Money Changes Everything

Are you drowning in debt? Is your poor credit history an obstacle to a secure financial future? It’s time to make a change. Learn how to get out of debt, repair your credit history and put yourself on the road to financial freedom.

BOOKS

ONLINE

Credit Repair

• Credit Reports & Scoring from the Federal Trade Commission Provides tips on keeping your credit record clean. Also explains credit reports and credit scores, how to protect your identity, improve your credit record, and what to do if you are a victim of identity theft.
• Consumer Credit Information from the State of New York Tips include avoiding credit card debts and unraveling the mystery of credit reports.
• annualcreditreport.com This is the only authorized online source for a free credit report. Under federal law, you can get a free report from each of the three national credit reporting companies every 12 months.

Financial planning, saving, investing

• Bankrate.com Provides free rate information and comparison to consumers on more than 300 financial products, including mortgages, credit cards, new and used automobile loans, money market accounts, certificates of deposit, checking and ATM fees, home equity loans and online banking fees.
• Build Wealth Not Debt Join the American Saver program--learn five key savings strategies and receive a free quarterly savings newsletter.
• Building Financial Freedom Features a worksheet to help track your spending, tips on creating a financial plan, and an investor's checklist.
• Taking Control of Your Finances A handy guide geared toward young adults—from those still in school to just starting a career or a family. Learn the right ways to save and manage money, and how to avoid some common mistakes people make with their money. (PDF file)
• There's a Lot to Learn about Money Simple tips to help you set goals, develop a budget, and manage your credit. (PDF file)
• What You Should Know About Financial Planning Discusses the benefits of financial planning for life-changing events, such as buying a home or retirement. (PDF file)
• More money guides available from the Federal Citizen Information Center

1. Becoming a parent 2. Becoming a U.S. citizen 3. Career change 4. Change for older adults 5. Change for women 6. Change of address 7. Change of heart

8. Change your mind 9. Community change 10. Educational change 11. Environmental change 12. Making healthy changes 13. Money changes everything 14. Voting for change