Credit Freeze vs. Credit Lock: What’s the Difference?

Posted on by
Reply

A credit freeze and a credit lock can both make it harder for an identity thief to open a new account in your name. Although the terms sound similar – they differ in cost, legal protection, and how they are managed.

Understanding the differences can help you choose the right safeguard, especially after a data breach, identity theft warning, or suspicious activity on your credit report.

What is a Credit Freeze?

A credit freeze (also called a security freeze), restricts most access to your credit report. Since lenders commonly review a credit report before approving a new loan, a freeze can help stop someone from opening an account or applying for a loan using your identity.

Federal law gives consumers the right to place and lift a credit freeze for free. A freeze does not affect your credit score and stays in place until you remove it or temporarily lift it.

Key things to know about a credit freeze:

  • You must place it separately with each credit bureau – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
  • It will block legitimate credit applications as well as fraudulent ones.
  • You can temporarily lift it when you need to apply for credit.
  • It does not close existing accounts or stop fraud on an account that is already open.
  • Parents and guardians can request a freeze for an eligible minor child.

What is a Credit Lock?

A credit lock also restricts access to a credit report, but it is a service offered by a credit bureau rather than a consumer right guaranteed under federal law. You will generally manage a lock through the bureau’s website or mobile app.

Some lock services are free, while others are included in paid identity monitoring packages. Features and costs vary, so you’ll want to review which credit reports the service covers, what alerts it includes, and what happens when you cancel.

Credit Freeze vs. Credit Lock at a Glance

Credit Freeze

  • Free to place, lift, or remove.
  • Protected by federal law.
  • Managed separately with each credit bureau.
  • Remains active until you lift or remove it.

Credit Lock

  • Cost depends on the provider.
  • Administered by the provider’s service terms.
  • Usually controlled through an app or online account.
  • May include monitoring, alerts, or other identity protection features.

Both tools can restrict access used to process new credit applications, and neither one replaces regular account and credit report monitoring.

Which Option is Right for You?

A credit freeze may make sense when you want a free option established by law, do not plan to apply for new credit soon, or believe your personal information has been exposed. It may also be useful as a preventive measure even when you have not experienced identity theft.

A credit lock may appeal to someone who wants app-based controls and values additional alerts or monitoring services. Compare the cost and coverage carefully. A paid lock is not necessarily more effective at restricting access than a free credit freeze.

What Happens When You Apply for Credit?

Before applying for a loan, credit card, or another account, you will generally need to lift the freeze or unlock the applicable credit report. After the credit review is complete, confirm that your freeze or lock is active again.

How is a Fraud Alert Different?

A fraud alert does not block access to your credit report. Instead, it tells businesses to take additional steps to verify your identity before opening an account. You only need to contact one of the three credit bureaus to place an initial fraud alert, and that bureau must notify the other two.

A fraud alert can be useful when you suspect identity theft, but still expect lenders to access your credit report. It does not offer the same access restriction as a freeze or lock.

Continue Monitoring Your Information

A freeze or lock focuses mainly on new account/loan application fraud. Continue reviewing your current bank and credit card accounts, checking your credit report, using strong passwords, and investigating unfamiliar activity.

Review our identity theft protection guide and explore our fraud prevention and identity theft resources for more ways to protect your personal and financial information. You can also visit the Preventing Identity Theft section of our First Scoop blog. If you notice suspicious activity involving one of your First Financial accounts, call 732-312-1500 or visit your local branch.

Article Sources: Federal Trade Commission | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

What is Check Fraud? How it Happens and Why it’s Increasing

Posted on by
Reply

Check fraud may sound like an old problem, but it’s still one of the fastest-growing types of financial fraud, and it can affect anyone. While many payments now happen online, millions of people still use paper checks to pay rent, send gifts, make business payments, or cover bills. And any time money is moving, you can guarantee fraudsters are paying attention.

Check fraud has changed over the years. It’s no longer just about stolen checks or forged signatures. Today, criminals use a mix of theft, scams, and technology to steal money and personal banking information. Understanding what check fraud is and why it’s increasing can help you protect your money and avoid becoming a victim.

What is Check Fraud?

