12 Free & Low-Cost Financial Advisors for People with Low Income

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IRS • HUD • CFPB • NFCC • AARP — Verified March 2026

A plain-language guide to 12 verified organizations that provide free or nearly free financial counseling, credit help, tax advice, and money coaching to low-income Americans — with phone numbers, eligibility rules, and exactly what each one does.

💡 10 Things Everyone Should Know About Free Financial Help

Most Americans believe professional financial advice is only for the wealthy. That belief is costing millions of people thousands of dollars every year. A network of government-funded programs, IRS-certified volunteers, nonprofit credit counselors, and pro bono financial planners stands ready to help low- and moderate-income Americans budget, reduce debt, avoid foreclosure, navigate tax credits, and build savings — entirely free or at very low cost. The 12 organizations on this page are legitimate, federally connected, and available right now. Here is what you need to know first.

1
Is free financial advice from a real professional actually available to low-income people? Yes — through IRS-certified volunteers, HUD-approved counselors, and pro bono CFP® professionals who serve the public at no charge.
The IRS awarded $53 million in grants on January 30, 2026, to fund free tax preparation and financial counseling programs through its VITA and TCE programs alone. Separately, HUD funds hundreds of approved housing counseling agencies that provide free or very low-cost guidance on budgets, foreclosure, and credit. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), founded in 1951, connects people to nonprofit credit counselors across all 50 states. The Foundation for Financial Planning funds pro bono CFP® professionals who deliver comprehensive financial plans at zero cost. Collectively, these programs serve millions of Americans each year who cannot otherwise afford financial help.
2
What is the difference between a financial counselor and a financial advisor — and which one do I need? Counselors help you manage current problems (debt, budgeting, credit). Advisors help you build wealth over time. For low-income households, a counselor is usually the right starting point.
Financial counselors specialize in stabilizing your current financial situation: reducing debt, creating a workable budget, repairing credit, stopping a foreclosure, or accessing benefits you are missing. Financial advisors (including CFP® professionals) typically focus on investing, retirement planning, insurance, and wealth growth. Most free programs available to low-income people are counseling-based, though the Foundation for Financial Planning and the Financial Planning Association also connect qualifying individuals to volunteer CFP® professionals for broader planning. If you are living paycheck to paycheck, in debt, or behind on housing, start with a nonprofit credit counselor. Once your financial foundation is stable, a pro bono CFP® can help you build toward future goals.
3
What is a pro bono financial planner and how do I access one? A pro bono CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner® who donates their time to provide free financial planning to low-income individuals and families through nonprofit organizations.
The Foundation for Financial Planning (FFP) is the primary national organization coordinating pro bono CFP® service. FFP awards grants to nonprofits to run free financial planning programs and operates ProBonoPlannerMatch.org to connect volunteer planners with qualifying clients. The Financial Planning Association (FPA) runs parallel pro bono chapters in 77 cities. Qualifying for pro bono CFP® service typically means having income at or below 80% of the local median income and working through a partnered nonprofit or community organization. Services include budgeting, debt management, homebuying guidance, investing basics, and retirement planning — the same services that would cost $200–$400 per hour from a private advisor. Contact the Foundation for Financial Planning at ffpprobono.org to find a program near you.
4
Can I get free help managing my debt and credit score? Yes — NFCC-certified nonprofit credit counselors provide free one-on-one financial reviews, personalized action plans, and, when needed, Debt Management Plans (DMPs) to reduce interest rates and consolidate payments.
The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) is the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit financial counseling organization, founded in 1951. It operates a network of accredited nonprofit agencies in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. A session with an NFCC-certified counselor typically lasts about an hour and covers a full review of your income, expenses, debts, and credit situation, ending with a personalized action plan. If you carry significant credit card or unsecured debt, the counselor may recommend a Debt Management Plan — a structured repayment program where the agency negotiates reduced interest rates with creditors directly on your behalf. Sessions are free or low-cost (many under $25). Call NFCC at (800) 388-2227 or visit nfcc.org to connect with a certified counselor in your area.
5
How do I get free tax preparation help if I earn below $69,000? The IRS VITA program provides free, IRS-certified tax preparation to people earning $69,000 or less, those with disabilities, and limited English speakers. AARP Tax-Aide extends this to older adults with no income ceiling.
The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program has operated for more than 50 years and received $53 million in renewed federal grant funding in January 2026. VITA volunteers are IRS-certified each year and prepare federal and state returns at no cost. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is a separate but complementary program focused on taxpayers age 50 and older with low to moderate income, and has helped over 82 million taxpayers since 1968. Both programs provide critical access to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit, and, in 2026, the new enhanced senior deduction of up to $6,000 for individuals aged 65+ per the IRS announcement. The EITC alone can return up to $7,830 to qualifying low-income working families, yet the IRS estimates that one in five eligible taxpayers fails to claim it. Call (800) 906-9887 for VITA or (888) 227-7669 for AARP Tax-Aide.
6
What kind of free housing and mortgage help is available if I am struggling to pay my home costs? HUD-approved housing counseling agencies provide free or low-cost guidance on mortgage delinquency, foreclosure prevention, reverse mortgages, first-time homebuying, and rental housing.
HUD funds a nationwide network of housing counseling agencies trained and approved to provide independent advice. These counselors are not affiliated with lenders and have no incentive to sell you anything. Services include foreclosure prevention (available through the HOPE Hotline at 888-995-4673, 24/7), reverse mortgage counseling (required by federal law before any HECM loan closes), budgeting and credit repair, first-time homebuyer preparation, and rental assistance guidance. The CFPB also connects consumers to HUD-approved counselors through its Mortgage Help line at 1-855-411-2372. Finding a counselor near you takes less than one minute at hud.gov/findacounselor or by calling (800) 569-4287. HUD-approved counseling agencies are prohibited from charging upfront fees for foreclosure prevention services.
7
Is there free financial help specifically for women with low income? Yes — Savvy Ladies operates a free financial helpline staffed by volunteer financial professionals who provide one hour of personalized guidance, with over 280 volunteers available monthly.
Savvy Ladies is a nonprofit founded in 2003 that focuses on women’s financial empowerment and education. Its free helpline connects women to a volunteer financial professional — often a CFP®, CPA, or attorney — for one free hour of personalized guidance on any financial topic: investing, debt, divorce, retirement, budgeting, insurance, or estate planning. There is no income limit, no sales pitch, and no follow-up obligation. The helpline serves women of all income levels but is particularly valuable for those with limited access to paid advice. In addition to the helpline, Savvy Ladies offers free online courses, webinars, and an extensive resource library. Connect at savvyladies.org or email [email protected] to request your free session.
8
What is a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic and when do I need one? Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) provide free or low-cost legal representation for taxpayers with incomes below 250% FPL who have a dispute with the IRS — audits, penalties, collections, or wrongful levies.
LITCs are funded through the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service but are operated independently by law schools, clinics, and nonprofit organizations. They are not the same as a tax preparer — they provide legal representation in disputes with the IRS, including hearings before the U.S. Tax Court. If you receive an IRS audit notice, a tax lien, an incorrect tax bill, or a wage garnishment you believe is wrong, an LITC can represent you for free or a small fee if your income is at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level ($39,900/year for one person in 2026). LITCs also educate taxpayers about their rights and assist those who speak English as a second language. Find your nearest clinic at taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/litc or call the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service at (877) 777-4778.
9
What is the CFPB and how can it help me with financial problems involving a bank or lender? The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is a federal agency that accepts complaints about banks, credit cards, lenders, debt collectors, and other financial companies — and helps resolve them at no cost.
The CFPB was created by Congress under the Dodd-Frank Act specifically to protect consumers from unfair, deceptive, and abusive financial practices. If a credit card company wrongly charges you, a debt collector harasses you illegally, a mortgage servicer loses your payment, or a payday lender violates the law, you can file a complaint at consumerfinance.gov/complaint or call (855) 411-2372. Companies are required to respond to complaints within 15 days. The CFPB also operates Ask CFPB at consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb — a free database of plain-language answers to more than 1,000 financial questions covering everything from credit scores to student loans to retirement accounts. The CFPB does not provide individual financial planning but is one of the most powerful free tools available if you have been wronged by a financial company.
10
Where is the best single starting point to find free financial help near me? Dial 2-1-1, BenefitsCheckUp.org, or call the NFCC at (800) 388-2227. Any of these three connects you to local financial counseling resources within minutes, at no cost.
Dialing 2-1-1 connects you to a local social service coordinator in most areas of the United States, available 24 hours a day and in multiple languages. Trained specialists can refer you to the closest free financial counselor, food assistance, utility help, and housing resources in one call. BenefitsCheckUp.org, operated by NCOA, screens for more than 2,000 programs including financial counseling access, drug assistance, housing programs, and food benefits — free and anonymous in five minutes. NFCC.org or (800) 388-2227 connects you directly to a nonprofit credit counselor in your area, often the same week. If you are a senior on Medicare with financial difficulties, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at 1-877-839-2675 also connects to free local financial counseling focused on healthcare-related costs.

