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Resources & Knowledge for a Secure Financial Future

Take Charge America is dedicated to improving financial literacy among people from all backgrounds facing a variety of financial challenges. Bookmark this page to reference whenever you have a financial question, concern or opportunity.

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The Latest Financial Guidance

5 Ways Spenders and Savers Can Find Common Ground

If you believe the old axiom “opposites attract,” you won’t be surprised if you find yourself in a relationship with someone who’s different from you. But when money habits are one of those differences, your partner’s quirks can quickly go from charming to alarming. It is definitely challenging for spenders and savers to navigate being […]

Tips for Managing Friendship and Finances

Misunderstandings about money have caused the downfall of many friendships. Because we all have different backgrounds and experiences, we all approach money and financial issues in our own unique ways. Fortunately, there are some tried-and-true tips to help you manage the sometimes awkward intersection of friendship and finances. Let’s see what they are. Be Prepared […]

a credit report includes credit utilization information

What is Credit Utilization (And Why Does it Matter?)

When it comes to establishing and maintaining a good credit history, one term you’ll hear frequently is credit utilization. But what exactly does that mean, and why is it important? Let’s take a look at what it is and what it means for you. What is Credit Utilization? When calculating a credit score, the […]

woman discovering surprising personal finance beliefs

5 Surprising Personal Finance Beliefs

With all the world’s information at our fingertips, you’d think consumers would have a good grasp of basic financial information. Surprisingly, many people still don’t understand some of the fundamental concepts of personal finance. Or they continue to believe old, outdated or just plain incorrect information. Let’s take a look at some personal finance beliefs […]

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Tips to Manage Your Digital Wants and Needs

Technology has changed the way we listen to music, watch movies and TV, go shopping and keep ourselves informed, occupied and entertained from the moment we wake up in the morning until we go to sleep at night. With that shift in lifestyle, you’ve probably also noticed some changes in your spending habits. It’s all […]

The Fundamentals of Building a Credit History

Establishing and maintaining a positive credit history is necessary to reach a number of important milestones, including buying a vehicle, purchasing a home and financing an education. Yet, many people don’t understand the basic building blocks of a credit history. Let’s take a look at the fundamentals of building a credit history. Managing a Bank […]

young couple in need of credit card hardship programs

What Are Credit Card Hardship Programs?

Struggling with credit card debt is frustrating enough. But when you add in a stressful life event such as job loss, serious illness or a natural disaster, trying to pay those bills every month can become overwhelming. That’s where a credit card hardship plan may be able to help. Sometimes called assistance programs or hardship […]

6 Steps to Take if Your Vehicle is Repossessed

Having a vehicle repossessed is a shocking occurrence. Suddenly, you’re left without transportation to get to work, school and run necessary errands. Although it’s an unfortunate situation, it’s not a hopeless one. If you act quickly, you may be able to get the vehicle back. Here are some steps to take if your vehicle is […]

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Make Extra Money When You Cash in on Kids’ Stuff

If you have kids, you’re either about to start or have already been back-to-school shopping for this school year. That means your home is filled with an influx of new clothes, shoes, sporting equipment and more. If your kids’ rooms are overflowing and your storage closets are bursting at the seams, it’s the perfect time […]

Are You Heading for a Financial Meltdown?

Would you be able to spot it if you were headed for a financial meltdown? For most of us, as long as we’re keeping a roof overhead, putting food on the table and paying our bills, we feel like we’re doing OK financially. But sometimes you have to look a little deeper. It’s possible to […]

Assessing Next Steps in Debt Relief

If you’re unsure where to turn, start with a free and confidential credit counseling session. We will review your income, expenses and debts to determine the best course of action.

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