Estate Planning Steps to Protecting a Child with Disabilities

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If you’re a parent, you know raising a child is expensive. For a child with special needs, that cost can more than triple. If you’re the parent of a child with special needs, it’s vital to ensure your child will continue to be provided for after you’re gone. It can be difficult to contemplate, but with patience, love, and perseverance, a long-term strategy can be attainable.1,2

Envisioning a Life After You

Just as every child with special needs is unique, so too are the challenges families face when preparing for the long term. Think about the potential needs of your child. Will they require daily custodial care? Ongoing medical treatments? Will your child live alone or in a group home? Can family members assume some of the care? Answers to these and other questions can help form the vision of what may need to be done to plan for your child’s future care.

Preparing Your Estate

Without proper preparation, your child’s lifetime needs can quickly outstrip your funds. One resource is government benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid, which your child may qualify for depending on their situation. Because such government programs have low-asset thresholds for qualification, you may also want to consider whether to make property transfers to your child with special needs.

You should also make sure you have an up-to-date will that reflects your wishes. Consider creating a special needs trust, the assets of which can be structured to fund your child’s care without disqualifying them from government assistance. Using a trust involves a complex set of tax rules and regulations. Before moving forward with a trust, consider working with a professional who is familiar with these rules and regulations.

Involve the Family

All affected family members should be involved in the decision-making process. If at all possible, it’s best to have a unified front of surviving family members to care for your child after you’ve passed on.

Identify a Caregiver

In order for a caregiver to make financial and healthcare decisions after your child reaches adulthood, the caregiver must be appointed as a guardian. This can take time, so it’s a good idea to start setting this in motion as soon as you are able.

To do this, you can write a Letter of Intent to the caregiver and family to express your wishes along with information about your child’s care. This isn’t a legal document, but it will help communicate your desires in writing. Store this letter in a safe place, alongside your will.

Outlining an approach for a child with special needs can be complicated, but you don’t have to do it alone. Working with loved ones and qualified professionals can help you navigate the various facets of financial preparations for a child with disabilities.

Need some help with preparing your future financial plan? 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. Investopedia.com, December 14, 2023
  2. AmericanAdvocacyGroup.com, 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 Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

From Tax Season to Travel Season: How to Plan for What’s Next

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Tax season can feel like a financial reset. Whether you received a refund, had to pay a balance, or simply organized your finances for filing – it’s the perfect time to shift your focus toward the months ahead. Plus after the winter we’ve had, you’re probably dreaming of your next warm weather adventure!

As spring and summer approach, many people like to begin planning vacations, family events, home projects, and outdoor activities. These seasonal plans can be exciting, but they can also bring additional expenses. With a little planning now, you can enjoy everything the upcoming season has to offer without unnecessary financial stress.

Here are a few smart ways to transition from tax season to travel season.

Start with a Seasonal Budget

Spring and summer often come with expenses that don’t appear during other times of the year. Travel, weddings, graduation parties, home maintenance, and kids’ activities can add up quickly.

Take a few minutes to map out what the next few months might look like financially. Consider:

  • Upcoming trips or weekend getaways
  • Events such as weddings, graduations, or family celebrations
  • Seasonal home projects or yard maintenance
  • Summer camps or activities for children
  • Increased spending on dining, entertainment, and gas

By estimating these costs now, you can spread your expenses out over several months rather than facing them all at once.

Put Your Tax Refund to Work

If you received a tax refund, it can be a helpful tool for getting ahead financially. Consider using your refund strategically, for example:

  • Build or strengthen your emergency savings
  • Pay down credit card balances or other high-interest debt
  • Set aside funds specifically for travel or summer plans
  • Contribute to longer-term savings goals

Dividing your refund between savings, debt reduction, and a small treat can help you balance financial responsibility while also enjoying the season.

Rebuild or Strengthen Your Savings

If the past few months included holiday spending, winter expenses, or tax payments – spring is a great time to rebuild your savings.

Setting aside even small amounts consistently can make a big difference. Consider creating a dedicated savings category for upcoming seasonal expenses such as travel or events. Automatic transfers can make this process even easier by helping you save steadily without thinking about it. Having savings set aside for planned activities helps prevent the need to rely on credit later.

Plan Ahead for Travel Costs

Travel is one of the biggest seasonal expenses for many households. Planning early can help reduce costs and avoid last-minute financial pressure.

Before booking a trip, consider:

  • Setting a clear travel budget
  • Comparing transportation and lodging options
  • Planning daily spending for meals and activities
  • Setting aside spending money in advance

Breaking travel costs into smaller savings goals over several months can make trips much more manageable financially.

