is to keep up with a regular maintenance schedule on various systems and appliances. This type of regular maintenance can catch a smaller issue before it becomes a bigger one – and keep costs more manageable. Additionally, certain manufacturer warranties require this regular maintenance for your warranty to remain in effect.

Utilities

The old saying goes that the people is what “makes a house a home,” but try making a home without electricity or running water. All joking aside, paying for utilities is necessary to keep your home running. The cost of utilities widely varies depending on the size, location, and age of your home. Older homes may be less energy-efficient, driving up your electric bill by letting in cold air in the winter and hot air in the summer. Additionally, the cost of certain utilities can fluctuate depending on the time of the year. For example, your electric bill can fluctuate based on how often you are using your air conditioning. The prices of certain utilities can fluctuate based on factors largely out of your control, like changes in regulations or supply and demand impacting the price of natural gas. Common utilities you can expect to pay for are electric, natural gas, water and sewer, trash removal, and cable/internet.

In today’s market, navigating homeownership can be tricky – even without the less obvious challenges and expenses to account for. That’s why the mortgage experts in First Financial’s Loan Department offer complimentary video chats and phone calls to assist with the homebuying process, no matter what stage you’re in.

If you’ve found your dream home and are ready to apply, we’re also here to help you through the mortgage application process, or provide you with a quick pre-approval if you’re just starting to shop.* You can also visit a local branch or call 732.312.1500 and select option 4. We’re happy to help you finance your home sweet home!

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

How Small Businesses Can Make a Difference This Earth Day

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

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

1. Rethink Your Waste Habits

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

2. Recycle Old Electronics and Office Equipment

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

3. Go Paperless Where You Can

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

4. Choose Greener Packaging

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

5. Power Down to Save Energy

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

6. Upgrade to LED Lighting

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

7. Make Energy-Efficient Building Improvements

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

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

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

Start Small, Think Big

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

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

Financial Tips That Stuck: Advice from First Financial Staff

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April is National Financial Literacy Month, an initiative aimed at instilling individuals and families with the foundation needed to make sound financial decisions. No matter where you are in your financial journey, this month offers the perfect chance to pick up some new financial tips – or reflect on money lessons that have made a life-long impact on you. It is often said that experience can be the best teacher, so we asked our staff: “What is a financial tip that has really stuck with you?” From maximizing the power of credit card rewards to simple budgeting techniques, here are some financial tips that our team swears by – and for good reason.

  1. “Avoid Lifestyle Inflation. When your income increases, resist the urge to upgrade your lifestyle immediately. Instead, direct that extra money toward savings, investments, and especially paying off revolving debt! Having too much revolving debt lowers your credit score considerably.” – Julianne Brandt-Olivier, Director of Lending
  2. “Treat your credit card like a debit card. If you have a rewards credit card, this tip can help you avoid interest charges and overspending while racking up your points or cash back. When you have a debit card, you can only spend what is in your checking account. By self-imposing this same limit on your credit card, you will not only avoid spending more than what you can afford – but you will also reap the benefits of charging purchases you can pay off immediately, to your rewards credit card. This helps your credit card work for you!” – Samantha Colella, Business Development Representative
  3. “Pay the balance on your credit card every week – not just once a month. I have an alarm set for Saturday morning that reminds me to pay off whatever I’ve spent during the week. Making a payment to my credit card weekly keeps me honest as to how much I’m really spending.” –Michelle Comitini, Training Manager
  4. “Live within your means. Don’t spend more than you can afford.” – Nancy Culp, Chief Lending Officer
  5. “Pay yourself first. Think of yourself as a monthly bill. By paying that “monthly bill,” or yourself first – you will always have money tucked away for the future.” – Doreen Cutrona, Assistant Vice President of Member Operations
  6. “Create a budget. Don’t spend it, if you don’t have it. Also, start investing early.” – Sanjiv Dave, Director of Member Services
  7. “If you have debt (and we all do), list the debt in the order of highest interest rate to the lowest. Pay the debt with the highest interest rate off first so that you pay less interest in the long run. This also helps prioritize and keep you on track. It keeps things in perspective and helps you tackle the debt in a methodical and systematic way. When the largest interest rate debt is paid, you can check it off and go right on down the line and feel a sense of accomplishment.” – Eun Sook Kang, Compliance and Risk Specialist
  8. “Work toward eliminating revolving debt. Try to allocate extra funds in addition to your minimum required monthly payment. Apply this extra money to the debt with the highest interest rate. When that balance is paid off, continue to add to the next debt with the second highest interest rate and so on. In this way, you’re attacking the debt that accrues the highest monthly finance charges first, to pay off remaining debt faster.” – Michael Walker, Assistant Vice President of Information Technology
  9. “It might be a bit old school in today’s digital world, but each time I get paid I go over and reconfigure my budget for the upcoming 2 weeks. By writing out the money I have available on paper, my upcoming expenses, and how much I am going to put toward any bills – it helps me keep track of my spending more so than just looking at my account on my phone or in online banking. I still do both of those as well and monitor all my transactions, but actually writing out where my money is going helps me stay on track.” – Jessica Tortorice, Vice President of Marketing and Business Development

At First Financial, our top priority is supporting our members in achieving their financial goals – and we believe in the power of financial education to help achieve them. Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog to receive financial resources and tips right in your inbox.

What is a finacial tip that has stuck with you? Let us know in the comments!