Tips to Protect You Against Tax Identity Theft
April 7, 2021
With tax season approaching, fraudsters will try to use clever tactics to obtain your personal information. In some cases, fraudsters have been impersonating the IRS requesting personal information via email, text or social media.
Answers to 3rd Round Stimulus Questions
March 18, 2021
In recent days, we’ve experienced an influx of questions regarding the third round of Economic Impact Stimulus Payments recently approved by the government for eligible Americans. While our OceanFirst team does not have direct access to this information, we’ve provided some helpful resources below.
Why Now Would be a Great Time to Develop an Investment Plan
March 4, 2021
Brandon Kaletkowski
Lifetime financial planning begins by developing an investment plan based upon your specific needs and requirements. This includes implementing a diversified portfolio and provides financial protection in the event of incapacity or death, as incorporated in your estate plan.
Taxes on benefits
March 1, 2021
Originally Social Security benefits were treated as nontaxable income. That changed in 1983, as part of a larger plan to save the system from insolvency. On the theory that every employee had paid income taxes on his or her Social Security tax payments, but had not paid income taxes on the employer’s 50% share, one-half of Social Security benefits were made includable in income.
How high can stocks go?
March 1, 2021
Considerable uncertainty remains about the health of the economy in 2021. The Federal Reserve is not expected to raise interest rates until inflation returns unambiguously, for which there is not yet much indication. At her confirmation hearing for Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen suggested that tax increases on corporations and the wealthy would likely be deferred until the economy recovers further from the pandemic.
A short guide to our trust and investment services
March 1, 2021
One of the great strengths of trust planning is the ability to tailor the plan to respond flexibly to current and future family financial needs. We emphasize personalized financial management.
Trust Services 101
March 1, 2021
People with money to invest are often self-reliant, well enough informed to be able to sort through sales pitches and make up their own minds. They follow the financial press and apply their life experiences as they weigh their investment decisions.
“In So Many Words”: Defining a Post-Pandemic Future
January 27, 2021
Christopher Maher
So many things happened last year – from the Coronavirus, to economic hardship, to concerns over racial justice and inequality, to deep political divisions – that we have nearly run out of words to describe the events of 2020. “Unprecedented,” “Challenging” and “Turbulent” are just some of the adjectives we used, and over-used, to define a year tainted by uncertainty, suffering and loss.
Answers to Your Second Round Stimulus Questions
December 31, 2020
As COVID-19 continues to impact our communities, we know it's even more important for you to get the financial help you need. Recently, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Treasury Department began delivering a second round of Economic Impact Payments (or stimulus payments) to eligible Americans. While the process is currently underway, these payments are initiated and distributed solely by the IRS. Our Customer Care Center does not have any information regarding eligibility, timing or distribution of your individual Economic Impact Payment. For the most up-to-date information on eligibility and payment amounts, visit the IRS website
Tips to Help Avoid Holiday Spending Headaches
November 24, 2020
Searching for the perfect gift for a loved one this holiday season? Gifts come in all shapes, sizes and prices. It is important to have a spending plan to avoid stressful debt that can cause headaches this holiday season and beyond. Here are seven tips to help avoid holiday spending headaches this year:
A capsule guide to our services for investors
November 1, 2020
Our services are, in essence, powerful financial planning tools built upon important investment management components. One of the great strengths of trust planning is the ability to tailor the plan to respond flexibly to current and future financial needs.
Year-end tax planning, 2020 edition
November 1, 2020
Start early this year on understanding your choices
The conventional rule of thumb for year-end tax planning has been to defer income and accelerate deductions. The 2017 tax reform hit that thinking with a one-two-three punch, doubling the standard deduction while cancelling some itemized deductions and capping the deduction for state and local taxes at $10,000. The result was that the number of taxpayers who itemize deductions fell by almost two-thirds from 2017 to 2018, according to a recent analysis. Nearly 90% of taxpayers now claim the standard deduction. See page 3 for more on this topic.
However, there are still choices that taxpayers may make, especially in the above-the-line area of the Form 1040, before they get to adjusted gross income.
Estate planning angles
November 1, 2020
If you haven’t reviewed your will and estate plans for several years, this would be a good time to take a look at them. Changing family circumstances (births, deaths, divorces, retirements) are occasions for such evaluations. If major assets mentioned in the will have been sold, such as real estate or business interests, that’s another good reason to make an appointment with the estate planning advisor.
Results from the 2017 tax reform
November 1, 2020
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 was primarily a reform of corporate taxes. The USA had the highest tax rate on corporate income of any developed nation, and that rate was dramatically reduced.
