Paying a Bill Online? Watch Out for Bill Pay Impersonators

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Paying a bill online should be simple. You search for the biller, find their payment page, enter your information, and you’re done. But that quick online search could take you somewhere you didn’t mean to go.

Bill pay impersonators and misleading third-party payment services can use online search results to make their websites appear to be an official payment option for a utility company, medical provider, government agency, or other organization. If you aren’t paying close attention, you could give sensitive information to the wrong company or pay unexpected fees.

Before you click “Pay,” take a few extra seconds to make sure you’re in the right place.

How Do Bill Pay Impersonators Work?

Imagine you need to pay a utility bill. Instead of typing the company’s website address into your browser, you instead search online.

The first result looks legitimate, so you click on it.

The catch? That result may be a paid advertisement from a company that isn’t actually affiliated with your utility provider.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, some companies have used paid search ads to make consumers believe they were using an official payment channel when they were actually visiting a separate third-party service.

The website may prominently display the biller’s name or otherwise look convincing enough that you don’t realize you’ve left the company’s official website.

You may only discover the difference after you’ve submitted your payment, encountered an unexpected fee, or had trouble confirming whether your bill was paid.

A Search Result isn’t Necessarily an Official Website

One of the biggest challenges is that paid advertisements can appear above regular search results.

Seeing a familiar company name at the top of Google, Bing, or another search engine doesn’t automatically mean the link is from that company.

Before clicking, check for labels like “Sponsored” or “Ad.” These labels don’t necessarily mean the advertiser is fraudulent, but they do indicate that the result was paid for rather than appearing organically.

Take a moment to check the website address as well. Scammers and misleading services may use web addresses that resemble a legitimate company’s domain but include extra words, unusual spellings, or other subtle differences.

Safer Ways to Pay Bills Online

A few simple habits can help you avoid ending up on the wrong payment site.

Go directly to the biller’s website.
If you already know the company’s website address, type it directly into your browser rather than searching for it each time.

Use a trusted bookmark.
After verifying a company’s official website, bookmark its payment page for future use.

Use the company’s official app.
If the organization offers a mobile app, download it from your device’s official app store and verify the developer before signing in.

Check the web address before entering any information.
Look at the full URL and make sure you’re on the site you intended to visit before entering account, card, or banking information.

Be cautious with sponsored search results.
Scrolling past paid advertisements is usually a smart idea.

Review payment details before submitting.
Check the biller’s company name, payment amount, and any added service fees before authorizing the transaction.

Consider Paying Bills Through Your Financial Institution

One of the safest ways to pay eligible bills online is through your financial institution’s online bill pay service.

Members of First Financial can utilize our Online Bill Pay, add billers, schedule payments and set up future or recurring payments through Online Banking or the First Financial Mobile App.*

Using a familiar, trusted platform can also save you time from repeatedly searching online for various bill payment websites.

What if You’re Not Sure You Used the Right Payment Website?

If you realize you may have entered payment or financial information on a suspicious website, act quickly.

Contact the company you intended to pay using contact information from a trusted source, such as a previous statement or its verified website, to confirm whether your payment was received.

You should also review your bank or credit card activity for unfamiliar transactions. If you shared financial information or notice suspicious activity, contact your financial institution or card issuer as soon as possible.

If you believe you encountered a scam or deceptive business practice, you can also report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Pause Before You Pay

Online bill payment is convenient, but that convenience can sometimes make it easy to click the first search result without taking a closer look.

Before entering your account or payment information, verify the website, check the URL, and make sure you’re dealing directly with the company you intended to pay.

Those few extra seconds can help protect both your money and your personal information. For more ways to stay a step ahead of scams, visit the Important Alerts & Scams section of our First Scoop Blog.

First Financial members can securely manage eligible bill payments through Online Banking and the First Financial Mobile App. Visit our Digital Services page to learn more about Online Bill Pay and other convenient ways to manage your finances online.*

*You must have an account at First Financial Federal Credit Union (serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties in NJ), and be enrolled in online banking, to use our mobile app or online banking services. Data rates may apply. Check with your mobile phone carrier for details. A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. Other terms & conditions may apply, see credit union for details.

