Financial Literacy

Identity theft is a crime that affects millions of people each year, with far-reaching consequences that can devastate victims financially and emotionally. According to the most recent data from the Federal Trade Commission, there are approximately 1.1 million reports of identity theft in annually.

Credit card fraud is the most common type of identity theft, followed closely by other account takeovers and loan or lease fraud. Government documents or benefits fraud, which had spiked during the pandemic, remains a substantial concern.

If you've been an identity or data theft victim, here's what you need to know.

If It Happens to You

Discovering that you're a victim of identity theft can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. However, swift action can significantly mitigate the damage. Acting quickly and methodically is crucial if you find yourself in this situation.

Here are a few key things to keep in mind:

• Secure your credit. Immediately contact the "Big Three" credit reporting agencies (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax) and have a fraud alert attached to your credit report. This alert makes it more difficult for thieves to open new accounts in your name, as creditors must take extra steps to verify your identity before granting credit.

• Consider placing a security freeze on your credit reports. This measure makes it significantly harder for fraudsters to open new accounts in your name, as most creditors need to see your credit report before approving new accounts.

• Alert financial institutions. Contact all your credit card issuers, banks, and other financial institutions and alert them to the theft. They can help monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and may be able to reverse fraudulent charges.

• Contact the authorities. While your local police department may only be able to offer a little practical help, contacting them establishes that you are actively seeking to address the problem. You can also file a report with the Fair Trade Commission (FTC).

• Monitor your credit reports. You can access your credit reports annually at no charge through the AnnualCreditReport.com website. Many credit cards offer credit monitoring at no charge.  

• Monitor your accounts. Most financial institutions offer services that notify you of any activity on your accounts, such as password changes, address changes, or unusual charges. Enable these alerts to stay informed about any potential fraudulent activity.

• Update your digital security. Use different, difficult-to-crack passwords for each account (rather than relying on the same handful of passwords for all accounts). Add multi-factor authentication whenever possible so that a code sent to you by email or text is required to access your accounts.

• Keep a close eye on your health care records. Medical identity theft is a growing area of concern. Regularly review your health insurer's benefit statements. Look for treatments or services you didn't receive, which could indicate someone is using your identity to obtain medical care.

Long-Term Protection Strategies

While responding to identity theft is crucial, preventing it from happening in the first place is even more critical. Here are some comprehensive strategies to protect your identity in the long term:

• Strong password practices. Use complex, unique passwords for each of your accounts. A password manager can be invaluable in creating and storing these securely. As mentioned above, enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible, especially for financial and email accounts.

• Be vigilant about phishing attempts. Cybercriminals often use deceptive emails, text messages, or websites to trick you into revealing sensitive information. Don't click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources. If an email or message seems off, even if it appears from a known contact or company, verify its authenticity through other means before responding or taking action.

• Regularly monitor your accounts and credit reports. Check your financial accounts regularly for unauthorized charges. Set calendar reminders every four months to access one of your credit reports on the AnnualCreditReport.com website.

• Protect your personal information. Be cautious about sharing personal details, especially your Social Security number. Only provide such information when absolutely necessary and verify the request's legitimacy.

• Keep your devices and software up-to-date. Regularly update your devices' operating systems and applications to ensure you have the latest security patches. Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit.

• Be mindful of your social media presence. Limit the personal information you share on social platforms, as identity thieves can use this information to answer security questions or impersonate you.

The Takeaway 

By taking swift action if you become a victim and implementing robust prevention strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk and protect your financial well-being.

Remember that identity theft protection is an ongoing process. Stay informed about new threats and protection strategies, and regularly review your financial and personal information for any signs of suspicious activity.

Be sure to explore the identity theft resources in the member library for more detailed information on specific steps you can take if you're a victim.

The words "student loan default" can be alarming, but millions of Americans have faced this situation at one time or another. While serious, defaulting on a student loan is not the end of the road.

Student loan debt is considered to be in default after payments have not been made for at least 270 days. Default is a serious situation with lasting consequences, including damage to your credit report, credit score, potential collection fees, garnished wages and tax refunds, and the loss of many benefits associated with federal student loans.