Sources: IRS.gov IR-2026-19 Jan 30 2026 ($53 million VITA/TCE grants; 48 TCE and 315 VITA grantees; VITA income limit $69,000; VITA 50+ years of service); IRS.gov 2026 senior filing season updates (enhanced senior deduction $6,000/$12,000; EITC up to $7,830); NFCC.org and nfcc.org/contact-us (founded 1951; 800-388-2227; nonprofit credit counseling all 50 states; Debt Management Plans; accreditation); FFP ffpprobono.org Jan 22 2026 ($725,000 in 2026 grants; ProBonoPlannerMatch.org; 20 funded nonprofits 2026); FinancialPlanningAssociation.org (77 chapters; pro bono program nationwide); HUD.gov/counseling (800-569-4287; HUD-approved agencies; no upfront foreclosure fees; hud.gov/findacounselor); CFPB consumerfinance.gov (855-411-2372; 15-day company response; Ask CFPB 1,000+ answers); AARP Foundation taxaide.aarpfoundation.org (888-227-7669; 82 million helped since 1968; IRS-certified annually; no AARP membership required); IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/litc (877-777-4778; 250% FPL income limit = $39,900 single 2026); Savvy Ladies savvyladies.org (free helpline; 280+ volunteers monthly; founded 2003); HOPE Hotline HUD (888-995-4673; 24/7); NCOA BenefitsCheckUp.org (2,000+ programs); 211.org United Way (24/7; multilingual)

🏆 12 Free & Low-Cost Financial Advisors — Verified March 2026

⚠️ These Are Real Programs, Not Lead-Generation Services

Every organization on this list is a legitimate nonprofit, federal agency, or IRS/HUD-approved program. None of them are insurance brokers, investment firms, or paid referral services. All contact information has been verified from official government and nonprofit sources as of March 2026. Services are free or very low-cost. Never pay upfront fees to any financial counselor for foreclosure prevention — it is illegal.

Best for Debt & Credit Counseling

NFCC — National Foundation for Credit Counseling

📋 Nonprofit Network — All 50 States • Founded 1951

💰 Income: No income limit • Cost: Free to very low-cost • Phone: (800) 388-2227

✅ Free one-on-one financial review

✅ Personalized budget and action plan

✅ Credit report review and repair guidance

✅ Debt Management Plans (DMPs)

✅ Mortgage and foreclosure counseling

✅ Student loan counseling

✅ Bankruptcy counseling and education

✅ Small business financial coaching

The NFCC is the oldest and largest nonprofit financial counseling organization in the United States. Founded in 1951, it operates a network of accredited member agencies with offices across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Every NFCC counselor holds a certified credit counselor credential and operates under an ethical code reviewed by the Council on Accreditation. A typical session lasts about one hour and results in a comprehensive review of your income, expenses, debts, and credit profile, followed by a personalized action plan. For people carrying heavy credit card debt, the NFCC’s Debt Management Plan program negotiates directly with creditors to reduce interest rates — often from 20%+ down to 6%–8% — and consolidates payments into one monthly amount managed by the agency. The Ohio State University conducted an independent study showing NFCC counseling produces statistically significant improvements in debt load and credit scores compared to uncounseled individuals. Most initial sessions are free; ongoing DMP management fees are typically under $25/month and are waived in cases of hardship.