Questions to Ask About Medicare

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If you are new to Medicare, there are several questions you should consider while approaching or within your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) or a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). Use this guide to consider your options when preparing to enroll in Medicare or after you have already enrolled.

What are the basics? Medicare is a complex program and can sometimes be confusing. The best place to start when you are new to Medicare is by familiarizing yourself with the differences between it and the health insurance you have now. Learn what makes a person Medicare-eligible, the different parts of Medicare insurance and what those parts cover, the times to enroll in Medicare (typically enrollment begins October 15th and runs through December), and how putting off enrollment can result in penalties. These initial steps will help smooth the transition from your current insurance to Medicare once you are eligible.

What are your coverage options? Everyone has different healthcare needs, meaning the coverage that is right for your friends or family may not be right for you. Will you enroll in Original Medicare, or would you prefer a Medicare Advantage Plan that may limit your provider networks or have different costs – but that offers additional coverage? If you have current employer insurance, you may decide not to enroll in Medicare until you have retired. If you are already retired, you might find that Original Medicare plus retiree insurance works better for you than Original Medicare plus a Medigap (or vice versa). Find out the full range of your coverage options at Medicare.gov.

Should you enroll in Part D? While you should make sure you enroll in Part D prescription drug coverage when you become Medicare-eligible (assuming you do not have other creditable drug coverage), there are many Part D options for you to explore. Keep in mind, too, that sometimes retiree insurance offers prescription drug coverage that is as good as or better than Medicare Part D. If that is the case, you might decide not to take Part D because you are already covered. Finally, if you have difficulty affording your drug costs, you may want to consider applying for programs that can help you pay these costs.

Are you eligible for programs that help lower Medicare costs? There are several programs for those with lower incomes which help pay for Medicare-related costs, such as premiums and co-pays. Some of these programs are federal, while others are state-specific. You will need to find out whether you meet the eligibility requirements.

What resources exist to help you navigate Medicare? Medicare is a beneficial program, and a variety of trusted sources can help you navigate your rights and options. A few are listed below:

As your financial services professional with the First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, I can help you with the planning of your long-term care options.

To learn more about Medicare, watch the short video below. You can also schedule an appointment with me and we’ll go through it together, or visit Medicare.gov for more information.

 

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:

© Medicare Rights Center. Used with permission.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Mortgage Prequalification vs. Preapproval: What’s the Difference?

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If buying a home is on your radar, you’ve probably heard the terms prequalification and preapproval. They sound similar, and both can help you better understand your homebuying budget, but they aren’t exactly the same.

Knowing the difference can help you determine which step makes sense based on where you are in your homebuying journey.

What is Mortgage Prequalification?

Mortgage prequalification is often an early step for prospective homebuyers. It can estimate how much you may be able to borrow based on the financial information you provide, such as your income, assets, and existing debt.

Think of prequalification as a starting point. You may not be ready to make an offer on a home yet, but you want to understand what could realistically fit within your budget.

A prequalification can be particularly helpful if you:

  • Are beginning to think about buying a home
  • Want a better idea of your potential price range
  • Are comparing renting versus buying
  • Want to identify financial areas you may need to work on before seriously shopping

Because prequalification is based on preliminary information, the amount you’re ultimately approved to borrow may change after a full review of your finances.

What is Mortgage Preapproval?

A mortgage preapproval is generally a more detailed step. During the preapproval process, the lender reviews and verifies additional financial information. This may include your income, assets, debt and credit history. You may also need to provide documentation such as pay stubs, bank statements or tax information.

If you meet the lender’s initial requirements, you may receive a preapproval letter showing how much you could potentially borrow, subject to the lender’s conditions and final approval.

A preapproval can be especially helpful once you’re ready to actively shop for a home. In a competitive market, sellers and real estate agents may also see a preapproval letter as a sign that you’ve already taken important steps to secure financing.

Prequalification vs. Preapproval: Which One Do You Need?

The answer may depend on how close you are to buying.

If you’re starting to explore your options, getting prequalified can help you understand how much you may be able to afford.

If you’re ready to actively shop for a home, getting preapproved may make more sense since the lender will take a closer look at your finances.

Neither one guarantees that you’ll ultimately receive a mortgage. Final approval typically occurs later on in the process, after you select a property, complete a formal mortgage application, and satisfy the lender’s underwriting requirements.

