Balance Transfers 101

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The holidays are almost here, and so are the shopping lists. If you’re heading into the season with a credit card balance, now might be a good time to look at where your monthly payment really goes.

When more of every dollar goes toward your balance instead of interest, you can pay off debt faster. A balance transfer is one way to make that happen. Here’s how it works, what to weigh, and how to make the move.

Balance Transfers Explained

A balance transfer moves the debt from one credit card to another card with a lower interest rate. Some cards may offer an introductory annual percentage rate (APR) for a limited time, sometimes as low as 0%.

Here’s why that matters. A $5,000 balance on a card charging 22% APR adds about $92 in interest in a single month. At 12% APR, that same balance adds about $50. By doing a balance transfer, that $42 difference can go straight to your balance instead, month after month.

The Upside: Why Make the Switch

  • Pay less interest. A lower rate means more of every payment chips away at what you owe.
  • Pay off debt sooner. Keep your payment the same at a lower rate, and your balance shrinks faster.
  • Track one payment instead of several. Combining balances from multiple cards gives you one due date and one clear picture of your progress.

The Fine Print: What to Weigh First

  • Transfer fees add up. Most cards charge a balance transfer fee of about 3% to 5% of the amount you move.
  • Promotional rates expire. Once the intro period ends, any remaining balance moves to the card’s standard APR (which could be higher than what you were paying before).
  • New purchases may not qualify. The promotional rate may only cover the transferred balance, so new purchases may build interest at the standard rate.
  • Limits apply. You can’t transfer more than the new card’s credit limit, and most issuers won’t move a balance between two of their own cards.
  • Your credit report takes note. Applying for a new card usually adds a hard inquiry. Consider also keeping your old card open, since closing it reduces your available credit.
  • Old habits can creep back. A freshly paid off card can be tempting. A transfer pays off only if you avoid adding new debt.

Run the Numbers

Say you transfer $5,000 with a 3% fee. That adds $150 to your balance up front. If the lower rate saves you more than $150 in interest over the time it takes to pay off the balance, the transfer is working in your favor. If not, another option may be the better fit.

Make the Move in 5 Steps

  1. Gather your numbers. List each card’s balance, interest rate, and monthly payment.
  2. Compare offers. Look at the intro APR, how long it lasts, the transfer fee, and the standard rate that follows.
  3. Apply for the transfer. Apply for the balance transfer through the card issuer’s website or balance transfer offer URL, giving the account details from the balance you intend to transfer and the amount you want to move.
  4. Keep paying your old card. Transfers can take several days to a few weeks, so make every payment until the balance transfer is confirmed.
  5. Set your payoff plan. Divide the transferred balance by the months left in the promotional period. That’s your monthly target. First Financial’s Home Budget Calculator can help you find room for it.

Balance Transfer or Consolidation Loan?

Both can lower what you pay in interest. The right choice comes down to how you’d like to pay.

  • A balance transfer may fit if you can pay off most of the balance during the promotional period and want flexibility in your monthly payment.
  • A consolidation loan may fit if you want a fixed rate and monthly payment and a set payoff date. Learn more from our previous article, When Does a Personal Loan Make Sense?

Want to compare more approaches? Our article on Smart Strategies for Managing Debt breaks down the snowball and avalanche methods.

Make Your Move with First Financial

As a not-for-profit financial cooperative (aka, a credit union), First Financial puts our Monmouth & Ocean County NJ members first. That means low rates and straightforward terms to help you keep more of your money.

Not sure which option fits? Our team is happy to help you compare. Call 732-312-1500 Option 4, stop by a branch, or explore your options online.

*APR varies from 14.40% to 18% for the Visa® Simply First Card when you open your account based on your creditworthiness. 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. 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. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan.