“Giving while living”
November 1, 2020
Before there was The Giving Pledge established by Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, there was Chuck Feeney. Both Gates and Buffett claim Feeney as the inspiration for their commitment to give half of their wealth to charity, and their drive to have all wealthy persons make a similar pledge. Feeney is a philanthropist who few have heard of, because he hates publicity.
Digital Dexterity
October 27, 2020
Joseph J. Lebel III
Businesses Embrace Technology to Thrive in the "COVID Economy"
Our lives have been changed in so many ways as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, including dramatic challenges in how we conduct business. Companies both large and small have had to adapt to new societal and economic realities. Business leaders are learning how to engage with customers who now avoid physical contact, coach and guide employees working remotely and use data to make decisions in a marketplace that is being reshaped by new forces.
FAQs About Trusts
September 1, 2020
What do you think of when you hear the words “trust fund”? Many people will associate those words with the Astors, the Rockefellers, or the financial titans of the 19th century. Those families did indeed employ trusts for the long-term care of family wealth.
The 2020 Report of the Social Security Trustees
September 1, 2020
In April, the Social Security Trustees issued their annual report. Their figures and conclusions are based upon last year’s experience, and do not take into account the effects of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The report for 2021 will certainly be much worse, because the high unemployment we are experiencing now must lead to a major drop in payroll tax revenue.
Expanded Relief
September 1, 2020
The initial announcement from the IRS on moving this year’s Tax Day from April 15 to July 15 applied to income taxes
Retirement Accounts in Bankruptcy
September 1, 2020
The general rule is that assets in qualified employer retirement plans and IRAs are exempt from creditor claims. As such, they are protected when an individual declares bankruptcy.
A Tax is Not a Fine
September 1, 2020
Individuals who have foreign financial accounts that aggregate more than $10,000 during the calendar year must report those accounts to the IRS (generally known as FBAR).
Job Search & Virtual Interview Tips for Today’s Job Seeker
August 28, 2020
As companies pivot their recruitment & application processes, job seekers need to do the same. That’s why OceanFirst Bank is providing some tips to stay ahead of the competition and to adapt to the new norm of job searching.
Tips to Help Older Individuals Stay Protected from Some Common Scams
August 18, 2020
Each year, millions of older Americans fall prey to various types of financial fraud, costing victims nearly $3 billion last year. Scammers target older individuals because they may be lonely and more trusting, they may be less inclined to report fraud because they’re unsure of proper steps to take, or they may feel ashamed of being scammed and afraid to lose their independence.
In preparation of National Senior Citizens Day on Friday, August 21, OceanFirst Bank is providing tips on how to stay protected from common scams designed to exploit seniors.
The Deadline for Tax Savings is Quickly Approaching
June 19, 2020
Nest Egg at OceanFirst Bank is an investment advisory service that makes planning for any financial goal just a call or click away. Whether you are new to investing or a seasoned investor, Nest Egg is here to guide you toward a stronger financial future. |
Contactless Pay. Fast. Easy. Seamless. Secure.
June 12, 2020
Did you know? Contactless pay is the safest way to shop, offering you and your debit card an added layer of protection. Have peace of mind knowing your card number will never be stored on your contactless pay device, such as a mobile phone. So, even if your smart device is lost or stolen, you’re protected from fraud. Better yet? You'll have reduced contact with PIN pads and payment devices.
Branches Re-opening Schedule
June 9, 2020
Thank you to our customers for your patience while we navigated the recent pandemic together. As stay-at-home restrictions loosen, we’re looking forward to reopening our branch network at full capacity. Updated information can be found below and in the accompanying links to our website.
Paying bills has never been easier
June 5, 2020
Now, more than ever, having access to your banking from the comfort of your own home is essential. And, for anyone who has spent way too much time searching around the house for a stamp, Bill Pay is the answer. Enroll in Bill Pay and you can set up one-time or recurring payments from online banking or our mobile app. It’s that easy!
Post-Pandemic Re-Start-Up
June 4, 2020
Christopher Maher
In the Post-Pandemic “Re-Start-Up” Economy, Business Must Partner For Success
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, I have been tremendously impressed by the selflessness, compassion and just plain “heart” demonstrated by my fellow human beings. From brave healthcare workers and first responders; to the essential employees who produce our food, keep grocery stores and pharmacies running, or deliver our packages; to all the individuals who have adapted to working from home, while teaching their kids and keeping their families safe – so many people have truly gone above and beyond. My appreciation extends to our terrific OceanFirst team members, who continue to deliver exceptional customer service under unprecedented conditions.