Check fraud happens when someone uses a check illegally to steal money or gain access to personal and financial information.

That can mean stealing a check from the mail, creating a fake check, changing the details on a real check, or using scams to convince someone to deposit a fraudulent check.

Checks include sensitive information like your full name, address, account number, and routing number. In the wrong hands, that information can be used for more than just one transaction. And because checks can take time to process, fraud may not be discovered right away.

Why is Check Fraud Increasing?

One of the biggest reasons check fraud continues to rise is mail theft. Criminals often target residential mailboxes, mailrooms, and public mail collection boxes looking for outgoing payments like rent checks, utility bills, or gifts. Once a check is stolen, it can be altered, copied, or used to access personal banking information – turning one stolen envelope into a much larger financial problem.

Checks Still Contain Valuable Information

Checks contain a significant amount of personal and financial information in one place. This information can be used not only to steal from your account, but also to create counterfeit checks or commit other types of financial fraud. That makes checks especially valuable to criminals looking for easy access to sensitive information.

Scams are Evolving

Check fraud is no longer limited to physical theft. Scammers now use fake job offers, prize notifications, and online marketplace scams to send bogus checks and pressure victims into sending money back. These scams often create urgency and can look convincing.

Fraud Spreads Faster Online

Social media, online job boards, and digital marketplaces make it easier for scammers to reach more people, especially younger adults. A fake opportunity can spread quickly and look legitimate.

Who is Most at Risk?

Anyone who uses checks, or receives them, can be at risk. But some groups may face greater exposure.

  • Renters and Households Paying Bills by Check: Rent payments and mailed bills often involve large amounts of money and predictable timing, making them attractive targets.
  • Small Business Owners: Businesses may issue multiple checks each month for payroll, vendors, or operations. More transactions can mean more opportunities for fraud.
  • Older Adults and Seniors: Many older adults still rely on checks for bills, gifts, or charitable giving. They may also be more likely to use the mail regularly, increasing exposure to mail theft.
  • Families Managing Shared Accounts: When multiple people use the same account, unusual activity can be easier to miss if no one is reviewing statements regularly.
  • Younger Adults and First-Time Workers: Younger generations may not write many checks, but they are often targeted through fake job scams, prize scams, and online marketplace scams.

Many of these scams also involve electronic checks, where a scammer sends a fake check digitally or instructs the victim to deposit or transfer funds electronically before the check fully clears.

A scammer may “hire” someone, send a check for supplies or equipment, and ask the recipient to send money back. Later, the check bounces – and the victim is unfortunately responsible for the lost money.

Why it Matters

Check fraud can create more than just financial loss – it can disrupt your life. Victims may face:

  • Unauthorized withdrawals
  • Delayed bill payments
  • Missed rent or utility payments
  • Overdraft fees
  • Account freezes
  • Stress and time spent resolving fraud

For some households, even a temporary loss of funds can create serious challenges. In fake check scams, victims may lose money they willingly sent – without realizing the original check was fake. The more you understand about how check fraud works, the better prepared you are to recognize suspicious situations and protect yourself.

Simple Steps to Protect Yourself

You do not need to stop using checks altogether, but it helps to use them carefully. Start with these simple habits:

  • Mail checks from secure locations, like inside the post office.
  • Avoid leaving outgoing mail in your mailbox overnight.
  • Review your bank account regularly.
  • Set up transaction alerts through your financial institution.
  • Be cautious of checks connected to job offers, prizes, or urgent requests.
  • Contact your financial institution quickly if something feels wrong.

Check fraud is growing, but knowledge and simple habits can help reduce your risk.

Check yourself – stop check fraud before it starts.

Article Source: Made in partnership with the American Association of Credit Union Leagues, America’s Credit Unions, and TruStage

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

Posted on by
Reply

The last full month of summer is here and there are countless ways to enjoy it! Check out these family and budget-friendly events happening in Monmouth and Ocean Counties this August.

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.

August 2

Long Branch | Bands By The Beach | 7pm-8:30pm

There are three more chances to enjoy Bands By The Beach on Sundays at West End Park (Brighton Ave). This Sunday’s performance is by Crushed Rock, a Monmouth County-based band that performs classics from the 70s to today. There is no entry fee to attend. See the remaining performance dates and bands set to take the sandy stage.

