News & Press Releases

Boston, MA – May 10, 2020 Although the thought of acquiring credit card debt can be intimidating, credit cards can be useful financial tools if utilized properly. Credit cards are an effective way to start the process of building credit – particularly for millennials who eventually want to purchase larger items such as homes or cars.

Boston, MA – December 27, 2017 Budget-conscious consumers are keeping a check on holiday shopping this year – with many spending no more than $500 in total on gifts and other seasonal items, according to a new survey by American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC).

Boston, MA – December 21, 2017 Understanding basic money management skills are extremely important for Millennials’ long-term financial stability and success. Strong financial literacy means understanding concepts such as budgeting, checking and savings accounts, credit, and investments and the most beneficial ways to spend your money.

Boston, MA – December 20, 2017 Getting rid of credit card debt is a big step in a Millennial’s effort to establish financial security. Although it sounds simple, paying off a credit card can be difficult to achieve.

Boston, MA – December 18, 2017 The holiday season is in full swing, and many Millennials have started shopping for friends and family. While the holidays are a time of cheer, there is a high risk of overspending if individuals are not properly prepared. National nonprofit ... Read More »

Boston, MA – December 13, 2017 It is important that Millennials are aware of how they can rebuild their credit should they find themselves trying to recover from a financial challenge or misstep. Although these missteps cannot be instantly deleted, national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC) provides Millennials with steps they can take to improve their credit to help achieve a stronger financial future.

Boston, MA – November 30, 2017 One of the most effective ways Millennials can protect themselves from a financial crisis is to have an emergency fund in place. In order to prevent Millennials from getting caught off guard due to unexpected expenses, national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling has provided emergency savings starter tips.

Boston, MA – November 29, 2017 Millennials are more burdened by student loans and student loan debt than any generation before them. Due to this current crisis, national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling is providing Millennials with helpful tips to better manage their student loan debt.

Boston, MA – November 22, 2017 According to a new survey by national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling, 94 percent of respondents are actively working towards achieving a financial goal. Although the majority of respondents are working towards a goal, 47 percent do not actively save money from each paycheck.

Boston, MA – November 17, 2017 Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial investments Millennials will make in their lifetime. Although it can be an intimidating and complicated process, with the right preparation and research, buying a home can be manageable.

November 14, 2017 – By Jessica Walrac We all want good credit because it means we can borrow more while getting better rates and terms. It can also save us money on insurance and even help us land a job. However, one does not simply get good credit. You must earn it, and that takes time, discipline, and effort.

Boston, MA – October 31, 2017 In response to World Savings Day, national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling explains the importance of saving and provides consumers with helpful tips on how to save. World Savings Day was created in 1924 to increase public awareness of the importance of saving and how this concept is critical to individual and overall economic security.

Boston, MA – October 27, 2017 Retirement may seem like light-years away for most Millennials, but the earlier they start planning, the better off they will be. Being aware of different savings and investment options is the best way Millennials can ensure they are saving enough for retirement.

Boston, MA – October 12, 2017 Nearly 53 percent of consumers don’t have any money left over after paying expenses, according to a new survey by national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling.

Boston, MA – October 11, 2017 Many Millennials struggle to build their credit. If Millennials are not improving their credit, they often can’t access the lowest interest rates which can limit financial opportunities such buying a house or car.

Boston, MA – October 6, 2017 Average student loan debt in the U.S. has soared to over $35,000 per individual. Once Millennials graduate, they are faced with the burden of repaying their student loans, a responsibility that cannot be put off.

Dracut, MA – October 2, 2017 – By Amaris Castillo A Dracut woman has received the fourth highest public service decoration that the United States Department of the Army can award to a civilian.

Boston, MA – September 26, 2017 Many Millennials don’t think about saving for retirement, but it is never too early to start. The key to a happy retirement is to build a nest egg – money that is put aside to achieve a long-term goal – early and watch it grow.

September 22, 2017 You know you need to be careful about taking on too many loans but it already happened and now you’re not sure what to do. You’re wondering if there’s anything you can do to fix your debt problems and improve your credit score.

September 22, 2017 You know you need to be careful about taking on too many loans but it already happened and now you’re not sure what to do. You’re wondering if there’s anything you can do to fix your debt problems and improve your credit score.

Boston, MA – September 20, 2017 Consumers looking to purchase a home should be very familiar with the different mortgage options available and the common terms used by lenders. Taking out a mortgage loan is a big decision, and if the consumer doesn’t pay it back on time, the lender can foreclose on the home and sell it to pay off the loan.

September 15, 2017 For small business owners and entrepreneurs, loans are often essential for growth. But a bad credit score may prevent you from getting a loan you need. If you’re in this spot, then you need to start rebuilding your credit fast!

September 13, 2017 As a parent or guardian, you have the heavy responsibility of preparing your child for the big world outside the home. You have to show them the things they should put in their mouth and the far larger number of things they shouldn’t.

