Dear Liz: Could you possibly recommend a financial advisor I could sit down with who could counsel me on ways to save money? I work a full-time clerical job, but worry all the time about being homeless someday.
Answer: Talking with a financial expert can help you formulate a sound plan for your future, which in turn can help allay your fears.
Start with your employer. Some companies offer financial wellness programs that may include one-on-one counseling. Others offer financial advice through their 401(k) or other retirement plan providers.
Another option is an accredited financial counselor. These professionals provide advice on budgeting, debt, credit, retirement savings and other money topics. They’re fiduciaries, meaning they’re required to put your best interests first. Some are employed by credit unions or the military, and others offer a sliding scale. You can start your search at findanafc.org.
The National Foundation for Credit Counseling at www.nfcc.org primarily helps people pay off credit card debt, but its member agencies also offer budget counseling. You can find its budgeting tool at www.nfcc.org/resources/monthly-expense-tool/.