Getting out of debt is a huge achievement, but staying debt-free is arguably even harder. Ask anyone who’s dug out – good financial habits are harder won than that zero balance.
Thankfully, CESI is here to help you with both goals: getting out of debt, and becoming the kind of money manager who can stay debt free.
To start the journey to achieve financial smarts, CESI has one of the best financial education programs available, offering a number of resources to meet you where you are. Here are some of the highlights.
The Guide to Personal Finance. The first tool is a curriculum that walks readers through chapters to further their financial knowledge. If you’ve ever felt completely lost financially, this is the perfect place to start. It includes:
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How to plan strategically with your money: an encouraging chapter that eases readers into the concept of planning financially.
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The basics of banking. This chapter enlightens readers on the importance of establishing a relationship with a banking institution, how banks work, how to choose the right bank for you, what kinds of accounts to expect, and the best ways to avoid extra fees like overdraft charges.
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How to handle debt. When you’re in over your head, this section will provide perspective by defining the different types of debt, including the advantages and drawbacks of each. Then, perhaps most importantly, how to manage and even repay your own debt.
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Why a budget is important, and how to build your own.
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All about credit: What it is, how it works, how you can use it, what types are available, and what a credit “score” is.
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Planning for, investing in, and protecting your future. This chapter discusses why you’ll need more than that Social Security check to live the kind of life you want after retirement.
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Housing 101: Should you rent, or buy? Are you ready to buy? How much “house” can you afford? What costs are included, other than just the price of the home? How does one buy a home – from start to finish? What kind of home loan is best for me? What if I get into financial trouble once I’m in the home? Can I prevent foreclosure?
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Handling financial emergencies. Believe it or not, urgent money matters do not often happen instantly. This chapter explains how a lifestyle creates trouble, and an emergency is only the symptom of a larger condition. It also includes a list of options for when things get out of hand.
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A special chapter dedicated just to student debt.
Calculators. The financial education programs at CESI don’t end there. We also offer over a dozen online financial calculators to give you immediate answers to pressing questions you have about your own personal journey.
Vids. If you’re a visual or auditory learner, you’re in good company. Most people learn the most when a friendly face explains things. That’s why our video series is perfect. It’s made up of one-minute nuggets of wisdom from Norman H. Godwin, Ph.D.
Blog. Another resource for constant, fresh inspiration is our blog. Our blog is continually updated with new, relevant content, our articles keep you financially educated and motivated to implement what you learn.
Rags-to-riches entrepreneur Jim Rohn once said, “Formal education will make you a living, self-education will make you a fortune.” We couldn’t agree more. To start walking towards the path to financial freedom, call a non-profit debt counselor today. We believe getting out of debt and staying out go hand-in-hand. Most importantly, we have the financial education programs to get you there.
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