First Financial Member Spotlight: Susan West Hebert

Posted on by
Reply

“I’m treated with dignity and respect. What really speaks to me is the respect they have for the community.”

Welcome to our First Financial member spotlight – a series where we feature some of our personal and business credit union members who we’ve happily worked with over the years. Next up is long-time member, Susan West Hebert.

As a former employee of the Freehold Regional High School District (one of our community partners), Susan became interested in banking with a credit union once she learned about it through her employer. After being warmly welcomed at our Freehold branch, Susan knew First Financial was the place where she wanted to put her money. Over the years, she acquired a mortgage with us and also an auto loan when she decided to buy out her car lease. At First Financial, we take pride in offering loans with low rates, flexible terms, and quick approval decisions.

How to join First Financial

If you live, work, worship, volunteer, or attend school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in NJ, you’re eligible to become a member. Businesses in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and our community partners are also eligible for membership. To join, all you have to do is open a savings account with $5. It’s that easy! Once you’re a member, your immediate family members can sign up too. To get started, call us at 732.312.1500, email info@firstffcu.com, or stop by any of our local branches.

Send Yourself Money? That’s a Big Red Flag

Posted on by
Reply

Scammers are always creating new ways to steal your money. One of the recent scams utilizing peer-to-peer payment services is what’s known as the “Pay Yourself Scam.”

The gist of the scam is that someone pretending to be a representative from your bank or credit union tells you that there has been a fraudulent transaction and in order to stop it, you need to send yourself money with Zelle®. That sense of urgency really works in their favor and gets unsuspecting consumers to act immediately.

The best way to avoid this scam is to know what to look for. Here’s how it unfolds:

  • It starts with a text message from a scammer that looks like a fraud alert from your bank or credit union. It looks real and urgent!
  • If you respond to the text message and engage the scammer, you’ll receive a call from a number that may appear to be your bank or credit union.
  • The scammer pretends to be calling from your bank or credit union and offers to stop the alleged fraud by directing you to send yourself money with Zelle®.
  • In reality, the scammer is tricking you into sending money to their bank account.

How the Scam Works

So how are the scammers diverting money to their account?

When you enroll with Zelle® initially or if you switch your enrolled U.S. mobile number or email address to a different account, your bank sends you a security code to verify your identity. In this scam, the fraudster pretends to be calling from your bank or credit union saying that they need this passcode to authorize your payment to yourself. That should be a big red flag to you. Your bank will NEVER ask you for this security code, nor will they ask you to send money to yourself.

If the scammer gets the one-time passcode, they can link their bank account to your U.S. mobile number or email address. Now the money you thought you were sending to yourself is sent directly to their bank account.

Check out this YouTube video on how the scam works.

Staying Safe in a World of Scammers

How can you avoid being tricked? Always keep these tips front of mind:

  • Never discuss account numbers, PINs, or other personal information with anyone who contacts you, even if they say they are from your bank or credit union.
  • If the person claiming a problem with your account needs your account information, hang up and call the bank yourself.
  • Don’t call the number in a text, email, or voicemail. It will connect you directly with the scammers. Always look up the number online or review the number listed on your debit or credit card.
  • Don’t click on text message links from people you don’t know, even if it looks like it’s your bank or credit union. These links can be deceiving and direct you to a fraudulent site or expose your device to malware.
  • Your bank or credit union will never ask you to send money to yourself (or anyone else)! If you detect suspicious activity regarding Zelle®, hang up and contact your bank or credit union directly at the number listed on the back of your bank-issued debit card, in your mobile banking app, or on their official website.

To learn about other scams and ways to protect yourself, visit zellepay.com/pay-it-safe.

At First Financial, our goal is to help protect our members from scams and identity theft. If you have any concerns or questions about any of your First Financial accounts, please call member services at 732.312.1500 or visit one of our branches.

*U.S. checking or savings account required to use Zelle®. Transactions between enrolled users typically occur in minutes.

 Zelle and the Zelle related marks are wholly owned by Early Warning Services, LLC and are used herein under license.

