Free Financial Services: Education, Debt Relief, and More

One of the most challenging things for people in the workforce, whether they’re unemployed, recently employed, starting a new job, navigating it as a youth for the first time, or even considering switching fields, is financial management.

With 64% of Americans living paycheck to paycheck (According to a LendingClub Study), it’s important now more than ever for access to free resources for budgeting, managing debt, and more.

One of the best free resources for financial education is Clever Girl Finance.

Completely online, (but with optional printables and study guides) Clever Girl Finance offer absolutely free courses on everything from how to budget, how to understand a paycheck, how to buy your first home, to how to manage utility bills! At their website, clevergirlfinance.com, they clearly and concisely educate people on finances whether they’re starting at the basics of what is a budget, to more advanced financial topics such as Roth IRAs and investing.

A great free resource for debt management and counselling is Rethinking Debt.

Whether it’s debt from higher education, utility, credit card, and other bills from unemployment, or other financial services, Rethinking Debt can help. According to their website, rethinkingdebt.org, they are proud to be a non-profit Credit Counseling Agency helping people all over New York. Over the last 40+ years, they have helped hundreds of thousands of people reclaim their financial health. “We understand the challenges you face on a day to day basis. From debt management and credit counseling to housing counseling and first-time home buyer help, we can help you build a brighter financial future”.

Another similar option for debt management and counselling is Green Path Financial, at greenpath.com. GreenPath Financial Wellness is a trusted national nonprofit with more than 60 years of helping people build financial health and resiliency. Their NFCC-certified counselors give you options to manage credit card debt, student loans and homeownership.

Lastly, another great resource for free financial services (if you are a member) and a safe place to keep your money is your local credit union. Many local credit unions offer savings programs, over draft protections, lower fees than other banks, and have member perks such as free financial planning services! Ensure any local credit union is FDIC, or Federally Insured and then you can find which one best suits your needs.

Remember, all of these services are free and a great way to help you make every penny count without spending a single one.

Good luck, and if you’re looking for work or interested in exploring other careers, contact Cortland Works Career Center or Cayuga Works Career Center today!