Financial Literacy Toolkit

Looking to share information about financial literacy to your audience? Use our toolkit with ready-to-use social media posts and other resources to spread the word about free and accessible financial education.

The Massachusetts State Treasurer's Office of Economic Empowerment (OEE) and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners have partnered in the interest of supporting libraries, nonprofit organizations, financial institutions, state agencies, and other groups with resources on financial topics to share with their communities.

Please use this toolkit to share this information. Use the table of contents to quickly access the month you're looking for. Click "Show More" to expand the table.

MyFinancialLifeMA.org is currently under maintenance and will be updated in the coming months. We encourage you to visit mass.gov/treasury/empowerment for more financial resources. Stay tuned for more details!

Contact empowerment@tre.state.ma.us with any questions.

Table of Contents

Financial Literacy Calendar

Use this calendar as an overview to plan your social media strategy each month of the year!

Download the calendar

A Financial Literacy Calendar

 

Financial Literacy Activities Handbook for Libraries

OEE and MBLC have partnered on a Financial Literacy Program Booklet! This booklet includes step-by-step programming guides for librarians to use in their own communities with sections for children, teens and adults.

Download the booklet

Social Media Posts Overview

Simply copy and paste the following text onto your social media page. To download the graphics, click on the hyperlink to open the image. Then, right click on the image and choose "Save image as..."

The alternative text can be added on each social media platform. Learn more about alt text on Facebook, InstagramLinkedIn, and Twitter.

January

Making Saving Your New Year Resolution

Option A

Happy New Year!

Make saving your New Year’s resolution this year by visiting MyFinancialLifeMA. The resources available on this website will help you plan for the future by developing a savings routine, making a budget plan, and more!

An illustration of gold coins going into a piggy bank with text that reads “Hit your goals. Save up this New Year! Get started here: https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/make-saving-resolution/"

Get started here: https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/make-saving-resolution/

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Alt Text: An illustration of gold coins going into a piggy bank with text that reads “Hit your goals. Save up this New Year! Get started here: https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/make-saving-resolution/"

 
Option B

Want to make some financial goals this year, but not sure where to start?

Check out these top 11 financial New Year’s resolutions on MyFinancialLifeMA. This article highlights important financial topics like prioritizing repaying your credit card debt, paying your student loans, setting up an emergency fund, and more!

https://myfinanciallifema.org/11-financial-resolutions-for-2021/

A spiral notebook with text reading: New Year's Resolution: 1) saving for my future. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment

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Alt Text: A spiral notebook with text reading: New Year's Resolution: 1) saving for my future. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment

 

Option C

Almost 30% of consumers who used credit cards last holiday season are still paying off their debt THIS holiday season. Does this happen to you? @NerdWallet has some tips to help!

https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/pay-off-debt/

 

A piggy bank surrounded by multicolored holiday lights.

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Alt Text: A piggy bank surrounded by multicolored holiday lights.

 
Option D

Interested in learning more about IRAs?

Visit MyFinancialLifeMA to learn about the features, benefits, and different types of IRAs as tools for retirement savings.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/iras-individual-retirement-accounts/

Two piggy banks with dollars going into them with text reading: IRA. Roth IRA. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment

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Alt Text: An illustration of two piggy banks with dollars going into them, one with "IRA" on it and the other with "Roth IRA" on it. Text on the bottom reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment

 
Option E

Parents and caregivers, you don’t need to be experts to teach your kids about personal finance. Check out @CFPB's guide to help your children’s money skills, habits, and attitudes grow:

https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/money-as-you-grow/

An illustration of a piggy bank, money, a wallet, and a pen holder.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a piggy bank, money, a wallet, and a pen holder. 

February

Identity Theft Awareness Week - January 29th to February 2nd, 2024

Option A

During Identity Theft Awareness Week, we want to highlight tools and resources available to keep your identity and personal finances secure.