Boston, MA – September 13, 2017 Financial fitness isn’t achieved overnight. Establishing a healthy financial lifestyle takes time, knowledge and dedication. Now American Consumer Credit Counseling is offering a guide to help consumers achieve better financial health.

Boston, MA – September 12, 2017 American Consumer Credit Counseling has achieved national accreditation through the New York-based Council on Accreditation (COA). American Consumer Credit Counseling provides the following services: credit counseling, debt management, bankruptcy counseling, housing counseling, student loan counseling and financial education concerning debt solutions.

Boston, MA – September 6, 2017 Too often, a great deal of Americans struggling to manage financial difficulties aren’t aware of vital resources that can help them achieve a healthy financial future. Credit counseling, debt management, bankruptcy counseling, housing counseling, student loan counseling, and financial education are all programs that can be tailored toward each consumer’s particular financial situation.

Boston, MA – August 24, 2017 Creating a budget can help consumers see how much they are spending and areas they can cut back to save more. It is not always easy, but there are many different ways that consumers can cut back on unnecessary spending. In an effort to support our consumers, national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling has created a list of tips to help consumers save.

August 18, 2017 National nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling announced today that Sue Katz, Community Outreach Coordinator and Certified Credit Counselor, was presented with the Commander’s Award for Public Service by the Department of the Army.

Boston, MA – August 11, 2017 National nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling partnered with the Massachusetts Jump$tart Coalition, City of Boston Credit Union, Mass Bay Credit Union, and Metro Credit Union to sponsor the 4th annual Reality Fair for State House interns on Thursday, July 27.

Boston, MA – August 10, 2017 The loss or theft of personal information can be a terrifying experience, and it’s only natural for consumers to worry about how this data may be used should it fall into the wrong hands.

Boston, MA – July 31, 2017 It is easy to spend money today without thinking about what you may need tomorrow. Most people find budgeting annoying, overwhelming, and daunting. It is important to remember, however, that budgeting is one of the key aspects to financial success.

July 25, 2017 Relief may soon be on the way for consumers taken advantage of by one of the nation’s biggest banks. A $142 million class action settlement for Wells Fargo customers who had unauthorized accounts opened in their name has cleared its first big hurdle.

Boston, MA – July 25, 2017 Checking and savings accounts, often considered the most basic financial tools, are also incredibly beneficial to the average consumer in everyday life. Checking accounts help consumers pay bills and savings accounts are more suited to protect money for the future.

Boston, MA – July 19, 2017 When it comes to money there are several decisions couples must make, such as whether to combine their income or not and who is in charge of paying bills.

Boston, MA – July 10, 2017 In a financial crisis, most believe their options are limited and undesirable. Filing for bankruptcy is an option that has advantages, and most importantly offers the opportunity for a fresh financial start.

Boston, MA – June 28, 2017 Every day consumers are faced with crucial decisions they may not know enough about, including those related to the lending and borrowing process. An uneducated consumer shopping for a loan has the potential to make a wrong decision that has long-term effects, particularly when it comes to home equity loans.

Boston, MA – June 26, 2017 Personal finance is not the most romantic topic of conversation for a newlywed couple. However, in a healthy relationship it is essential that each person’s financial history, habits, goals, and values are open for discussion.

Boston, MA – June 22, 2017 Planning and spending money on vacation without the proper information can be so intimidating that some choose to stay at home rather than budget for a getaway. With the right research and preparation, the process is both manageable and stress-free.

Boston, MA – June 14, 2017 55 Percent of consumers use online banking through a website

Boston, MA – June 6, 2017 Financing a college education is a daunting task that can be stressful for students and parents alike. Given the high costs associated with many colleges and universities, it’s never too early for parents to start thinking about the savings and financing process.

May 24, 2017 – By Dan Rafter Has your credit card debt spiraled out of control? Are you juggling payments to a long string of creditors, feeling like you’re never making a dent in the amount of debt you owe?

Boston, MA – May 23, 2017 Each year millions of Americans have their identity stolen. It can take months and sometimes even years before a consumer’s name and credit are back in good standing. With all the inventive ways scammers have developed to steal one’s identity, the best tool to help prevent becoming a victim of identity theft is to be informed about how to spot scams before it’s too late.

Boston, MA – May 19, 2017 Veterans and military personnel face a unique set of financial challenges – particularly when it comes to managing finances and budgeting before, during and after deployment.

Boston, MA – May 16, 2017 When living a financially healthy life, it is important that consumers take steps to avoid situations where their expenses routinely exceed their income. According to a recent survey from American Consumer Credit Counseling, 55 percent of consumers admit that their expenses exceed their income.

Boston, MA – May 10, 2017 Buying a home can be a complicated and intimidating process, especially for first-time home buyers. With the right research and preparation, however, the process can be manageable and less stressful.

