Author Archives: Chief Marketing Officer Jessica

How to Rebuild Your Savings After the Holiday Season

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The holiday season is full of joy, connection, and extra spending. Between gifts, travel, hosting, and last-minute celebrations – it’s common to enter the new year feeling a little lighter in the savings department. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

The good news? Rebuilding your savings after the holidays doesn’t require drastic changes or financial stress. With a few intentional steps and realistic goals, you can regain momentum and set yourself up for a stronger, more confident financial year ahead.

Here’s how to get started.

1. Start With a Clear Financial Check-in

Before you can rebuild, it’s important to understand where you stand. Take a moment to review your bank accounts, recent statements, and outstanding balances. This isn’t about judging past spending, it’s about creating clarity.

Ask yourself:

  • How much do I currently have in savings?
  • Did I dip into savings during the holidays?
  • Are there credit card balances I need to prioritize?

A clear picture helps you make informed decisions and sets a realistic foundation for next steps.

2. Reset Your Savings Goals for the New Year

If your savings took a hit, your previous goals may need adjusting and that’s okay. Instead of aiming for a large number right away, focus on rebuilding consistency.

Consider breaking savings into smaller, achievable goals, such as:

  • Rebuilding an emergency fund to at least one month of expenses.
  • Saving $500–$1,000 as a short-term cushion.
  • Setting aside money for upcoming expenses like spring travel or home projects.

Smaller wins add up quickly and help rebuild confidence along the way.

3. Make Saving Automatic

One of the most effective ways to rebuild savings is to remove the guesswork. Setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account ensures that saving happens consistently, even when life gets busy.

Start with an amount that feels manageable. Even $25 or $50 per paycheck can make a meaningful difference over time. Once it becomes routine, you can always increase the amount as your budget allows.

4. Adjust Your Budget Without Cutting All the Fun

Post-holiday budgeting doesn’t have to mean eliminating everything you enjoy. Instead, look for small adjustments that free up cash without feeling restrictive.

Try:

  • Reducing takeout or dining out (even by one meal per week, if you typically do this almost daily).
  • Pausing unused subscriptions.
  • Planning groceries and meals ahead of time.
  • Setting a short “reset period” for discretionary spending.

The goal isn’t perfection, it’s progress.

5. Rebuild Before You Spend Unexpected Money

Tax refunds, bonuses, or cash gifts can feel like an invitation to splurge. While it’s fine to enjoy a portion of any extra money, consider prioritizing savings first.

A simple approach:

  • Save a percentage (such as 50%).
  • Use the rest for debt reduction or planned spending.

This helps accelerate your recovery while still allowing room to enjoy the reward.

6. Keep Your Savings Accessible, but Separate

Keeping your savings in a dedicated account can reduce the temptation to dip into it for everyday expenses. Many people find it helpful to separate emergency savings from short-term or “fun” savings goals.

First Financial savings accounts offer easy access for our members, and peace of mind that your money is waiting there for you without unnecessary risk.*

7. Check-in Regularly (and Celebrate Progress)

Rebuilding savings is a journey, not a one-time fix. Schedule monthly check-ins to review progress, adjust goals, and recognize what’s working (or what’s not). Even small milestones like your first $100 saved again, or a full month of consistent deposits – are worth celebrating.

Start Fresh with Confidence

The holidays may have passed, but the opportunity for a fresh financial start is right in front of you. With intentional planning, consistent habits, and support from a trusted financial partner, rebuilding your savings is absolutely within reach. At First Financial, we’re here to help you every step of the way, because your financial well-being matters all year long.

Ready to take the next step? Our team is always available to help you explore savings options, budgeting tools, and strategies designed with your financial goals in mind. Contact us today or visit your 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. 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. View full Rewards First program details at firstffcu.com. Some restrictions apply, contact the Credit Union for more information.

Secret Santa Turned Scam: What to Know About the “Secret Sister” Gift Exchange

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The holidays are a time for generosity, connection, and giving back – which is exactly why scammers ramp up their activity this time of year. One scheme that resurfaces every holiday season is the “Secret Sister” gift exchange scam, often disguised as a Secret Santa-style tradition on social media.

While the idea sounds harmless and festive, this “gift exchange” is actually an illegal pyramid scheme designed to benefit only a few people at the top, while leaving most participants with empty hands and in some cases – lost money.

