Personal Lending

1st Bergen currently offers vehicle loans and other personal loan products at competitive rates in the New Jersey market.  

We are proud to help our members achieve their financial goals and will help you through every step of the process. Applying for a loan is an easy, personal, and fair process. If you need assistance while completing an application, please call (201) 968-0202 during business hours or email membersupport@1stbergen.com. 

All loan applications are reviewed by the 1st Bergen Credit Committee and include a review of your credit history and supporting documentation. You will be contacted by a Loan Officer when a decision is reached or if more information is needed. 

• If you’re not a current member, determine if you are eligible for 1st Bergen membership. If you are not eligible for membership, you cannot apply for a loan.

• Complete a loan application online, or email membersupport@1stbergen.com for a paper application to submit in person. Completed loan applications must include: 

  • Proof of all income to be considered (e.g., 4 consecutive pay stubs, Social Security letter) 

  • Two forms of ID (e.g. Driver’s License, Social Security Card, State ID card, etc.)

  • Three months of bank statements from your primary financial institution (i.e. where you receive pay and pay bills)

  • Proof of rent or mortgage payments

  • Verification of employment (if employed)  

If you are not a current member, you will need to become a member to sign for the loan if you are approved.

We are here to simplify your car-buying experience! 

1st Bergen auto loans are available for up to 84 months on both new and pre-owned vehicles to give you the flexibility you need for financing your car purchase.  

At 1st Bergen, you can:  

• Borrow at a competitive rate to purchase your first or dream car  

• Apply for a car loan before you buy to know exactly what you can afford  

• Refinance an existing high-interest car loan to lower your monthly payment  

• Finance your Lease Buy-Out to keep the car you love  

1st Bergen offers discounted rates for new cars for up to $65,000 of financing. New vehicle rates are available for the model year 2022 and newer or any vehicle under 15,000 miles. Used vehicle rates and borrowing limits vary based on the model year and mileage of the vehicle. Call (201) 968-0202 to receive an estimate today. 

1st Bergen offers fixed-rate, monthly-installment personal loans to help you pay for large upcoming or sudden expenses, or to consolidate expensive credit card debt. Our lending staff will help you find the right loan for your situation.

Unsecured Personal Loan

Unsecured personal loans are available for up to $10,000 for terms of up to 60 months.

Share-Secured Personal Loan

Individuals can borrow up to $20,000 for up to 60 months by securing the loan with a 1st Bergen share or CD account. Share-secured loans are offered at a discounted rate and may be a better option for individuals with poor credit or a short credit history. 

Credit Builder Loans

A Credit Builder loan is a small, fixed-rate installment loan that will help you establish or rebuild a damaged credit history. All individuals interested in Credit Builder loans are encouraged to take advantage of free financial coaching through the CAFE Hub program. You may be eligible for financial assistance or an interest rebate by participating in the CAFE Hub.

How long will it take for my application to be approved? 

The period of time from submitting your completed application to a final decision varies based on the amount and complexity of the loan. Please call the main number after submission for an estimate on processing time.

I have a poor credit score. Can I still qualify?  

Every applicant is more than just a credit score — we take many factors into account besides credit score to determine if you qualify for a loan, including income stability, ability to repay, and any extenuating circumstances that resulted in a low credit score. Applicants with a damaged credit history are encouraged to participate in the CAFE Hub Financial Coaching program before applying.

Can I pay off my loan faster than the term I am approved for?  

All 1st Bergen loans are monthly installment loans – you must make at least the required minimum payment every month. However, you can pay more than the minimum each month to reduce the length of your loan and the total interest paid without penalty.  

What is the application fee for 1st Bergen loans?  

There are no application fees and no closing fees for 1st Bergen personal loans.  New and used vehicle loans may include title processing and other closing fees.

Will applying affect my credit score?  

1st Bergen does not hard-pull credit reports. Your credit score will not be impacted unless you are approved and sign for a loan with the credit union.