Boston, MA – May 9, 2017 American Consumer Credit Counseling announced today that it has received a $25,000 grant from Rockland Trust Foundation to enhance and grow its Pre-Purchase home owner’s program.

Boston, MA – May 3, 2017 Come retirement, many people feel as if they have not saved enough to live comfortably. A reverse mortgage can assist in providing a tax-free cash flow to eligible homeowners 62 years of age or older.

Boston, MA – April 19, 2017 The greatest financial worry of consumers today is credit card debt, with nearly 40 percent of individuals claiming this as their primary financial concern, according to a recent survey by national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling.

Boston, MA – April 17, 2017 Everyone wants more money in their pocket. When filing federal tax returns it is easy to miss out on simple ways of saving money. Tax deductions allow consumers to lower their taxable income and pay less in taxes.

April 17, 2017 – By Sarah D. Young It's never too early to teach your kids how to save and spend money wisely, experts say. Teaching kids about money and key economic concepts can set the stage for a more financially secure adulthood.

Boston, MA – April 12, 2017 As part of National Financial Literacy Month, national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling is aiming to help kids learn about finances at an early age. Developing good financial habits and responsibility at an early age will benefit kids well into adulthood.

Boston, MA – April 10, 2017 Every day consumers share personal information with others around them in a variety of settings. Because this is so routine, many consumers don’t think twice when initiating transactions that force them to share personal information.

Boston, MA – April 3, 2017 In honor of National Financial Literacy Month, American Consumer Credit Counseling wants to help parents talk to their kids about money. It is never too early or too late to start teaching children about the importance of good financial habits.

Boston, MA – March 27, 2017 It is easy for credit card debt to spiral out of control. Hence, it’s important that consumers understand how they can protect themselves and use credit wisely.

Boston, MA – March 22, 2017 There are different types of online scams that criminals use to defraud millions of consumers. They use tricks and technology to convince consumers to send money or give out their personal information.

Boston, MA – March 16, 2017 Almost fifty percent of consumers (49 percent) have household credit card debt over $10,000, according to a recent survey by national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling. Of those respondents, 35 percent have a household credit card debt over $15,000.

Boston, MA – March 1, 2017 After the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the second December in a row and set a plan for several rate increases in 2017, concern has grown among consumers worried about how the hikes may impact their personal finances.

February 28, 2017 – By Jessica Walrack Borrowing money isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it can be very helpful in some situations. You can build your credit, purchase something you need, and arrange payments you can afford.

Boston, MA – February 27, 2017 Deployment can be an extremely stressful and emotional experience for service members and their families. Like many Americans, the veteran and military population are not immune to issues with financial budgeting, debt and unemployment. These individuals face unique financial circumstances ... Read More »

Boston, MA – February 22, 2017 Credit counseling is a financial service designed to educate consumers about how to pay off their debts and potentially avoid debt in the future.

Boston, MA – February 17, 2017 Life is full of financial temptations. While the occasional splurge can be fun, the key to enjoying such luxuries comes from creating and maintaining a budget to cover all necessary expenses first.

Boston, MA – February 15, 2017 More than 90 percent of consumers say they have a financial goal for 2017, according to a recent survey by national non-profit American Consumer Credit Counseling. More than two thirds of respondents (71 percent) say they have a plan to ... Read More »

February 9, 2017 Dear Matt: I recently graduated from college and it’s almost time to start paying back my student loans. I have over $50,000 in student loan debt, and it seems almost overwhelming to have to pay all this back, especially with many other expenses.

Boston, MA – January 30, 2017 As the job market continues to improve and unemployment rates decline (4.6 percent), consumer confidence is rising – leading lenders to extend more credit and increasing the demand for credit cards. Although increased consumer spending indicates a strong economy, many ... Read More »

Boston, MA – January 25, 2017 In response to Get Organized Month, national nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling explains the importance of organization and provides tips on how to achieve a healthy financial lifestyle.

Boston, MA – January 23, 2017 National nonprofit American Consumer Credit Counseling launched a new, three-part video series on how to repay student loans. The videos take consumers through a variety of options that are available when it comes to paying back student loans so that they can most effectively manage their debt.

Boston, MA – January 18, 2017 January 18, 2017 – Only 8 percent of consumers identify as being “savers,” according to a recent survey by national non-profit American Consumer Credit Counseling. More than half of respondents (58 percent) say they try to save but “splurge on the right thing,” and 34 percent admit to being “spenders.”

December 30, 2016 – By Mike Cetera One of the problems with New Year’s resolutions is that they don’t come with an instruction manual. I want to lose weight. I want to pay down debt. I want to live life to the fullest. OK, how? That’s the problem I hope to solve here. I asked a number of personal finance pros to weigh in on how to keep or build good credit in 2017.