**Actual rate will vary based on creditworthiness and loan term. Personal Loan repayment terms range from 12 to 60 months, and APRs range from 10.24% APR to 18% APR. Minimum loan amount is $500. Loan payment example: A $2,000 Personal Loan financed at 10.24% APR for 24 months, would have a monthly payment amount of $92.51. A First Financial Federal Credit Union membership is required to obtain a Personal Loan or Line of Credit, and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan.

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

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Although temperatures are dropping and the sun is setting earlier – we’re grateful for the countless ways we can enjoy the season (with a warm sweater) in Monmouth and Ocean Counties. We’ve rounded up a list of some great budget-friendly or free events happening in a town near you this November – check it out!

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

November 6

Monmouth & Ocean Counties | Jersey Shore Restaurant Week

Taste your way through the Jersey Shore from November 6th through November 15th. There are 71 participating restaurants (and counting), offering mouth-watering three course meals with your choice of an appetizer, entrée, and dessert for $32.26 or $42.26. If trying as many restaurants as possible is on your agenda, the interactive map makes it easy for dinner plans! Keep checking back, as new restaurants and menus are added daily.

Manalapan | Fall Festival | 10am-5pm

Are you hoping to enjoy another fall weekend before the holiday rush sets in? Soak up autumn at Happy Day Farm on November 6th, 7th and 8th! Pick your last pumpkin of the season, find your way through a Dolly Parton themed corn maze, make a pit stop at “Pumpkinville,” and more – there are over 35 fun activities you can enjoy with admission! Tickets are $29 and are required for adults and children ages 2 and older.

November 7

Tinton Falls | Fall Craft Show | 9am-2pm

Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Fall Craft Show at Fort Monmouth Recreation Center! There will be more than 40 unique craft vendors offering handmade items, seasonal gifts, and one-of-a-kind finds. With everything from jewelry and home décor to pottery, candles, and pet items – you’ll find the perfect gift for someone on your list. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase.

New Egypt | Food Trucks & Fireworks | 12pm

Who says fireworks are only for summer? You can still enjoy classic fall activities with a fireworks display at Laurita Winery! Grab your favorite fall snacks like apple cider donuts and hot cider, enjoy Laurita wines (ages 21+), explore the local vendors and food trucks, and hop on a wagon ride to Dancer Farm. Tickets are $15 online up to 6pm the day before and $20 at the door – and all tickets include a souvenir glass. Those under age 21 will receive free admission.

November 13

Cream Ridge | U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland | 5pm

Holland Ridge Farm is transforming into a winter wonderland with a floral twist, from November 13th through January 10, 2027. Begin your enchanting experience by trekking through millions of twinkling lights, including 80,000+ illuminated tulips. Don’t forget to stop for interactive activities like light-up seesaws and swing sets, a jump in the igloo snowball pit, have a cozy cup of hot chocolate, and festive beer, wine, and handcrafted cocktails (ages 21+). Plus, with faux snow flurries falling around the farm – it’s sure to feel magical! Tickets are required for each person ages 3 and up, and begin at $17 online.

November 15

Howell | Turkey Trot 5K & 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk | 9am-12pm

Lace up your sneakers and “trot” your way to the finish line at Oak Glen Park. Whether you participate in the 5K run or the casual 2-mile walk – it’s a fun way to begin the holiday season or work up an appetite for your Thanksgiving feast! Pre-registration is $25 and required for all participants. The first 150 registered participants will also get a shirt and medal. Additionally, there will be coffee and snacks to help you fuel up before the run and to celebrate after.

November 21

Middletown | Granny’s Attic Craft Show | 9am-4pm

This local tradition is back for its 45th year at Thompson Middle School (1001 Middletown-Lincroft Road). Get everything on your holiday shopping list, and then some – by exploring 250+ vendors. There will also be a Super 50/50 and a $1,000 Visa Gift Card raffle. Admission is $6 plus fees online or $10 at the door (cash only). Children under 5 will receive free admission. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Thompson Middle School.