📞 Certified Counselor Hotline: (800) 388-2227 — Mon–Fri
🌐 Schedule online: nfcc.org/free-counseling
🌐 Find a local agency: nfcc.org

Founded 1951 Debt Management Plans All 50 States Free Initial Session Creditor Interest Negotiation Council on Accreditation

Best for Full Financial Planning (Pro Bono CFP®)

Foundation for Financial Planning — Pro Bono CFP® Program

📋 National Nonprofit — Washington D.C. • $725,000 in 2026 Grants

💰 Income: Typically at or below 80% of local median • Cost: Free • Access: Through partner nonprofits

✅ Free comprehensive financial plans

✅ Volunteer CFP® professionals (not students)

✅ Budgeting, debt, saving, investing guidance

✅ Homebuying and homeownership planning

✅ Programs for cancer patients, veterans, survivors

✅ ProBonoPlannerMatch.org for nonprofits

✅ 20+ funded nonprofit programs in 2026

✅ 30+ years of pro bono financial planning

The Foundation for Financial Planning (FFP) is the only national nonprofit whose sole mission is expanding access to pro bono financial planning. In January 2026, FFP announced it would award $725,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations running pro bono programs — its largest grant cycle to date. These grants fund programs serving low-income seniors, families affected by cancer, domestic violence survivors, veterans, and other vulnerable populations. The volunteer planners who work through FFP partner programs are active CFP® professionals donating their expertise, not students or trainees. Access to a volunteer CFP® through this network is the closest most low-income Americans will ever come to the kind of comprehensive financial advice available to high-net-worth clients. To find a program near you, visit ffpprobono.org. If you are a nonprofit wanting to launch a pro bono program, connect with FFP through ProBonoPlannerMatch.org to recruit volunteer planners.

🌐 Find a program: ffpprobono.org
🌐 For nonprofits: ProBonoPlannerMatch.org
📧 General inquiries: [email protected]

CFP® Volunteer Planners $725K Grants 2026 Cancer & Veteran Programs Comprehensive Planning No Strings Attached

Best for Local CFP® Access in Your City

Financial Planning Association — Pro Bono Program

📋 Professional Association — 77 Active Chapters Nationwide

💰 Income: At or below 80% local median income • Cost: Free • Access: Via local FPA chapter

✅ One-on-one financial counseling clinics

✅ Structured mini financial plan

✅ Group financial literacy workshops

✅ Serves homeless, DV survivors, veterans

✅ 77 chapters across the United States

✅ No sales or product promotion ever

✅ Assistance for nonprofits serving the poor

✅ Available in multiple languages at many chapters

The Financial Planning Association is the largest membership organization of CFP® professionals in the country, with 77 active local chapters. Each chapter runs its own pro bono program, delivering free financial planning to underserved individuals and families in its community — those with little to no assets and incomes at or below 80% of the local median income. The FPA program focuses on a structured “mini-plan” process: a detailed assessment of your financial situation followed by concrete, actionable steps to achieve specific goals such as building an emergency fund, eliminating high-interest debt, or saving for a first home. Programs often partner with local social service agencies serving people escaping domestic violence, transitioning out of homelessness, or navigating financial recovery after a crisis. Services are purely educational and advisory — FPA’s ethical rules prohibit pro bono volunteers from selling products or soliciting paid business from clients. Find your local chapter at financialplanningassociation.org.

🌐 Find your chapter: financialplanningassociation.org/find-your-chapter
🌐 Pro bono program info: financialplanningassociation.org/advocacy/pro-bono-program
📞 National FPA: (800) 322-4237

77 Local Chapters Mini Financial Plan No Sales Permitted DV & Homeless Programs CFP® Volunteers

Best for Housing, Mortgage & Foreclosure Help

HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agencies

🏠 U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development — Nationwide

💰 Income: No income limit • Cost: Free or very low-cost • Phone: (800) 569-4287

✅ Foreclosure prevention and loss mitigation

✅ Mortgage delinquency counseling

✅ First-time homebuyer preparation

✅ Reverse mortgage (HECM) required counseling

✅ Rental assistance and eviction prevention

✅ Credit and budget counseling

✅ Disaster recovery counseling

⚠️ No upfront fees allowed for foreclosure help

HUD funds and oversees a nationwide network of housing counseling agencies that provide independent, expert advice on all aspects of home-related finance. These agencies are not banks, lenders, or real estate brokers — they have no financial interest in your housing decision and are legally required to give you objective advice. For homeowners at risk of losing their homes, a HUD-approved counselor can help negotiate with your mortgage servicer, explain forbearance and modification options, and represent your interests through the process. Federal law prohibits HUD-approved agencies from charging upfront fees for foreclosure prevention counseling. Reverse mortgage counseling is federally required before any HECM loan can close — call HUD at (800) 569-4287 to connect with a certified reverse mortgage counselor. The HOPE Hotline at (888) 995-4673 operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for homeowners in immediate danger of foreclosure. Multilingual services are available.

📞 Find a Counselor: (800) 569-4287 — 8 AM–8 PM ET, Mon–Fri
📞 HOPE Foreclosure Hotline: (888) 995-4673 — 24/7
🌐 Find online: hud.gov/findacounselor

HUD-Approved & Independent No Upfront Foreclosure Fees Reverse Mortgage Counseling HOPE Hotline 24/7 Multilingual Services

Best Free Tax Help Under $69,000

IRS VITA — Volunteer Income Tax Assistance

📋 Internal Revenue Service — Federal Program • 50+ Years of Service

💰 Income: $69,000 or less • Also: Disabilities, limited English • Phone: (800) 906-9887

✅ Free federal and state tax return preparation

✅ IRS-certified volunteers — updated annually

✅ Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) recovery

✅ Child Tax Credit and other credits identified

✅ Electronic filing for faster refunds

✅ In-person, drop-off, and virtual options

✅ $53 million in renewed federal funding (Jan 2026)

✅ Sites at libraries, community centers, churches

VITA is one of the most impactful free financial programs in America. The IRS awarded $53 million in renewed grants to VITA and TCE program operators on January 30, 2026, funding 315 VITA organizations and 48 TCE organizations across the country. For low-income Americans, VITA is not just a tax filing service — it is a critical access point for recovering thousands of dollars they are legally owed. The Earned Income Tax Credit alone returns up to $7,830 to qualifying working families, yet the IRS estimates millions of eligible taxpayers fail to claim it each year because they do not know it exists or mistakenly believe they do not qualify. VITA volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year and can prepare returns including W-2 income, Social Security benefits, pension income, and common credits. Locations include libraries, shopping centers, schools, and community centers. Find your nearest site at irs.gov/vita or call (800) 906-9887 — typically available January through April 15.

