Looking Back: The Road Behind Us 

Eighteen months ago, together with the AFCPE Board, Staff, and input from our larger professional community, we embarked on a 3-year strategic plan with a fundamental mission: To uphold and elevate the highest standards for financial counseling, coaching, and education, while also expanding access to AFC® professionals for all people in every community.  

Over the past few years, we’ve seen an increase in enrollments in the AFC program, but our completion rates have not been growing at the same rate. So, just as marathoners adapt to new running technologies and training philosophies, we knew that we had to  adapt our educational offerings to help ensure that more candidates can reach the finish line – prepared, confident, and inspired to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people they serve.  

Setting Goals: Advancing with Purpose 

In developing the new AFC Learning System, our guiding principles were clear. We sought to: 

• Improve Completion Rates and Exam Readiness: We aim to support candidates in reaching their certification goals without lowering the high standards that are the hallmark of the AFC. 

• Create a Stronger Feedback Loop: By understanding where candidates excel and where they face obstacles, we can continually refine our educational components and better support learners at every step. 

• Build Motivation and Reduce Barriers: We set out to design a system that not only motivates learners but also makes it easier to stay on track – fostering the confidence required to sit for the exam. 

• Expand Our Independent Trainer Program: By empowering AFCs to become trainers, we can extend the reach and impact of the designation, bringing quality financial education to communities across the country. 

Each of these goals echoes a lesson from the marathon: success depends not only on individual effort but also on the quality of the support and resources available along the way. 

Innovative Features: A Tailored Experience for Every Learner 

The new AFC Learning System is a platform designed to meet learners where they are and help them go further. Some of its key features include: 

• Personalized Learning Path: The system dynamically adapts to their unique knowledge gaps, learning preferences, and pace. Whether they’re just beginning or reviewing for the final exam, their path is tailored to maximize their  strengths and address their  specific needs. 

• Interactive Learning Tools: Learners engage with interactive section quizzes, flashcards, and a variety of activities that bring complex concepts to life, making study sessions more effective and enjoyable. 

• Real-Time Progress Tracking: Learners can monitor their study progress and identify improvement opportunities, allowing them to adjust their study plan as needed. 

• Audio Learning Materials: For auditory learners and busy professionals, the platform offers audio resources that make it easy to study on the go – whether commuting, exercising, or multitasking in daily life. 

• Comprehensive Practice Exam: Candidates can prepare with confidence by taking a full-length practice exam, building both knowledge and exam-day readiness. 

The Impact: Empowering Professionals, Expanding Access 

The launch of the AFC Learning System is about more than technology – it is about people. It is about supporting the next generation of financial counselors, coaches, and educators as they work to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families nationwide. 

By fostering higher completion rates and ensuring candidates are better prepared for the exam, we are not only upholding our commitment to excellence but also making the designation more accessible to a wider, more diverse group of professionals.  

The Road Ahead: Join us on the Journey 

The marathon analogy is not just about endurance; it’s about community. Every marathoner knows the importance of encouragement from fellow runners, volunteers, and loved ones along the way. It is in this spirit that we invite our community – AFC professionals, current and aspiring candidates, AFCPE Members, and partners – to join us as we embark on this next phase. 

• Tell someone about the AFC Learning System 

• Make the case for AFC Certification in your organization 

• Learn more about getting your group certified 

As we pass this mid-way milestone in our strategic plan, we celebrate the progress we’ve made and look to the road ahead.  The journey of a marathon is not only measured by the miles we have covered, but by the promise and potential of the miles yet to come. 

With the launch of this new AFC pathway, we are well-poised to enhance the learning experience, uphold the highest standards, and expand the reach and impact of the AFC designation nationwide. Together, we will continue to run – step by step, milestone by milestone – toward a future where financial well-being is within everyone’s reach. 

Here’s to the road ahead, and to all who travel it with us. 

The post Executive Director’s Message: Reimagining the Journey: Introducing the AFC Learning System appeared first on AFCPE.

There’s something about the rhythm of the ocean and the gentle island breeze that reminds you how vital it is to simply pause. As financial professionals, we are often so focused on helping others manage their finances, navigate uncertainty, and plan for the future that we forget to pause for ourselves. We run on empty, thinking we’re being productive, but rest is not a reward, it’s a requirement. 