Seaside Heights | Movies on the Beach | 9pm

You have four more chances to enjoy a movie on Seaside Heights Beach (Freemont Ave. beach entrance) with the ocean as your backdrop and stars overhead. This Sunday’s movie showing is Back to the Future. There is no entry fee to attend. See the schedule of featured films through the end of August.

August 4

Freehold | National Night Out | 5pm-9pm

Freehold is taking National Night Out to the next level at iPlay America. National Night Out is a nation-wide initiative aimed at fostering positive relationships between neighbors and law enforcement, educating children and families about safety, and bringing a sense of community spirit to towns across the country. You’ll have a chance to mingle with the town’s first responders (police, fire, and first aid) while enjoying free rides, pizza, cotton candy, snacks, and more. There is no entry fee to attend.

Neptune | National Night Out | 5pm-8pm

Head over to Midtown Elementary for a night of fun with the whole family enjoying Neptune’s National Night Out. There will be free food and drinks, games, giveaways from local vendors and businesses, a helicopter flyover, and the Neptune-famous bicycle raffle. There is no entry fee to attend.

Point Pleasant | National Night Out | 6pm-8pm

Head over to Community Park (2255 Bridge Ave) to enjoy a National Night Out down the shore. This night of community fun will feature crafts and games, free popcorn and cotton candy, and more. There is no entry fee to attend.

August 5

Manchester | Summer Concert Series| Begins at 5pm

Get three concerts for the price of free at Harry Wright Lake. The final summer concert will take place on August 19th. All you’ll need to enjoy these summer sounds are lawn chairs. There is no entry fee to attend, but refreshments and food will be available for purchase.

Oakhurst | Italian American Festival | Begins at 5pm

Explore the Italian Festival at Joe Palaia Park, taking place through August 9th at various times. You’ll be able to sample traditional Italian eats, enjoy wholesome family fun with rides and activities, and immerse yourself in Italian-American culture. There is a concert on Sunday from 6pm-9pm, followed by fireworks. There is no entry fee to attend. There will be food and ride tickets available for purchase

August 6

Toms River | National Night Out | 4:30pm-7pm

Head over to South Toms River Elementary School to enjoy children’s attractions, community resources, demonstrations, and the chance to connect with local organizations and businesses. There is no entry fee to attend.

Howell | Movies Under the Stars | Begins at 6:30pm

There are two chances left to enjoy a movie under the stars at the Howell Library Hill. Children’s activities begin at 6:30pm and movies will begin at dusk. There’s no entry fee to attend – just bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and favorite movie theater snacks. This week’s showing is Lilo & Stitch.

August 7

Lacey | Sunflower Festival | 3pm-8pm

Enjoy golden hour and sunflowers every Friday to Sunday through August 23rd. Take a stroll through the sunflower fields while finding the perfect photo-op, gather sunflowers, enjoy live music (from 4pm-7pm) and tasty treats, check out unique farm attractions, and more. Admission is $19 per person, including taxes and fees. U-Pick sunflowers are not included with admission and are $2 per stem.

August 12

Seaside Heights | Wildlife Animal Show | 4pm-5pm

You’re in for a wild adventure and the chance to get up close and personal with amazing animals on the Casino Pier Stage (by the Ferris Wheel). You’ll learn fascinating facts about each special guest and get the chance to safely interact with them, with the help of an experienced handler – all for free.

August 15

Oceanport | Surf & Turf Seafood Festival | 11am-5pm

The Shore’s biggest seafood festival is returning for two days of fresh, mouthwatering bites at Monmouth Park Racetrack. With over one dozen of the Shore’s most fin-tastic seafood establishments attending, you can sample countless seafood favorites (think lobster rolls, crab cakes, etc.). Live racing begins at 12:50pm. General admission is $7, and children 12 attend free. Use promo code Seafood26 at http://seatgeek.com/monmouth to save 15% on general admission. Details are available for Day 2 of the festival on August 16th, which also features free family fun activities including a bounce house, pony rides, face painters and clowns from 12-4pm.