Student loan default also renders you ineligible for further federal loan assistance, including student aid, Federal Housing Administration loans, and Veteran's Affairs home loans (if you would have otherwise qualified).

There are three options to regain many of these lost benefits:

• Repay the entire debt in full.
• Rehabilitate your loan(s).
• Consolidate your defaulted debt.

Since most defaulting borrowers are unable to repay the entire debt in full, many turn to loan rehabilitation or consolidation.

Loan Rehabilitation

Loan rehabilitation is a program designed to remove student loans from default status and undo some of the damage to your credit. When your defaulted loan has been rehabilitated, you regain benefits such as a choice of repayment plan, loan forgiveness, deferment, and forbearance. You recover your eligibility for additional federal loan assistance in the future.

Once your loan is rehabilitated, you also can overcome some of the negative consequences of default. The default status will be removed from your credit report, and any wage or tax refund garnishments will be removed. However, some of the damage to your credit will remain for at least seven years, including the months of missed payments that led to default.

How it Works

The first step is to work with the collection organization assigned to create a reasonable and affordable payment plan for you. For Direct Loans, you'll work with the Department of Education's Default Resolution Group. For older loans, you'll work with a state guaranty agency. If you have defaulted on a Perkins Loan, you should contact the financial aid office of the school from which you received the loan for instructions.

If you are uncertain about which type of loan(s) you have, visit StudentAid.gov and log in to your account. There's information about your federal loans and contact information for your loan servicer.

Your next step is to fulfill your obligation under the new payment plan. You're required to make nine voluntary, on-time, full monthly payments over ten consecutive months. If you successfully make all payments as required, your loan can be considered for rehabilitation, and your lost benefits can be restored.

After rehabilitation, you may find your monthly payments are higher than during rehabilitation. Collection expenses can add up to 18.5% of the principal and interest of the defaulted loan should a guaranty agency have handled your loan rehabilitation.

After completing your loan rehabilitation, explore all your repayment plans, forbearance, and deferment options to ensure that you can successfully manage your debt for the long term.

Loan Consolidation

Another option for dealing with default is to consolidate your debt. When loans are consolidated, a new loan pays off the old loans, and the defaulted loan is marked as "paid in full" on your credit report – but the default status does remain. Since you'll lose the significant benefits of rehabilitation, you should carefully consider whether or not rehabilitation would be a better outcome for your situation before consolidating them.

To qualify for loan consolidation, you'll also need to work with your loan servicer to develop a repayment plan, just like loan rehabilitation. Unlike rehabilitation, which requires on-time payments for nine consecutive months, you can qualify for consolidation after as few as three consecutive months of on-time payments.

You'll want to fully understand what benefits on your original loans may be lost in consolidation. Review our Loan Consolidation material for more information on the pros and cons of consolidation.

Consolidation alone will restore your federal education, Federal Housing Administration, and Veteran's Affairs loan eligibility.

The Bottom Line

Only loan rehabilitation restores your eligibility for further education loans and removes the defaulted status from your credit report. Paying your debt in full or consolidating your debt will help you regain eligibility for education loans. Still, the default status will remain on your credit report.

Consider loan rehabilitation if…

• You want to remove your loan's default status from the national credit bureaus.
• You want to reinstate the loan benefits available before you defaulted – including the ability to consolidate your loan(s).

Consider consolidation if…

• You want to qualify for additional federal loan assistance in as little as three months, compared to nine months for rehabilitation.
• You hold older (FFEL Program) loans and plan to participate in the new Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Consolidating FFEL loans into Direct Loans without rehabilitation could save six months of payments.
• You are okay with the defaulted status of your original loan remaining on your credit report for seven years.

Dealing responsibly with default is the best way to achieve lasting financial health.

While home prices are currently at record or near-record levels, tens of thousands of families potentially lose their homes yearly due to foreclosure.

Foreclosure is a legal procedure initiated by a lender to recoup the remaining balance on a loan from a borrower who has ceased making payments. This process generally starts after a borrower fails to make payments for 3 to 6 months. However, the exact timing can vary based on state laws and the terms set by the lender.