Tips for Discussing Finances in Your Relationship

Posted on by
Reply

You’ve probably never heard your partner say, “let’s talk spreadsheets.” However, all couples have to broach the money conversation at some point in their relationship. Talking about finances with your partner is never an easy conversation, but it should be done as frequently as possible – especially if you’re living together, getting married, or starting a family.

According to a recent study, couples who talk about money regularly are happier in their relationships than those who discuss it less frequently. Overall, money plays a big role in relationship problems – which can lead to breakups or divorce if not managed the right way.

The good news is that talking about money can make your relationship stronger and even help you get closer to your partner.

When to start talking about finances with your partner

There’s no cut-and-dry answer for when to tackle the money conversation, but you should at least have brought it up before the relationship turns serious. Before you move in together – you’ll need to understand what your partner earns, how much they can contribute to the household, and what their other expenses look like. Before you get married, you’ll want to know about your partner’s debt and what their credit score looks like. This knowledge can help build equity in relationships. Plus, their financial status will impact you should you both wish to obtain a loan for a bigger purchase down the road.

Start small

Don’t start your first date by asking, “how much do you make?” Instead, trickle in financial topics by asking them about their goals in life. This could be anything from, “What’s your dream retirement age?” to “Where do you see yourself living in the next ten years?”

Experts recommend asking “what if” questions to not only learn about their financial priorities but also their values. Some icebreakers could include, “If you won the lottery, what would you do with the money?” and “If you had to choose between a high-paying job with high stress or a low-paying job that you love, what would you pick?”

The more you talk about finances in this way, the easier it will be to talk about their financial situation over time.

Be understanding

Everyone comes from different backgrounds, values, and financial limitations. If your partner’s parents didn’t teach them effective money management skills, it doesn’t mean they can’t learn. Talking money makes people vulnerable, so it’s important to listen and be sympathetic too. Responding with anger will cause your partner to not feel safe having this type of conversation with you, leading to a lack of trust and transparency.

You also don’t want to just bring the conversation up out of nowhere, give your partner some advanced notice. A great example of this is simply saying, “I’m trying to get better about budgeting and want to talk about finances more regularly. Could we plan to talk about it this weekend?” Having a conversation goal in mind is even better. If you’re planning a romantic trip together, also plan a budgeting conversation so you can save up for your getaway.

Be consistent

It should be a regular part of your routine to talk about finances. When paying your bills, plan to do a monthly financial check-in with your partner. The goal isn’t to micromanage your partner’s spending habits, but rather to see where you both land on your goals and where you can improve. Over time it will become a regular part of your relationship, and will help make you both feel like you’re on the same team.

If you need some help with budgeting and financial literacy, look no further than the team at First Financial. We can give you recommendations and advice based on your financial situation. Contact us to get started, or stop by your local branch to speak with a representative today!

Want to see more articles like this? Subscribe to First Financial’s monthly newsletter for financial resources and advice.

How to Save on Back-to-School Shopping

Posted on by
Reply

Back-to-school shopping has looked a bit different over the past few years. Between the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation, school supply prices have continued to be on the rise. According to The National Retail Federation, the average family expects to spend $864 on school supplies, which is $15 more than last year and $168 more than before the pandemic. This means families need to be a bit more savvy and budget for back-to-school shopping this year.

Here’s how you can save money and spend less on school essentials:

Shop online and compare prices

Instead of driving to different department stores for supplies, try searching online and comparing prices that way. By shopping online, you can find sale items easier and pick and choose where you want to buy from. Plus, you’re less likely to get distracted by your kids and any of the items they are likely to find in different aisles along the way. Keep an eye out for online back-to-school deals from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target ahead of the school year.

Find coupons and wait for deals

It may seem time consuming, but searching for coupons is an effective way to save money during the school shopping season. Coupon browser extensions like Honey, RetailMeNot, and Coupert make it easy to find all the best deals and will even apply them automatically. This time of year there are also major sales on electronics and clothing that you should take advantage of. If you’re not finding savings, consider waiting for the post-shopping season sales that usually happen in late September or early October after the school year has already started.