Aberdeen | Family Nature Days | 10:30am-12pm

Bring the whole family to Freneau Woods Park (360 Monastery Lane) to enjoy the crisp autumn air and learn about nature. This program includes a guided walk through the Freneau Parks woodland ecosystem, an animal presentation, and a craft for all ages. This event is for ages 4 and older, and those under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The cost per adult/child pair is $18.00 and each additional person is $9.50. Visit the Monmouth County Parks & Programs Guide for Fall 2026 for more  information.

New Egypt | Give Thanks Festival | 12pm-6pm

Laurita Winery is giving the fall season a sendoff on November 21st and 22nd. Take a scenic wagon ride through the vineyard to Dancer Farm and pick the last pumpkins and flowers of the season, soak up the beauty of autumn, and enjoy Laurita wines (ages 21+). Tickets are $15 online up to 6pm the day before, and $20 at the door – and all tickets include a souvenir glass. Those under age 21 get free admission. All proceeds will benefit Lunch Break, a community-centered non-profit.

Toms River | Thanksgiving Homecoming & Harvest Celebration | 12pm-6pm

Everything there is to love about Toms River will be brought together in one place at 1 Drake Lane. Spend the day catching up with old friends, enjoy family-friendly activities and a Kids Zone activity area, shop local vendors, and take advantage of the winding down of autumn. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase.

November 22

Holmdel | Morning Farm Chores | 8am-9:30am

Rise and shine – the Historic Longstreet Farm staff need help with morning chores before the farm opens for the day! Gain firsthand experience of farm life by milking a cow, collecting eggs from chickens, and feeding the livestock. This event is for ages 6 and older, and those under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. There is no entry fee to attend. Visit the Monmouth County Parks & Programs Guide for Fall 2026 for more information and instructions on how to register.

November 27

Pt. Pleasant Beach | Christmas Tree Lighting | 5:30pm-8pm

The Pt. Pleasant Beach Christmas tree (Bay Avenue) will be twinkling to life and so will your holiday spirit! Santa will arrive by fire truck shortly after the tree lighting, ringing in the start of the holiday season. He will also be taking pictures with your little ones. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage and fire truck rides, and karaoke with a live DJ. There is no entry fee to attend.

November 28

Toms River | Holiday Open House | 10am-2pm

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting the Ocean County Historical Society (26 Hadley Avenue)! The Victorian-style house will be complete with decorations and festive music, holiday-themed refreshments, and gifts for the children attending. Families can take pictures and read their holiday wish lists to Santa and Mrs. Claus from 11am-2pm. There is no entry fee to attend, but donations will be accepted.

Ocean Grove | Small Business Saturday | 10am-5pm

Small Business Saturday is an annual shopping event that encourages people to shop local and support small businesses during the holiday season! You can expect hometown service, one-of-a-kind finds, and hidden gems by exploring somewhere new in Ocean Grove. The town is offering photos with Santa and giveaways from 1pm-3pm. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase.

Spring Lake | Small Business Saturday | 12pm-5pm

Small Business Saturday kicks off the holiday shopping season in Spring Lake! Local shops, boutiques, and restaurants will open their doors with personalized service and festive atmospheres. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase.

On behalf of the team at First Financial, we wish you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving! We hope your table is full of good company, good food, and countless reasons to be grateful.

Are Passkeys the New Passwords? What to Know

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For years, passwords have been the standard way to protect online accounts. However, remembering dozens of unique passwords can be difficult – and weak or reused passwords can create opportunities for identity theft.

That’s where passkeys come in. They’re becoming a more common way to sign into websites and apps without typing a traditional password, and they’re designed to make logging in easier and more secure.

If you’ve recently seen an option to “create a passkey,” here’s what it means and what you should know before making the switch.

What is a Passkey?

