Free help
Sometimes it helps to talk to a real person. These groups offer free or low-cost help, and they work for you, not for a lender.
We don't get anything for sending you to them. We don't use affiliate links or ads.
Help with debt and budgeting
- Nonprofit credit counseling (NFCC)
A certified credit counselor can go over your budget and debts with you, for free or at low cost.
- HUD-approved housing counselors
Free or low-cost advice about renting, buying a home, or keeping your home. Services vary, so check what each one offers.
Safe, low-cost bank accounts
- Bank On certified accounts
Find a safe, low-cost bank or credit union account with no overdraft fees. Search by ZIP code or state.
Free help with taxes
- Free tax help (VITA and TCE)
IRS-certified volunteers prepare and file tax returns for free for people with low to moderate incomes, people with disabilities, people who speak limited English, and older adults. Most sites are open during tax season.
- GetYourRefund
File for free with help from IRS-certified volunteers, remotely, or use free software to file yourself.
- IRS Free File
Free tax software through the IRS for people with incomes up to $89,000, and free fillable forms for everyone.
- MyFreeTaxes (United Way)
Free software to file federal and state returns, with chat and phone help.
- IRS EITC Assistant
Answer questions to see if you qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, and about how much.
- IRS: Do I need to file?
A free IRS tool that asks a few questions and tells you whether you need to file a tax return.
Help with rent, bills, and food
- 211
Call or text 2-1-1 for free, private help finding local programs for rent, utilities, food, and other bills.
- USA.gov Benefit Finder
Answer a few questions to see government programs you might qualify for, like help with food, health care, or housing.
Cheaper ways to borrow
- Credit union payday alternative loans
Federal credit unions can offer small loans with an APR of 28% or less and an application fee of $20 or less.
Free legal help
- Find legal aid (Legal Services Corporation)
Free legal help for people with low incomes, with problems like eviction, debt collection, and family issues.
Problems with a company or a scam
- Submit a complaint to the CFPB
Having a problem with a bank, lender, credit card, or debt collector? The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau sends your complaint to the company for a response.
- Investor.gov (SEC)
Check whether an investment professional is registered, and learn how to spot investment scams.
- Report a scam to the FTC
Tell the Federal Trade Commission about a scam, even if you didn't lose money. You'll get advice on what to do next.
Your credit report
- AnnualCreditReport.com
The official site for free credit reports from the three credit bureaus. Watch out for look-alike sites.
Someone to talk to
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Money stress can feel overwhelming. Call or text 988, or chat online, to talk with someone any time, for free. In an emergency, call 911.
How to spot fake "help"
- Be careful with anyone who contacts you first offering to fix your debt or credit.
- Be wary of companies that want big fees before they've done anything for you.
- Never share your bank or app passwords. Real helpers don't need them.
- When in doubt, type the web address yourself instead of clicking a link in a text or email.