Blog

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.

I’m seeking guidance on...

The Latest Financial Guidance

woman withdrawing cash using a credit card cash advance

Know the Risks of Credit Card Cash Advances

When you’re low on cash, getting a cash advance from your credit card might seem like a good solution. And it’s definitely a fast, convenient way to acquire cash. But cash advances have risks and should only be used rarely if it all. Let’s look at the risks of credit card cash advances. Up-Front Fees […]

wooden bowl of popcorn sitting on a table with popped kernels scattered around it

7 Things to Buy Now (Before They Get More Expensive)

Inflation, ongoing supply chain issues, labor shortages and even the war in Ukraine are all contributing to higher prices on many everyday items. Although we don’t have a crystal ball, we can say with some certainty that prices on certain products will continue to rise through at least the end of the year. Here are […]

Father explaining inflation to teenage boy

How to Talk with Kids About Inflation

Kids notice things. You’re a little more stressed out. Going to the grocery store isn’t as much fun. You’re not stopping for a special treat after school. Inflation is taking a bite out of the family budget and your kids are wondering what’s going on. Here’s how you can talk to kids about inflation. Explain […]

family at home with a father and son looking at a laptop and mother and daughter reading a story

How to Avoid a Foreclosure: Three Steps that Can Save Your Home

The economic hardships of the pandemic, coupled with inflation, have challenged homeowners from all backgrounds and all parts of the nation. Many are struggling to meet their mortgage payments and the threat of foreclosure is looming. This situation can be scary and confusing, so it’s important to fully understand your options to avoid a foreclosure. […]

young children enjoying school lunch outside

How to Save Money on Kids’ School Lunches

With school back in session it’s time for the ritual of packing school lunches. The goal is always to send kids to school with nutritious, tasty lunches they’ll actually eat, without taxing the family food budget. Let’s review tips for saving money on school lunches. Start with the Right Tools A key to saving money […]

woman wearing a green top cutting a credit card in half with a pair of scissors

When Should You Close a Credit Card?

Closing a rarely used credit card may sound like a good idea, but it’s not as simple as you may think. Many consumers don’t realize that closing a credit card can negatively impact their credit scores in the short term. But depending on your overall finances and credit situation, it may be worth taking the […]

young man with glasses using a payment advance app on his phone

The Pros and Cons of Payment Advance Apps

You’ve probably seen or heard commercials for financial app such as Chime, Dave or Earnin. They are a new breed of payment advance apps that promise consumers they can get paid a portion of their earnings early or borrow from their upcoming paychecks. With inflation, high prices and more people than ever living paycheck-to-paycheck, these […]

middle school girl playing flute in the band

Be Prepared for Unexpected School Expenses

You’ve bought the new backpack, lunch box and school supplies. Your kids have new shoes, and a few new outfits or uniforms. School is back in session and your bank account can take a breather, right? Well, not exactly. Spending for the school year doesn’t always end once classes begin. Here are several unexpected school […]

woman wondering if it's time to seek credit counseling

When Should You Seek Credit Counseling?

Credit counseling is a service offered by nonprofit agencies to help consumers analyze and take control of their finances. Most credit counseling sessions include pulling a current credit report, reviewing a consumer’s income, expenses and debts, creating a budget and suggesting a solution for paying off credit card debt. Many consumers wonder when they should […]

Gen Z Black girl with long braids using her laptop to research financial issues

Financial Lessons We Can Learn from Gen Z

Gen Z — those born between 1997 and 2012 — are quickly gaining a reputation as the “throwback generation,” due to their love of nostalgia and rediscovering things we thought were in the past for good. Surprisingly, that includes attitudes they’re embracing when it comes to money. But as true digital natives, they also use […]

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.

Get started online now

Available 24/7
Save your progress and return later
Easy process with clear instructions
Download credit report summary, action plan and budget

Start My Credit Counseling Session

You can also call us Monday – Friday from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. MST at 866-528-0588 to speak with a certified credit counselor.

two women reviewing financial information

Explore Free Financial Resources

Arm yourself with the knowledge to create lifelong financial independence. Get tips and tools for managing debt, developing effective financial habits, budgeting to meet living expenses and saving for the future.

Explore Budget Tools