This trip reminded me that rest is a form of remedy for burnout. It is also an act of attunement, of tuning in to your own needs, emotions, and energy levels so that you can show up with greater clarity, compassion, and presence, for both yourself and your clients. And it’s necessary if we’re going to continue showing up as our best selves for our families, our friends, and our profession. 

We’re entering a season when many of our clients are feeling the financial pinch of back-to-school expenses. The time for school supplies, athletic fees, lunch accounts, new clothes, and more. For many households, this time of year brings excitement and stress. And that means they need our guidance more than ever. 

But how can we pour into others if our cups are empty? 

In Hawaii, the word “aloha” doesn’t just mean hello or goodbye; it’s a way of life. It means love, peace, compassion, and mutual respect. What would it look like if we brought a little aloha into our daily routines? What if we treated ourselves with the same grace and compassion that we offer to our clients? 

Self-care doesn’t have to mean boarding a plane (though I highly recommend the islands if you can swing it!). It can be as simple as blocking out time for quiet reflection, walking away from your inbox to take a breath, or giving yourself permission to say no to one more obligation so you can say yes to your well-being (this one is on my To Do list!).   

At AFCPE, we understand the importance of balance. That’s why we continue to create resources that support you, not just as a professional, but as a person. 

One of those resources is our podcast, Real Money, Real Experts. If you haven’t tuned in lately, now is a great time to start. Each episode features voices from our community sharing actionable tips, relatable stories, and tools you can use in both your client work and your own life. It’s a great way to stay connected, inspired, and informed, especially during a busy season. 

As we move into the second half of the year, let this be your gentle reminder: 

• Take the vacation. 

• Use the PTO. 

• Schedule the massage. 

• Say no to the meeting if your soul needs silence. 

• Refill your cup. 

Because when you do, you’re not stepping away from your work, you’re stepping toward aloha. You are the heartbeat of this profession. Your presence, wisdom, and compassion matter. Let’s model what it looks like to care well for others and ourselves. 

The post President’s Message: Aloha and Attunement: Rest for Financial Professionals appeared first on AFCPE.

At Virginia Commonwealth University’s Financial Success Center, I’ve had the opportunity to guide students through their financial questions and confusions. Whether it’s helping someone set up their first budget, talking about the importance of a Roth IRA, or understanding credit scores, I’ve seen firsthand how a relatable and judgment-free zone can support students.

What Gen Z Is Worried About:

Here are the most common topics that come up in my conversations with students:

1. Debt and Tuition Costs
Many students are paying for their own education with loans and working part-time jobs to stay afloat. Understanding loan repayment plans, interest rates, and how to avoid default is a huge priority.

2. Credit Building
Opening a credit card can be very common for college students. But often, people will do it without fully understanding how credit works. I’ve had multiple conversations about how to build credit responsibly, avoid common mistakes, and why credit scores matter not just for loans but for apartments, job opportunities, and more.

3. Budgeting + Overspending
It’s easy to lose track of spending when food delivery and impulse buys are just a few taps away. Many students want help building a simple budget they can stick to, one that includes realistic spending on things like social outings, takeout, and textbooks. The key is not shaming students for their choices, but helping them align their spending.

4. Investing
Gen Z is very interested in investing. We’re watching TikToks about ETFs, asking about crypto, and wondering if we’re already behind. Students ask me about Roth IRAs, how to start investing with just $100, and the difference between a brokerage account and a retirement plan.

What Peer Counselors Offer: 

Peer counselors are able to meet students where they are emotionally and academically. We are aware of how difficult it may be to balance social life, side jobs, and classes. We understand what it’s like to balance gas money with grocery expenses. This common experience fosters trust. Students can ask questions they might be too ashamed to ask a professional. I’ve learned that my role isn’t to have all the answers; it’s to be someone’s “rockstar” in their financial journey. Sometimes that means walking someone through their first budget. Other times, it means encouraging them to log in to their student loan portal for the first time.