📞 VITA Locator: (800) 906-9887
🌐 Find a site: irs.gov/vita • irs.gov/freefile
🌐 Self-file free online: MyFreeTaxes.com (under $89,000)

$69,000 Income Limit EITC Up to $7,830 IRS-Certified Volunteers $53M Federal Funding 2026 Free E-Filing

Best Free Tax Help for Adults 50+

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

🧓 AARP Foundation — Nationwide • Over 82 Million Helped Since 1968

🧓 Focus: Age 50+ with low to moderate income • Phone: (888) 227-7669 • AARP membership NOT required

✅ Free federal and state tax preparation

✅ Special focus on retirement and pension income

✅ Social Security income reporting

✅ 2026 enhanced senior deduction ($6,000/$12,000)

✅ IRS-certified volunteers updated each year

✅ No AARP membership required

✅ In-person, drop-off, and virtual options

✅ Thousands of locations including senior centers

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the largest free tax assistance program in the United States for older adults, having served more than 82 million taxpayers since its founding in 1968. Unlike VITA which focuses on income limits, Tax-Aide focuses on age (primarily 50+) with low to moderate income, though local sites often accept taxpayers of all ages as volunteer capacity allows. All Tax-Aide volunteers receive IRS certification each year, keeping their knowledge of the tax code current. In 2026, this is especially important: the IRS announced a new enhanced senior deduction of up to $6,000 for individuals ($12,000 for married couples) for taxpayers age 65 and older, a significant benefit that many older adults may miss without expert guidance. Tax-Aide specializes in the types of income common among seniors: Social Security, pensions, Required Minimum Distributions, and investment income. Sites are located in libraries, senior centers, churches, malls, and community centers. Call (888) 227-7669 or visit aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide to find a location.

📞 Find a site: (888) AARP-NOW = (888) 227-7669
🌐 Site locator: aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide
🌐 Scheduling: taxaide.aarpfoundation.org

82 Million Helped Since 1968 Age 50+ Focus No AARP Membership Needed $6,000 Senior Deduction 2026 Pension & SS Specialists

Best If a Financial Company Has Wronged You

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

🏛️ Federal Government Agency — Washington D.C.

✅ Income: No limit • Cost: Free • Phone: (855) 411-2372 • Complaint portal: consumerfinance.gov

✅ File complaints against banks and lenders

✅ Stop illegal debt collector harassment

✅ Credit card and mortgage dispute help

✅ Connect to HUD housing counselors

✅ Ask CFPB: 1,000+ plain-language financial answers

✅ Companies must respond within 15 days

✅ Free consumer education tools and guides

✅ Money coaching resources for all ages

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau was established by Congress to be the consumer’s watchdog in the financial marketplace. If a credit card company, bank, debt collector, payday lender, mortgage servicer, or student loan servicer has treated you unfairly or illegally, the CFPB’s complaint system at consumerfinance.gov/complaint is one of the most powerful free tools available. Companies that receive CFPB complaints are required to respond within 15 days and attempt resolution. Complaints are tracked and contribute to the CFPB’s enforcement actions. The CFPB also publishes “Ask CFPB” — a plain-language database of answers to more than 1,000 financial questions, from “what is a credit score?” to “how do I dispute a debt?” to “when can a debt collector call me?” The CFPB’s financial tools include a retirement savings calculator, a mortgage loan comparison tool, and a student loan debt repayment tracker. For housing-specific help, calling (855) 411-2372 connects you directly to a HUD-approved housing counselor at no cost.

📞 Consumer Hotline: (855) 411-CFPB = (855) 411-2372
🌐 File a complaint: consumerfinance.gov/complaint
🌐 Ask CFPB answers: consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb

Federal Agency Protection Complaint Filing 15-Day Company Response 1,000+ Financial Answers No Income Limit

Best for IRS Disputes and Tax Court Representation

Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITC)

⚖️ IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service — Operated by Law Schools & Nonprofits

💰 Income: Below 250% FPL ($39,900/yr single 2026) • Cost: Free or small fee • Phone: (877) 777-4778

✅ Free legal representation in IRS disputes

✅ U.S. Tax Court representation

✅ Audit defense and innocent spouse claims

✅ IRS levy, lien, and wage garnishment defense

✅ Incorrectly assessed tax bill disputes

✅ English as a Second Language education

✅ Operated by law schools and legal nonprofits

✅ Independent of the IRS

Low Income Taxpayer Clinics are among the most specialized free financial services in the country. They exist specifically to represent low-income taxpayers who have disputes with the Internal Revenue Service — disputes that, without representation, often result in taxpayers paying far more than they legally owe. Qualifying requires having income below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (approximately $39,900/year for a single person in 2026) and having an open tax dispute. LITCs are operated independently by law schools, legal aid societies, and nonprofit organizations and are funded through the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service, but they advocate for the taxpayer, not the IRS. They handle cases including IRS audits, denial of the Earned Income Tax Credit, tax bills that appear wrong, wage garnishments and bank levies, innocent spouse claims, and Tax Court proceedings. Many also educate taxpayers who speak English as a second language about their rights. Find your nearest LITC at taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/litc or call the Taxpayer Advocate Service at (877) 777-4778.

📞 Taxpayer Advocate Service: (877) 777-4778 — Mon–Fri
🌐 Find an LITC: taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/litc
🌐 IRS Taxpayer Rights: taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov

IRS Dispute Defense Tax Court Representation 250% FPL Income Limit Law School Operated Free Legal Help

Best Free Financial Help for Women

Savvy Ladies — Free Financial Helpline for Women

📞 Nonprofit — National • 280+ Volunteer Financial Professionals Monthly

✅ Eligibility: Women only • Income: No limit • Cost: Free • Contact: savvyladies.org

✅ One hour of personalized financial guidance

✅ Volunteer CFP®, CPA, and attorney experts

✅ Investing, budgeting, retirement questions

✅ Divorce and separation financial planning

✅ No sales pitch — no follow-up obligation

✅ Free online courses and webinars

✅ Financial library and educational resources

✅ Operated since 2003

Savvy Ladies was founded in 2003 by financial educator Stacy Francis to bridge the gender gap in access to financial knowledge. Research has consistently shown that women earn less, live longer, take more career interruptions for caregiving, and face greater financial insecurity in retirement — yet are statistically less likely to receive professional financial guidance. Savvy Ladies’ free helpline addresses this gap directly by connecting women to over 280 volunteer financial professionals each month — including CFP® professionals, CPAs, attorneys, and subject-matter specialists. Each caller receives one full hour of personalized, private guidance on any financial question. Common topics include investment basics, retirement account decisions, navigating divorce finances, understanding Social Security claiming strategies, debt management, and estate planning basics. There is no income requirement, no AARP membership required, and no obligation after the call. Request a free session at savvyladies.org or email [email protected].

