90 Years Strong: Why Banking Local Still Matters

Posted on by
Reply

In a financial world that’s increasingly digital, fast-moving, and impersonal, one thing has never gone out of style: people helping people.

That simple idea is what sparked the creation of credit unions nearly a century ago, and it’s the same principle that continues to guide First Financial as we prepare to celebrate 90 years of service today on February 6th!

Pictured above: Tellers and members from our first branch location in Asbury Park, NJ when we were Monmouth County Teachers FCU.

Where Credit Unions Began

Credit unions were born out of necessity. In the early 20th century, many working families and small business owners were shut out of traditional banking. Loans were hard to access, savings options were limited, and financial support often depended on who you knew, not what you needed. Credit unions changed that.

Built by communities, for communities – credit unions were designed to be member-owned, not profit driven. Their mission was clear – to provide fair, affordable financial services and help people build stability, security, and opportunity. That mission still matters today.

The Power of People First Banking

While technology has transformed the way we bank, the value of local, relationship-based financial institutions has only grown stronger.

At First Financial, “putting people first” isn’t just a phrase or a tagline, it’s how business gets done every day. When you become a member, that means you’ll receive:

  • Personal service from people who know your name, your financial goals, and your community.
  • Thoughtful lending decisions made locally, not by algorithms or distant headquarters.
  • Financial guidance rooted in trust, not just transactions.

When you walk into our credit union or connect with us online, you’re not just an account number: You’re a member. An owner. A neighbor.

Investing Where It Matters Most

Local banking keeps dollars circulating close to home. Credit unions are known to reinvest in the communities they serve – supporting local businesses, non-profits, schools, and families. Every loan, every account, and every financial decision contributes to a stronger local economy.

Over the past 90 years, First Financial has grown alongside the people and communities it serves, adapting to changing needs while staying rooted in the same cooperative values that sparked its founding.

Trust Built Over Generations

For nine decades, members have turned to First Financial during life’s biggest moments – buying a home, starting a business, planning their future, and navigating unexpected challenges. Those relationships span generations, creating a legacy of stability and care that larger institutions typically can’t replicate. In an era when financial choices can feel overwhelming, having a trusted local partner makes all the difference.

Honoring the Past, Building the Future

As we celebrate our official 90th anniversary, we’re taking time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going.

This milestone isn’t just about longevity. It’s about resilience, adaptability, and staying true to the values that matter most. Throughout the year ahead, we’ll be celebrating this anniversary with member stories, special promotions, and moments that honor our history while looking toward the future. You can find out all the ways we’ll be celebrating 90 years on our website, which will continuously be updated throughout 2026.

Why Banking Local Still Matters

Ninety years strong is more than a milestone, it’s a reminder that when financial institutions are built on trust, service, and community – everyone benefits. Local decisions create lasting impact, and when people come together with a shared purpose – they can build something that lasts for generations.

Thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to 90 years, and many more to come!

Want to learn more about our journey? Explore our history and the people-first values that have guided us for 90 years.

Not a First Financial member yet but want to join us? First Financial membership is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey. Learn more about getting started on our website, or stop into any of our branch locations.

*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. All personal memberships are part of the Rewards First program and a $5 per month non-participation fee is charged to the base savings account for memberships not meeting the minimum requirements of the program. Click here to view full Rewards First program details. Some restrictions apply, contact the Credit Union for more information.

How to Choose the Right Financial Institution for Your Small Business

Posted on by
Reply

There are thousands of financial institutions offering business banking products and services, which can make choosing the right one time consuming for busy small business owners. Here’s a guide on how to decide on the institution that’s best for your business banking needs.

1. Consider Current and Future Needs of Your Business

Identify the needs of your business before deciding on a financial institution to avoid facing surprises down the road, such as not being able to perform a transaction that’s essential – or running into limitations when growing. Understanding your current needs, as well as how those needs will evolve with your business – will also help identify account types and features fit to your current and future operations.

Here are some questions to consider:

  • What day-to-day transactions do you conduct the most?
  • Is your business cash intensive or does it conduct mostly digital operations?
  • Do you need online and mobile banking access to manage your business finances on-the-go?
  • Does your business have multiple owners or signers needing account access?
  • What products, services, and support will your business need as it grows?

