Center for Working Families

Financial empowerment is having the knowledge and ability to make choices and take actions that improve one’s financial wellbeing.

Financial Coaching is a series of one-on-one meetings between a client and a coach that helps the client set and achieve their financial goals. Coaching focuses on building the client's financial skills to promote long-term economic well-being. The Center for Working Families offers free financial coaching. Learn more here.

Yes, our staff can help you prepare a resume, work with you on interviewing skills, and assist you with job applications. We also offer free virtual workshops on these topics. Learn more here.

Yes, you can access computers, printers, and internet access at the Center for Working Families in Roxbury. We also have a fax machine you can use if you need to send a fax to an employer.

We can’t decide what the best checking account is for your needs but here are some things to consider:

To open a bank account, you will generally need to provide identification and a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

There are two types of accounts that you may open:

• Checking accounts allow for easy access to your money to pay bills and make purchases. Many banks charge a monthly fee for a checking account. When opening a checking account, make sure to compare banks and ask about fees. It may be possible to negotiate for lower fees, particularly if you are employed and can sign up for direct deposit of your pay check. Be sure to inquire about the locations of ATMs to determine if they are near your home or work.
• Savings accounts allow you to save your money and earn interest. Again, be sure to compare interest rates, fees, and rules regarding minimum balances at different banking institutions.

Not sure where to start? Bank On Boston helps residents find accounts that fit their needs. Learn more here.

File a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) here. They will forward your complaint to the company and work to get a response.

To order your credit report, visit annualcreditreport.com, or call 1-877-322-8228. You can also complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form and mail it to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.

The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Debt Collection Regulations prohibit many unfair debt collection practices by creditors, and regulations of the Massachusetts Division of Banks prohibit unfair debt collection practices by debt collection agencies. Visit the Attorney General’s website for more information.

There are a number of helpful resources you should consult before declaring bankruptcy. Bankruptcy will affect your future credit and your reputation, so you should consider various pros and cons before you decide in bankruptcy is the best option for you.

Check out these resources:

Massachusetts Law about Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy Basics from the U.S. Federal Courts

Filing for Bankruptcy in Massachusetts

The Federal Trade Commission provides helpful information on its website about recovering from identity theft.

The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office may be able to help you with specific situations. Contact their office at 617.727.8400.

We cannot recommend a lawyer but the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office provides contact information for organizations that provide legal referrals and free legal services for qualifying low-income individuals.

Please visit the Boston Tax Help Coalition website to find information on eligibility, required documents, and available tax sites.