🌐 Request a session: savvyladies.org (helpline section)
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Free courses: savvyladies.org/resources

Women Only 1 Free Hour of Guidance 280+ Volunteers Monthly Divorce & Retirement Help No Sales Pitch

Best In-Person Financial Counseling in Major Cities

Financial Empowerment Centers (FECs) — CFE Fund

🏙️ Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund — Select U.S. Cities

✅ Income: All residents regardless of income • Cost: Free • Available: In participating cities (NYC, Houston, others)

✅ Professional financial counseling sessions

✅ Free to all residents regardless of income

✅ Budget creation and income/expense tracking

✅ Debt reduction and credit repair plans

✅ Banking access and safe account setup

✅ Benefits access and connection to public programs

✅ 133,000+ clients helped; $192M debt reduced

✅ In English and Spanish at most sites

Financial Empowerment Centers were pioneered in New York City in 2008 under Mayor Bloomberg as a model for integrating professional financial counseling into city government services. The CFE Fund now supports FEC programs in cities across the country. FECs are embedded in social service settings — workforce development centers, homeless shelters, domestic violence programs, housing offices — connecting people to financial counseling at the same moment they are seeking other social services. Since the program’s launch, FECs have served more than 133,000 clients, helped them reduce individual debt by more than $192 million, and increased family savings by close to $38 million. Counselors are professionally trained and provide personalized one-on-one guidance rather than group classes. In New York City, call 311 or visit nyc.gov to book a Financial Empowerment Center appointment. In Houston, contact Houston Community College Financial Empowerment Centers. Check cfefund.org to find if an FEC operates in your city.

📞 NYC: Dial 311 — Book a Financial Empowerment Center appointment
🌐 CFE Fund city list: cfefund.org
🌐 NYC info: nyc.gov/site/dca/talk-money/get-free-financial-counseling.page

Major City Program 133,000+ Clients Served $192M Debt Reduced Embedded in Social Services English & Spanish

Best Free Financial Help for Small Business Owners

SCORE — Free Business & Financial Mentoring

💼 SBA Resource Partner — Nationwide • 10,000+ Volunteer Mentors

✅ Eligibility: Business owners, self-employed, startup entrepreneurs • Cost: Free • Phone: (800) 634-0245

✅ Free one-on-one business and financial mentoring

✅ Cash flow, budgeting, and planning for owners

✅ Business plan development

✅ Startup financing and loan guidance

✅ Ongoing mentoring, not just one session

✅ 10,000+ volunteer expert mentors

✅ 300+ chapters across the United States

✅ Available in person and virtually

SCORE is a nonprofit resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the nation’s largest network of free expert business mentors. If you are self-employed, run a small business, or are thinking about starting one, SCORE’s volunteer mentors — typically retired and active executives, entrepreneurs, and financial professionals — can provide ongoing one-on-one guidance on financial management, cash flow, pricing, business planning, accessing small business loans, and navigating financial challenges. Unlike most programs that offer a single session, SCORE provides continuing mentorship as long as you need it. More than 10,000 volunteers serve through 300+ chapters, with services available in person or virtually for anyone in the country. SCORE also runs hundreds of free and low-cost webinars and workshops each year on financial topics for business owners. For low-income entrepreneurs — including home-based businesses, self-employed gig workers, and side-income earners — SCORE is one of the most accessible and continuous sources of free financial guidance available. Request a free mentor at score.org or call (800) 634-0245.

📞 Request a mentor: (800) 634-0245
🌐 Find a chapter: score.org/find-location
🌐 Free webinars: score.org/content/online-workshops-webinars

SBA Partner 10,000+ Expert Mentors Ongoing Mentoring 300+ Local Chapters Self-Employed & Gig Workers

Best Starting Point to Find All Your Benefits

NCOA BenefitsCheckUp — Free Benefits & Counseling Screener

💻 National Council on Aging — Free Online • 2,000+ Programs Screened

✅ Income: No limit • Cost: Free • No account needed • Website: BenefitsCheckUp.org

✅ Screens for 2,000+ federal, state & local programs

✅ Identifies financial counseling access near you

✅ Medicare Savings Program eligibility check

✅ Drug cost assistance programs

✅ Food, utility, and housing benefit screening

✅ Takes under 5 minutes — anonymous

✅ Results include direct contact information

✅ Available in English and Spanish

BenefitsCheckUp, operated by the National Council on Aging (NCOA), is the most comprehensive free benefits screening tool available to American consumers. In under five minutes and with no account creation required, you can enter your zip code, age, income range, and household information to receive a personalized list of programs you likely qualify for — including financial counseling services, Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, Extra Help for prescriptions, SNAP food benefits, utility assistance, housing aid, and hundreds of state and local programs that rarely get publicized. The financial counseling section of BenefitsCheckUp specifically identifies free local credit counseling agencies, financial empowerment centers, and pro bono planning programs in your area, making it an ideal first step before making any phone calls. NCOA also publishes free financial literacy guides specifically for adults 60+ covering Social Security optimization, retirement budgeting, and healthcare cost management. Visit BenefitsCheckUp.org — no registration, no login, no cost.

