Title:

Money Work$: Working Toward a Better Financial Future

Descriptors:

Banking, budgeting, consumer issues, credit management, personal finance basics, record keeping, working with financial institutions and professionals

Language(s):

English, Spanish

Abstract:

Money Work$ is a complete financial education program tailored to meet unique learning needs of very low, low and moderate income audiences in basic money management, including: financial goal setting, selecting a banking or credit union account, tracking expenses, creating a spending plan, managing a checking/share draft account, and more.

Title:

Financial Resources and Economic Education (F.R.E.E.)

Descriptors:

Banking, budgeting, consumer issues, credit management, homeownership, personal finance basics, saving

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

F.R.E.E. helps immigrants gain control over their own finances, while improving their English language skills. Its student workbook and teacher's guide include units on money basics, budgets, banking, saving money, and buying a home. A "big picture" section leads students to look critically at their economic environment. The Teacher's Guide includes background notes and answer keys for the workbook units.

Title:

Guide to Money Management Skills For The Unemployed

Descriptors:

Automobile, banking, budgeting, consumer issues, credit management, homeownership, insurance, investing, retirement planning, risk management, saving, taxes, working with financial institutions and professionals

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

This guide book teaches individuals how to cope with living on a reduced income. The reader is encouraged to track expenses to develop a realistic spending plan and savings goal, how to talk with creditors, how to handle unemployment benefits, and 401(k) monies, and other issues.

Title:

A Prescription for Financial Wellne$$

Descriptors:

Banking, budgeting, consumer issues, credit management, estate planning, insurance, investing, personal finance basics, record keeping, retirement planning, risk management, saving, working with financial institutions and professionals

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

This financial education program helps clients assess their "fiscal" health. Through interactive classes and homework assignments in record organization, saving, investing, credit, insurance, budgeting and cash management, retirement and estate planning, participants will learn to plan, save, and make other prudent financial decisions. The entire program is designed to be a four-week, in-depth series (2-3 hours each) with fact sheets, worksheets, exercises and activities available for use. Each module can stand alone as a 1 to 1 1/2 hour program. A post-test to compare to the pre-test will help participants determine what they have learned.

Title:

The Money Camp for Grown-ups! Financial Playbook [...Kids!]
and Coach's Curriculum Binder

Descriptors:

Banking, budgeting, consumer issues, entrepreneur, homeownership, investing, personal finance basics, retirement planning, saving

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

The Money Camp for Grown-ups! is a unique sixteen-module financial literacy curriculum. It includes the basic personal money management skills needed to grow financially independent as well as the mental and psychological aspects of money (thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes) which influence a lifetime of financial decisions. Also available as The Money Camp for Kids!

Title:

Too Good to Be True-Protecting Yourself from Consumer Fraud

Descriptors:

Consumer fraud, risk management, scams

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Schemes, scams and ripoffs are everywhere, even sneaking into your own home. People of all ages, incomes and backgrounds can and do get caught - which is why the scams persist. This pamphlet explains the different types of schemes and how to avoid them, so that you can avoid becoming the frustrated victim of unscrupulous promoters, telemarketers, infomercials, direct-mail offers, and sweepstakes invitation.

Title:

Better Money Management - An Individual Development Account Economic Literacy Curriculum for Hmong People

Descriptors:

Budgeting, consumer issues, credit management, insurance, investing, personal finance basics, saving, setting goals, taxes, advanced earned income tax credit, adjust withholding tax allowances to build budget

Language(s):

English, Hmong

Abstract:

Basic money management curriculum for 10 - 20 hours written in Hmong for Hmong audience. Curriculum also focuses on saving and has been used successfully with Individual Development Account Program.

Title:

All My Money

Descriptors:

Budgeting, banking, working with financial institutions and professionals, credit management, consumer issues, personal finance basics

Language(s):

English, Spanish

Abstract:

This innovative, hands-on curriculum emphasizes money management skills necessary for people with limited financial resources. It is a train-the-trainer program for staff and volunteers in community agencies and social service organizations. Each of the eight lessons is designed to stand alone or be taught as part of the series. Learning activities, worksheets, and handout masters for classroom teaching are provided.

Title:

Ready, Set, Credit

Descriptors:

Credit management, consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

For consumers who are about to get their first credit card. Explains how to qualify for a card, get the best deal, and manage your account. Stresses the importance of a good credit history. Discusses federal consumer protections.

Title:

Building a Better Credit Record

Descriptors:

Credit management, budgeting, consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Explains how consumer reporting agencies work and your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Explains how you can legally improve your credit report. Offers tips on dealing with debt. Cautions about credit-related scams and how to avoid them. Lists additional resources.

Title:

Choosing and Using Credit Cards

Descriptors:

Credit management, budgeting, consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Discusses credit card terms and federal consumer protections. Explains various balance computation methods.