Don’t Let Your Maximum Determine Your Budget

Whether you receive a prequalification or preapproval, remember that the amount you may qualify to borrow and the amount you’re comfortable spending aren’t necessarily the same.

Your monthly mortgage payment is just one part of the cost of owning a home. Your budget will also need to cover property taxes, homeowners insurance, utilities, maintenance, potential repairs, and other ongoing expenses.

Before deciding on a price range, take a close look at your overall monthly budget and consider which payment option allows you to continue working toward your other financial goals.

You don’t need to shop at the very top of your borrowing range, choose an amount that feels comfortable for you.

Prepare Before You Start the Process

Whether you’re seeking prequalification or preapproval, it helps to have a clear picture of your finances.

Before speaking with a lender, consider reviewing:

  • Your monthly income
  • Your current debt and monthly payments
  • Your savings available for a down payment and closing costs
  • Your credit history
  • Your anticipated homebuying budget
  • Other financial goals and expenses you need to account for

Getting organized early can also help you have a more productive conversation with your lender about your options. For a step-by-step overview of what to expect throughout the mortgage process, check out our Homebuyer’s Guidebook.

Take the First Step with First Financial

You don’t have to figure out the mortgage process on your own. First Financial offers mortgage prequalification and preapproval options to help prospective homebuyers within Monmouth or Ocean Counties take the next step with greater confidence.*

If you’re just beginning to shop, a prequalification letter can help you better understand your potential price range. If you’re ready to take your home search to the next step, our team can help you explore the preapproval process and your available mortgage options. Get started with our quick mortgage preapproval inquiry form.

Wherever you are in your homebuying journey, starting the conversation early can help you understand your options, prepare financially, and shop with a clearer picture of what may work for you.

Ready to get started with First Financial? Schedule a video chat or phone call with our Mortgage Team or call 732-312-1500, Option 4.*

*Subject to credit approval. Minimum mortgage loan amount is $100,000. Available on primary residence only. Mortgage insurance may be required depending on loan guidelines. This is not a credit decision or a commitment to lend. 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. Qualified borrowers must meet eligibility requirements including, but not limited to, property location, loan amount, loan type, occupancy, property type, loan-to-value, debt-to-income ratios, FICO credit scores, refinance with cash out and other variables. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account or loan. Other terms & conditions may apply, see the credit union for details.

NMLS CU ID: 685814. Equal Housing Lender.

How to Break the Emotional Spending Cycle

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If you’ve ever opened a shopping app after a stressful day at work, had a conversation that didn’t go as planned, or you received bad news – you’re not alone. Shopping after experiencing difficult emotions is more common than you might think. But if clicking check out on your online shopping cart temporarily gives you a rush of excitement and is then quickly replaced with financial consequences and feelings of regret – you’re most likely engaging in emotional spending. Let’s learn what emotional spending is, why we do it, and how to overcome it.

What is Emotional Spending?

Emotional spending (sometimes nicknamed “retail therapy”) refers to purchases that are driven by emotions rather than your need for the product or service. It’s different from typical discretionary spending, like when you buy the new golf clubs you’ve been planning to buy and that you’ve budgeted for. In this state, shopping is a way to relieve feelings like stress or loneliness.

Emotional spending isn’t always a large purchase. It can be frequent, small purchases in grocery checkout lines or even late at night. It can look like ordering takeout after a long day, even when you already have groceries at home. It can be impulsively purchasing everything in your Amazon cart because it will make you feel better, even if you know you can’t afford it. Emotional spending does not always begin as a problematic habit – it’s a common behavior that can have serious financial and emotional consequences if it becomes one.

Signs of Emotional Spending

  • The impulse to go shopping comes after experiencing an emotion like stress or boredom.
  • You feel a short-lived sense of relief after making the purchase, which is later replaced by guilt or regret.
  • Your spending has caused you to accrue debt, deplete your savings, negatively impact your credit score, or worse.
  • Spending causes conflict with family, friends, or significant others.
  • You continue to repeat the pattern, even though you are aware it has had a negative impact on your financial health.

What Causes Emotional Spending?

