United Way Launches My Smart Money
As we enter the holiday season, United Way of Southwest Alabama (UWSWA) understands that the holidays may not be a merry, care-free time for everyone in our region. Financial stresses can be particularly overwhelming during this time of the year and getting financial advice costs money. As a result, many struggle to achieve financial stability without a source of simple, clear information to help individuals and families better manage money.
To better serve our community, United Way is launching My Smart Money, an interactive, free and consumer-friendly website that offers simple, useful tips and tools to help anyone manage their money, anywhere at any time. My Smart Money, powered by SunTrust Foundation, walks users through simple, concrete steps for tackling real-life problems that impact their financial landscapes.
My Smart Money provides steps to help users:
- Set a budget
- Reduce debt
- Begin saving
- Improve credit
UWSWA, working with partners from all sectors of society, connects people to the resources they need to get on more solid financial ground.
“The average American household carries total debt of more than $90,000,” said Director of Community Impact Laurie Childers. “When people are able to find decent jobs, provide for their families, and save for the future, they and their children are more likely to enjoy healthy lives and succeed in school. The result is thriving communities where everyone has more opportunity to succeed.”
My Smart Money provides useful tips and tools to help anyone manage money better, particularly with the following:
- Addressing immediate challenges, ranging from identity theft to struggles with paying bills,
- Getting smarter about your money, including saving, reducing debt, or improving credit, and
- Planning for your future, including saving for college or planning for retirement.
“Helping people learn to manage their personal finances is a vital part of United Way’s commitment to increasing financial stability for everyone in Southwest Alabama,” said UWSWA President and CEO Clifford Grimes. “Our community is strengthened when people plan for their financial futures. This financial strength and confidence empowers people to achieve their dreams and builds stronger communities. We are proud to partner with SunTrust Foundation to provide My Smart Money.”
The site is free and available to everyone. It is powered by SunTrust Foundation, but does not direct users to any SunTrust Bank products or any other financial products from any banks, insurance companies, or financial planners. User information is secure; no information is saved or stored on the site. Users do not create an account or enter any identifiable information. Any information entered is used only for real-time calculations and not saved.