Here’s how the scam works, what to watch out for, and how to protect yourself and your family.

What Is the “Secret Sister” Scam?

This scam typically appears on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. A post usually invites you to join a gift exchange where you’ll:

  • Send one gift (often $10–$20 in value) to a stranger.
  • Add your name to a list.
  • Share the post with friends so more gifts come back to you.

The promise? If enough people join, you’ll receive multiple gifts in return.

In reality, very few participants ever receive anything. The system only works for the first few people at the top, making it a classic pyramid scheme – which is illegal in the U.S.

Why This Scam is So Dangerous

While it may seem like “just a gift,” this scam can lead to:

  • Financial loss.
  • Sharing personal information with strangers.
  • Increased risk of identity theft.
  • Friends unintentionally scamming friends.

Even worse, many people unknowingly help spread the scam by reposting it.

Common Red Flags to Watch Out For

If you see a post that includes any of the following, proceed with extreme caution:

  • Promises of receiving multiple gifts in return for sending just one.
  • Being asked to send a gift to someone you don’t know.
  • Instructions to copy and paste the post exactly as it appears.
  • Requests to share in multiple groups.
  • Pressure to act quickly.

If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is!

What to Do if You See the Scam

If you encounter a “Secret Sister” post:

  1. Do not participate.
  2. Do not share the post.
  3. Report the post on the social platform.
  4. Let the person who posted it know, as they may not realize it’s a scam.

Helping to stop the spread protects others in your community, too.

How First Financial Helps Keep You Safe

At First Financial, protecting your financial well-being is our top priority. Our team is always here to help you:

  • Spot common scams and fraud trends.
  • Secure your accounts.
  • Understand safe ways to give during the holidays.
  • Recover as quickly as possible if suspicious activity occurs.

If you ever have questions about a suspicious message or payment request – contact us right away. It’s always better to ask if you are unsure, than to risk your financial security.

The Bottom Line

The “Secret Sister” scam thrives during the season of giving because it taps into trust, generosity, and community – but true holiday spirit should never come with financial risk. This year, protect yourself and your loved ones by staying informed, trusting your instincts, and choosing safe, legitimate ways to spread holiday cheer.

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Holiday Tipping Etiquette: ‘Tis the Season to Show Your Appreciation

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As the year comes to a close, you may be looking for ways to thank the people around you who make your life easier. Tipping during the holiday season is your chance to show your appreciation to the service providers you rely on throughout the year.

While there is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to holiday tipping, a little guidance can help you strike the right balance.

Who should you tip? When considering whom to tip, think about the individuals who provide you with regular, ongoing services. This may include housekeepers, babysitters, teachers, dog walkers, or landscapers. If you live in an apartment or condominium, property staff, such as door attendants and maintenance workers, are also common recipients.

In addition, you don’t want to forget the people who provide you with personal care services, such as hairdressers/barbers, nail technicians, massage therapists, or personal trainers. Even mail and newspaper carriers and delivery drivers may warrant a holiday thank you.

How much should you give? The amount will depend on a variety of factors, such as your budget, geographic location, and relationship with the service providers.

For personal care providers, such as a hairdresser, a common guideline is to give the cost of one service visit. For other individuals with whom you may interact more frequently, such as a live-in housekeeper or nanny, a gift of up to one week’s pay may be more appropriate. For additional service providers, such as a garage attendant or newspaper delivery person, it is suggested that you give a cash gift of less than $30 or a small gift.1

If you live in an apartment or work in an office, fellow residents or coworkers may contribute to a pooled holiday fund for building employees.

Cash or gifts? While cash is often most appreciated, a thoughtful handmade gift can also be meaningful, especially if it is accompanied by a handwritten note.

Keep in mind that there may be instances where certain types of gifts are prohibited, so it is always best to check to make sure that a gift isn’t against a company’s policy. For example, United States Postal Service mail carriers are not allowed to receive cash gifts, checks, or gift cards.2 In addition, some workplaces may not allow employees to receive gifts of alcohol.

Questions about this topic? 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 Emily Post Institute, 2025

2) United States Postal Service, 2025

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal professional.

LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial.

Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning.

This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC, TN and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2025.