Research has shown that shopping makes people feel good – every aspect of the transaction from browsing, to imagining, to finally owning the product. According to the Cleveland Clinic, this is because shopping releases “happy hormones” that encourage us to keep engaging in the same behavior. We feel temporary relief after shopping, so we keep doing it.

How to Overcome Emotional Spending

1. Track Your Patterns and Address Them

Do you know what gives you the urge to buy things? Maybe you notice a pattern of shopping after a difficult day at work or you reward yourself after reaching a goal.

Consider using a journal or app to track when the urge to spend arises and what caused it. By addressing the root cause of the spending, you are more equipped to recognize  a pattern and redirect your focus.

2. Implement a Spending Rule

Consider hitting pause before buying the item. Give yourself a set time to wait before making an unplanned purchase, or longer for bigger purchases.

During this waiting period, ask yourself a few questions:

  • Do I really need to make this purchase or am I shopping to relieve the emotion I’m feeling right now?
  • Does this purchase fit into my budget?

When the time is up, you may discover that you don’t need the purchase. Your desire to  buy the item might even disappear completely.

3. Set a Discretionary Spending Limit

If your budget allows for it, set aside some “fun money” you can use for wants. By deciding how much you can comfortably afford to spend, you can shop without feeling guilt or regret.

Need to create a budget? Check out our fillable budget worksheet to calculate what you might have left to spend after your total monthly expenses.

4. Set Financial Goals

Having clear, meaningful financial goals can make you think twice about buying something you don’t need. When your money has a purpose, you might be more likely to reconsider non-essential purchases – because that money can get you closer to reaching one of your goals.

5. Find Alternative Activities to Handle Emotions

Both negative and positive emotions can lead to overspending. When those emotions arise, try replacing shopping with another more productive activity.

Breaking the habit of emotional spending can feel overwhelming, even if you recognize the negative consequences it has on your daily life. However, breaking the cycle can help you experience improved financial well-being.

For more financial advice and money management tips, subscribe to our First Scoop Blog.

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this October 2026

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Check out these budget-friendly (and sometimes spooky) events happening in Monmouth and Ocean Counties this October.

Be sure to check dates, times, locations, and weather for any of the events you plan to attend, as details may be subject to change.

October 1

Lacey | Fall Festival | Various Times

Argos Farm is hosting a Fall Festival like no other all month long! Pick the perfect pumpkin, find your way through a corn maze, try all the fun attractions, sample tasty seasonal treats, and more. The Fall Festival welcomes visitors on Thursdays & Fridays from 2pm-6pm and Saturdays & Sundays from 10am-6pm. Weekday admission is $14.95 a person in advance (ages 2 and up)/$17.95 at the gate and weekend admission is $23.95 a person in advance/$27.95 at the gate. Pricing is subject to change.

Lacey | Jacks & Lights | Various Times

If a spooky walk through a jack o’ lantern-lit trail is more your speed – explore Argos Farm’s Jacks & Lights on Thursdays through Sundays through the end of October. You’ll embark on an adventure through hundreds of lit jack o’ lanterns, spooky sounds, and scary scenes. End the night with a festive treat or sip (ages 21+). Admission is $24.95 a person in advance (ages two and up) when purchased online and up to $29.95 at the gate.

October 2

Freehold | Fall Festival | Various Times

Bring the whole family out for a fun day filled with fall activities at Twin Pond Farm (49 Howell Road) on Fridays through Sundays through November 1st. Included with admission are festive activities and experiences like a 7-acre corn maze, hayrides, pumpkin bowling, a petting zoo, and more. For an additional fee, you can also go pumpkin picking. Admission is $19.99 per person on Fridays, $25 per person on Saturdays and Sundays – and children two and under are always free. Purchase tickets online.

Seaside Heights | Restaurant Weekend | 5pm

It’s the perfect weekend to taste your way through Seaside Heights! Enjoy delicious food and great drinks (ages 21+) at participating restaurants Friday to Sunday at discounted prices. Whether you’re craving a cozy fall meal or a sweet treat after strolling the boardwalk – there’s something for everyone. Visit the event website for a full list of participating restaurants and their special weekend offers.

October 3

Neptune City | Fall Festival | 12pm-8pm

This is a rescheduled event. Head over to Memorial Park (7 Myron Ave) for an action-packed day of all things fall! This year’s festival features a full lineup of live musical entertainment, a bounce house and petting zoo, local food vendors, and a community bonfire and s’mores to end the night. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase.