Prioritize What Matters Most

With warmer weather and a busy social calendar, it’s easy for spending to increase without realizing it. Taking time to prioritize what matters most for the upcoming season can help keep your finances on track.

Ask yourself:

  • Which events or experiences are most important this season?
  • What expenses can be reduced or skipped?
  • Are there ways to enjoy the season without overspending?

By focusing on what brings the most value, you can make intentional choices about how you spend your money.

Move into the Season with Confidence

Tax season may mark the end of one financial chapter for the year, but it also offers an opportunity to reset and look ahead. With thoughtful planning and the right financial tools, you can transition into the spring and summer months with greater confidence.

By budgeting for seasonal expenses, rebuilding your savings, and planning ahead, you can stay in control of your finances while enjoying everything the next season has to offer. Explore our financial tools and resources to help you plan ahead and stay confident in your financial decisions.

Ways to Boost Your Credit if You’re Looking for a Home

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The weather isn’t the only thing heating up – the spring homebuying market will soon be, too. Whether you’re considering making your move this spring or further down the road, your credit score will have a direct impact on your ability to obtain a mortgage and what you will pay for your home over time. Keep reading to learn potential benefits to boosting your credit score and some different ways to do so, before applying for a mortgage.

What is your credit score important when applying for a home loan?

As you probably know, a credit score is the number lenders use to determine your creditworthiness. Check out our guide to understanding your credit score to see all the factors that make up your score. When looking to finance a home, lenders will use the information on your credit report to decide if you’ll qualify for a mortgage and if you do – how much you can afford to pay and the interest rate that will be offered to you.

What are the potential benefits of increasing your credit score before applying for a mortgage?

  • You’re more likely to qualify for a mortgage. Lenders want to see that you have been, and can continue making on-time payments if they were to lend to you. Additionally, they want to ensure you can comfortably take on your mortgage payment along with the other payments you are making on any outstanding debt.
  • Lower interest rates. The interest rate offered to you by a lender is again based on your credit profile. Qualifying for a lower mortgage rate can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.

How can you boost your credit score?

  1. Pay Your Bills in Full and On Time

Payment history shows whether you’ve made on-time payments on your reported loans and if not, how late any previous payments were made. This has the biggest impact on your credit score – making up 35%. If a payment is late, it generally impacts your score negatively and delinquency can stay on your credit report for up to seven years. Over time, the impact of late payments on your score will decrease.

Making your loan payments on time will continue to improve your credit. Additionally, making all payments on past-due accounts can help you avoid further delinquency on your report and build positive payment history.

  1. Lower Your Credit Utilization

Your credit utilization is the amount of available credit you are using. To calculate yours, divide your total credit card balance by your total credit limit, then multiply that number by 100. As a rule of thumb, try to keep your credit utilization for each credit card to 30% or less. To lenders, higher utilization signals a higher risk of missing payments and defaulting on your debt – as it shows you are relying on borrowed money and could be struggling financially.

There are two ways to lower your credit utilization – pay down debt or request credit limit increases. Paying down debt brings the total amount down, while a credit limit increase brings your available credit up. However, try to avoid spending more to match any credit limit increase so you don’t find yourself in more debt.

  1. Slow Down on Applying for & Opening New Accounts

Opening numerous loans and credit cards in a short time can hurt your credit score. New accounts are tied to factors that make up your credit score, such as length of credit history and new credit.

Length of credit history considers factors like the average age of your accounts, and your oldest and newest accounts. Generally, a longer credit history is better for your credit and shows you’ve successfully managed your debt over time.

When you apply for new credit, an inquiry is placed on your credit report. An inquiry shows that a lender requested your credit information, likely to make a lending decision. Depending on other factors in your report, this inquiry may temporarily drop your score.

  1. Review Your Credit Report

Before applying for any type of loan, it is always best to obtain a copy of your credit report and verify that the information is accurate and up to date. This will help you catch potential errors, which you can correct by contacting the credit bureaus before applying for a loan. Federal law allows you to get a free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each credit reporting agency. You can request your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com.

If you’re located in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey and considering springing into the homebuying market this season, we can help welcome you home with a First Financial Mortgage! Our mortgage loans have terms up to 30 years, personalized service, low fees, and no pre-payment penalties.* If you’re just getting started and have questions, schedule a no-commitment video chat or phone call with one of our mortgage experts. You can also register for our text alerts to see when our mortgage rates change. We’re happy to help with your homebuying journey every step of the way!