Steady Hands
June 1, 2020
“This Time It's Different.” That’s a phrase we usually associate with market tops. Just before the internet investment bubble burst, for example, we heard rosy economic forecasts and excellent rationalizations for inflated stock values. As we know, markets will right themselves; bubbles will burst. Now we are in a very different situation, with unprecedented economic distress. It really is different for the financial markets.
New IRS webpages
June 1, 2020
The IRS has established www.irs.gov/coronavirus to provide information specifically related to the pandemic. News releases, statements, and guidance will be collected there. The initial statement concerned health savings accounts and high-deductible health plans.
What trusts can accomplish
June 1, 2020
The most important thing that a trust does is make financial resources available to beneficiaries when needed. When a corporate fiduciary such as ourselves is trustee, another automatic benefit is professional investment management. But that is just the start of potential benefits. Among the other objectives that trusts may target:
Deferred, and not deferred
June 1, 2020
The IRS issued Notice 2020-17 in March, allowing taxpayers to defer their tax payments this year until July 15. However, the deadline for filing tax returns initially was left unchanged. That drew pushback from tax preparers, who argued that the IRS did not seem to appreciate how difficult it is at the moment for tax professionals to work with their clients.
A Guide To Our Trust Services
June 1, 2020
Here is an overview of trust services, for those who would like to see how they may achieve family financial security.
Does your company's retirement plan pass the test?
May 28, 2020
Does your company's retirement plan pass the test? See how your plan measures up.
Your Safety and Security is our FIRST priority
May 27, 2020
At OceanFirst Bank, we are committed to helping you keep your money and your personal information safe. Scams related to the COVID-19 pandemic are on the rise. Here are some to watch out for.
Taking Control of your Financial Future in the New Normal
May 21, 2020
NestEgg at OceanFirst is a simplified investing solution, whether you’re saving for retirement or looking to accomplish any other financial goals. Now, more than ever, it’s important to consider a planning-based platform like NestEgg that continuously monitors your portfolio to keep you aligned with your goals and objectives and puts you in control of your financial future. Even during tough and trying times, it’s investing made easy.
Acts of Kindness: Help is Hope
May 19, 2020
With the overwhelming number of nominations, we are grateful to work and live in a community full of organizations and people making a difference to help others.
Play It Safe With CardValet
May 15, 2020
Did you know with CardValet®, you can control where, when and how your OceanFirst Debit Card or Credit Card is used, right from your mobile device? Misplace your wallet full of cards? It's as easy as turning those cards off from the CardValet® app and turning them back on when you find them.
Money Management - A personal trainer for your budget
May 8, 2020
Now, more than ever, we understand how important our customers’ financial health and stability is to them. That’s why we offer money management tools designed with just that in mind. From setting budgets to reaching goals, your financial picture just got brighter.
CARES Act of 2020
May 7, 2020
The Coronavirus (or COVID-19) has brought much fear and uncertainty into our lives. In response, the IRS has delayed the federal income tax filing deadline and legislation was recently signed into law that brings economic relief to businesses and taxpayers during the pandemic. Included in the legislation are several provisions that affect IRAs.
Personal Banking. Yes. It's Personal.
May 1, 2020
Answers To Your Stimulus Questions
April 20, 2020
As COVID-19 continues to impact our communities and our customers, we know it's even more important than ever for you to get the financial help you're counting on. Recently, the IRS began distributing Economic Impact Payments (or stimulus payments) to eligible Americans. While the process is currently underway, our Customer Care Center does not have any information regarding eligibility, timing or distribution of your individual Economic Impact Payment. These payments are initiated and distributed solely by the IRS. For the most up-to-date information on eligibility and payment amounts, visit the IRS website.
Message from Nest Egg at OceanFirst Bank
April 14, 2020
In these unprecedented times, we have heard from many of our customers that they are concerned about their long-term financial goals. We understand and appreciate how you may be feeling, so I want to make sure you are aware of the many helpful financial tools available for you to use today. In 2018, we introduced Nest Egg at OceanFirst as a service to offer digital-based investment advice to all of our customers. This platform provides each one of our customers with access to a team of advisors who have decades of experience in a variety of economic conditions.
Lending a hand
April 7, 2020
OceanFirst is proud to participate in the programs designed to help small businesses keep their workforce employed during the COVID-19 crisis.
Proven Fraud Prevention Tools
April 3, 2020
Extra Layers. When It Comes to Fraud, We've Got You Covered
You Got a Tax Extension — Now What?