Check out the Scam & Fraud Protection page on MyFinancialLifeMA, which features information about topics like computer security, preventing elder fraud, protecting your privacy, and more.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/scam-fraud-protection/

An illustration of a thief with mask and bag over their shoulder next to a phone. Lines connect the thief to the phone. Text in image says “Beware of Scams! Protect yourself from scams. Keep your personal information safe. Don’t share your passwords with anyone.  Do not click on a suspicious link. myfinanciallifema.org/topic/scam-fraud-protection/”.

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Alt text: An illustration of a thief with mask and bag over their shoulder next to a phone. Lines connect the thief to the phone. Text in image says “Beware of Scams! Protect yourself from scams. Keep your personal information safe. Don’t share your passwords with anyone.  Do not click on a suspicious link. myfinanciallifema.org/topic/scam-fraud-protection/”.

 

Option B

In recognition of Identity Theft Awareness Week, check out the Scam & Fraud Protection page on MyFinancialLifeMA.

This page features the resources available to keep your identity and personal finances secure.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/scam-fraud-protection/

An illustration of a computer screen with text on the right of the image reading: Identity Theft Prevention Week.

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Alt Text: A graphic of a laptop and a lock with text on the side of the image reading: Identity Theft Prevention Week. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment

 

Relationships & Money; Valentine's Day - February 14th

Happy Valentine's Day!

Handling finances in a relationship can be stressful. Thankfully, MyFinancialLifeMA offers articles, videos, and other resources to help partners navigate financial management together.

Learn about topics like sharing money in marriage, planning for the future as a retired couple, and more!

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/money-relationships/

An illustration of a couple sitting next to each other with one person placing a dollar into a piggy bank. Text on the bottom right reads: "MyFinancialLifeMA | Office of Economic Empowerment"

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Alt Text: An illustration of a couple sitting next to each other with one person placing a dollar into a piggy bank. Text on the bottom right reads: MyFinancialLifeMA | Office of Economic Empowerment

 

Earned Income Tax Credit Information

It is tax time! #CommunityActionMA #VITA sites are here to help with free tax prep by IRS certified volunteers helping taxpayers access the Earned Income Tax Credit #EITC and other tax credits. Find your #VITA site and learn more at https://masscap.org/freetaxprep/

A photo of two older adults with text on the image reading: Want free help maximizing your Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)? VITA is available in multiple languages by IRS-certified tax professionals. See if YOU qualify.

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Alt Text: A photo of two older adults reviewing paperwork with text on the top and bottom of the image reading: Want free help maximizing your Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)? VITA is available in multiple languages by IRS-certified tax professionals. See if YOU qualify. 

March

Women's History Month

In recognition of Women’s History Month, learn about women’s economic empowerment by visiting MyFinancialLifeMA. This page features information about salary negotiation, the race and gender wage gap, and more.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/womens-economic-empowerment/

An illustration of three women holding a sign reading: "Women's History Month." Text on the bottom right of the image reads: "MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment"

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Alt Text: An illustration of three women holding a sign reading: "Women's History Month." Text on the bottom right of the image reads: "MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment"

 

Tax Season

The tax process can be difficult to navigate, but MyFinancialLifeMA can help!

Head to the #taxes feature page for articles, videos, and other information about how to manage paying your taxes.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/taxes-and-what-to-do-with-your-return/

A photo of a calculator reading: Tax Saving

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Alt Text: A photo of a calculator reading: Tax Saving 

April

Financial Literacy Month

Celebrate #FinancialLiteracyMonth by taking the time to commit to your financial well-being!

Visit the MyFinancialLifeMA website for resources to help you stay on top of your finances.

https://myfinanciallifema.org

An illustration of a graduating student stand next to two older adults and a family of six. Text reads: Financial Literacy Month. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment

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Alt Text: An illustration of a graduating student standing next to two older adults and a family of six. Text reads: Financial Literacy Month. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

 

Military Saves Month

Option A

April is #MilitarySavesMonth!

