Free CFCU Resources for Financial Literacy Month

Did you know that April is Financial Literacy Month? It's a great time to focus on your finances and evaluate which areas could use some help. Financial Literacy Month focuses on raising public awareness about financial literacy and the need for financial education at a time when the need is high. Here are some stats about where Americans currently are with their finances:

• 33% of American adults have $0 saved for retirement.
• 38% of U.S. households have credit card debt.
• 44% of Americans don't have enough cash to cover a $400 emergency.

Can you relate to the statistics above? Take some time to evaluate your financial goals this month and take proactive steps to get on the right track. There are plenty of free resources available that can help improve your financial literacy. Check out some of the Financial Resources Community Financial offers.

Money Matter$ eLearning Center
Our Money Matter$ eLearning Center contains free and self-paced modules cover key financial concepts such as: saving, investing, raising your credit score, identity theft protection, and obtaining a mortgage. This program is mobile and tablet accessible and each module is only 2-7 minutes in length, so it’s perfect for your busy lifestyle. The goal is to help you improve your financial well-being with programs that assist you in making smart financial decisions. 

Financial Resource Center
In our Financial Resource Center, you can browse through channels on a range of different financial topics including: auto buying, career planning, loan & credit management, saving & investments, tax planning, etc. Click on each channel to see more information and resources on the various topics. 

Financial Calculators
Our Financial Calculators can be used to calculate monthly payments on an auto loan, mortgage, or credit cards, or help you plan out your budget or retirement savings. Just enter in some basic data, and the calculator will help you figure out how much you can afford to pay or what you can save.

Auto Resource Center
Our Auto Resource Center offers a free, online auto shopping site. Get a quote on a vehicle, search for new or used cars, as well as car buying tips & advice. The Auto Resource Center also offers a car loan calculator to figure out what monthly payment you can afford before you go to the dealership.

Money Matter$ Blog
Our Money Matter$ Blog that you are reading right now offers insight on a variety of financial topics. You can browse our current and past blogs for financial tips, news and events going on at the credit union. There is a new blog post every week, so check back regularly or subscribe to our blog emails to stay up to date.

Money Matter$ Podcast
Available on both iTunes and cfcu.org, our Money Matter$ Podcast has a library of short, easy to listen to episodes covering financial topics such as: how to budget for the holidays and back to school shopping tips.

Free Credit Review
Community Financial also offers a Free Credit Review to help you understand your credit score. Our website offers a breakdown of what makes up a credit score, but if you need more guidance on how to manage your credit, simply visit a branch near you or call (877) 937-2328.

Financial Counseling
Feeling overwhelmed by your finances? You’re not alone. Community Financial offers our members free access to professional financial counseling services through Accel Financial Counseling.

Your turn: How do you plan on celebrating Financial Literacy Month? What financial resources to do you find helpful?