March 30, 2020
Plenty of obstacles can keep you from filing your taxes by April 15. If you’ve received a tax extension, you’ll have an additional six months to prepare your tax return, pushing the new deadline back to October 15. However, your tax extension does more than push back your filing date. Here are a few other factors to consider once you’ve been granted a tax extension.
Digital Banking. Now More Than Ever.
March 27, 2020
DIGITAL BANKING. NOW MORE THAN EVER.
Today, it’s even more important to have access to your accounts from the comfort of your own home. At OceanFirst, we offer top-rated digital services with just that in mind.
Beware Stimulus Check Scams
March 26, 2020
The Federal Government approved stimulus payments to be sent to many Americans, and the scammers are already trying to capitalize by using the promise of payment to steal your information.
We're In This Together
March 24, 2020
OceanFirst Bank and OceanFirst Foundation are working to bring you financial services and support resources that matter. We thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey through this unprecedented time and remain committed to our customers, employees and our community.
6 Tips for Spring Cleaning Your Finances
March 23, 2020
April is Financial Literacy Month, and to get you prepared, we highlighted 6 tips to help organize your finances.
No Travel Required When You Go Digital
March 20, 2020
Now, more than ever, it’s important to have access to your accounts from the comfort of your own home. At OceanFirst, we offer digital services which enable you to do just that.
Secure Act New Rules
March 20, 2020
In December, as part of the budget deal, the Congress passed the SECURE Act (Setting Every Community Up For Retirement Enhancement Act), and the President quickly signed it. The new legislation included liberalization of retirement plan rules for small employers, repeal of the old rule that those over 70½ are barred from contributing to a traditional IRA, and permission to use up to $10,000 of 529 plan money to repay student loans (lifetime cap, not per year), among other things.
Important Coronavirus Information
March 16, 2020
Promoting Health, Safety and the Well-Being for All
As Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to impact our communities, we want to express our heartfelt concern to all who are affected. The health and safety of our customers and team members is our foremost priority and we continue to enact impactful measures throughout our organization such as social distancing and work from home arrangements to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We will continue to closely monitor information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) along with the guidance from our state and local officials and respond accordingly.
Five Things Millennials Should Consider Before They Rent or Buy
March 16, 2020
Moving out on your own is an exciting time, but can also be stressful. Before that thought comes to fruition, here are five things you may want to consider.
Tips on How to Work From Home
March 13, 2020
Nowadays you can do almost anything right from the comfort of your home, whether it is banking, working out, grocery shopping, or even working. Due to the Coronavirus you may be advised to work from home for an extended period of time, if that’s the case check out our tips on how to do so productively.
We remain focused on putting you first.
March 12, 2020
At OceanFirst Bank we realize COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is a concern for many of our customers and we are here for you. For several weeks we have been closely monitoring the reports and updates shared by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and will continue to do so. Please know we are continuously seeking ways to limit our customers and employees to Coronavirus exposure.
Coronavirus Scams and Tips to Know
March 11, 2020
With the Coronavirus spreading daily, fraudsters have found new ways to capitalize by creating phishing campaigns that are designed to steal personal information and/or money. OceanFirst Bank is aware of the Coronavirus scams and remains dedicated to keeping you safe against them. Here are some scams you may see or have already seen regarding the Coronavirus.
Worthwhile Ways to Use Your Tax Refund
March 10, 2020
It's time to consider how to make the most out of any refund you may receive this tax season. Below are six options to help you reach your goals.
Security Awareness For Taxpayers
March 9, 2020
The IRS, the states and the tax industry are committed to protecting you from identity theft. We’ve strengthened our partnership to fight the nation’s common enemy – the criminals – and to devote ourselves to a common goal – serving you. Working together, we’ve made many changes to combat identity theft. We are making progress. However, cybercriminals are constantly evolving, and so must we. The IRS is working hand-in-hand with your state revenue officials, your tax software provider and your tax professional. But, we need your help. We need you to join with us. By taking a few simple steps to protect all of your digital devices, you can better protect your personal and financial data online and at home.
Tax Deductions That Seniors Can Take
March 2, 2020
Whether you’re young and just starting to build your career or have recently left the workforce and have begun to reap the benefits of a retirement fund, the IRS offers a variety of tax exemptions if you meet certain requirements. If you fall into the second category, though, you’re eligible for some special tax breaks that you might not be aware of. Here are five key deductions you might qualify for to help maximize your return this coming tax season.