🌐 Screen your benefits: BenefitsCheckUp.org
🌐 NCOA financial resources: ncoa.org/economic-security
📞 NCOA contact: (571) 527-3900

2,000+ Programs Screened Under 5 Minutes Anonymous & Free Senior Financial Guides English & Spanish

Sources: IRS.gov IR-2026-19 Jan 30 2026 ($53M VITA/TCE grants; 315 VITA grantees; 48 TCE grantees); NFCC.org (nfcc.org/contact-us 800-388-2227; founded 1951; Council on Accreditation; Ohio State University independent study; DMP fees under $25); FFP ffpprobono.org Jan 22 2026 ($725,000 2026 grants; 20 funded nonprofits; ProBonoPlannerMatch.org; [email protected]); FPA financialplanningassociation.org (800-322-4237; 77 chapters; 80% local median income threshold; mini-plan process; no sales rules); HUD.gov/counseling and HUD.gov/findacounselor (800-569-4287; 8AM-8PM ET; HOPE Hotline 888-995-4673 24/7; no upfront foreclosure fees federal law; multilingual); CFPB consumerfinance.gov (855-411-2372; 15-day response requirement; 1,000+ Ask CFPB answers; complaint.cfpb.gov); IRS VITA irs.gov/vita (800-906-9887; $69,000 income limit; EITC up to $7,830; irs.gov/freefile; MyFreeTaxes.com under $89,000); AARP Foundation taxaide.aarpfoundation.org (888-227-7669 = 888-AARP-NOW; 82 million helped since 1968; IRS-certified annually; no membership required); IRS 2026 senior filing season (enhanced senior deduction $6,000 individual $12,000 married; age 65+; phases out over $75,000/$150,000 MAGI); IRS LITC taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/litc (877-777-4778; 250% FPL = $39,900 single 2026; law schools and nonprofits; Tax Court representation); Savvy Ladies savvyladies.org ([email protected]; 280+ volunteers monthly; founded 2003; CFP/CPA/attorney volunteers); CFE Fund cfefund.org and Houston FEC (133,000+ clients; $192M debt reduced; $38M savings increased; NYC 311; first piloted NYC 2008); SCORE score.org (800-634-0245; 10,000+ mentors; 300+ chapters; SBA resource partner; free webinars; score.org/find-location); NCOA BenefitsCheckUp.org (2,000+ programs; ncoa.org; 571-527-3900; English and Spanish)

📊 Why Free Financial Help Matters — The Numbers

💸 EITC Left on the Table

1 in 5

One in five eligible taxpayers fails to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit each year, per IRS estimates. VITA and AARP Tax-Aide volunteers identify and recover this credit — worth up to $7,830 in 2026 — for taxpayers who would otherwise miss it entirely.

💪 Federal Tax Help Funding

$53 Million

The IRS awarded $53 million in January 2026 to fund VITA and TCE free tax assistance programs, supporting 363 organizations nationwide. This represents the federal government’s largest annual investment in free tax help for low-income Americans.

💳 Debt Reduced by FECs

$192 Million

Financial Empowerment Centers operated by the CFE Fund have helped more than 133,000 clients reduce personal debt by $192 million and increase family savings by $38 million since the program was first piloted in New York City in 2008.

🧠 Pro Bono CFP® Grants

$725,000

The Foundation for Financial Planning issued $725,000 in 2026 grants — its largest grant cycle in 30 years — to fund pro bono CFP® programs for low-income individuals, cancer patients, veterans, domestic violence survivors, and underserved seniors.

💡 Three Things That Often Block People from Getting Free Help

Assuming free means low-quality. The volunteer CFP® professionals coordinated by the Foundation for Financial Planning and FPA chapters are the same credentialed professionals charging $250–$400 per hour in private practice. IRS VITA volunteers are IRS-certified annually with the same certification requirements as paid tax preparers. HUD-approved housing counselors pass rigorous training and testing. “Free” refers to the cost to you — not the quality of the professional you receive.
Not knowing where to start. The number of programs available can itself be overwhelming. If you are uncertain which type of help you need, start with one call: dial 2-1-1 (United Way, 24/7), call NFCC at (800) 388-2227, or go to BenefitsCheckUp.org. All three will assess your situation and direct you to the right resource. Do not let the abundance of options stop you from making one call.
Waiting too long. Debt compounds. Credit scores deteriorate. Foreclosure timelines advance. The sooner you connect with a free financial counselor, the more options you have available. NFCC counselors report that clients who call early in a financial crisis have significantly better outcomes than those who wait until the situation is critical. There is never a wrong time to call — but there is frequently a last moment when action is still possible.

Sources: IRS.gov (1 in 5 EITC unclaimed; $7,830 max EITC 2026; IR-2026-19 $53M grants); NFCC.org (early intervention outcomes); CFE Fund cfefund.org (133,000+ clients; $192M debt reduced; $38M savings increased; NYC 2008 pilot); FFP ffpprobono.org Jan 22 2026 ($725,000 grants; 30 years of pro bono service)

📋 Which Free Financial Help Is Right for Me?

Use this guide to match your situation to the right organization. Multiple programs may be right for you at the same time — for example, NFCC for debt and VITA for tax filing. All services listed are free or very low-cost.

Your Situation	Best Resource	Phone / Contact	Cost
Credit card or consumer debt	NFCC	(800) 388-2227	Free / low
Comprehensive financial plan	FFP Pro Bono CFP®	ffpprobono.org	Free
Mortgage or foreclosure	HUD Counselor	(800) 569-4287	Free
Tax filing under $69,000	IRS VITA	(800) 906-9887	Free
Tax filing, age 50+	AARP Tax-Aide	(888) 227-7669	Free
IRS dispute or tax court	Low Income Taxpayer Clinic	(877) 777-4778	Free / small fee
Bank or lender wronged you	CFPB Complaint	(855) 411-2372	Free
Women needing financial help	Savvy Ladies Helpline	savvyladies.org	Free
Small business or self-employed	SCORE Mentoring	(800) 634-0245	Free
Not sure where to start	BenefitsCheckUp or 2-1-1	BenefitsCheckUp.org	Free
Local city-based counseling	Financial Empowerment Center	cfefund.org	Free
Local CFP® in your community	FPA Pro Bono Chapter	(800) 322-4237	Free

All contact details verified March 2026 from official program sources: nfcc.org; ffpprobono.org; hud.gov; irs.gov/vita; taxaide.aarpfoundation.org; taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/litc; consumerfinance.gov; savvyladies.org; score.org; BenefitsCheckUp.org; cfefund.org; financialplanningassociation.org. Cost reflects services for qualifying low-income individuals.