Title:

Credit and Your Consumer Rights

Descriptors:

Working with financial institutions and professionals, consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Brief explanation of your consumer rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Fair Credit Billing Act, the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Tips for solving credit problems

Title:

Vehicle Repossession

Descriptors:

Automobile, consumer issues, working with financial institutions and professionals

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Discusses your creditor's rights in seizing and reselling of your car for nonpayment, and explains deficiency—the difference between what you owe on your loan and what your creditor gets for reselling your car.

Title:

Buying a Used Car

Descriptors:

Automobile, consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Explains the Buyers Guide required on all used cars sold by dealers. Also discusses payment options, private sales, and car-buying tips. Addresses warranties, service contracts and spoken promises.

Title:

Buying a New Car

Descriptors:

Automobile, consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Discusses pricing terms, financing options, trade-ins, and service contracts. Includes a worksheet to help the consumer when buying a car.

Title:

Straight Talk About Telemarketing

Descriptors:

Consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Explains how fraudulent telemarketing scams work, how you can use the federal Telemarketing Sales Rule to recognize and stop unwanted calls, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you've been the victim of a scam or want to file a complaint.

Title:

Help Wanted... Finding A Job

Descriptors:

Consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Describes six basic types of employment service firms. Urges consumers to find out what services a firm offers, how much the services cost, and who pays. Discusses consumer scams and how to avoid becoming a victim.

Title:

How to Right a Wrong

Descriptors:

Consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Explains your rights when it comes to mail and telephone order shopping, unordered merchandise, and door-to-door sales. It also tells you how to write an effective complaint letter and lists some resources for additional help.

Knowing and Understanding Your Credit

Credit management, budgeting, working with financial institutions and professionals, home ownership, consumer issues, saving, investing

Language(s):

English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese

Abstract:

Developed in collaboration with The National Endowment for Financial Education—this guide helps consumers understand what credit is, learn how to establish good credit, repair credit problems, and learn how to take control of their credit as the first step in the home-buying process.

Title:

Selecting a Credit Card

Descriptors:

Budgeting, credit management, consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

This guide helps consumers understand credit card offers they receive in the mail or over the telephone. Annual Percentage Rate (APR), grace period, finance charges and fees are clearly explained to assist the consumer in finding credit card terms best suited for their spending and repayment habits.

Title:

Replacing those VIPs (Very Important Papers)

Descriptors:

Consumer issues, record keeping

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Replacing some VIPs (birth, marriage and death certificates, deeds, leases, contracts, wills, copies of tax returns, insurance policies, military records, and Social Security records) may be costly and troublesome. This guide explains where VIPs are kept and how to replace them.

Title:

Cutting Credit Costs: Know Your Credit Rights

Descriptors:

Budgeting, credit management

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

This fact sheet offers brief explanations of major credit laws.

Title:

Cutting Credit Costs: The Fair Credit Reporting Act and Your Consumer Rights

Descriptors:

Budgeting, credit management, consumer issues

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

This two-page fact sheet explains how 1996 amendments to the Fair Credit Reporting Act promote privacy and ensure the accuracy and fairness of information in the files of consumer reporting agencies. Ten consumer rights under the act are also covered.

Title:

Helping People in Your community Understand Basic Financial Services

Descriptors:

Banking, consumer issues, working with financial institutions and professionals, personal finance basics

Language(s):

English, Spanish

Abstract:

Comprehensive educator's guide covers the topics of working with collaborators and partnerships, planning the educational program, delivering the educational program (best practices guidelines), resources and contact information, consumer protection laws, and consumer worksheets. The Fact Sheet series includes information on direct deposit, choosing a financial institution, choosing a deposit account, using deposit accounts (including how to balance a checkbook), ATMs, debit cards, understanding electronic products and services (2000 edition) and managing an electronic account (2000 edition).

Title:

Descriptors:

Language(s):

English, Spanish

Abstract:

Title:

Descriptors:

Language(s):

English, Spanish

Abstract:

Title:

Thrifty Parenting

Descriptors:

Budgeting, consumer issues, cutting costs, personal finance basics, record keeping, reducing expenses

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

The Thrifty Parenting program is designed for families with young children. It shows ways that parents can cut the expense of raising children, while maintaining health and safety standards. A teaching guide and four sections are included: Getting Started; Food and Health Care; Clothing; and Equipment, Toys, and Entertainment.

Title:

Food & Money Basics: Choices & Decisions. A Beginner's Money Management Module

Descriptors:

Budgeting, consumer issues, investing, nutrition education, personal finance basics, record keeping, saving

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

This train-the-trainer curriculum is designed to assist individuals in effectively managing their money while making healthy food choices. It is for beginners who are willing to practice prioritizing choices and making decisions. Four modules target survival lifeskills that include money values, goal setting, budgeting, nutrition, food shopping, and food safety.