The implications of foreclosure are significant. It can result in the loss of your home, severe damage to your credit score, and potential difficulty securing future housing.

Steps to Take When Facing Foreclosure

If you're a homeowner facing foreclosure, taking immediate action and seeking professional advice is crucial. Remember, the earlier you address the issue, the more options you'll have.

Organize Your Financial Documents

Get on top of your paperwork and ensure you have every relevant financial document available, including:

• Mortgage statements
• Foreclosure notices
• Letters from your lender
• Income documentation (pay stubs, tax returns)
• Lists of monthly expenses
• Any correspondence with your lender about your mortgage

Organizing these documents will save considerable time and prevent mistakes when dealing with your lender or third parties.

Understand Your Mortgage Rights

Read your mortgage documents to understand your rights and options. Pay attention to information about:

• Grace periods
• Late fees
• What constitutes default
• Options for catching up on missed payments

Contact Your Lender

Many homeowners avoid contacting their lenders out of embarrassment or fear. However, lenders often have programs to help borrowers in financial distress. The sooner you reach out, the more options you may have. When you contact your lender:

• Be honest about your financial situation
• Ask about forbearance options
• Inquire about loan modification programs
• Discuss potential repayment plans

Remember, lenders generally prefer to avoid foreclosure if possible, as it's a costly and time-consuming process for them as well.

Consult a Housing Counselor

Consider reaching out to a professional housing counselor. These experts can provide invaluable guidance as you navigate the complex foreclosure prevention process. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers free or low-cost housing counseling services. These counselors can:

• Help you understand your options
• Assist in communicating with your lender
• Provide guidance on budgeting and managing your finances

Be wary of scammers offering unrealistic promises about negotiating with your lender. Genuine counselors never guarantee that the foreclosure process will be stopped and do not charge high fees upfront. Stick to HUD-approved counselors or reputable non-profit organizations.

Explore Loan Modification, Refinancing, and Sale Options

Discuss modifications to your mortgage terms, including possible interest rate reductions, term extensions, or even principal reductions, if applicable, with your lender. Two potential ways to make your mortgage more manageable are loan modification and refinancing:

• Loan Modification - This involves changing the terms of your existing loan, potentially lowering your interest rate, or extending the loan term to reduce monthly payments.
• Refinancing - This means taking out a new loan to pay off your existing mortgage. If you qualify, you might be able to secure a lower interest rate or better terms.

If temporary financial hardship is the issue, ask about forbearance or a repayment plan that allows you to catch up on missed payments.

Finally, if keeping your home isn't feasible, consider less damaging options to your credit, like a short sale or a deed instead of foreclosure.

Consider Government Programs

Several government programs exist to help homeowners avoid foreclosure:

• Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) - This program helps homeowners refinance their mortgages even if they owe more than their homes are worth.
• Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) -  This program is designed to lower monthly mortgage payments for struggling homeowners.
• FHA Home Affordable Modification Program (FHA-HAMP) -  This program is similar to HAMP but for FHA-insured loans.

Consult a Lawyer

If foreclosure seems imminent, consulting with an attorney specializing in foreclosure can provide critical legal guidance tailored to your state's laws. And while it should be considered a last resort, filing for bankruptcy can sometimes help you keep your home. Chapter 13 bankruptcy, in particular, allows you to reorganize your debts and potentially save your home from foreclosure. Always consult with a qualified bankruptcy attorney before considering this option.

The Takeaway

Facing foreclosure is one of the most challenging experiences any homeowner can endure. By taking early action to address the situation and seeking professional advice, you can put yourself in the best possible position to save your home - or at least walk away with minimal damage to your credit score.

Credit is a key that can unlock numerous opportunities or, unfortunately, close many doors. Having good credit simplifies many aspects of life, including securing employment, renting or buying a home, and buying a car. On the other hand, a poor credit score can limit these opportunities and result in higher costs.

The good news is that even if you find yourself in the throes of bad credit, there's a path forward. It may not be a quick or easy journey, but with dedication and the right strategies, you can improve your credit score and reclaim your financial freedom.