New Egypt | Street Eats & Brews | Begins at 12pm

What’s better than good food, good pours, and even better company? Enjoy all three at Dancer Farm through August 16th. There will be delicious eats from local food trucks, cold pours from Laurita Winery and local breweries (ages 21+), live music, local vendors, a kids’ play area, country-themed photo-ops, and more. Admission is $10 in advance or $15 at the door, and those ages 20 and attend free. Tickets can be purchased in advance for day 2 of the festival.

August 22

Aberdeen | Town-Wide Garage Sale | 8am-4pm

Whether you wish to shop, sell, or explore – Aberdeen is hosting a neighborhood-wide garage sale through August 23rd where you can do it all! A list of participating locations will be released the week of the yard sale, with a copy available on the Aberdeen Parks & Recreation website. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase.

August 23

Jackson | Jackson Day | 12:30pm-8:30pm

Jackson Township is going all out for their 50th Anniversary celebration at Six Flags Great Adventure and you won’t want to miss it! There will be over 100 vendors, live music and entertainment, a beer garden (ages 21+), hands-on exhibits, and more. Plus, there will be Fright Fest zombie makeup demonstrations and Wild Safari critter interactions – so the whole family can enjoy the best of Six Flags in one trip. Children 12 and under will enjoy free admission during the celebration!

August 28

Asbury Park | Seafood & BBQ Festival | Begins at 5pm

From fresh seafood to sizzling BBQ, saddle up – you’re shore to find your next favorite bite at the Seafood & BBQ Festival at Bradley Park, taking place through Sunday, August 30th at various times. There will be over 20 food trucks, live music, a beer garden (ages 21+), children’s inflatables and activities. Admission is $5, and children 10 and under attend free.

August 29

Toms River | Block Party | 11am-5pm

Toms River Volunteer Fire Co. 1 is bringing a Block Party to the community on Washington Street, between Main Street and Robbins Street. Enjoy live music, games and activities for the whole family, fire truck exhibits and experiences, different craft breweries (ages 21+), delicious food, local vendors, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase.

Matawan | The Great Whaleboat Races | 5pm-7:30pm

Three towns and three whaleboats are coming together for one legendary mission at Lake Lefferts – “capture” their town’s mayor! Teams from Matawan, Aberdeen, and Keyport will race across the lake to a floating dock to “capture” their mayor, row back to shore, and hoist their town’s flag. After the race, enjoy live music, food, children’s games, inflatables, and more. There is no entry fee to attend.

Budget-Friendly DIY Summer Decorations to Brighten Your Home

Posted on by
Reply

You don’t have to shell out a lot of money to give your home a seasonal refresh this summer. We’ve gathered a list of three budget-friendly DIY summer decorations that are sure to tap into your creativity and brighten your living space affordably.

Painted Flowerpots

Plants are a great way to liven up any space, but you wouldn’t be alone if you’ve ever thought the basic brown, clay pots were a bit plain. Luckily, you can quickly and affordably transform your flowerpots into lively symbols of summer with just a few supplies.

Supplies:

  • Terracotta planters, various sizes
  • Acrylic paint
  • Foam brush
  • Optional: Other types of paint brushes, depending on your desired designs.
  • Optional: A clear brush-on or spray sealer, to protect your designs.

Directions:

  1. Whether you’re starting from scratch or sprucing up pots that plants already call home – give them a quick wipe down to remove any dirt and debris.
  2. While you allow your planters to dry, find inspiration for your designs. You can do anything from repainting the pots to another color, to using stencils to make more complex designs. Check out these fruit-inspired planters, painted as a watermelon, pineapple, and dragon fruit.
  3. If you want to protect the acrylic paint on your flowerpots, especially if they will be outside – consider getting a clear brush-on or spray sealer. Apply this after the acrylic paint is fully dried, approximately 24-72 hours later.

Pressed Flower Frames

This summer craft is a perfect piece of art, to display flowers from outdoor activities or special occasions – or to gift to a loved one.

Supplies:

*Kits are a great option for beginners and usually include all the supplies you may need to make your pressed flower art – in one package.