❓ Plain-Language Answers to Common Financial Questions

💡 Is It Safe to Share My Financial Information with a Nonprofit Counselor?

Yes — with properly accredited organizations, it is safe and legally protected. NFCC member agencies must comply with strict federal privacy laws, including the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, which governs how financial information is collected, stored, and shared. HUD-approved housing counselors operate under HUD’s privacy and confidentiality standards. IRS VITA and AARP Tax-Aide volunteers operate under IRS confidentiality requirements. The Foundation for Financial Planning requires all pro bono CFP® volunteers to comply with the CFP Board’s Code of Ethics, which includes strict client confidentiality. The safeguard to look for is accreditation: NFCC agencies carry Council on Accreditation status; housing counselors carry HUD approval; tax volunteers carry IRS certification. Avoid any “credit repair” company that charges large upfront fees, guarantees results, or asks you to dispute accurate information — these are warning signs of fraud, not legitimate counseling.

💡 I Have Very Little Money. Does That Mean I Qualify for More Free Help, or Less?

More. Every program on this list specifically prioritizes people with low or no income. The IRS VITA program’s entire purpose is serving people earning $69,000 or less. NFCC agencies routinely waive fees for people in severe financial hardship. The Foundation for Financial Planning grants are awarded to organizations serving people in financial crisis. LITCs serve people with incomes below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level — about $39,900/year for one person in 2026. For most of these programs, having very little income is not a barrier — it is the qualifying criteria. The only important step is making the initial contact. Many people in the deepest financial distress never make that call because of embarrassment or the false belief that help only exists for people who are “just barely struggling.” That is not how these programs work. Call (800) 388-2227 (NFCC) or 2-1-1 right now — the counselor on the other end has spoken with thousands of people in situations worse than yours and helped them find a path forward.

💡 What Is a Debt Management Plan and Is It Right for Me?

A Debt Management Plan (DMP) is a structured repayment arrangement offered through nonprofit credit counseling agencies, most prominently NFCC member agencies. In a DMP, the agency contacts your unsecured creditors (typically credit card companies) and negotiates on your behalf to reduce your interest rates — often from 20%–29% down to 6%–9% — and, in some cases, waive late fees. You make one consolidated monthly payment to the agency, which then distributes payments to your creditors. Most DMPs complete in 36–60 months. A DMP is right for you if you have significant unsecured debt (credit cards, medical bills, personal loans), your interest rates are preventing you from making real progress, you can afford a reasonable monthly payment, and you want a structured path to becoming debt-free without bankruptcy. A DMP is not the right tool for secured debt (mortgage, car loans) or for people whose income is too low to sustain any monthly payment. Start with a free session at NFCC at (800) 388-2227 — the counselor will tell you honestly whether a DMP makes sense for your situation or whether another option fits better.

💡 I Got a Notice from the IRS. What Should I Do?

First: do not panic and do not ignore it. IRS notices range from routine requests for clarification to serious collection actions, and the specific notice number (in the upper right corner of the letter) determines the urgency and right response. If your income is below 250% FPL ($39,900/year for one person in 2026), contact a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic immediately at taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/litc or call the Taxpayer Advocate Service at (877) 777-4778. LITCs will review your notice for free and provide legal guidance. If the notice relates to a tax return error, call AARP Tax-Aide at (888) 227-7669 or VITA at (800) 906-9887 — they can help you understand amended return options. If you cannot pay what the IRS says you owe, the IRS has formal installment agreement and Currently Not Collectible programs that can pause collection — a LITC or NFCC counselor can help you apply. Never pay a private “tax resolution” company thousands of dollars upfront to handle a basic IRS notice — free help from LITCs handles the same issues.

💡 I Am 65 or Older, on a Fixed Income, and Struggling Financially. Where Do I Start?

Three immediate steps, in order: Step 1: Go to BenefitsCheckUp.org and complete the free benefits screening. In under five minutes, you will receive a personalized list of programs you qualify for, including Medicare Savings Programs (which can eliminate $202.90/month in Medicare Part B premiums), Extra Help for drug costs, food assistance, utility programs, and financial counseling access. Step 2: Call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at 1-877-839-2675. SHIP counselors serve seniors only, are completely free, have no sales connection, and routinely help seniors find $3,000–$7,000+ per year in benefits they were not receiving. They can also connect you to local financial counseling. Step 3: Call NFCC at (800) 388-2227 for a free one-on-one financial review covering your budget, bills, debt, and any specific crisis you face. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide at (888) 227-7669 can also ensure you are claiming every tax benefit available to you, including the new 2026 enhanced senior deduction of up to $6,000 per person for those age 65+.

💡 Can I Get Financial Help Even If I Have Bad Credit or Past Financial Mistakes?

Yes — and in fact, past financial difficulties are the primary reason most of these programs exist. NFCC counselors work exclusively with people who have damaged credit, unpaid debt, or a history of financial mismanagement — the goal is to help you stabilize and rebuild, not to judge. HUD-approved housing counselors regularly help people who have been through foreclosure rebuild toward homeownership again. VITA and AARP Tax-Aide prepare returns for people regardless of past tax filing history, including those who are filing late or amending incorrect prior returns. Free and Charitable Clinics through NeedyMeds.org and the NAFC serve people with no credit history or financial standing whatsoever. LITCs help people resolve past tax debts even when those debts are substantial. The programs on this list were built specifically because mainstream financial institutions reject people with difficult financial histories. If your credit score is zero or your financial situation is at its worst point — that is when these organizations are most relevant, not least.

Sources: NFCC.org (Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act compliance; Council on Accreditation; DMP interest rate negotiation 6-9%; DMP 36-60 months; fee waiver for hardship); CFP Board code of ethics (client confidentiality requirements); IRS.gov VITA (IRS certification requirements; confidentiality rules); HUD housing counseling privacy standards; IRS LIS and LITC (250% FPL = $39,900 single 2026; 877-777-4778; Taxpayer Advocate Service; installment agreements; Currently Not Collectible program); IRS 2026 senior enhanced deduction ($6,000 per person age 65+); NCOA BenefitsCheckUp.org; SHIP shiphelp.org (1-877-839-2675; Medicare Part B $202.90/month 2026; $7,000+ annual MSP value NCOA)

📍 Find Free Financial Help Near You

Allow location access when prompted to find the closest resources in your area. All services below are free or income-based. No sales pitch, no obligation, no minimum income or net worth required.