Consumer Credit Today

Before we discuss the steps for improvement, let's consider where we stand. According to a recent Experian study, the average FICO Score in the U.S. reached an all-time high of 716 - close to the maximum score of 800. This statistic may sound encouraging, but it doesn't tell the whole story.

Significant disparities persist across age groups and regions, with younger generations often facing more substantial credit challenges. Millennials, for instance, have an average credit score of 686, while Gen Z trails behind at 660.

These disparities underscore the importance of proactive credit management, regardless of your current situation. So, if you're one of the millions who have allowed your credit rating to suffer, here's what you need to know.

Getting Your Credit Back on Track

The first step is to review your credit reports from all three major credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can do this for free at AnnualCreditReport.com. Take the time to review these reports carefully, looking for any errors or discrepancies that might be unfairly dragging down your score.

Once you have a clear picture of your credit situation, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. The cornerstone of good credit is timely payments. Explore automatic payments or reminders to ensure you never miss a due date.

Next, focus on your credit utilization - how much of your available credit you use - is a significant factor in your credit score. It's recommended to keep your utilization below 30% on each credit line and across all accounts collectively. Lower utilization rates suggest to creditors that you're using credit responsibly and not overextending yourself financially. For someone with a $1,000 credit limit, this means keeping your balance under $300. Reducing your credit utilization can be achieved by paying down existing balances and avoiding large new purchases on credit.

As you work on paying down debts and making timely payments, resist the temptation to close old credit accounts. The length of your credit history plays a role in your credit score, so those old accounts, even if rarely used, can be beneficial. Instead of closing them, make small purchases occasionally to keep them active.

While rebuilding your credit, be cautious about applying for new credit. Each application typically results in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can temporarily lower your score. If you need new credit, research and only apply for products you're likely to qualify for.

Bad Credit or No Credit?

For those struggling to qualify for traditional credit cards, a secured credit card can be a valuable tool. These cards require a cash deposit that typically becomes your credit limit, reducing the issuer's risk. Use it responsibly by making small purchases and paying the balance in full each month.

Another strategy to consider, especially for younger individuals, is becoming an authorized user of a family member's credit card (assuming they have excellent credit). For example, a parent's positive payment history can help boost your credit score.

Communicating with Lenders

if you're struggling to make payments, it's essential to maintain open communication with your creditors - don't hide from them. Reach out proactively to discuss your options. Many lenders will work with you to create a manageable payment plan.

A non-profit credit counseling agency can also provide free or low-cost assistance when working with creditors.

The Takeaway

When working to improve credit, remember that patience is key. Most negative items stay on your credit report for seven years, so improving your credit score takes time. But don't let that discourage you. Every positive step you take brings you closer to your goal of better credit.

Remember, your credit score does not reflect your worth as a person. It's simply a tool you can learn to use to your advantage. Review the Financial Trouble category in the member library for more detailed information on managing credit and, if needed, don't hesitate to contact a qualified professional for personalized advice.

The impact of losing a job extends far beyond the immediate loss of income. It can trigger a cascade of emotional and financial challenges that ripple through every aspect of life. Some studies suggest that the trauma of job loss can be comparable to the grief experienced when losing a loved one. 

If you face the prospect of job loss, let's explore how you can manage both the financial and emotional aspects of job loss, setting the stage for a strong recovery.

Stabilizing Your Finances

Start by taking a comprehensive inventory of your financial situation. Gather all your financial documents, including bank statements, credit card bills, loan documents, and any investment or retirement account information. This step will give you a clear picture of your assets, debts, and monthly expenses.

Next, it's time to create a bare-bones budget. Your top priorities should be housing, food, utilities, and critical insurance coverage. Look for areas where you can cut back - perhaps that streaming service subscription can wait, or you can cook at home more often instead of eating out.

Once you've outlined your essential expenses, it's time to tackle your debts. Prioritize your debts based on their urgency and potential consequences. Your mortgage or rent should be at the top of the list - maintaining a stable living situation is crucial during this time. Falling behind on housing payments can have long-lasting effects on your credit score and overall financial health.

Next, focus on bills like utilities, car payments, and insurance premiums. Letting insurance lapse can leave you vulnerable to catastrophic expenses if an emergency arises.