2. Identify Important Business Banking Features

It’s time to identify features that will support your needs and help effectively carry out day-to-day operations. This is important because features can widely vary not only between financial institutions, but between account types at the same institution.

To match needs to features – look at the needs you identified above and think about how the account features a financial institution offers can support them.

Some more questions to consider:

  • Is it easier to manage your finances digitally without visiting a branch?
  • What transactions do you complete through online or mobile banking?
  • Is full-service banking (keeping all your banking transactions at one financial institution) important to you?
  • Would you value your institution to provide personalized service and advice tailored to your business, even if it’s a smaller institution?

3. Common Types of Business Bank Accounts

There are many business accounts to choose from, made to support different business needs and functions.

Business Checking Account: An account where you will conduct and manage your day-to-day finances. You can accept payments, pay bills, and do your daily spending with this account. It’s foundational and essential for recordkeeping and tax filing.

Business Savings Account: An account that serves as a financial buffer, giving you quick access to funds in the event of an unexpected expense. It can also be used as a goal-oriented account to set funds aside for a specific financial goal. These accounts can be interest-bearing, allowing you to earn interest on funds while they aren’t being used.

Business Loan: Allows a business to borrow a set amount of funds, gaining access to capital for various purposes such as expanding operations or purchasing equipment.

Business Credit Card: Allows a business to manage cash flow by providing quick access to funds for supplies or other necessary expenses.

For small business owners in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey, First Financial offers all of these account types to support your business through every stage.

4. Understand the Differences Between Financial Institutions

Banks: Owned by shareholders and operate for profit to drive returns to investors. They are typically open to anyone without specific eligibility criteria. Banks can have more branches and ATMs, offering more accessibility.

Credit Union: Not-for-profit financial cooperatives that cater to specific members, such as those in certain counties or states or who work for certain employers. Since they are member-owned, credit unions typically have lower service fees, lower loan rates, and higher interest rates on deposits compared to other institutions. Depending on the size, a credit union might have fewer branch locations, but typically participates in an ATM network so members can access services in various locations. Credit unions deliver personalized service due to their presence in the community in which they operate.

Online-Only Bank: Operates exclusively through digital platforms such as online and mobile banking, without physical branches. Without brick and mortar locations, these banks can minimize costs and remain competitive with traditional banks – offering the same products and services with comparable or better loan and savings rates, and fees.

5. Open Your Business Bank Account

Now that you’ve identified your business needs, as well as what account types and features will support those needs – you are ready to open an account at the institution that makes the most financial sense for you.

If you’re a small business owner in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and that leads you to First Financial as part of your search – visit a local branch, call 732.312.1500, or visit our website to find out how you can become a business member today.*

*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.

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

Posted on by
Reply

Love is in the air – and so are free or inexpensive local events to celebrate it! Check out these budget-friendly happenings in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this month that say “Happy Valentine’s Day” without a hefty price tag.

February 6

Back to the 80s Dance Party (New Egypt) – Break out your legwarmers and neon for a night of reliving the iconic music and dance moves of the 80s at Laurita Winery, beginning at 7pm. This dance party will be filled with your favorite throwback hits, retro vibes, and nonstop fun. Admission is $11 per person in advance and $12 per person at the door. There will be alcoholic beverages available for purchase for those ages 21 and over. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets online.

February 7

Tap the Sugar Maples (Howell) – Head over to the Howell Living History Farm from 10am-4pm for a lesson in how the sap from maple trees becomes pancake-ready! Expert tree-tappers will demonstrate the maple syrup production process from start to finish – beginning with how to tap a backyard maple tree to making syrup at home. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn more.

Valentine’s Sweet Stroll (Red Bank) – Enjoy a sweet afternoon of delicious treats and experiences in Downtown Red Bank from 11am-2pm. Your stroll begins at 6 Monmouth Street, where you will pick up your complimentary map and tote bag. Then you’ll continue exploring the small businesses and local eateries offering sweet deals, special treats, and unique experiences. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

February 8

Seals of Monmouth County (Port Monmouth) – You might have to seal it to believe it – but Monmouth County is the place many seals call “home” for the winter. Head over to the Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center from 12pm-1pm to learn about our local seal population, how to identify the different species of seals, and what threats they may face along the Jersey Shore. There is no entry fee to attend and registration is not required. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Seals of Monmouth County.”