Things I’ve Learned Along the Way:

Being a peer counselor has taught me so much, not just about finance, but about empathy,
communication, and the diversity of financial experiences even within a single college campus.

I’ve learned:
● Listening matters more than lecturing.
● People need reassurance as much as they need spreadsheets.
● Everyone’s definition of success is different, and that is 100% valid.

The Bigger Picture: 

Financial literacy is more than knowing how to balance a budget; it’s a form of empowerment. As peer counselors, we have a front-row seat to the impact of early financial education, and we’re proof that students can be part of the solution. With the right training, resources, and support from organizations like AFCPE, we’re equipped to make financial wellness more accessible, relatable, and real for our generation.

The post What Gen Z Cares About — And How Peer Financial Counselors Are Showing Up appeared first on AFCPE.

Farm families are unique for so many different reasons. Financial matters are a key area where there can be unique interplay between the needs, wants, resources, obligations and goals of both the farm enterprise and those of the family household.

This relationship is unique to farm audiences because it takes time, organization, communication and recordkeeping to ensure that the goals, wellbeing and success of family and farm enterprise are met.  

In some situations, farm income and resources may solely support the family and household while in others there may be off-farm income that brings in resources that support both. Alternatively, farming may be a part-time enterprise, and off-farm income is the main source of support for the family and household. There are some farm enterprises that generate income three months of the year which covers all farm and household expenses. Planning finances throughout the year is important. Coupling this with the unknown about how much may be coming in adds to the strain on managing finances.

Another example is when the farm pays for groceries because it can’t afford to pay wages for the family working on the farm. Each of these scenarios brings a connectedness between farm and household finances and the choices made about how resources are used to support the household expenses over time. 

Another unique aspect of a farm family household is the sharing of some of the assets and resources. Knowing who is paying for what is key to setting financial boundaries. For example, household electric and the farm truck may be used for the household chores; all paid out of the farm budget. Alternatively, the off-farm income may help pay some of the farm bills or debts during the time of year when there is little farm income. Tracking and knowing how money flows is critical to the success of the farm enterprise and the family finances. 

Some farm families combine all sources of income into one checking account for ease of managing bill payment and other obligations. However, there are benefits to keeping household and farm income and expenses separate by establishing a farm business plan and recordkeeping system that parallels a system for the household finances.  Aside from aiding in recordkeeping for tax purposes by making it easier when paying taxes, one will have more clarity on your business finances, overall business management and cash flow. 

In 2023 we partnered with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau which led to additional interviews and the opportunity to modify the Your Money Your Goals Toolkit for the farm family. That brings us to today. We are putting the final touches on the modified document and plan to lead some focus groups in the coming months to get feedback on the revised toolkit. Some items developed specifically for the farm audience include a Yearly Financial Planning Chart and Who’s Paying for What (farm or family). Other tools were adapted for this audience such as adding columns for on-farm and off-farm income and narrative in the modules speaking to the farm family audience.

The overarching goal is to have a toolkit available for farm families to address the challenges associated with family finances. 

For more information about the initiative, contact one of our team members:

• Laura Hendrix 
• Jesse Ketterman 
• Elizabeth Kiss 
• Lorna Saboe-Wounded Head 
• Maria Pippidis 
• Catherine Sorenson 
• Kayla Wells-Moses 

The post Unwinding Farm and Family Finances appeared first on AFCPE.

Supporting clients isn’t just about numbers or advice; it takes technical skill, emotional intelligence, and, most importantly, healthy detachment. Healthy detachment isn’t about being distant or uncaring; It’s about setting boundaries so we can help clients without getting overwhelmed ourselves. In my 20+ years in the field, learning healthy detachment has been a game-changer, and it’s a skill I believe every private practice counselor should develop. 

Why Healthy Detachment Matters Even More in Private Practice 

In private practice, we juggle multiple roles—counselor, business owner, marketer, and more. With so much at stake, it’s easy to overextend ourselves for clients or blur professional boundaries. But healthy detachment isn’t optional; it’s vital. Without it, we risk burnout and jeopardize our business. Setting clear boundaries and avoiding overidentification protects our energy and allows us to be fully present for every client. 