Contact your creditors immediately for other debts like credit cards, personal loans, or student loans. Many lenders have hardship programs for people facing job loss. So don't wait until you've missed payments to have these conversations - being proactive can help protect your credit score and give you more options.

Finding Financial Resources

While trimming expenses is essential, you may also need to explore additional financial resources to bridge the gap until you secure new employment.

If you have an emergency fund, now is the time to use it. If you don't, prioritize building one once you're back on your feet.

Unemployment benefits can provide a crucial financial lifeline. File for unemployment as soon as possible after losing your job. The process and eligibility requirements vary by state, so check with your state's unemployment office for specific guidelines.

Consider whether you have any assets you can leverage. For instance, a home equity line of credit could provide access to funds at a relatively low interest rate. However, be cautious with this approach, as you're risking your home if you can't make the payments.

Experts suggest that withdrawing from retirement accounts should be a last resort. The tax penalties for early withdrawal can be substantial, and you're sacrificing long-term growth. If you must tap into these accounts, consult with a financial advisor to understand the implications and explore options like 401(k) loans that may have fewer penalties.

Health Insurance Options

One often overlooked aspect of job loss is the impact on health insurance coverage. In the U.S., where health insurance is usually tied to employment, losing your job can also mean losing your health coverage.

Start by understanding your options. You're likely eligible for COBRA continuation coverage if you worked for a company with 20 or more employees. This program allows you to keep your existing health insurance plan for up to 18 months. However, you'll be responsible for the full premium, including the portion your employer used to pay, which can be expensive.

Alternatively, losing your job qualifies you for a special enrollment period on the Health Insurance Marketplace. Based on your reduced income, you may be eligible for subsidies, making this a potentially more affordable option than COBRA.

If you're married, see if you can join your spouse's health insurance plan. Many plans allow for mid-year additions due to qualifying life events, which typically include job loss.

Don't be tempted to go without health insurance. A medical emergency could devastate your finances just when you're most vulnerable.

Strategies for Moving Forward

While managing your immediate financial needs is crucial, laying the groundwork for your future recovery is equally important. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Enhance your skills - Use this time to acquire new skills or certifications that could make you more marketable in your field or help you transition to a new industry.

• Network actively - Many jobs are found through personal connections. Reach out to former colleagues, join professional organizations, and attend industry events (many of which are now held virtually).

• Consider temporary or gig work - While searching for a permanent position, temporary jobs or gig work can help bridge the financial gap and potentially lead to permanent opportunities.

• Reassess your career path - A job loss could be an opportunity to pivot to a new field or pursue a long-held dream. Consider career counseling to explore your options.

• Take care of your mental health - Job searching can be stressful. Make time for self-care, exercise, and activities that boost your mood and confidence.

The Takeaway

It's important to remember that losing a job is a temporary setback, not a permanent condition. You can rise to the occasion by taking prompt action to stabilize your finances, leveraging available resources, and maintaining a forward-looking perspective. Many people emerge from job loss with new skills, a clearer sense of their career goals, and sometimes even better opportunities than they had before.

Remember, your job title or employment status doesn't define your value. Dealing successfully with unemployment is a chance to demonstrate your adaptability, resourcefulness, and resilience. With careful planning and a positive attitude, you can turn this challenging time into a launchpad for future success.

In an era of increasing climate volatility, natural disasters are becoming an unwelcome constant in many lives. While the immediate physical destruction often captures headlines, the long-term financial impact can be equally devastating.

How can you protect yourself from the economic fallout of nature's fury?

Financial preparedness for natural disasters goes beyond having a well-stocked emergency kit. It requires a comprehensive approach that protects your physical assets and long-term financial health.

Your First Line of Defense: Insurance

Understanding your insurance coverage is crucial. Experts advise reviewing policies annually, focusing not just on premiums but on coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions. For example, at current construction rates, is your coverage sufficient to fund the rebuilding of your home from the ground up?

Consider additional coverage like flood insurance or earthquake protection if you live in a high-risk area. Remember that most homeowner's policies do not include flood insurance, so it must be purchased separately. And with "500-year" floods happening with increasing frequency, flood insurance does warrant consideration for many.