February 10

Healthy Eating: Mindful Choices for a Better You (Holmdel) – If one of your new year’s resolutions was to make healthier choices, check out this presentation at the Holmdel Branch of the Monmouth County Library System – beginning at 1:30pm. A Hackensack Meridian Registered Nurse will be presenting on how to simplify your health journey, how to elevate your overall wellbeing, and how to navigate advice when it can seem overwhelming. There is no entry fee to attend, but registration is required. Click here to learn more and register for the event.

February 11

Valentine’s Day Pop-Up (Holmdel) – You can explore the Valentine’s Day Pop-Up at Bell Works from 11am-4pm – or again on February 14th from 11am-4pm if you miss it! Browse handcrafted items that make the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, such as unique jewelry, clothing, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

February 14

Historical Valentines (Allentown) – Roses are red, violets are blue, and handwritten valentines are still a timeless tradition, too! Celebrate Valentine’s Day the old-fashioned way at Historic Walnford from 1pm-3pm. You’ll learn how love letters and valentines have changed since the 18th and 19th centuries, then take inspiration from what you’ve seen to create a love letter or valentine of your own with historically inspired materials. There is no entry fee to attend. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Historical Valentines.”

Valentine’s Day Bazaar (Asbury Park) – Stop by Convention Hall to enjoy all things Valentine’s Day, all weekend long from 12pm-5pm. Explore the curated lineup of local makers and small businesses to find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your loved ones (or yourself). In addition to love, live music and DJ sets will be in the air too! There will also be food and beverages, a themed photo wall to strike a pose with your sweetheart or besties, a fresh flower bouquet bar, family-friendly activities, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Winter Beach Walk (Manasquan) – If you and your special someone love long walks on the beach, you’ll love this Winter Beach Walk at Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area from 11am-12:30pm. A Park System Naturalist will take you on a guided walk, identifying some of the ocean’s treasures and letting you stop to collect some along the way. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and bring something to carry shells in. There is no entry fee to attend. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Winter Beach Walk.”

February 21

Black History Month Celebration (Toms River) – Celebrate Black History Month with musical entertainment and great food at the Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library System from 12pm-3pm. There will be a food tasting prepared by members of the Toms River Area NAACP and a musical performance by veteran singer, producer, and songwriter Dave Revels. There is no entry fee to attend, but registration is required. Click here to learn more and register for the event.

Monmouth Moms Winter Play & Craft Fair (Holmdel) – Head over to Bell Works for a family-friendly indoor Winter Play & Craft Fair from 11am-3pm. This event will feature arts and crafts stations, a kids zone with open play areas, STEM activities, story time, a magic show, character visits, and more. Parents are welcome to explore the offerings of 80+ local vendors while the children are kept busy with countless activities. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Registration is required. Click here to learn more and register.

Winter Beach Blast (Toms River) – Don’t let any snow on the ground fool you, it’s summer inside the Ocean County Mall from 1pm-4pm. There will be a giant Twister game, crafts, and activities the whole family will enjoy. Additionally, Ocean County Parks and Recreation along with Jenkinson’s Aquarium – will be on-site providing activities and information for attendees. Click here to learn how you can experience summer instead of braving the cold for an afternoon.

Winter Warmup (Lakehurst) – Escape the winter blues with an afternoon of free family fun at Proving Ground Church from 1pm-3pm. They’ve got everyone covered with activities for all ages – such as games, crafts, facepainting, a hot cocoa bar, bounce house sanctuary, toddler soft play area, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. You can find additional information here.

February 22

Yoga at the Aquarium (Point Pleasant Beach) – Participate in a relaxing and mindful yoga session surrounded by sea life at Jenkinson’s Aquarium from 9am-10am. This program welcomes those ages 10 and older of all experience levels (minors must be accompanied by a participating adult). Admission is $30 per person and includes admission to the aquarium for the day following the session. You can register for the event and learn more information here.

February 23

Yoga for Beginners (Manalapan) – Stay active this winter by participating in a beginner yoga class at the Manalapan Branch of the Monmouth County Library System at 6:30pm. A yoga instructor will lead the session to help free the mind and body from everyday stress. This program welcomes adults ages 18 and older of all experience levels. A yoga mat or thick towel is required to participate. There is no entry fee to attend, and registration is not required. Click here for additional information and disclosures.

