Financial Health
Building financial capability and security over the life course strengthens Iowa families, however low financial literacy, coupled with stagnant incomes and rising living costs create economic pressures that erode financial security. Iowans scored on average just 60% on a national financial literacy test. Many rural Iowans struggle to find well-paying jobs and to access services. Targeted and timely Extension financial education programs build the knowledge and skills needed in today’s complex financial markets.
The American Dream is to own a home. Purchasing a home is probably the biggest purchase you’ll ever make. It’s an exciting experience and not a simple task. Lessons focus on preparing for home ownership, shopping for a home, securing a mortgage, closing the loan, and being a homeowner.
When you understand possible financial solutions for care of a loved one, you and your family can make the best decisions for their care. As your family plans together, be sure to look at financial solutions that protect the financial future of the caregiver. We’ll guide you through the steps of finding and collecting needed information and share tools to help you in your decisions.
Community volunteers certified by the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provide free tax preparation and electronic filing to receive eligible tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit.
Engage in hands-on learning to enhance your wellbeing and quality of life in ways that are personally meaningful to you. Learn strategies for taking time for yourself, building relationships, and improving physical and financial health.
You’ve worked for your money. Now make your money work for you. You’ll learn how to manage expenses, stretch limited dollars, and set goals for the future.
Talking about money and goals may be difficult for you while you are helping clients address other complex issues. You’ll discover how to have money conversations with the people you assist to help them achieve their financial goals. You will learn how to help others set goals, save money, manage credit, get organized, and more.