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Subject to credit approval. Credit worthiness determines your APR. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history and are for qualified borrowers. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. Higher rates may apply depending on terms of loan and credit worthiness. Minimum mortgage loan amount is $100,000. Available on primary residence only. The Interest Rates, Annual Percentage Rate (APR), and fees are based on current market rates, are for informational purposes only. Rates and APRs listed are based on a mortgage loan amount of $250,000. 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. 

Risky Places to Use Your Debit Card (and What to Use Instead)

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Your debit card is convenient, easy to use, and connected directly to your checking account. But that convenience can also mean direct access to your money is on the line if something goes wrong. Unlike credit cards, debit cards pull funds directly from your bank account. If fraud occurs, the money may disappear immediately and can take time to recover while the financial institution investigates.

That’s why it’s important to know where using a debit card may put you at greater risk and when a different payment method might be a safer option. Below are some of the most common places where debit card fraud can occur and what you can do to protect yourself.

Gas Station Pumps

Paying at the pump is one of the most common places criminals target. Gas pumps can be vulnerable to card skimming devices, which secretly capture card information when you insert or swipe your card. These devices can be difficult to detect and may transmit your data to thieves instantly.

Safer options:

  • Use a credit card (or cash), instead of a debit card when at a gas station.
  • When traveling outside of NJ, pay inside instead of directly at the pump.

Outdoor ATMs

ATMs located outside convenience stores, gas stations, or other high-traffic areas can present a risk. As these ATMs may be less monitored, criminals sometimes attach skimming devices or hidden cameras to capture card numbers and PINs here too.

Safer options:

  • Use ATMs directly inside a financial institution or in well-lit locations.
  • Shield your PIN when entering it.
  • Regularly monitor your account for any suspicious activity.

Online Shopping

This method of shopping is convenient, but entering your debit card information online can expose your bank account if the retailer experiences a breach or if the site is fraudulent. With debit cards, fraudulent transactions may immediately withdraw the funds from your account – even while the investigation is underway.

Safer options:

  • Use a credit card for online purchases.
  • Shop only on secure websites (look for “https” at the beginning of the URL).
  • Consider using digital wallets (PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.) or virtual card numbers when available.

Bars, Restaurants, and Busy Retail Environments

Any situation where your card leaves your sight, even briefly – can increase the risk of unauthorized use. In busy environments like bars or restaurants, it can be easier for card information to be copied or mishandled.

Safer options:

  • Use a credit card.
  • Use contactless or mobile payments when available.
  • Review your receipts and account transactions regularly.

Why Credit Cards Often Offer More Protection

Both debit and credit cards have fraud protections, but they work differently. If fraud occurs on a credit card, the funds are not tied to your checking account – and you can dispute transactions without immediately losing funds. With debit cards, the money comes directly from your bank account and may take time to be restored. This is why many financial experts recommend using credit cards for certain transactions – especially online purchases, travel, and higher-risk environments.

Smart Habits to Protect Your Cards

No matter where you use your card (or which kind of card), a few simple habits can help protect your finances:

  • Set up transaction alerts.
  • Review your account regularly for unfamiliar charges.
  • Report lost cards or suspicious activity immediately.
  • Use contactless payments or digital wallets when possible.

Learn More: When to Use Credit vs. Debit

Both debit and credit cards have a place within your financial toolkit. Understanding when to use each can help you protect your money and manage your spending more effectively.

Learn more in our guide: Credit vs. Debit: Which Should You Use?

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

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The additional six weeks of winter predicted on Groundhog Day are finally coming to an end and spring is around the corner. Luckily, we’ve found a pot of gold – which includes countless budget and family-friendly happenings in Monmouth & Ocean Counties that are perfect for welcoming the new season.

March 7

Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Seaside Heights) – Join the Annual Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade, beginning at 12pm on the Boulevard. Various local businesses, teams, and community organizations will march and celebrate Irish heritage in the parade. There’s a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow too, a post-parade party at the Hershey Motel with a live performance by the Drunken Clams. There is no fee to attend the festivities. Learn more about the parade here. To add to the fun, Casino Pier is hosting their St. Patrick’s Day Parade Party from 11am-6pm – selling $30 Arcade Cards for $15 and offering various food and drink specials.

March 8

Belmar Dine and Discover will help you sample what local eateries have to offer – one trolley stop at a time, from 11:30am-2:30pm. Starting at the Belmar Municipal Building, you will hop on and off at participating Belmar restaurants – where you will be greeted with unique chef-crafted bites at every turn. Wristbands are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets – don’t forget to bring your appetite with you, too!