Let’s discuss some common client scenarios that express the importance of healthy detachment. 

Common Client Scenarios:

1. Dependent / High-Need for Support

Ever had a client say, “Just tell me what to do!”? These individuals want quick fixes and often shy away from taking full responsibility for their financial decisions. They may expect us to be available at all hours, seeking constant reassurance. If you give in to these demands, not only do we risk our own well-being, but we also deny them the chance to develop true financial autonomy. 

2. Commitment / Engagement Challenges

Some clients start out enthusiastic, only to disappear when it’s time to do the work. Maybe they skip assignments, reschedule meetings, or drop off the radar altogether. Others might show up but spend more time challenging our advice than working on solutions. Often, this behavior is a way to avoid facing uncomfortable truths about their finances. Whatever the reason, it can make progress feel impossible. 

3. Externalization / Blame

These are the clients who view their financial struggles as someone else’s fault. Perhaps their partner spends too much, their parents never taught them about money, or they believe the system is rigged against them. This externalization is a coping mechanism, but it can keep them stuck and make it hard for us to help them move forward. 

How Complex Client Scenarios Impact Us: 

As financial counselors, our job is to provide the education, tools, and support clients need to reach their goals. But even the best advice can fall flat when clients’ deep-seated emotions about money come into play. These dynamics can easily pull us into emotional quicksand, draining our energy and clouding our judgment. 

That’s where healthy detachment comes in. It allows us to stay empathetic and supportive without absorbing our clients’ stress or feeling responsible for their outcomes. We can listen, validate, and guide—without trying to “fix” things that are ultimately outside our control. This not only preserves our objectivity and well-being but also makes us better partners on our clients’ journeys. 

When we practice healthy detachment, we create a space where clients can process their feelings and take meaningful action, while we maintain the clarity and resilience needed to serve everyone well. We protect ourselves from burnout while modeling the kind of boundaries and self-care we hope our clients will embrace in their own financial lives. 

Healthy Detachment Practices: 

1. Set and Communicate Boundaries Early

Start every client relationship by outlining your policies — scheduling, communication, session scope, and payment. Make your availability and response times clear. Let clients know your role is to guide and empower them, not to provide quick fixes. When requests cross the line, gently redirect the conversation back to collaborative problem-solving. 

2. Practice Empathy Without Overidentification

Empathy is essential, but it has limits. Remind yourself, “I’m here to support, not to save.” Use reflective listening and validation, but don’t take on your clients’ emotions as your own. Maintain your emotional equilibrium so you can be present and effective without getting lost in their stories. 

3. Foster Mutual Responsibility

Coaching is a partnership. Encourage clients to set their own goals, track their progress, and take ownership of their decisions. Celebrate their wins and hold them accountable for follow-through. When clients disengage, remember it’s often about their readiness or circumstances—not your worth as a coach. 

4. Use Supervision and Peer Support

Difficult clients can trigger strong reactions. Notice when you feel frustrated, anxious, or overly responsible. These are signs to reinforce your boundaries. Regularly debrief with mentors or peers to process your experiences and gain perspective. And if you suspect a client’s issues are rooted in trauma or mental health, don’t hesitate to refer them to a qualified professional. 

5. Prioritize Self-Care

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Make time for self-care, take regular breaks, and engage in activities that recharge you. A well-rested counselor is more resilient and effective — and your business will thank you for it. 

Detachment Is Empowerment 

Practicing healthy detachment isn’t just about protecting our own energy — it’s about modeling the boundaries and self-reliance we want our clients to develop. It shows that we can simultaneously care deeply while maintaining our own sense of self and professional objectivity. 

This approach gives clients the space to take real ownership of their financial journey, make their own decisions, and learn from both successes and setbacks. By embodying healthy detachment, we serve our own well-being, support the sustainability of our private practice, and offer clients a living example of the autonomy and resilience they need for lasting financial confidence. 

So, the next time you find yourself pulled into a client’s emotional whirlwind, remember: your ability to stay grounded and maintain healthy detachment isn’t just good for you — it’s essential for your business and a gift to your clients, too. 