Also, check out this list of New Jersey back-to-school shopping deals from local retailers before the new school year begins.

Buy in bulk

When it comes to items like pens, notebooks, staples, and paper – buying them in bulk can get you the biggest bang for your buck. It’s typically always cheaper to purchase in bulk compared to by unit, especially if you have a large family. It’s even better if you can apply a coupon or find a sale on bulk items during your next shopping trip.

Shop with a credit card for rewards

Did you know you can get rewarded for your back-to-school shopping? Sure, finding deals is crucial – but you can also get value back for the money you spend. Earn 3% cash back or double rewards on back-to-school shopping through 9/30 on all First Financial Visa Cash Plus Credit Card purchases.*

Don’t have our Cash Plus Card? Apply today.

Don’t let back-to-school shopping overwhelm you! There are plenty of ways to spend less this year if you play your cards right. That’s why we’re here to help – our team can give recommendations based on your financial situation and even help you apply for a First Financial credit card. Contact us to get started, or stop by your local branch to speak with a representative today!

Want to see more articles like this? Subscribe to First Financial’s monthly newsletter for financial resources and advice.

*A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Cash Plus Credit Card. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan. APR varies up to 18% for the Visa Cash Plus Card when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. 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. No Annual Fees. 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.

 

How to Get Dorm Room Essentials on a Budget

Posted on by
Reply

One of the most exciting parts of college is decorating your dorm room. Whether you have a single, double, or triple room, you can still make your space uniquely you – even while on a budget. While there are many dorm room essentials you’ll need, there are always inexpensive options and tricks that can help bring out your personal style.

Here are our top ways to shop for your dorm room while on a budget.

Make a realistic shopping list

Before you start putting together a shopping list, confirm the room dimensions, bed size, and included furnishings. This will help you avoid purchasing any unnecessary items or incorrect sizes. See our handy shopping checklist below and evaluate what you already have, what you don’t actually need, and what you can potentially share with your roommate.

  • Bath & bedding: A comforter, throw blanket, sheets, pillows, pillowcases, mattress pad (you’ll thank us later for this one), bath towels, washcloths, shower shoes, shower caddy, bathrobe, shower cap, heating pad.
  • Health & beauty: Shampoo, conditioner, hair styling products, deodorant, hairdryer, brush, body & face lotion, sunscreen, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, q-tips, portable makeup holder, your preferred makeup essentials, nail clippers, loofah, razor, shaving cream, first aid kit, pain relievers, cold & flu medications, sanitary products.
  • Laundry & clothing: Laundry basket, detergent, softener, bleach, dryer sheets, lint brush, iron or steamer, ironing board, luggage.
  • Storage: Clothing hangers, shoe rack, storage for under your bed, desk organizer, hanging closet organizer, cube organizers, trash can.
  • Decor: Sticky wall mounts and adhesive hooks, rugs, floor lamp, desk lamp, step ladder, bed riser, fan, additional seating, bulletin board, picture frames.
  • School supplies: Backpack, laptop protective case, calendar, pens, notebooks, sticky notes, highlighters, stapler, extension cord, markers, computer mouse, whiteout, tape, scissors, index cards.
  • Electronics & appliances: Computer or laptop, TV, speakers, gaming system, tablet, HDMI cord, coffee maker, microwave.

Keep in mind that not all of these items are necessary for your dorm room and many of these you may already have. For your more common dorm room essentials, check larger department stores or online retailers like Amazon. This way you can compare prices and find bigger savings.

Find secondhand items

Thrifting isn’t just great for finding one-of-a-kind clothing items, you can snag some cool furniture, art, and decor, too. It’s also a great way to shop sustainably while being easier on your wallet. Stores like Goodwill and The Salvation Army resell donated furniture while also reinvesting in their own communities through job training programs and more. You can find thrift stores near you through The Thrift Shopper’s directory.