Directions:

  1. If you are going to press fresh flowers, collect and prepare them and follow instructions on how to press fresh flowers. If you are going to purchase pre-dried flowers, continue to the next step.
  2. Open your frame and clean both sides with a glass cleaner and microfiber cloth. This removes debris, fingerprints, and other smudging.
  3. Carefully arrange your flowers on one side of the open frame. You’ll typically want to arrange them in a single layer, so the frame closes and the clasp locks.
  4. After you’re satisfied with your arrangement of flowers, you can mount the flowers using glue and tweezers. Carefully place a small amount of glue on the back of each pressed flower. Use tweezers to place them exactly where you want them. Let the glue dry completely. If you aren’t going to mount the flowers, continue to the next step.
  5. Clasp the frame closed. Voilà – it’s ready to hang!

Shell Windchime

If you find yourself coming home with pockets full of shells after a day at the beach – you’re already one step closer to having the supplies you need to make a shell windchime!

Supplies:

  • White Rust-Oleum spray paint
  • Floral garden metal wreath forms (Dollar Tree).
  • Assorted shells (bags of shells are also sometimes sold at local dollar stores).
  • Dremel tool or small hand drill
  • Beads mix
  • Fishing line
  • Scissors
  • Floral garden wire (Dollar Tree).
  • Split key ring, for hanging
  • Optional: Over the door hook or hanger, for working on your craft.

Directions:

  1. Spray paint the metal wreath forms white to blend in with the shells. Let the spray paint dry.
  2. Make tiny holes in your shells. If you have an electric drill at home, you can find the smallest drill bit you have and very lightly press through the top of a shell. Any pointy objects should work too – shells puncture easily.
  3. Start making the chimes. Cut your fishing line to about 3-4 feet long and tape the top of each line down to a hard surface for when you begin beading. Arrange the shells and beads into your desired design and begin putting them on the fishing line, tying knots along the strand between shells and beads to hold everything in place.
  4. Add the completed chimes all along your wreath form.
  5. Tie garden wire around the wreath. You’ll want to tie this around the split key ring to hang your chime, ensuring the wire is cut and attached so that the chime is balanced and hangs straight.

Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more financial resources and tips like these. Be sure to comment and let us know if you try your hand at any of these budget-friendly DIY decorations this summer!

How Much Cash Should Your Business Have on Hand?

Posted on by
Reply

Business revenue and available cash are not the same thing. Your company may have strong sales and still struggle to cover payroll, rent, or an urgent repair. A dedicated cash reserve can help your business continue meeting essential obligations when money comes in later than expected or an unplanned expense arises.

How Much Should You Keep in Reserve?

A common starting point is enough cash to cover three to six months of essential operating expenses. That range is a guideline, not a universal rule. The right amount depends on your business model, revenue patterns, payment cycles, staffing, and fixed costs.

A business with reliable monthly revenue and quick customer payments may need a different reserve than a seasonal company that regularly waits 60 or 90 days for invoices to be paid. Your goal should reflect how money moves through your business, not an arbitrary number.

Which Expenses Should Your Reserve Cover?

Start by identifying the costs your business must pay to keep operating. These may include:

  • Employee payroll and benefits
  • Rent or mortgage payments
  • Utilities, insurance, and required licenses
  • Essential inventory, supplies, and vendor payments
  • Required loan or business credit card payments
  • Software, technology, and professional services
  • Equipment maintenance and repair
  • The business owner’s regular compensation

Separate essential expenses from costs you could pause or reduce. That distinction gives you a more realistic estimate of the minimum your business needs each month.

How to Calculate a Starting Goal

  1. Review a Full Year of Expenses

Look at the previous 12 months to capture costs that do not occur every month, such as annual insurance premiums, licensing fees, tax payments, or seasonal inventory purchases.

  1. Calculate Average Essential Monthly Costs

Add your essential operating expenses for the year and divide the total by 12. For example, if essential expenses total $240,000, your average monthly operating cost is $20,000.

  1. Select a Coverage Target

Multiply that monthly amount by the number of months you want the reserve to cover. Using the example above, a three month reserve would be $60,000 and a six month reserve would be $120,000.

