Free financial advice hitting 30 cities in October

Help from a financial expert doesn’t have to cost a dime. For the second year in a row, a series of free clinics called “Financial Planning Days” will hit 30 cities around the country in October. Organizers say the goal is to provide guidance to the growing number of individuals struggling with money problems in this difficult economic climate.

The Details

The day-long clinics will feature workshops on topics such as budgeting, foreclosure, taxes, managing debt and paying for college. The events will also feature one-on-one sessions with financial planning professionals.

To register, call 877-861-7826 or go to go to www.FinancialPlanningDays.com, which also lists the cities where events are planned. Registration isn’t required but is encouraged so organizers can plan accordingly.

Organizers say event volunteers will not pitch financial products, including their own services.

Background

The events are being sponsored by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, the Financial Planning Association, the Foundation for Financial Planning and The U.S. Conference of Mayors.

If you’re not able to attend one of the sessions this year, keep in mind that free or low-cost financial help is available year-round from nonprofit credit counselors. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling maintains a database of counselors around the country at www.nfcc.org.