A passkey is a digital credential that lets you sign into an account without entering a traditional password. Instead, you typically verify your identity using the same method you use to unlock your device, such as:

  • A fingerprint
  • Facial recognition
  • A device PIN or passcode

Behind the scenes, a passkey uses cryptography to verify that you’re authorized to access your account. Rather than relying on something you need to remember and type, it lets your device securely confirm your identity.

How are Passkeys Different from Passwords?

A password is a word, phrase, or combination of characters that you create and enter when signing in. The website or app checks that it matches the credentials linked to your account.

A passkey works differently. Creating one generates a pair of cryptographic keys. One key is associated with the website or app, while the private key stays protected on your device or in your password manager. When you sign in, the keys work together to verify your identity without sending your private credentials to the website.

When prompted to sign in with a passkey, it’s usually a quick tap on a button or a text prompt to use your Face ID, fingerprint, or device PIN to access your account.

Why Can Passkeys be More Secure?

Passkeys can reduce several risks commonly associated with passwords.

They’re resistant to phishing. Each passkey is linked to the legitimate website or app where it was created, so it generally won’t authenticate if a scammer directs you to a fake login page.

There’s no password to reuse. Reusing the same password across multiple accounts can put them all at risk if one company has a data breach. Each passkey is tied to a specific account.

There’s nothing to type, so you can’t accidentally enter your passkey on a phishing site, jot it down on a sticky note, or send it to someone asking for your login credentials.

Passkeys can also help protect against password guessing, credential stuffing, and other attacks that rely on stolen passwords.

What Should You Know Before Switching?

Passkeys offer strong security benefits, and a few key details are worth knowing as you get started.

Not all websites support passkeys yet. Passwords remain widely used, and some sites and apps may not offer passkeys as an option.

Your experience may vary depending on your device. Passkeys often sync across devices that use the same operating system or password manager. Switching between devices or technology ecosystems may require extra steps.

Account recovery still matters. Losing a phone or computer doesn’t always mean losing access to your accounts. Many passkeys can be restored through your device’s account or password manager, so keep your recovery information up to date and protect the accounts that control access to your devices and stored passkeys.

You may still encounter other security checks. Some services may still require additional authentication in certain situations.

Can Passkeys Help Protect Your Identity?

They can help reduce several common paths that criminals use to take over online accounts.

Stolen passwords can expose email, banking, shopping, and other valuable personal information. Because passkeys don’t rely on a reusable password, they can make it harder for criminals to use phishing or stolen databases to access your accounts.

The Identity Theft Resource Center describes passkeys as an important tool for reducing identity crimes tied to stolen passwords. Still, passkeys are just one part of protecting your identity, not a replacement for every security habit.

Should You Use a Passkey When One is Offered?

For many people, setting up a passkey on a trusted website or app is convenient and offers stronger protection than using only a traditional password. Before creating one, confirm that you’re using the legitimate website or official app, and know where your device stores and manages passkeys.

If a website doesn’t support passkeys, continue following strong password practices. That means using a unique password for each account, avoiding easily guessed passwords, and enabling multifactor authentication when available.

Keep Your Digital Security Strong

The way we protect online accounts is changing, and passkeys may eventually become a much more common alternative to passwords. Whether you use passkeys, passwords, or a combination of both – good digital security habits still matter.

Protect your devices with a strong PIN or passcode, keep your software updated, be cautious about unexpected login requests, and never approve a sign-in you didn’t initiate.

A few extra security measures can make it much harder for criminals to gain access to your accounts and personal information. For more tips like these, visit the Preventing Identity Theft section of our First Scoop Blog.

6 Spooky Low-Cost Ways to Celebrate Halloween

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Between costumes and accessories, decorations, and candy for trick or treaters – Halloween expenses can quickly add up. Luckily, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to enjoy (or be frightened) this Halloween. Keep reading to learn six spooky, low-cost ways to celebrate.

