Consumer Financial Advice | Get Help from the FCAA

Credit Counseling for Veterans and Active Military

November 11, 2024

As we celebrate Veterans Day this month, the Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA) recognizes the commitment and sacrifices of our veterans and military service members. Not only do they dedicate their lives to protecting our nation, but they also experience unique financial challenges as a result of their service. Thankfully, credit counseling agencies can be a financial lifeline to veterans, active military personnel and their families.

From frequent relocations and deployments to adjusting to civilian life and healthcare challenges, service members face very different financial strains than the average American. This makes finding military-minded, trustworthy financial advice important.

Credit Counseling Isn’t Just for People in Financial Trouble

October 6, 2024

Non-profit credit counselors help people review their financial situation and find ways to build a successful financial future.

Feeling financially stuck is common. Millions of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, making their monthly payments, but their balances either go up or don’t budge. Others gradually chip away at their balances but wish they knew how to pay off their debts faster. Consumer credit counseling can help.

Consumer credit counseling services are recommended for people in serious financial trouble. But, they are also a valuable resource for people who need affordable, unbiased financial advice.

Debt Management Plans – What’s Holding You Back?

September 5, 2024

4 reasons people give for not signing up for a debt management plan and why they may be making a mistake

We’ve all heard motivational stories of people who have been in financial trouble, then pulled themselves up and are now wildly successful. While these stories are inspiring, not everyone has the means or the support to do the same.

When people get in financial trouble, they often contact the Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA) for help. One of our member agencies can review their unique situations and make recommendations, giving them pathways out of the financial holes.

Understanding Your Credit Score and How to Build Good Credit

August 8, 2024

As you plan and set financial goals, many of those goals may require you to use credit to achieve them. However, the credit limits, rates and loans granted are not the same for everyone. Understanding your credit score is important to get the best rates and approvals needed to realize your dreams.

A high credit score can open doors to better credit terms, lower payments and interest rates and other opportunities. It can often save you money in the long term. Lower credit scores limit opportunities, often increase interest rates and may prevent you from obtaining loans.

Debt Advice – How to Know Who to Trust

July 7, 2024

Money is a top stressor for adults in the United States today. With overdue credit card debt at the highest level in decades added to student loan payments and mortgage debt, many Americans are struggling to get out of debt. And they don’t know where to turn to get trustworthy debt help.

Determining how to pay off debt can be a challenge, though. Some can read a book and translate principles into their own financial lives. But others need help choosing the best debt relief method, setting a realistic budget and staying on course. [Read more…] about Debt Advice – How to Know Who to Trust

Are Reverse Mortgages Beneficial?

June 8, 2024

Thousands of Baby Boomers are hitting retirement age each year, but many are not financially prepared for the next 20+ years of life. Rising healthcare costs, food costs and inflation are siphoning off seniors’ hard-earned retirement funds faster than expected. A reverse mortgage could be the solution.

Seniors who own their homes can obtain money for living expenses by tapping into the equity in their homes through a reverse mortgage. [Read more…] about Are Reverse Mortgages Beneficial?