Service members, veterans, and their families can check out the Military Saves Month feature page on MyFinancialLifeMA to access timely financial information and resources tailored specifically for the military community.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/financial-resources-for-veterans/

An illustration of financial imagery like calculators and money with text reading: Military Saves Month. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment

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Alt text: An illustration of financial imagery like calculators and money with text reading: Military Saves Month. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment

 
Option B

Veterans can visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website for a comprehensive list of benefits and resources to help manage their unique financial situations. Learn more: https://benefits.va.gov/benefits/financial-literacy.asp

A photo of an American flag patch on top of hundred dollar bills

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Alt Text: A photo of an American flag patch on top of hundred dollar bills

 

Option C

Children with as little as $1 in college savings are more likely to attend college. Consider investing in a #529 college savings account for your child’s future education today!

Learn how you could receive a free $50 deposit to start saving through the BabySteps Savings Plan: https://www.mass.gov/babysteps

An illustration of two grandparents and a grandson, who is holding his grandfather's hand. A piggy bank with a dollar sticking out is next to them.

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Alt Text: An illustration of two grandparents and a grandson, who is holding his grandfather's hand. A piggy bank with a dollar sticking out is next to them.

May

Small Business Week - April 30th - May 6th, 2023

We’re celebrating #SmallBusinessWeek by sharing information and resources for small business owners. Check out the #SmallBusiness Resource Toolkit Website! https://www.smallbusinessma.org/

An illustration of three small businesses with text on the bottom reading: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of three small businesses with text on the bottom reading: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

 

Mother's Day - May 14th, 2023

In anticipation of Mother's Day on Sunday, don't forget to celebrate all of the contributions of hardworking mothers across MA! Learn more at EqualPayMA.org #EqualPayMA

An illustration that has “Happy Mother’s Day” written on a pink background with hearts and flowers.

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Alt Text: An illustration that has “Happy Mother’s Day” written on a pink background with hearts and flowers.

 

National Older Americans Month

May is #NationalOlderAmericansMonth!

Visit MyFinancialLifeMA throughout the month for articles, videos, and other resources about how to manage finances as an older adult.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/financial-resources-for-older-adults/

An illustration of five older adults with text reading: National Older Americans Month. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of five older adults with text reading: National Older Americans Month. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

 

529 Day - May 29th

Happy #529Day!

Interested in learning more about #529Accounts? Visit the Learning Lab on MyFinancialLifeMA to find out how a 529 plan can help you save for your child’s future education.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/529-plans/

An illustration of a couple standing next to a laptop reading: 529 Savings Account. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a couple standing next to a laptop reading: 529 Savings Account. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

June

Pride Month

During #PrideMonth, it is an important time to share friendly spaces and financial education resources for members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Check out these free resources curated by @forbes: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/personal-finance/safe-resources-for-lgbtq-financial-education/

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Alt text: A male couple sits together looking at a laptop screen.

High School Graduation

Choosing a career path doesn't come easy. Discover which careers suit you best, research potential career options, and explore the requirements and outlooks for the occupations you're interested in.

Whether you're heading straight into the workforce or you're entering college first, access Peterson’s Career Prep free at www.galepages.com/masss

An illustrated graphic of a student reading a tablet and a sign with multiple arrows pointing in different directions in the background reading: "Loans, scholarships, career, savings, college"

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Alt Text: An illustrated graphic of a student reading a tablet and a sign with multiple arrows pointing in different directions in the background reading: Loans, scholarships, career, savings, college.

 

FAFSA Deadline - Before June 30th

June 30th is the deadline to submit your #FAFSA form!

Check out this free resource on MyFinancialLifeMA about how to fill our your FAFSA form to apply for federal student aid.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/how-to-fill-out-the-fafsa/

An illustration of a woman sitting in front of a laptop with text on a calendar behind her reading: FAFSA Deadline. June 30th is circled in red sharpie.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a woman sitting in front of a laptop with text on a calendar behind her reading: FAFSA Deadline. June 30th is circled in red sharpie.