1. Host a Spooky Movie Marathon

If watching a scary movie gets you in the Halloween spirit – try three of them in a row! Instead of heading to the movie theater, transform a cozy space at home into the perfect spot for a scary movie marathon. If you have streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Paramount Plus – start by making a list of all the Halloween movies you can stream with your subscription. Then, decide on the ones that will make the cut. Lastly, arrange some cozy pillows and blankets and let the Halloween classics begin.

You can take this idea a step further by creating a movie theater-inspired concession stand out of inexpensive snacks like popcorn and boxed candy. Check out this list of easy and fun Halloween treats to put a festive spin on your movie marathon snacks.

2. Make Your Costume

Dressing up as your favorite character for Halloween can be exciting, but it can also be scary for your wallet. According to recent research, U.S. shoppers can expect to spend an average of $35 on an off-the-shelf costume, and $70 for a licensed/character costume this year. Keep Halloween fun and affordable by making a costume out of items you probably already have at home. Local dollar or thrift stores may have affordable costume supplies and accessories too!

Need some inspiration? If you have a black shirt, pants, and some makeup – you’re halfway to having a black cat costume. Next, find an affordable set of cat ears and a tail online or in a local store. If you want to make your Halloween attire entirely at home, check out this easy DIY cat costume.

3. Craft a Halloween Wreath

A wreath is a traditional decoration that symbolizes your celebration of a certain holiday or season – and can be pricey. Luckily, with a few dollar store materials – a festive Halloween wreath can be easy and affordable to make.

Check out the instructions and reference picture if you want to make a spider web wreath at home.

Supplies: Wire form, white yarn, black yarn or ribbon, and a large plastic spider.

Instructions:

1) Wrap a wire wreath form in black yarn or ribbon.

2) Stretch white yarn around the open center to form a web: Tie the spokes first, then spiral around them.

3) Add one large plastic spider (or multiple) to the web. Optional: Add a black bow tie to the bottom center of the wreath.

4. DIY Haunted House or Scavenger Hunt

A DIY haunted house can be an affordable and spooky way to celebrate Halloween if you have younger children at home. You can transform a room using materials you can commonly find around the house and Halloween decorations from your local dollar (think cobwebs, gravestones, skeletons, and hanging ghosts). After dimming the lights or playing eerie music – lead your little ones through the scenes you created. You can make it spooky (or not), and tailored to your audience.

A less scary alternative is creating a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt. Decide on the route you want the kids to take through your home or outdoors, unique hiding spots for the items you choose, and clues for finding them. Don’t forget to hide candy too – it’s like trick or treating, but with a twist!

5. Write Your Own Scary Story

Scary stories are a Halloween staple, but you’re not alone if you’ve ever felt like you hear the same ones every year. Take matters into your own hands by writing a spooky story! If you have a smaller group, you can individually come up with your own and then come together later to share them. Consider group storytelling if you have a larger group – where you choose a theme, have one person start with an opening sentence, and have each additional person add a sentence at a time. Then read your masterpiece aloud for all to hear.

6. Check Out Your Local Library

Your local library can be a great place to start if you’re searching for affordable, festive ways to enjoy Halloween. Libraries often have resources that go far beyond books. You’ll usually also find other types of media like audiobooks or DVDs, free Wi-fi and computers, crafting supplies, and events. You may even be able to find Halloween movies to rent, crafts to make in the library or “take and make” crafts for home, or other free or low-cost programs.

If you’re in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey, the Monmouth County Library System and Ocean County Library have many seasonal offerings to explore.

Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more financial resources like these. Be sure to comment and let us know if you add any of these activities to your Halloween celebrations this year!

Ask These Questions Before Applying for a Mortgage

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Buying a home is a major financial decision, and the mortgage process can involve many unfamiliar terms, documents, and decisions.

Before you apply, it helps to know which questions to ask. Here are some to think about and discuss with your mortgage lender before you begin the application process.

1. How Much Home Can I Comfortably Afford?

Your lender can help you estimate how much you may qualify to borrow, but that number is only part of the picture.