No Tax on Tips Deduction Explained

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With the enactment of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in July 2025, a new deduction for tips is effective for tax years 2025 through 2028. Here is a summary of the new provision and the occupations that will be affected.

Deduction explained

Employees and self-employed individuals may deduct up to $25,000 per year of qualified tips, provided they work in an occupation the IRS views as “customarily and regularly” receiving tips on or before December 31, 2024. This deduction is available to taxpayers whether they claim the standard deduction or itemize.

Qualified tips include voluntary cash or card payments, whether given directly by customers or through tip sharing. Tips must be voluntary and do not include automatic gratuities and mandatory service charges. For self-employed individuals, the deduction cannot exceed their net income (before applying the deduction) from the business in which the tips were earned.

Eligibility details

  • Taxpayers claiming the deduction must provide their Social Security number.
  • Married couples must file jointly.
  • Married couples filing separately are not eligible.
  • Workers in excluded fields, such as health, performing arts, or athletics (and their employees), are ineligible.
  • Employers must report tips and occupation details annually to the IRS or Social Security Administration and provide statements to workers.
  • The total amount of qualified tips that can be deducted per calendar year is $25,000 regardless of filing status.

Deduction limitations

The deduction begins to phase out for single filers with Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) over $150,000 or over $300,000 for married couples filing jointly. The deduction is reduced by $100 for every $1,000 above these thresholds.

Qualifying jobs

In October 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the IRS published proposed rules listing the industries and occupations that qualify for the deduction, because tipping was customary and regular in these jobs before December 31, 2024. Here are the qualifying industries with some of the most common qualifying occupations.

  • Beverage and food service: Bartenders, wait staff, baristas, bussers, cooks, dishwashers, hosts, and bakers
  • Entertainment and events: Casino dealers, musicians, DJs, performers, ushers, ticket takers, and digital content creators
  • Hospitality and guest services: Bellhops, concierges, hotel desk clerks, and housekeepers
  • Home services: Cleaners, plumbers, electricians, landscapers, HVAC repair workers, and locksmiths
  • Personal services: Nannies, babysitters, tutors, pet sitters, photographers, event planners, and personal caregivers
  • Personal appearance and wellness: Hairdressers, barbers, massage therapists, nail technicians, estheticians, and tattoo artists
  • Recreation and instruction: Golf caddies, tour guides, fitness instructors, self-enrichment teachers, and recreational pilots
  • Transportation and delivery: Valets, taxi/rideshare drivers, shuttle drivers, delivery workers, charter boat staff, car detailers, and home movers

A detailed list of occupations can be found on the website of the Federal Register.

Workers in up to 68 occupations could see their tax burden reduced by the “no tax on tips” deduction.

IRS transition relief

For tax year 2025, the IRS will provide transition relief in the form of further guidance or additional time for qualified taxpayers and employers to adapt to the new reporting requirements.

The “no tax on tips” deduction will likely affect many tipped workers in the hospitality, food service, personal care, delivery, and other industries. Both taxpayers and employers should stay updated on all reporting changes and compliance requirements.

Questions about this topic? 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:

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal professional.

LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial.

Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning.

This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC, TN and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2025.

DIY Holiday Crafts and Treats Good Enough to Gift

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This holiday season, the most meaningful presents don’t always come from a store – they come from the heart. Handmade gifts show thought, care, and creativity – plus they’re a great way to celebrate the season without stretching your budget.

Here are a few DIY gift ideas that are simple to make, will go easy on your holiday budget, and are guaranteed to bring joy. Click each link below for additional inspiration:

  • Handmade ornaments. Try festive ideas like cinnamon-stick ornaments, yarn trees, decorated mason jar lids, or cozy holiday gnomes.
  • Homemade treats. A batch of holiday cookies, spiced nuts, or peppermint bark is always a hit and adds a personal touch to any gift basket.
  • DIY self-care gifts. Create your own candles, bath salts, or sugar scrubs – perfect for someone who could use a little extra relaxation.
  • Memory jars or handwritten cards. Fill a jar with favorite memories, affirmations, and “open when” notes, or craft a beautiful handmade card.
  • Crafted home décor. Think mini craft-stick trees, homemade garlands, or stovetop simmering spice jars for cozy holiday vibes.

Why go handmade?