 

National Home Ownership Month

During #NationalHomeOwnershipMonth, visit MyFinancialLifeMA for the tools, resources, and information you need to be fully informed about the home buying process, paying off your mortgage, and building assets over time.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/home-ownership/

A cartoon couple standing outside their home with text on the bottom right reading: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a couple standing outside their home with text on the bottom right reading: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

July

Option A

Looking to start savings for you children’s future? With BabySteps, every child who is a MA resident is eligible to receive a free $50 deposit into their MEFA U.Fund 529 account within one year of their birth or adoption. Learn more: https://mass.gov/babysteps

An illustration of families and parents standing on an outline of Massachusetts.

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Alt Text: An illustration of families and parents standing on an outline of Massachusetts.

 

Option B

Have you received your tax returns and not sure what to do with the extra cash? Bulking up your emergency fund and paying off your high-interest debt first are two ways to wisely spend your tax refund. Learn more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYM4eZq0R4Y

An illustration of three hands placing dollar bills into a box labeled “emergency fund”.

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Alt Text: An illustration of three hands placing dollar bills into a box labeled “emergency fund”.

August

Black Business Month

August is #NationalBlackBusinessMonth. Join us in celebrating Black-owned businesses all month long. Visit the @blackownedbos directory to support the Black-owned businesses in your community: https://www.blackownedbos.com/directory

A smartphone, tablet, and laptop all opened to the Black Owned Bos. directory.

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Alt Text: A smartphone, tablet, and laptop all opened to the Black Owned Bos. directory.

 

Back to School Resources

Are you an educator looking for resources to teach #FinancialLiteracy to your students?

Visit MyFinancialLifeMA or access Peterson’s Test Prep via https://www.galepages.com/masss for information and tools that can help you teach the next generation how to plan for their futures.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/resources-for-educators/

An illustration of a woman teaching in a classroom with a blackboard behind her and a student raising their hand in front of her. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a woman teaching in a classroom with a blackboard behind her and a student raising their hand in front of her. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

 

Women's Equality Day - August 26th

On #WomensEqualityDay, we recognize the anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment’s passage. Over 100 years later, women are still working to achieve financial equality.

Visit MyFinancialLifeMA to learn about the movement to close the race and gender wage gap.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/womens-economic-empowerment/

An illustration of three women holding a sign reading: Women's Equality Day. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of three women holding a sign reading: Women's Equality Day. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

September

National College Savings Month

September is #NationalCollegeSavingsMonth!

If you want to learn how to start saving for your child’s future education, visit MyFinancialLifeMA for more information about the #BabyStepsSavingsPlan, #StudentLoans, effective saving strategies, and more!

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/saving-paying-for-education/

An illustration of a student in a graduation cap and gown holding a degree next to a piggy bank, both in front of a college building. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a student in a graduation cap and gown holding a degree next to a piggy bank, both in front of a college building. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

 

International Literacy Day - September 8th

Option A

For #InternationalLiteracyDay, we are celebrating #financialliteracy with our friends from @EmpowermentMA and @mblclibraries! Check out these great books and resources to help you stay financially fit: http://ow.ly/o4q750KEphc

An illustrated graphic of someone holding a paper with a chart on it. Text on the side reads: The tools and knowledge you need to achieve economic security. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment. Massachusetts Libraries Board of Library Commissioners. libraries.state.ma.us

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Alt Text: An illustrated graphic of someone holding a paper with a chart on it. Text on the side reads: The tools and knowledge you need to achieve economic security. MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment. Massachusetts Libraries Board of Library Commissioners. libraries.state.ma.us

 

Option B

Creating family budgeting solutions are key to controlling spending and planning for a healthy financial future. Head to MyFinancialLifeMA to help your family take their next steps!

 https://myfinanciallifema.org/budgeting-for-families/

An illustration of a multigenerational family of 10 standing together. Graphs, charts, and other financial imagery are placed above them.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a multigenerational family of 10 standing together. Graphs, charts, and other financial imagery are placed above them.

October

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

We’re recognizing #NationalDomesticViolenceAwarenessMonth by highlighting resources for survivors of domestic violence.