Ask what your estimated monthly payment could look like for different home prices. Beyond principal and interest, your monthly housing costs may also include property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, and HOA fees.

Next, compare that estimate with your overall budget. Aim for a payment that feels manageable and still leaves you room for savings, everyday expenses, and your other financial obligations or loan payments.

2. How Much Should I Save for a Down Payment and Closing Costs?

A down payment is one of the most noticeable costs of buying a home, but it’s not the only upfront expense. Ask your lender how much you may need to budget for:

  • A down payment
  • Closing costs
  • Prepaid taxes or insurance
  • Inspections

The above amounts will vary depending on the mortgage loan and property you choose.

3. How Will My Credit and Existing Debt Affect My Mortgage Options?

Your credit history and current debt can significantly affect your mortgage approval. Ask how your credit profile may influence the loan options and rates available to you.

Understanding your debt-to-income ratio, which compares your monthly debt obligations to your gross monthly income, is another major factor to consider. Credit cards, auto loans, student loans, and other debt may all factor into that calculation.

If you aren’t quite ready to apply, ask whether there are steps you can take to strengthen your financial position before moving forward.

4. Should I Get Preapproved Before I Start Shopping?

If you’re serious about your home search, ask about mortgage preapproval. A lender typically reviews more detailed financial information during the preapproval process to estimate how much you may be able to borrow, subject to additional requirements and final loan approval.

A preapproval can help you establish a realistic price range before you begin touring homes. Ask what documentation you’ll need, how long the preapproval remains valid, and whether anything could affect it while you’re shopping.

5. Do I Qualify for a First-Time Homebuyer Program?

This is an important question to ask, even if you’re not sure whether you qualify.

First Financial, in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, offers Homebuyer Dream Program® options to eligible first-time homebuyers purchasing a primary residence in Monmouth or Ocean Counties.* These grants can help cover a down payment, closing costs, and homebuyer counseling services.

Eligibility requirements vary by option and may include household income, property location and other criteria. Funding is limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

6. What Documents Will I Need?

Gathering documents ahead of time can help make the mortgage process easier. Your lender will likely request proof of your income, employment, assets and debt. The documents required depend on your financial situation and the type of mortgage you’re seeking.

Ask for a checklist early so you can start organizing what you’ll need. Our Homebuyer’s Guidebook is a helpful place to start.

7. What Should I Expect Between Application and Closing?

Before you apply, ask your lender to help walk you through the process. You may want to know:

  • What happens after you submit an application?
  • What does underwriting involve?
  • When will the home need to be appraised?
  • What could delay the process?
  • How long does the process typically take?
  • When will you receive final loan terms and closing information?

Understanding the steps ahead can make the process feel more manageable and help you respond quickly if additional information is requested.

Start the Conversation Early

You don’t need to have everything figured out before speaking with a mortgage lender. Starting the conversation early can help you see what you’re already doing well, what you may need to prepare for, and what could make homeownership more attainable.

The Loan Department at First Financial can help you explore mortgage options, discuss preapproval, and determine what you might qualify for.

Thinking about buying a home in Monmouth or Ocean County in NJ? Schedule a Mortgage Q&A session with us or call 732-312-1500, Option 4 to take the next step toward homeownership.**

*The FHLBNY and First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) reserve the right to change the Homebuyer Dream Program® terms and conditions at any time, without prior notice. The household also fully understands that the limited funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis and even if the household meets all of the terms and conditions, this does not guarantee that there may be funds available at the time that the household qualifies. The FHLBNY, in its sole discretion, may refuse to honor a Homebuyer Dream Program® funding request. The household further agrees that any proceeds, which will not be, or cease to be, used for the purposes approved by the FHLBNY will be recaptured and the unused, or improperly used, grant will be returned to the FHLBNY. The household will also acknowledge receipt of a copy of these terms and conditions.

**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. 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. 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. 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. NMLS CU ID: 685814. Equal Housing Lender.  

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.