  • Handmade gifts feel more personal and meaningful.
  • They’re budget-friendly during an expensive time of year.
  • Crafting gives you a chance to slow down, get creative, and enjoy the season.

This holiday season, trade in the shopping rush for handmade magic. Whether it’s a batch of cookies, a soft-lit candle, or a homemade ornament – you’ll be giving more than a gift, you’ll also be giving meaning.

From all of us at First Financial, happy crafting and Happy Holidays!

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How to Support Small Business This Holiday Season

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The holiday season is now in full swing and while the rush to find gifts, plan meals, and celebrate can be overwhelming – it’s also the perfect time to make your spending count locally. Supporting small, independent businesses helps strengthen our communities, boosts local economies, and ensures your dollars go further – often staying in the neighborhood instead of to distant corporations.

Here are some meaningful, practical ways to show support for small businesses this holiday season.

1. Buy Gift Cards from Local Shops, Restaurants, or Service Based Businesses

Gift cards are a win-win during the holidays. When you buy a gift card from a small retailer or local restaurant:

  • You give someone a flexible gift that’s close to home.
  • You help that business with immediate cash flow, which matters during the busy holiday season.
  • You may even encourage repeat business – the recipient may return later and discover more products or services they love.

Whether it’s for a cozy café, boutique clothing, a neighborhood bookstore, or the local spa – gift cards help our small businesses stay afloat and grow.

2. Do Your Holiday Shopping Locally, in Person or Online

Skip the big box store crowd or massive online retailers for at least part of your holiday shopping. Instead, visit neighborhood shops, boutiques, and artisans — or check out their small-business e-commerce websites.

Many small businesses offer online ordering, local delivery, or curb-side pickup – making holiday shopping from home or on a schedule much easier. Buying from them helps keep money circulating locally – sustaining jobs, community services, and the unique character of your hometown.

3. When Ordering Holiday Meals or Treats, Opt for Local Eateries

The holidays often mean busy schedules, long workdays, or late-night prep – which can make fast food or big-chain takeout tempting. This year, consider ordering from a local restaurant or bakery instead. By doing so, you:

  • Support local workers and business owners when many smaller eateries depend heavily on holiday revenue.
  • Help maintain the local food culture, keeping unique tastes and homegrown menus alive in your neighborhood.
  • Often get fresh, more personalized meals – and maybe even help someone feel appreciated by ordering from a small, caring team.

4. Write Positive Reviews for the Local Businesses You Use

If you’ve had a good experience, whether it’s a great gift shop find, friendly service at a café, or delicious carry-out – take a minute to leave a public review.

Positive reviews help small businesses build visibility, trust, and a broader customer base, especially during the holidays when many people search online for gifts, food, or services. A kind review is a low effort but high-impact way to support your community’s businesses.

5. Spread the Word

Word-of-mouth and social sharing remain among the most powerful ways to support small businesses.

  • Share your favorite shops or restaurants with friends and family.
  • Recommend local businesses when someone asks for gift ideas.
  • On social media or within community groups, highlight small businesses you love.

Each share raises awareness and may bring new customers to those businesses.

6. Plan Ahead and Shop Early

Small businesses can get overwhelmed during peak holiday demand. By shopping early, you:

  • Help avoid stock shortages or long lead times.
  • Ease stress for small shop owners so they can better manage orders, staffing, and customer service.
  • Give yourself more gift giving flexibility, and allow local businesses to deliver better service.

 The Impact of Shopping Small

  • Local businesses are more likely to keep profits in the community, supporting neighborhood jobs, schools, and services.
  • Each holiday purchase at a small shop helps independent businesses compete during a season often dominated by big box retailers.
  • Shopping small helps preserve the unique character and culture of neighborhoods, making towns more vibrant, personal, and community-oriented.

As we head into Small Business Saturday (November 29, 2025), choosing to shop local is a small decision that can make a big difference.

Make This Season a Community Win

 Whether you’re buying gifts, ordering takeout, or doing your regular errands – consider making local businesses part of your plan this holiday season. A small shift in where you spend can help keep jobs, culture, and community thriving.

At First Financial, we believe supporting small businesses is one of the best ways to fuel shared prosperity. Check out some of our local business members this Small Business Saturday and throughout the season. Happy Holidays and don’t forget to shop local!