February 28

Puzzle Swap (Brick) – The only feeling better than finishing a puzzle is starting a new one, so head over to the Brick Branch of the Ocean County Library System from 10am-12pm to find your next adventure. Bring in as many gently used puzzles as you’d like to swap with other puzzle enthusiasts. There is no entry fee to attend, but registration is required. Click here to learn more and register for the event.

Virtual Casting Call Scams: What They Are and How to Protect Yourself

Posted on by
Reply

Dreaming of a role in a movie or TV show? Scammers are taking advantage of that excitement through virtual casting call scams, which is a growing form of fraud that can lead to financial loss and identity theft.

These scams often start with an unexpected message from someone claiming to be a “talent scout” offering a virtual audition for a well-known production. While the opportunity may sound exciting, it’s important to know the warning signs before engaging.

How Virtual Casting Call Scams Work

These scams typically follow a predictable pattern. Be cautious if you notice any of the following:

Unexpected Outreach: Victims receive unsolicited texts or messages claiming they were “discovered” and invited to audition, even though they never applied.

Requests for Payment: Before the audition, scammers ask for payment, credit card details, or gift cards to “secure” a spot or cover administrative fees. Legitimate casting calls do not charge audition fees.

High Pressure Virtual Calls: If a virtual audition does take place, scammers often pressure victims into paying for fake photo shoots, acting classes, or priority representation to move forward.

No Opportunity, No Refund: Once payment is made, the scammer typically disappears, leaving victims without a role, services, or their money.

How to Protect Yourself

To reduce your risk:

  • Don’t respond to unsolicited casting messages.
  • Never pay upfront for auditions or representation.
  • Research casting agencies and opportunities independently.
  • Avoid sharing personal or financial information with unknown contacts.
  • Use your phone’s tools to block and report suspicious messages.

If something feels off or if it seems too good to be true, trust your instincts.

What to Do if You’ve Been Targeted

If you believe you’ve interacted with a virtual casting call scammer:

  1. Stop communicating immediately with the scammer.
  2. Save messages, receipts, and screenshots for your records.
  3. Contact your financial institution or credit card provider right away to report suspicious or unauthorized charges.
  4. Report the message as spam by forwarding unwanted texts to 7726 (SPAM) or using your phone’s “report junk” option.
  5. Delete the message once it’s been reported.
  6. Report the scam to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov to help protect others.

Acting quickly can help limit financial damage and stop scammers from targeting more people.

The Final Takeaway

Virtual casting call scams prey on excitement and opportunity, but awareness is your best defense. Knowing the red flags and taking steps to protect your financial information can help you avoid becoming a victim.

If you ever have concerns about fraud or suspicious transactions on your First Financial accounts – we’re here to help. Contact us with any questions.

Teaching Kids About Entrepreneurship: Skills That Last a Lifetime

Posted on by
Reply

In a rapidly changing world, giving children tools to succeed goes beyond traditional schooling. Introducing kids to the basics of starting and running a business is more than just teaching them how to set up a lemonade stand. It helps build a foundation of financial understanding, critical thinking, creativity, and confidence that can benefit them in school, work, and life.

Why Entrepreneurship Matters for Kids

At its core, entrepreneurship teaches children how to think, not just what to think. Kids who explore business concepts learn to identify problems, consider solutions, and make decisions based on real world feedback. These are skills that matter well beyond a simple business venture.

  • Problem Solving and Creativity: Working through a business idea encourages kids to think creatively and solve challenges, whether it’s deciding what to sell or how to market it.
  • Responsibility and Decision Making: Entrepreneurship involves choices, from pricing products to budgeting expenses. Making these decisions helps children gain a sense of responsibility and ownership.
  • Confidence and Initiative: Seeing an idea come to life can boost a child’s confidence and reinforce the value of perseverance.
  • Real World Financial Awareness: Starting a mini business teaches fundamental financial concepts like earning, saving, costs, and profits in a hands-on way that complements traditional financial literacy education.