March 11

Irish Week Flavor of Freehold – Transport your tastebuds to Ireland without leaving Downtown Freehold from 5:30pm-8pm. Your $25 Shamrock Pass is packed with the luck of the Irish – it gives you special access to signature samples from some of Freehold’s most beloved establishments. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

March 12

Irish Week Pub Crawl (Freehold) – If a bar crawl is more your speed and you’re over 21, the Downtown Freehold Irish Week celebrations continue with a Pub Crawl from 8pm-10pm. Whether a frothy pint or a glass of smooth Scotch is your beverage of choice – there is a festive adventure through Freehold’s beloved pubs in store for everyone. The Beer Crawl Pass is $25 and the Scotch Crawl Pass is $50. You may only participate if you are age 21 and up. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

March 14

Opening Day at Allaire Village (Wall) – Head over to the Historic Village at Allaire for their opening day festivities from 8am-4pm. Take a stroll through the flea market in search of unique items. For history lovers – there will be special house tours, craft demonstrations, and guided excursions of the village’s newly developed interpretive sites – giving you a taste of 19th century life. There will also be hands-on activities for the whole family, such as children’s games and storytelling. Admission is $5.95 for those ages 4 and up, and there is no cost for children 3 and under. Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Irish Festival (Toms River) – Celebrate Irish culture with friends, neighbors, and local businesses from 12pm-6pm on Washington Street. There will be live entertainment, Irish fare, and local vendors and businesses lined up along Downtown – making it a one-stop-shop to grab goodies. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Maple Syrup Festival (Manalapan) – Happy Day Farm is giving visitors a glimpse into the maple sugaring season in one, sap-packed day on select dates and times  throughout the month (tours begin at 10am and the last session of the day starts at 1:45pm). This outdoor experience is filled with demonstrations that display how sap becomes pancake-ready maple syrup and how you can identify maple trees to tap on your own. Admission is $18 per person for those ages 2 and up, and can only be purchased at the door. Learn more here.

March 15

Easter Bunny Pictures (Brick) – Hop on over to Icarus Brewing to welcome spring by taking family photos with the Easter Bunny from 12:30pm-2:30pm. A photographer will snap your picture, and digital copies will be emailed directly to you. The proceeds benefit Pitties and Pals Rescue, who will also have some of their adoptable dogs on site. There is a $20 donation to have your photos taken. Learn more here.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Freehold) – Downtown Freehold’s Irish Week concludes with the Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, kicking off at 12:30pm. Get a seat along the parade route from Main Street to Freehold Elks Lodge 1454 for a front row view and live entertainment, such as a Pipes & Drums performance. The Irish spirit and tradition don’t stop there – head over to a participating establishment to enjoy an afternoon of live music, food, and beverages. There is no fee to attend the parade, but there will be items and experiences available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

March 21

Easter in the Park (Howell) – Join in on the Easter season fun at Oak Glen Park from 11am-2pm. There will be lots for the kids to do including egg hunts (see the town website for age groups and times), music, games, rides, face painting, a petting zoo, an appearance by the Easter Bunny, refreshments and more! There is no cost to attend. Get all the details here and don’t forget to bring your Easter basket.

All About Kids Fair (Toms River) – Head over to St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church for the 10th Annual Fair from 11am-2pm. From pre-schools and summer camps to after school sports and activities – countless local organizations will join together for parents to explore. While the adults are kept busy, there will be countless activities for children to enjoy such as face painting, crafts, character appearances, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. More information can be found here.

March 28

Easter Celebration (Wall) – Celebrate Easter like it’s the 19th century at the Historic Village of Allaire from 11am to 4pm. You’ll see similarities to today’s Easter celebrations with live chicks and bunnies in the village, an egg hunt, egg dying, and a visit from the Easter Bunny. You can also enjoy activities unique to the 19th century such as historical egg dying methods and bonnet decorating. Admission is $13.58 for those ages 4 and up, and there is no cost for children 3 and under. Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Monmouth County Spring Craft Show (Tinton Falls) – Spring is finally here and with Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduation season around the corner – a one-stop-shop like the Monmouth County Spring Craft Show can make your list a piece of cake. Visit the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center from 9am-2pm to check gift giving for multiple celebrations off your list. With over 40 local artists, artisans, and vendors, you’re sure to find a thoughtful gift – and maybe something for yourself, too. There is no entry fee to attend but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Pancake Breakfast with the Easter Bunny (Toms River) – The Easter Bunny is hopping to the Manchester Volunteer Fire Co. for a pancake breakfast before continuing on his way to hide Easter eggs – catch him from 9am-12pm. After breakfast, kids can enjoy various games and chances to win prizes while parents partake in a 50/50 raffle. Tickets can be purchased in advance and are $10 for those ages 10 and up, $8 for children ages 3 to 9, and children 3 and under are free of charge. Click here to learn more.