Finding financial help near you…

✅ Five Steps to Access Free Financial Help Right Now

Step 1: Screen for everything at once. Go to BenefitsCheckUp.org (free, anonymous, under 5 minutes) and enter your zip code and basic information. You will receive a list of financial counseling programs, healthcare benefits, food assistance, and utility help available in your area. This is the fastest way to see the full picture of what you qualify for before making any calls.
Step 2: Call NFCC for a free financial review. No matter your situation, a 60-minute call to (800) 388-2227 gives you a professionally trained credit counselor who will assess your full financial picture, help you create a workable budget, and create an action plan. Fees are waived in hardship cases. This one call has changed the trajectory of millions of families’ financial lives.
Step 3: Claim every tax credit you are owed. Schedule a free appointment with IRS VITA at (800) 906-9887 (income under $69,000) or AARP Tax-Aide at (888) 227-7669 (age 50+). If you are 65 or older, ask specifically about the new 2026 enhanced senior deduction worth up to $6,000 per person — many people are unaware it exists. Unclaimed tax credits are essentially free money you have already earned.
Step 4: Protect your housing with a HUD counselor. If you are behind on rent or mortgage, call HUD at (800) 569-4287 or the HOPE Hotline at (888) 995-4673 (24/7). HUD-approved counselors can freeze foreclosure timelines, negotiate with servicers, and identify programs you may not know about. The earlier you call, the more options exist. Federal law prohibits these counselors from charging upfront fees.
Step 5: For seniors, add a SHIP call. If you are on Medicare and struggling financially, call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program at 1-877-839-2675. SHIP counselors help seniors identify Medicare Savings Programs worth $7,000+ annually, Extra Help for drug costs, and local financial counseling resources — all in one free phone call with no sales involved.

🚨 Warning: Avoid These Financial “Help” Scams Targeting Low-Income People

Credit repair companies charging large upfront fees. No company can legally remove accurate negative information from your credit report. Under the Credit Repair Organizations Act, credit repair companies cannot charge you before services are completed. Legitimate free help is available through NFCC at (800) 388-2227. If a company guarantees results or demands payment before doing anything, walk away.
“Debt settlement” companies that charge high fees and damage your credit. For-profit debt settlement companies routinely charge 15%–25% of enrolled debt as fees while instructing you to stop paying creditors — causing severe credit damage, collection calls, and potential lawsuits. The NFCC’s Debt Management Plans involve actual negotiations with creditors and charge under $25/month with no damage to your credit score. Know the difference.
Tax preparation “RAL” scams and fee-based services claiming to be IRS-affiliated. Refund Anticipation Loans from private tax preparation chains cost hundreds of dollars in fees for money you would receive in days through free e-filing anyway. IRS VITA and AARP Tax-Aide are free, IRS-affiliated, and file electronically at no cost. Any service implying IRS affiliation that charges a fee is not an IRS program.

© BudgetSeniors.com — This guide is independently researched and written. We are not affiliated with, compensated by, or endorsed by any of the organizations listed. All phone numbers, contact information, and program details have been verified from official government and nonprofit sources as of March 2026. Program eligibility rules change — always verify current requirements directly with the organization before relying on this information. This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. NFCC: (800) 388-2227 • IRS VITA: (800) 906-9887 • AARP Tax-Aide: (888) 227-7669 • HUD Counseling: (800) 569-4287 • HOPE Hotline: (888) 995-4673 • CFPB: (855) 411-2372 • LITC: (877) 777-4778 • SCORE: (800) 634-0245 • SHIP: 1-877-839-2675 • BenefitsCheckUp: BenefitsCheckUp.org • Emergency: Dial 2-1-1

Primary sources: IRS.gov IR-2026-19 Jan 30 2026 ($53M VITA/TCE grants; 363 funded organizations; 800-906-9887; irs.gov/vita; EITC up to $7,830; 1 in 5 EITC unclaimed); IRS 2026 senior filing season (enhanced deduction $6,000 individual $12,000 married filing jointly; age 65+; phases out $75,000/$150,000 MAGI); NFCC.org (nfcc.org/free-counseling; 800-388-2227; founded 1951; Council on Accreditation; Ohio State University study; DMP fee under $25/mo; Gramm-Leach-Bliley compliance; nfcc.org/contact-us 202-677-4300); FFP ffpprobono.org Jan 22 2026 ($725,000 in 2026 grants; 20 funded nonprofits; ProBonoPlannerMatch.org; 30 years; [email protected]); FPA financialplanningassociation.org (800-322-4237; 77 chapters; 80% local median income; no sales rules; mini-plan process); HUD.gov/counseling and findacounselor (800-569-4287; HOPE Hotline 888-995-4673 24/7; HUD privacy standards; no upfront foreclosure fees; multilingual; 202-708-1455 TTY); CFPB consumerfinance.gov (855-411-2372; 15-day response; Ask CFPB 1,000+ answers; mortgage help tool; housing counselor locator); AARP Foundation taxaide.aarpfoundation.org (888-227-7669; 82M helped since 1968; IRS-certified annually; no membership required; focuses age 50+); IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov/litc (877-777-4778; 250% FPL = $39,900 single 2026; law schools and nonprofits; Tax Court; ESL education; installment agreements); Savvy Ladies savvyladies.org ([email protected]; 280+ volunteers/month; founded 2003; CFP/CPA/attorney; no income limit; no obligation); CFE Fund cfefund.org and NYC FEC nyc.gov (311; 133,000+ clients; $192M debt reduced; $38M savings increased; piloted NYC 2008 Mayor Bloomberg; English and Spanish); SCORE score.org (800-634-0245; 10,000+ mentors; 300+ chapters; SBA resource partner; score.org/find-location; free webinars); NCOA BenefitsCheckUp.org (2,000+ programs; 571-527-3900; ncoa.org/economic-security; English and Spanish; anonymous); SHIP shiphelp.org (1-877-839-2675; Medicare Part B $202.90 2026; MSP $7,000+ annual value NCOA); Credit Repair Organizations Act (no advance fee; accurate information not removable); NFCC DMP vs for-profit settlement (15-25% fees; credit damage); IRS RAL warnings irs.gov

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