MyFinancialLifeMA includes links to organizations that help survivors of financial abuse receive the care and support they need.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/domestic-violence-awareness/

A purple ribbon and text reading: Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: A purple ribbon and text reading: Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

 

FAFA Applications Open - October 1st

FAFA Applications are open! Check out the list below for answers to some common questions when filling out the #FAFSA. If you are looking for more information about preparing for college, explore our MyFinancialLifeMA page on saving and paying for education
 
https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/saving-paying-for-education/

An illustration of a man looking at a calendar with October 1st circled and red test reading: FAFSA Applications Open. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a man looking at a calendar with October 1st circled and red text reading: FAFSA Applications Open. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

 

National Get Smart About Credit Day - October 19th

National Get Smart About Credit Day is a good time to check your credit score. Check out https://www.annualcreditreport.com to receive a free credit report today!

For more information about credit, visit the Credit & Debt feature page on MyFinancialLifeMA.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/credit-debt/

An illustration of a young man standing next to paperwork reading: Debt Paid. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a young man standing next to paperwork reading: Debt Paid. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

November

National Adoption Month

November is #NationalAdoptionMonth, which is a great time to remind everyone that adopted children are eligible for the #BabyStepsSavingsPlan within one year of their adoption! Check out the BabySteps website for more information: https://www.mass.gov/babysteps

An illustration of a wife and husband holding their daughters on their backs. A laptop screen reads Balance: 50 dollars.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a wife and husband holding their daughters on their backs. A laptop screen reads Balance: 50 dollars.

 

Veterans’ Day – November 11th

Today, we honor and thank all veterans for their service and dedication to our country.

If you are a veteran or a member of a veteran family, visit MyFinancialLifeMA to check in on your financial readiness with helpful tools and resources.

#VeteransDay

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/financial-resources-for-veterans/

An illustration of a military service member in camo uniform saluting and holding his daughter in front of an American flag. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a military service member in camo uniform saluting and holding his daughter in front of an American flag. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

 

International Fraud Awareness Week - November 12th - 18th, 2023

This week is #InternationalFraudAwarenessWeek. Explore how to protect your identity and spot signs of fraud with these free resources on MyFinancialLifeMA. Learn more: https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/scam-fraud-protection/

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Alt Text: A photo of a gloved hand lifting a social security card from a wallet.

December

End of the Year Financial Decisions

The holiday season can be a great time to celebrate with friends and family, but it can also be financially stressful.

Head to MyFinancialLifeMA for useful resources to help you manage your holiday spending budget and prepare for the coming year.

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/end-of-year-financial-decisions/

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Alt Text: A photo of people walking down a sidewalk in a park on a snowy day.

 

Charitable Donations

Now is a great time to consider donating to charities or other worthy causes.

Visit MyFinancialLifeMA for information on charitable contribution deductions, teaching your kids about charity, and more!

https://myfinanciallifema.org/topic/charitable-donations/

An illustration of five people holding a sign reading: Charitable Donations. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of five people holding a sign reading: Charitable Donations. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

 

Holiday Budgeting

Sticking to a realistic budget will allow you to make the most of the money you have available and prevent you from overspending this holiday season. Access some holiday budgeting worksheets at the link below:

https://www.consumercredit.com/debt-resources-tools/budgeting/budgeting-information/holiday-budgeting/

An illustration of a woman with thought bubble thinking of holiday presents. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

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Alt Text: An illustration of a woman with thought bubble thinking of holiday presents. Text on the bottom of the image reads: MyFinancialLifeMA. Office of Economic Empowerment.

Financial Education Resources

Informational Materials

Organizations can order free financial literacy materials in bulk directly to their location. Visit the Clearinghouse for OEE-specific resources and the Awarehouse for materials created for the MBLC+OEE partnership.

You can view more materials here:

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Available physically and virtually for free in English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, French, Haitian Creole, Korean, Russian, Tagalog, and Vietnamese.

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency: Available virtually for free in a variety of languages.

Consumer-Action.org Publications: Available virtually for free in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese.

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