Smart Business
February 27, 2020
Joseph J. Lebel III
Smart Businesses Build a Foundation for Continued Growth and Success
The economic recovery that began in June 2009, following the Great Recession, has now lasted for 128 months, making it far and away the longest expansion in US history! The markets we serve at OceanFirst Bank, spanning metropolitan New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia, have enjoyed robust growth during this period, marked by declining unemployment and rising GDP.
Tax-Filing Tips For College Students
February 25, 2020
College brings a wealth of challenges. Aside from coursework, grades and adjusting to a new social environment, you’ll have to contend with managing your finances — including your taxes. When tax season arrives, take some stress out of your preparation by keeping these factors in mind.
Valentine’s Day Traditions Around the World
February 14, 2020
Many other countries celebrate Valentine's Day, too, each in their own way. Here is a look at other countries' Valentine's Day.
What Should You Keep in Your Safe Deposit Box?
February 10, 2020
We all have things that we want to keep safe. While we all hope that our homes are an ideal place for that, sometimes it’s a good idea to keep important items in another location. That’s where safe deposit boxes come in handy.
Should Personal and Small Business Banking Overlap?
February 3, 2020
One of the most common mistakes small business owners make is failing to separate their personal and small business finances. Many owners try to process their business transactions through their personal bank accounts, but whether they do it for convenience or to help reduce expenses and bank fees, the reasons to not do it are much more compelling — not least of which because it makes you a prime target for IRS audits.
5 Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Broker
January 27, 2020
Investing in a home is a major milestone, and the bigger the milestone, the more complicated the process. That’s why you need a thorough list of questions to ask your mortgage broker before you agree to any loan.
What Is a Good Amount for an Emergency Fund?
January 20, 2020
Emergencies happen to everyone, regardless of whether you have a steady income or are struggling to manage your finances. Unexpected expenses can throw your life into turmoil — and if you don’t have the money to resolve the crisis, your life will become even more difficult. That’s why you need an emergency fund.
Insurance Terms Defined: Premiums, Deductibles and Everything in Between
January 13, 2020
Insurance is a must if you own a home, rent an apartment, invest in a condo or if you drive a car. Health insurance and life insurance are non-negotiables, as well. The world isn’t perfect and since bad things happen, insurance is an important safety net, helping to protect your home, auto and possessions. Knowing that you need insurance is a no-brainer, but learning all the complexities of insurance will take time. Start with learning some insurance basics with the following list of terms.
The Pros and Cons of Automatic Payments
January 6, 2020
Do automatic payments make sense for your finances? Setting up regular withdrawals for your bills and subscriptions can make life significantly more convenient, but it can also come with some downsides. Keep these pros and cons in mind as you consider whether to integrate automatic payments into your everyday life.
Businesses That Take Action Now May See Opportunity
October 4, 2019
Christopher Maher
While recent economic signals are far from definitive, concerns regarding a possible recession continue to ripple through the U.S. financial markets and business community. Certainly, some data point to an elevated risk of recession. The Institute for Supply Management’s factory index fell to 47.8 in September, its second consecutive month below 50, and the lowest reading since June 2009, reflecting weaker demand for manufactured goods both at home and abroad.
Trained Digital Bankers Help Customers Utilize More Digital Technology
July 8, 2019
Joseph J. Lebel III
Recent studies confirm a fact that most of us know from experience: a growing number of customers now use only digital channels to conduct banking, avoiding brick-and-mortar branches, call centers, and other traditional venues. The percentage of consumers who bank via mobile phones, PCs and tablets rose sharply to 46% in 2018 from 27% only four years ago. Not surprisingly, digital usage is even higher for Millennials, with 82% of 18 to 24-year-old smartphone owners using mobile banking.[1]
Diversity and Inclusion are Everybody's Business
March 26, 2019
Christopher Maher
The news each day is filled with headlines about organizations that have failed to foster diverse and inclusive workplaces—with issues ranging from pay inequities to toxic behaviors between colleagues.
Reinventing Your Business: Talent Before Technology
February 11, 2019
Joseph J. Lebel III
Virtually every sector of the economy has faced an unprecedented wave of changes and challenges in recent years. Much attention has been focused on the impact of digital technology and its consequences: shifting customer demands, disruption of legacy business models, and the quest for new sources of growth and profitability.
Investments in New Jersey Threatened by Financial Crisis
November 14, 2018
Christopher Maher
As CEO of one of the largest financial institution headquartered in New Jersey – and the State’s fourth largest bank – I am often asked by customers, shareholders and employees whether I believe New Jersey is a good place to invest.