Protect Your Kids’ Devices from Scammers: A Parent’s Guide to Online Safety

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Phones, tablets, gaming systems, and laptops are part of everyday life for today’s kids. These devices are used for schoolwork, entertainment, and staying connected with friends and family. However, with increased access comes increased risk. Online scammers have been known to target young users through fake apps, phishing messages, gaming platforms, and social media.

At First Financial, we believe protecting your finances also includes protecting your family’s digital life. Here are practical steps parents, guardians, and caregivers can take to help keep children safe online and reduce the risk of scams.

1. Turn On Automatic Updates

Software updates often fix security vulnerabilities that scammers and hackers exploit. If devices aren’t updated regularly, they may be exposed to preventable threats. Make sure automatic updates are enabled for:

  • Operating systems (phones, tablets, computers)
  • Apps and games
  • Web browsers
  • Security software

Setting updates to install automatically ensures devices stay protected without relying on yourself or your kids to have to remember to click “update.”

2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Weak or reused passwords are one of the most common ways scammers gain access to accounts. Teaching kids how to create strong passwords is a critical life skill. Strong passwords should:

  • Be at least 12 characters long.
  • Include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Avoid personal details like birthdays, school names, or pet names.
  • Be different for each account.

For older children and teens, consider using a password manager to generate and store secure passwords safely.

3. Secure Your Home’s Wi-Fi Network

Your home’s Wi-Fi network connects every device in your household. If not properly secured, outsiders may be able to access it and intercept sensitive information. To strengthen your home’s network:

  • Change the default router name and password.
  • Use strong encryption settings (WPA2 or WPA3).
  • Create a strong, unique Wi-Fi password.
  • Disable remote management features if not needed.
  • Set-up a separate guest network for visitors.

Taking these steps reduces the risk of unauthorized access to your family’s devices.

4. Set Up Parental Controls

Parental controls are valuable tools for managing screen time, blocking inappropriate content, and preventing unauthorized purchases. Most devices and operating systems include built-in parental control features. These tools can help you:

  • Limit access to certain websites or apps.
  • Require approval for app downloads.
  • Set screen time limits.
  • Restrict in-app purchases.
  • Monitor activity where appropriate.

The goal here isn’t surveillance, it’s setting boundaries and building safe digital habits.

5. Teach Good Online Habits

Technology tools are important, but conversations are just as critical. Open communication helps children recognize risks and make smart decisions online. Teach kids to:

  • Be cautious about clicking on unfamiliar links.
  • Ignore messages asking for personal information.
  • Avoid sharing passwords, addresses, or financial details.
  • Be skeptical of “too good to be true” offers.
  • Tell a trusted adult if something feels suspicious.

Encourage your kids to pause before responding to messages that create urgency or fear, which are common tactics used by scammers.

6. Review App Permissions

Many apps request access to cameras, microphones, contacts, or location data. Not all of these permissions are necessary. Before installing apps:

  • Review what permissions various apps request.
  • Disable unnecessary access to location or contacts.
  • Download apps only from official app stores.
  • Periodically review and remove unused apps.

Reducing app permissions helps limit how much personal information is shared.

7. Monitor Financial Activity

Even children’s gaming accounts and app stores can be tied to family payment methods. Regularly review your account statements and transaction history to catch unauthorized charges early. Consider:

  • Setting spending limits.
  • Requiring approval for purchases.
  • Using alerts for account activity.
  • Monitoring bank and credit card statements closely.

Catching suspicious transactions quickly can help prevent larger financial losses down the road.

Protecting What Matters Most

Online safety isn’t a one-time setup. Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, especially on platforms that are popular with kids and teens. Protecting your child’s devices requires ongoing attention. By combining strong technical protections with honest conversations and proactive monitoring, you can significantly reduce your family’s exposure to online threats.

First Financial is committed to helping families stay informed and protected, both digitally and financially. If you ever have concerns about suspicious activity or fraud affecting your accounts with us, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about safeguarding your financial information and keeping your family safe from scams. Be sure to also subscribe to our First Scoop blog to get the latest in scams and important alerts delivered right to your inbox.