Simple Ways to Introduce Entrepreneurship

Introducing children to entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are several approachable ways to get started:

  1. Start with their Interests: Choose business ideas that align with what your child already enjoys – including hobbies, crafts, games, or services they’re excited about. This keeps motivation high and learning natural.
  2. Hands On Projects: Encourage small-scale projects like a neighborhood lemonade stand, craft sales, or selling handmade cards. These activities let kids experience the full cycle of planning, producing, and selling.
  3. Talk Through the Big Concepts: Use everyday opportunities to discuss basic entrepreneurial concepts, such as what it means to take a risk, how pricing works, and why saving matters. These conversations build foundational knowledge over time.
  4. Learn through Play and Games: Games, stories, and simulations – whether it’s managing a pretend shop or budgeting with play money, can reinforce entrepreneurial thinking in age-appropriate ways.
  5. Reflect on the Experience: After each activity, ask your child what they learned, what worked well, and what they might do differently next time. These reflections help them internalize lessons and build critical thinking skills.

Life Skills Beyond Business

Even if your child never runs a full-fledged business, entrepreneurial experiences teach versatile life skills. Children can develop adaptability, communication, leadership, and resilience – which are qualities that will help them navigate school challenges and future careers.

Entrepreneurship also reinforces financial literacy and understanding money in tangible ways rather than abstract terms. Concepts like earning, saving, spending, and reinvesting become real when children manage their own small ventures. Learn more about the benefits of early entrepreneurship here. By combining experiential learning with supportive financial tools, parents can equip their children with skills that will benefit them for years to come.

Start Early with Financial Tools that Support Learning

One practical step that families can take to reinforce financial learning, is helping children open their first savings account (like a First Financial First Step Kids Account). Designed for young savers, this account gives kids a place to make deposits, learn about saving goals, and watch their money grow in a safe and guided way. To get started, stop into your local branch or call 732-312-1500.

*As of 7/2/2020, the First Step Kids Account has an annual percentage yield of 0.03% on balances of $100.00 and more. The dividend rate may change after the account is opened. Parent or guardian must bring both the child’s birth certificate and social security card when opening a First Step Kids Account at any branch location. Parent or guardian will be a joint owner and must also bring their identification. A First Financial Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties.

8 Mistakes That Can Upend Your Retirement

Posted on by
Reply

Pursuing your retirement dreams is challenging enough without making some common, and very avoidable, mistakes. Here are eight big mistakes to steer clear of, if possible.

  1. No Strategy. Yes, the biggest mistake is having no strategy at all. Without a strategy, you may have no goals, leaving you no way of knowing how you’ll get there—and if you’ve even arrived. Creating a strategy may increase your potential for success, both before and after retirement.
  2. Frequent Trading: Chasing “hot” investments often leads to despair. Create an asset allocation strategy that is properly diversified to reflect your objectives, risk tolerance, and time horizon; then make adjustments based on changes in your personal situation, not due to market ups and downs.1
  3. Not Maximizing Tax-Deferred Savings: Workers have tax-advantaged ways to save for retirement. Not participating in your employer’s 401(k) may be a mistake, especially when you’re passing up free money in the form of employer-matching contributions.2
  4. Prioritizing College Funding over Retirement: Your kids’ college education is important, but you may not want to sacrifice your retirement for it. Remember, you can get loans and grants for college, but you can’t for your retirement.
  5. Overlooking Healthcare Costs: Extended care may be an expense that can undermine your financial strategy for retirement if you don’t prepare for it.
  6. Not Adjusting Your Investment Approach Well Before Retirement: The last thing your retirement portfolio can afford is a sharp fall in stock prices and a sustained bear market at the moment you’re ready to stop working. Consider adjusting your asset allocation in advance of tapping into your savings, so you’re not selling stocks when prices are depressed.3
  7. Retiring With Too Much Debt: If too much debt is bad when you’re making money, it can be deadly when you’re living in retirement. Consider managing or reducing your debt level before you retire.
  8. It’s Not Only About Money: Above all, a rewarding retirement requires good health – so maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, stay socially involved, and remain intellectually active.

Need some help with preparing your retirement strategy? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534.  You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

  1. The return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. And shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Asset allocation and diversification are approaches to help manage investment risk. Asset allocation and diversification do not guarantee against investment loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
  2. Under the SECURE Act, in most circumstances, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plan in the year you turn 73. Withdrawals from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plans are taxed as ordinary income, and if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty.
  3. The return and principal value of stock prices will fluctuate as market conditions change. And shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Asset allocation is an approach to help manage investment risk. Asset allocation does not guarantee against investment loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

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 Suite 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.