Safe, stable housing is the foundation for financial well-being. At Advantage Credit Counseling Service, we are proud to be a HUD-approved housing counseling agency, providing professional, unbiased support to individuals and families throughout our region. Our counselors are HUD-certified, meaning they meet national training and qualification standards to ensure accurate, reliable guidance for renters, homeowners, […]
Continue ReadingAuthor: Lauralynn
Lauralynn is the Online Marketing Specialist for AdvantageCCS. She enjoys writing, reading, hiking, cooking, video games, sewing, and gardening. Lauralynn has a degree in Multimedia Technologies from Pittsburgh Technical College.
When Life Throws A Curveball: Budgeting For Job Loss, Illness, Or Major Changes
Life doesn’t always go according to plan. Whether due to an unexpected job loss, a serious illness, a major family change, or any shift that affects income or expenses, the financial impact can feel overwhelming. However, with a thoughtful, proactive budgeting strategy, you can find clarity, regain control, and build resilience. Below is a step-by-step […]
Continue ReadingThe Journey Of Financial Behavior Changes
Creating a budget is often the easy part. You grab a notebook, open a spreadsheet, or download an app, determined to take control of your finances. However, after a few weeks—or even a few days—old habits creep back in. You overspend on takeout, forget to track purchases, or get discouraged when you don’t see immediate […]
Continue ReadingWhen Income Drops: How To Adapt Your Budget Without Losing Ground
Life doesn’t always go according to plan. A job loss, reduced work hours, medical emergency, or other major life change can suddenly shrink your income. When that happens, it’s easy to panic—but with the right approach, you can adapt, protect your financial stability, and avoid long-term damage to your credit. Here’s how to take control […]
Continue ReadingThe Scary Truth About Teens And Money
Around this time of year, we typically publish a blog post about “How to Save Money on Halloween Décor” or “Halloween Costumes on a Budget,” and so on. We wanted to do something a little different this year. We’re going to take a closer look at teens and their money management skills because let’s be honest, […]
Continue ReadingDebt Management Programs vs. Debt Settlement: What’s The Difference?
If you’ve been struggling with credit card bills, loan payments, and mounting interest, you’ve probably searched for solutions online. Two common terms that often pop up are Debt Management Programs (DMPs) and Debt Settlement. At first glance, they might sound similar—both aim to reduce your debt burden—but they operate in very different ways and have […]
Continue ReadingWhat Is The Difference Between A Credit Card And A Debit Card?
When you’re standing at the checkout counter and the cashier asks, “Credit or debit?” you might not think twice before swiping or tapping your card. After all, both credit cards and debit cards are small, plastic rectangles that give you access to money. However, the truth is, they work in very different ways—and understanding those […]
Continue ReadingHousing Stability: How HUD-Approved Housing Counselors Can Help
For many households, August can feel like a financial turning point. Families may face the costs of back-to-school shopping, summer utility bills, or upcoming lease and mortgage renewals. With so many competing expenses, it’s not surprising that housing stability can become a concern. The good news is that you don’t have to navigate these challenges […]
Continue ReadingDigital Finance & Banking Tools: Your Guide To Smarter Money Management
In today’s world, managing your money no longer means flipping through a checkbook or holding onto piles of receipts. The digital age has given us powerful tools that fit right in our pockets. These digital tools help us track expenses, manage debt, set savings goals, and monitor our overall financial health. Whether you’re a seasoned […]
Continue ReadingBack-To-School On A Budget: Smart Money-Saving Tips For Families
As summer winds down, the excitement (and expense) of back-to-school season begins. From notebooks and new clothes to tech upgrades and activity fees, the average family spends hundreds of dollars preparing for a new academic year. According to the National Retail Federation, families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend more than […]
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