October 9

Wall Township | Night of Frights | 6pm-9pm

When the sun sets, the monsters of the Historic Village at Allaire come out – every Friday and Saturday through October 30th. Enjoy glow-in-the-dark bubble shows, a fire juggler and sword swallower, scary displays and scenes, frightful storytelling, and more. This is a family-friendly event, but be aware there may be stories or displays that could give young ones a fright. Admission is $21.97 a person for ages 13 and up, $16.73 a person for ages 4 to 12, and free for children 3 and under. Purchase tickets online.

October 10

Red Bank | Oktoberfest | 1pm-5pm

Enjoy an afternoon of German food, fun, and frosty cold ones (ages 21+) in Edmund Wilson Plaza (the west side of downtown Red Bank). There will be tastings of beer, wine, and spirits (for those ages 21+), authentic food, live music and entertainment, a craft vendor market, a kids’ zone, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Tasters ages 21+ can purchase a tasting package in advance or on the day of the event.

October 13

Freehold | Flavor of Freehold | 5:30pm-8pm

Experience Downtown Freehold one restaurant at a time during this two-night tasting tour. With your passport in hand, you’ll embark on a tour of downtown’s favorite restaurants, eateries, and local businesses – and try signature samples at each stop. Tickets are $25 per person and are limited – purchasing tickets in advance is strongly recommended.

October 17

Toms River | Harvest Arts Festival | 11am-5pm

Enjoy all the best family-friendly fall fun on Washington Street. Downtown Toms River will be jam-packed with free kids’ games and activities, pumpkin painting, live bands, vendors, food trucks, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase.

Long Branch | Fall Festival & Pooch Parade | 12pm-4pm

Invite your family, friends, and four-legged companions to celebrate the season at Pier Village. Enjoy hands-on activities and festive experiences like pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, seasonal treats, fall-themed games and inflatables, and more. If you have a dog, dress them up and join the Pooch Parade & Costume Contest for a chance to win best dressed. There is no entry fee to attend the Fall Festival & Pooch Parade, but individual activities, purchases, and registration may have separate fees.

October 24

Tuckerton | Trick or Treat | 12pm-2pm

Experience Halloween with a twist by trick or treating around the Tuckerton Seaport Boardwalk. Bring your Halloween costume and a bucket (or pillowcase) to get all the candy you can find. This is a free event for the whole community.

October 25

Freehold | Halloween Spooktacular Costume Parade & Contest | 1pm-4pm

Get your best Halloween costume and show it off for a chance to win a prize in one of eight different categories! Participants will check-in and line up in the Freehold Raceway parking lot (Manalapan entrance) by 12:15pm to have their costume judged before parading down Main Street at 1pm. There will be complimentary refreshments and the announcement of the winners at the Hall of Records parking lot after the parade. There is no entry fee to participate in or watch the parade.

October 30

Allentown | Haunted Halloween Horse Drawn Carriage Rides| 6pm-9pm

Step aboard for a spooky seasonal adventure like no other! Gather your friends and family for a narrated horse drawn carriage ride through Main Street to experience Halloween in a unique way. Advance registration is recommended – rides depart every 20 minutes and limited seating is available. Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased online.

October 31

Toms River | 87th Annual Halloween Parade | 7pm

Celebrate the spookiest night of the year by participating in one of Toms River’s oldest traditions! Get your best Halloween costume and join the Toms River Volunteer Fire Co. 1 for their annual parade. There will be frightening floats, costumes of all kinds, and the community gathered together for a night of Halloween fun. There is no entry fee to participate in or watch the parade.

First Edition Member Newsletter: Quarter 3 2026

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Our Quarterly Member Newsletter is here, and it’s packed with lots of financial tips, fresh insights, and exciting updates!

Our Member Newsletter is now available electronically, where it can be found on our website and social media sites. Paper copies will be available in our branches.

The Quarter 3 2026 First Edition Member Newsletter features the following:

View a copy of the newsletter.

We hope you enjoy exploring what’s new here at First Financial!

*Full terms and conditions are available on our Lease Buyout Loans webpage.