Personal Lending

1st Bergen offers vehicle loans and other personal loan products at competitive rates in the New Jersey market, in addition to credit cards.

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  

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 Building Program

Establish or Rebuild your credit through 1st Bergen’s CAFE Hub program! You will have the opportunity to meet with a financial coach who will review your credit report and give you recommendations for improving it, such as through a debt management program, debt consolidation loan, or small credit-builder loan. Meet with a financial coach today to get started!

Choosing the right credit card is easier than ever. Whether you want to pay down balances faster, maximize cash back, earn rewards or begin building your credit history, we have the ideal card for you!

No matter which card you choose, you’ll enjoy important features like:

• Convenient and flexible purchasing power. Accepted at millions of locations worldwide.

• Mobile Purchasing capability for added convenience.

• Zero Fraud Liability.* You won’t be liable for fraudulent purchases when your card is lost or stolen.

• Cardmember Service available 24 hours a day/365 days per year.

• Plus much more!

Click the button below or contact us to learn more!

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 (201) 968-0202 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, or to consider secured loan and credit products.

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 term 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 on term loans. Your credit score will not be impacted unless you are approved and sign for a loan with the credit union. Your credit report may be hard pulled in the process of a credit card application, and your credit score may be affected.

*Elan Financial Services provides zero fraud liability for unauthorized transactions. Cardholder must notify Elan Financial Services promptly of any unauthorized use. Certain conditions and limitations may apply. The creditor and issuer of these cards is Elan Financial Services, pursuant to separate licenses from Visa U.S.A. Inc., and Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.