Katie Ubelhor is the founder of Financial Alchemy Coaching, LLC and an Accredited Financial Coach Candidate with 20+ years of coaching experience. She specializes in helping clients uncover and heal deep-seated money beliefs, empowering them to achieve greater financial confidence and well-being. Follow her journey at: Financial Alchemy Coaching, on Facebook, or LinkedIn.

The post Healthy Detachment: The Unsung Skill of Private Practice Financial Counseling appeared first on AFCPE.

Morgan Housel’s 2020 book, the Psychology of Money, is unlike most financial books you’ll pick up. This book is equally empowering for clients and professionals: For clients to gain insights into their relationships with money and for professionals as we support our clients in respectful, productive and effective ways. It is an easy read, filled with insightful anecdotes, an acceptable number of charts and no math! Each succinct chapter delves into one aspect of our relationship with money. Some of the lessons are straight-forward and others will provide challenging points to ponder.

Chapter 1 – No One’s Crazy 

From the start, Housel dives into the “crazy” things people do with money and how behind every cringe financial act is a reason. As counselors, we will be more effective with our clients if we understand the thought processes behind those actions. 

Chapter 2 – Luck & Risk 

Chapter 2 reminds us that luck has a hand in outcomes. He reminds us to be kind to ourselves when luck derails our plans and look for for replicable tips in ordinary trends rather than copying specific pathways. 

Chapter 3 – Never Enough 

With increased income comes the temptation of lifestyle inflation. By exploring what “enough” looks like, we can stop moving the goalpost and achieve success. 

Chapter 4 – Confounding Compounding 

The power of compounding is mind-boggling, so in this chapter, Morgan illustrates this force using technology, ice ages and Warren Buffett’s net worth.  

Chapter 5 – Getting Wealthy vs. Staying Wealthy 

Financial resilience depends on surviving the bad days to try again in the future. Staying wealthy, therefore, is about making choices that prevent absolute ruin. In this chapter, Housel discusses the mindsets and types of decisions that create resilience. 

Chapter 6 – Tails, You Win 

Successful people often have a past littered with failure. Investing is similar. Therefore, being willing to persist in the face of disaster keeps us in the game for when a once-in-a-thousand-year event brings good rewards. 

Chapter 7 – Freedom 

While many people think of the things that wealth can bring, deep down, what most want is freedom. Rather than focus on the sacrificed things, emphasize the delicious flexibility that comes with financial stability. 

Chapter 8 – Man in the Car Paradox 

The shortest chapter in the book perfectly explains a simple truth that we all need to remember: No one is impressed by your cool stuff as much as you want them to be. 

Chapter 9 – Wealth is What You Don’t See 

Many get confused about what wealth really is. It appears to be luxury cars and nice clothes, but true wealth isn’t easily visible. Wealth is a fully funded emergency fund, robust retirement savings, and sleeping well at night.  

Chapter 10 – Save Money 

This chapter dives into savings: The power of a high savings rate, defining needs and the reasons to save (spoiler alert: there doesn’t have to be a reason). 

Chapter 11 – Reasonable > Rational 

While many want to be a “rational investor,” Housel argues that rationality may not serve us best. Instead, aiming to be reasonable can improve our ability to stay the course.  

Chapter 12 – Surprise! 

You may have heard that “past performance is not indicative of future results,” and that’s what Chapter 12 is about. Innovations and sharp declines will continue to surprise us, as they always have. 

Chapter 13 – Room for Error 

Generous room for error provides more circumstances where our clients can succeed. No one can predict all the ways that life gets complicated, so helping our clients incorporate leeway into their planning provides flexibility and promotes resilience. 

Chapter 14 – You’ll Change 

People change and our financial strategies should reflect that. Aiming for moderation and a willingness to pivot can prevent living a life of frustration. 

Chapter 15 – Nothing’s Free 

Beyond the commissions and fees that we expect, there are additional costs involved in finance, such as volatility and uncertainty. By reframing these as costs of admission rather than fines to be avoided, we can reduce the stress we experience as we pay them. 

Chapter 16 – You & Me 

Clients hear financial advice from many people: TV, coworkers, their relatives. Not all of it is wrong, but not all of it is right for everyone. We must consider who the advice is for and whether their goals and values are in alignment with our own. 