Factors That May Change Your Target

Revenue Consistency: Seasonal sales, project-based work or large month-to-month changes can create longer gaps between income and expenses. Reviewing prior cash flow patterns can help you prepare for slower periods.

Customer Payment Timing: If customers routinely pay on longer terms, your reserve may need to cover several weeks of operating costs while invoices remain outstanding. Track how long it actually takes to collect payments, not just the terms shown on your invoices.

Payroll and Fixed Overhead: Businesses with employees, leased space, or other significant fixed costs may use cash more quickly than businesses with flexible overhead. You’ll also want to include any owner compensation so the estimate reflects the true cost of operating the company.

Essential Equipment and Concentrated Revenue: Consider what it would cost to repair equipment your business cannot operate without. You may also need a larger cushion if one customer provides a significant portion of your revenue.

Practical Ways to Build Your Reserve

  • Create a specific reserve goal and include contributions in your monthly budget.
  • Transfer a set dollar amount or percentage of revenue on a consistent schedule.
  • Send invoices promptly and follow up on overdue balances.
  • Review recurring expenses and redirect unnecessary costs into savings.
  • Keep reserve funds separate from the account used for everyday purchases.
  • Set guidelines for when the reserve can be used and how it will be replenished.

Review as Your Business Changes

Revisit your reserve goal when you hire employees, add equipment, or experience changes in customer payment timing. A reserve that worked two years ago, may not reflect today’s operating costs.

A separate deposit account can make your reserve easier to track while keeping the funds accessible. If your business is local to Monmouth or Ocean Counties, learn more about First Financial Business Savings Accounts, call 732-312-1500 to speak with a member of our team, or visit a local branch.

*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.

Article Sources: Capital One | PNC

Where Will Your Retirement Money Come From?

Posted on by
Reply

What workers anticipate in terms of retirement income sources may differ considerably from what retirees actually experience. For many people, retirement income may come from a variety of sources. Here’s a quick review of the six main sources:

Social Security

Social Security is the government-administered retirement income program. Workers become eligible after paying Social Security taxes for 10 years. Benefits are based on each worker’s 35 highest earning years. If there are fewer than 35 years of earnings, non-earning years are averaged in as zero. For 2026, the average monthly benefit is estimated at $2,071.1,2

Personal Savings and Investments

Personal savings and investments outside of retirement plans can provide income during retirement. Retirees often prefer to go for investments that offer monthly guaranteed income over potential returns.

Individual Retirement Account

Traditional IRAs have been around since 1974. Contributions you make to a traditional IRA may be fully or partially deductible, depending on your individual circumstances. In most circumstances, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from a Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA). Withdrawals from Traditional IRAs are taxed as ordinary income, and if taken before age 59½ – may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. You may continue to contribute to a Traditional IRA past age 70½ as long as you meet the earned-income requirement.

Roth IRAs were created in 1997. Roth IRA contributions cannot be made by taxpayers with high incomes. To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth IRA distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawals also can be taken under certain other circumstances, including as a result of the owner’s death. The original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals.

Defined Contribution Plans

Many workers are eligible to participate in a defined-contribution plan such as a 401(k), 403(b), or 457 plan. Eligible workers can set aside a portion of their pre-tax income into an account, which then accumulates, tax-deferred.

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.

Defined Benefit Plans

Defined benefit plans are “traditional” pensions, or employer–sponsored plans under which benefits rather than contributions, are defined. Benefits are normally based on factors such as salary history and duration of employment. The number of traditional pension plans has dropped dramatically during the past 30 years.3

Continued Employment

In a recent survey, 73% of workers stated that they planned to keep working in retirement. In contrast, only 25% of retirees reported that continued employment was a major or minor source of retirement income.4

Expected vs. Actual Sources of Income in Retirement

What workers anticipate in terms of retirement income sources may differ considerably from what retirees actually experience.

Questions about this topic or interested in setting up a time to talk? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534.  You can also email 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. & 2. SSA.gov, 2025
  2. Investopedia.com, December August 16, 2025
  3. EBRI.org, 2024

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.