Welcome to the Financial Wellness Center

Financial decisions almost always involve a trade off - getting something now usually means giving up something else.

• Choices About Money
  Financial decisions almost always involve a trade off - getting something now usually means giving up something else.
• Financial Values
  While each of us may have different values, we all make financial decisions based on them.
• Setting Financial Goals
  Setting financial goals gives us the chance to step back from everyday pressures, allowing us to think about how we’d like to be rather than as how we are.

A look at the financial challenges of raising a child.

• Introduction
  Having a baby is not just a family decision, it's a financial decision too.
• Babies and Budgets
  How to get your finances in shape before a baby arrives, including a budget review, paying down debt, making sure you're getting the best rate on any long-term debt, and creating an emergency fund.
• Paying for the Baby Years
  The non-childcare costs you can expect when having a baby, from cribs to health insurance.
• Managing Risks
  Life is filled with unexpected events. Learn how to ensure the financial security of your child in the worst case scenario.
• Children and Taxes
  A review of the tax benefits that can help you manage the expenses incurred with children.
• Childcare Choices
  An overview of different childcare choices and the financial implications of each.
• Growing Up - Childhood and Beyond
  A look at the additional costs of raising a child beyond the first few years including the indirect costs.

An overview of identity theft, including strategies for preventing it and what to do if it happens to you.

• Identity Theft
  Understanding ID theft and how to prevent it.
• Avoiding Identity Theft
  The three Ds of identity protection: Deter, Detect and Defend.
• Protecting Your Digital Information
  There are many data backup solutions designed to protect personal information that vary in their security and ease of use.
• Dealing with Identity Theft
  Understanding the different types of identity theft and what to do in each scenario.

Learn the basics of managing money, including financial health, budgeting, managing credit, plus more.

• Financial Health
  The concept of financial health is the foundation of any financial plan.
• Introduction to Budgeting
  Why budgeting is important, no matter how much money you earn.
• Choosing a Bank or Credit Union
  Key factors to consider when choosing a financial services provider.
• Credit vs. Debit Cards
  Credit and debit cards each have pros and cons. When should you use each?
• Credit Reports and Scores
  Credit reports and scores determine the rates you pay when borrowing and can affect your ability to get certain jobs.
• Managing Accounts
  Account management strategies for checking and savings.
• Building Credit
  Understanding the decisions and behaviors that can lead to improved credit scores.
• Identity Theft
  Understanding ID theft and how to prevent it.
• Financial Goals Exercise
  A goal-setting exercise that includes weekly, monthly, yearly, and long-term goals.