Source online marketplaces

You can spend hours looking through Poshmark or Facebook Marketplace for home goods, clothing, and unique finds. Some sites even let you negotiate a better price, especially if you’re bundling multiple items. Make sure to check with your college, since many universities also have an online marketplace just for students.

Share items with your roommate

You probably don’t need two TVs or Keurig machines in one small space. Before you dive into shopping, touch base with your roommate on what they plan on bringing and what you can share. Dorm rooms are limited in space, so having duplicates of everything is unnecessary.

Get crafty with DIY decor

Did you know you can download digital versions of famous art for non-commercial use? That means you can download, print, and frame your favorite artwork from museums like The Metropolitan Museum of Art for your dorm room. If you want to get a bit creative, you can also upcycle old magazines to make wall art or use string to make a geometric photo display. With time and inspiration, you can make your own decorations that will help you feel at home in your new space.

No matter what your budget is, making your dorm room your home-away-from-home is still within reach. Enjoy this milestone in your life, but don’t forget to stay safe and be responsible for how you spend your money as well. If you’re looking for more college-friendly financial tips, check out our blog, What We Wish We Knew About Money in College.

Want to see more articles like this? Subscribe to First Financial’s monthly newsletter for financial resources and advice.

 

What We Wish We Knew About Finances in College

Posted on by
Reply

Being on your own for the first time is one of the most empowering feelings. Whether you’re living in a dorm, an off-campus apartment, or are commuting from home – college life will give you your first taste of independence. And while adulthood may sound glamourous, there’s certainly more responsibility to manage – and that includes your finances.

One of the most important factors of growing into adulthood is how you manage your money. Those habits you make now will have a lasting impact on your financial wellness down the road. Here’s what we wish we knew about money management when we were in college.

Start building credit, but avoid credit card debt

You might be thinking more about classes right now, but after you graduate college – your credit score will have an even bigger impact on your life. Your credit score essentially determines your creditworthiness to lenders when you apply for a credit card or a loan. So, if you have a low score, it will be far more difficult to buy a car or even secure housing in the future.

Start by working on building your credit now. You can do this by applying for a credit card and having your parents added as authorized users (or vice versa). At First Financial, we offer a Visa® First Step Credit Card that’s specifically designed to build or establish your credit.*

Having a credit card is crucial for building credit, but you need to also make sure you’re paying it off in full each month. It can be easier than you think to pile on credit card debt. Some people use their cards like they’re free money, but in reality – you should only be making purchases that you can afford. Otherwise, paying your balance will become more difficult and interest will quickly add up.

Check out our blog post on credit card tips for beginners to learn more.

Always have an emergency fund

Part of adulting is having a back-up plan for when things go wrong. And most of the time, that means having a lump sum of emergency funds in case you have a large medical expense or car repair. As you get older, saving money will become increasingly important – so getting in the habit now is a great way to set yourself up for success.

Open a separate savings account and deposit a small amount of money into it regularly from any paychecks or gifts you receive. The amount you choose should be based on what you can afford. Even starting with putting away $25 per paycheck is a great, because it will add up overtime. The goal is to eventually allocate 20% of your paycheck to your savings, but everyone has to start somewhere!

Utilize student discounts

Companies know college students are on a budget, and many create affordable deals and memberships just for them. Don’t overlook how much money you can save by asking for a student discount. Trust us – you’ll miss it as soon as those perks go away! Many services like Amazon Prime, Hulu, Amtrak, and more offer discounted subscriptions and fees for students. Even insurance companies may offer lower rates for those in high school or college full-time.

While it’s important to balance your classwork while managing your money, you should also prioritize fun and safety. College goes by faster than you think – and the more you learn and enjoy yourself during these years, the better!

Want to see more articles like this? Subscribe to First Financial’s monthly newsletter for financial resources and advice.

*APR varies up to 18% for the Visa First Step Credit Card when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. 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. No Annual Fees. 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. No late fee will be charged if payment is received within 10 days from the payment due date. 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.