Title:

Baby Boomers Come of Age!
Stop! Let Me Off the Merry-Go-Round, Money in the Mattress, The Fast & Healthy Answer to ...What's For Dinner?, Friends and Lovers

Descriptors:

Balancing work & family, consumer issues, healthy eating, investing, personal finance basics, relationships, retirement planning, saving, stress management

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Born between 1946 and 1964, Boomers have shaped the U.S. economy and society for years. As many Boomers now reach their 50s, they are preparing for the "second" stage of their lives. This four-part curriculum addresses important issues for consumers, especially Boomers. "Stop! Let Me Off the Merry-Go-Round" looks at balancing family and life responsibilities. "Money in the Mattress" addresses retirement planning. "The Fast & Healthy Answer ToÄWhat's For Dinner?" discusses dietary guidelines, nutrition, and fast food. "Friends and Lovers" talks about adult relationships.

Title:

You & Your Money
Financial Reflections for a Lifetime

Descriptors:

Banking, budgeting, consumer issues, credit management, homeownership, insurance, investing, personal finance basics, record keeping, saving

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

An engaging compendium of short articles covering a lifetime of familiar financial issues in a way that enhances the reader's understanding and appreciation of the financial challenges and opportunities they face throughout life. A great book for parents to share with children and adults to share with parents. The approach is easy-going, and even entertaining at times, but the information and insights are based on both investigative research and years of experience in studying the basic issues of personal finance.

Title:

Your Money & Your Life
A Financial Education Curriculum for Limited-Resource Audiences

Descriptors:

Advantages of using mainstream financial institutions, debt management, avoiding money traps (including high-interest loans), job benefits, investing, public benefits (including effect of assets on eligibility for means-tested programs), taxes (including earned income credit, child credit, child care credit)

Language(s):

English (handouts, but not instructor manual, also in Spanish)

Abstract:

University of Illinois Extension collaborated with Illinois's Financial Links for Low-Income People coalition to develop this companion to Extension's "All My Money" curriculum to further meet the financial education needs of persons transitioning from welfare to work and other limited resource people. The result of this collaboration is "Your Money & Your Life". The eight lessons cover: 1) Managing Debt, 2) Avoiding Money Traps, 3) Using Financial Institutions, 4) Choosing Insurance, 5) Learning About Job Benefits, 6) Making Money With Money, 7) Taking Advantage of Public Benefits, and 8) Understanding Taxes.

Title:

66 Ways to Save Money

Descriptors:

Automobile, banking, budgeting, consumer issues, credit management, homeownership, insurance, investing, saving

Language(s):

English, Spanish

Abstract:

"66 Ways to Save Money" is published by the Consumer Literacy Consortium representing federal and state government, consumer groups, business, and educational institutions. This brochure disseminates money-saving shopping tips about 28 frequently purchased products to the roughly two-thirds of households who do not usually engage in a careful product search.

Title:

Kids and Money/Money and Your Kids A Newsletter for Kids & Parents

Descriptors:

Budgeting, consumer issues, credit management, investing, record keeping, saving, other: allowances, wants vs needs, goal-setting

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

This award winning monthly newsletter is targeted at fifth graders and their parents. Nine issues covering goals, wants and needs, getting money, saving, value for your money, allowances, tracking money, saving money and borrowing. One side of the newsletter is for parents and the other side is for students.

Title:

Four Cornerstones of Financial Literacy

Descriptors:

Automobile, banking, budgeting, consumer issues, credit management, homeownership, insurance, investing, personal finance basics, record keeping, retirement planning, saving, taxes, working with financial institutions and professionals

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

The Four Cornerstones curriculum builds 'financial literacy', i.e. the ability to speak the language of and function well in the culture of the mainstream U.S. financial world. The four cornerstones are: 1. Budgeting to create savings; 2. Debt reductionand asset building; 3. Building a good credit rating; and 4. Consumer protection and financial institutions. 

Title:

Becoming Part of Wealth in America
COMO LLEGAR A SER PARTE DE LA REQUEZA EN LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS

Descriptors:

Banking, budgeting, consumer issues, credit management, homeownership, insurance, investing, personal finance basics, record keeping, retirement planning, saving, taxes, working with financial institutions and professionals

Language(s):

English, Spanish

Abstract:

This curriculum is designed to build 'financial literacy' and the ability to function in the mainstream U.S. financial world. The curriculum is divided into two parts, and is translated into Spanish: Part One: Understanding American financial institutionsthat help families build wealth Part Two: Protecting our wealth from becoming lost or stolen. 

Title:

Protecting Your Identity: Identity Theft
Financial Fitness for Young Adults Series

Descriptors:

Consumer issues, identity theft, record keeping, risk management

Language(s):

English

Abstract:

Financial Fitness Series presents the pleasures and pitfalls of financial responsibility, by sharing successful strategies for remaining financially fit.