It's also important to understand the claims process before disaster strikes. Familiarize yourself with your insurer's requirements for filing claims, including the documentation needed and time limits for reporting damage. A home inventory with photos or videos of your belongings stored securely in the cloud will expedite the claims process.

Building Your Financial Ark

How would you weather three to six months without income? An emergency fund is your financial life raft in turbulent times. Aim to save at least 3-6 months of living expenses in an easily accessible account.

Financial planners often advise clients to aim for more in high-risk areas, building a 9-12 month cushion. This larger buffer provides enhanced protection and peace of mind in disaster-prone regions.

Building this fund is challenging for most people, but even small, consistent contributions can add up over time. Consider automating your savings by setting up regular transfers to your emergency fund. Prioritize this fund over non-essential expenses – think of it as paying yourself first for future security.

The Digital Lifeline

Since our financial lives are increasingly online, digital preparedness is crucial. How would you access your account if your local branch was destroyed? To prepare for a worst-case scenario:

• Set up online and mobile banking for all your accounts.
• Store digital copies of important documents in secure cloud storage.
• Use a password manager to keep track of financial account logins.

Your smartphone might be your financial lifeline in a disaster. Ensure you know how to use it effectively, including enabling cellular roaming in case your carrier's towers are disabled.

Digital preparedness also extends to cybersecurity. In the chaos following a disaster, scammers often try to exploit victims. Be wary of unsolicited emails or phone calls asking for personal information. Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and enable multi-factor authentication where possible.

The Long View: Financial Planning in High-Risk Areas

For those living in disaster-prone regions, long-term financial planning becomes more complex. How do you balance the risks of your location with your financial goals?

Consider these strategies:

• Factor potential disaster-related expenses into your retirement savings goals.
• Regularly reassess the cost-benefit of staying versus relocating.
• Invest in home improvements that increase disaster resilience, potentially lowering insurance premiums.

Financial advisors stress the importance of understanding your risks so you can prepare proactively for natural disasters rather than reacting to them.

When considering home improvements, focus on those that offer dual benefits: increasing your home's resilience while enhancing its value or energy efficiency. For example, impact-resistant windows can protect against hurricane damage while also improving your home's energy performance.

If you're a business owner, develop a comprehensive business continuity plan. This plan should include strategies for operating remotely, protecting critical data, and maintaining cash flow during extended disruptions. Consider business interruption insurance to help cover lost income if your business is forced to close temporarily.

Navigating the Recovery Process

Despite best efforts at preparation, the aftermath of a disaster can still be unpredictable.

Immediately after a disaster, focus on documenting everything. Take photos and videos of all damage before beginning any cleanup. Keep receipts for all expenses related to temporary housing, repairs, or replacement of damaged items.

Be prepared for a potentially lengthy insurance claims process. Stay organized, keep detailed records of all communications with your insurance company, and feel free to ask questions if you need help understanding something.

Explore all available resources for assistance. These may include:

• Federal disaster assistance programs through FEMA.
• Small Business Administration disaster loans, which are available to both businesses and homeowners.
• State and local government assistance programs.
• Non-profit organizations providing disaster relief.

Be cautious about taking on additional debt for rebuilding. While it may be necessary in some cases, carefully consider the long-term impact on your financial health. Explore all options, including disaster-specific loan programs that may offer more favorable terms.

A New Normal?

As climate change potentially increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters, financial preparedness becomes more important than ever.

But it's not just about protecting ourselves from loss. It's about building resilience – in our finances and approach to an uncertain future. Consider making disaster preparedness a regular part of your financial check-ups. Just as you review your budget or investment strategy periodically, take time to reassess your disaster readiness. Are your insurance coverages still adequate? Is your emergency fund keeping pace with your current living expenses? Have you updated your digital safeguards?

The Takeaway

Disaster preparedness is not a one-time task but an ongoing process. As your life circumstances change, so too should your preparedness strategies. Stay informed about evolving risks in your area and be ready to adjust your plans accordingly.

After all, in the face of nature's power, our greatest asset is our ability to plan, prepare, and persevere. Are you ready for whatever may come?