Center for Working Families Frequently Asked Questions

Financial empowerment is possessing the knowledge and ability to make choices and take desired actions that improve one’s financial wellbeing.

Financial coaching is a series of one-on-one meetings or check-ins between a client and a coach. The goal is to help that client set and achieve their financial goals. Coaching focuses on building the client’s financial skills to promote long-term economic well-being.

Sign up for coaching online. You can also email RCFE@boston.gov or call 617-541-2670 with questions about coaching, workshops, or job training.

Yes, the staff at the Center for Working Families can help you:

• prepare a resume
• practice interviewing skills, and
• assist with written and online job applications.

We also offer virtual workshops that assist with the job search process. The final results depend on you but we are happy to help!

We can’t decide what the best checking account is for your needs but here are some things to consider:

To open a bank account, you will generally need to provide identification and a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

There are two types of accounts you can open:

• Checking accounts allow for easy access to your money to pay bills and make purchases. Many banks charge a monthly fee for a checking account. When opening a checking account, make sure to compare banks and ask about fees. It may be possible to negotiate for lower fees, particularly if you are employed and can sign up for direct deposit of your pay check. Be sure to inquire about the locations of ATMs to determine if they are near your home or work.
• Savings accounts allow you to save your money and earn interest. Again, be sure to compare interest rates, fees, and rules regarding minimum balances at different banking institutions.

Not sure where to start? Bank On Boston helps residents find accounts that fit their needs. Visit the Find a Savings Account and Find a Checking Account pages for banks that meet high standards for safety and affordability.

File a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). They will forward your complaint to the company and work to get a response from them.

File a complaint

To order your credit report, visit annualcreditreport.com, or call 877-322-8228. You may complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form and mail it to:

The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Debt Collection Regulations prohibit many unfair debt collection practices by creditors. Regulations of the Massachusetts Division of Banks prohibit unfair debt collection practices by debt collection agencies. Visit the Attorney General’s website for more information.

There are a number of helpful resources you should consult before declaring bankruptcy. Bankruptcy will affect your future credit and your reputation. Consider various pros and cons before you decide if bankruptcy is the best option for you.

Check out these resources:

• Massachusetts Law about Bankruptcy
• Bankruptcy Basics from the U.S. Federal Courts
• Filing for Bankruptcy in Massachusetts

The Federal Trade Commission provides helpful information on its website about recovering from identity theft.

In addition, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office may be able to help you with specific situations. Get help by calling 617-727-8400 or by visiting the Attorney General's website.

We cannot recommend a lawyer. But, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office provides contact information for organizations that provide legal referrals and free legal services for qualifying low-income individuals.

Please visit the Boston Tax Help Coalition website to find information on:

• eligibility
• required documents, and
• available tax sites.

Your trained volunteer tax preparer will be able to file your taxes on your behalf.

Please visit the Boston Tax Help Coalition’s Volunteer Positions page to learn more and sign up.

Depending on staff availability, we are happy to provide workshops for Boston-based organizations or long-term partners. Alternatively, individuals can register for one of our workshops. Please email RCFE@boston.gov or call 617-541-2670 for more information.