Financial Life Skills for all New Yorkers
Whether you are just starting out on your own, preparing to buy your first home or trying to live on a fixed income, money and credit issues have probably crossed your mind on more than one occasion. All the math and effort to keep track of your money make personal finances seem like a daunting task. However, it can be made easier.
The New York State Department of State Division of Consumer Protection "life skills" approach to personal finances can help consumers of all ages grasp and navigate many elements of the complex world of credit and financial transactions. Check out the sections below for more information.
Teaching Children to Save
Help children learn about the power of saving and fiscal responsibility
Understanding Banks and Credit Unions
Saving money, paying bills and cashing checks can be made easier by using a bank or credit union
Savings, Personal Budgets and Preventing Debt
Understanding personal finances, as well as creating and sticking to a budget, can help you toward a healthy financial future
Managing Your Credit and Debit Cards
Learn more about credit and debit cards
Check Your Credit Reports Regularly For Free
Make sure your credit history is accurate. Learn about credit reports, how to read them and where to get your credit report for free. Also learn about credit scores
Credit Discrimination
Creditors must review your credit application fairly and impartially, and are prohibited by law from discriminating on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, because you receive public assistance or for other reasons
Debt Collection, Credit Counseling and Debt Mediation, Merchandise Repossession and Payday Loans
Empower yourself by reviewing your rights when dealing with debt collectors, or when using a credit counselor or debt mediator. Also, learn about the pitfalls of payday loans
Tax Preparers and Privacy When Filing Taxes
Important tips to remember when preparing and filing your tax return, or when using a tax preperation service