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.
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.