Back-to-school season brings excitement, new routines, and rising costs. Clothes, supplies, backpacks, lunch items, and classroom fees add up quickly, and school sports bring additional expenses like registration, uniforms, equipment, travel, and fundraising. Many families turn to credit cards to keep up.  If you’re feeling stretched, free debt counseling can help you understand your options […]

Buying your first home is exciting but can raise questions, especially if you have credit card debt. Many buyers think they must pay off all balances before applying, but that’s not always true. Attending a first-time homebuyer workshop can help you understand what lenders look for and how to prepare. Credit card debt doesn’t automatically prevent homeownership. Lenders consider your overall […]

Congress passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) last year, and the biggest changes to student loans kick in on July 1, 2026. For many borrowers, the return of student loan payments has created a financial reality check.   Budgets that worked during the payment pause may no longer be enough. Monthly cash flow feels tighter. Savings goals slow down. Financial […]