Chapter 17 – The Seduction of Pessimism 

It can be hard to keep a level head when we are constantly hearing that the end is near. This section encourages reframing of these volatile moments so we can remain confident through the uncertainty. 

Chapter 18 – When You’ll Believe Anything 

No one can know everything, so we fill in the gaps to the best of our ability. This can cause issues when we fall for a scam, buy the snake oil, or make poor decisions based on erroneous beliefs. Rather than assume we know it all, we can learn to sit with the discomfort of knowing just how much we don’t know. 

Chapter 19 – All Together Now 

This chapter is a summary of the book’s tips and considerations. Busy readers can start with this chapter to get them thinking, then bounce back to other chapters as time or need allows. 

Chapter 20 – Confessions 

This chapter is delightful vulnerability. Housel confesses his dark secrets such as finding comfort in a paid-off mortgage, despite knowing it is non-optimized. By leaving us with his confession, he gives us permission to manage our money in a way that lets us sleep at night.  

Postscript – A Brief History of Why the U.S. Consumer Thinks the Way They Do 

Housel leaves us with the story of how we got here. Beginning with the end of World War II, the story winds through increases in consumer debt, the creation of the American consumer and the 2008 recession. It ends with the uncertainty in which we still find ourselves: political division, protests, and a deep-seated feeling that “this isn’t working.” While this is a messy place, he leaves us with the hope that economics have always been a story of cycles. 

The Psychology of Money is a beacon for both layperson and professional alike. For our clients, this book provides peace that they don’t have to be perfect to be perfectly fine. For professionals, it provides insights on honoring the human in our clients. Rather than fight against their feelings and fears, it is acceptable to find sustainable methods to build their financial security. With this mindfulness, we can reduce their resistance, prevent causing harm and nurture a healthy relationship with money. 

The post Book Review: Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel appeared first on AFCPE.

Using a sample of 35,108 individuals who completed the online version of Money Habitudes, we found the statements that measure the security habitude had low dependability, the items that measure the status and carefree habitudes had moderate dependability, and the statements that measure spontaneous, giving, and planning had acceptable dependability.  Dependability refers to measuring the same thing consistently.  When considering all 54 statements together, there is strong dependability.   

Regarding the validity of each item, we found 12 of the 54 items to be problematic.  Eleven of these items had what are statistically known as “poor factor loadings”.  This means the item did not make a meaningful statistical contribution to the particular habitude for which it was assigned.  One item that measures the planning habitude had high “residual” correlations with items that measure the status habitude. 

Further, we found the items that measure the security and planning habitudes and the spontaneous and carefree habitudes were measuring essentially the same things. This means there is too much conceptual overlap between the security and planning habitudes and the spontaneous and carefree habitudes and not enough distinction between them. 

Overall, we found Money Habitudes to be a reliable and valid tool.  The shortcomings noted above are simply areas for enhancement for future versions of the tool.  Our findings were used by Money Habitudes to revise the existing tool which was released in June 2025.  Specific to the security habitude, we reconceptualized it to better reflect one’s emotional relationship with money, including statements that focus on financial agency, emotional safety, and adaptive control.  Users familiar with the original statements may find that their results regarding the security habitude are substantially different in the new version.  This is not cause for alarm; rather the security habitude is now its own separate construct and measuring something fundamentally different from planning.  Further, Money Habitudes users should not ascribe values to their scores—receiving a dominant score in security is not a measure of how financially secure one is, regardless of the Money Habitudes version used. 

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Study Highlights: 

• Despite differences in opportunities for FFS by race, ethnicity and age of U.S. military service members, the strength of its relationship with financial capabilities did not differ by demographics. This study suggests that the financial socialization received from one’s family of origin is important for financial capabilities in adulthood regardless of demographic factors like race, ethnicity, or sex. 

Important Implications for Practitioners: 

• Given the importance of early financial conversations in building future financial capability, parents and caregivers should include content specific to future career paths, when possible. 
• ‘Pulse checks’ at the beginning of formal financial education efforts will help financial educators and counselors identify any need for foundational financial content. 
• Military service members must manage typical financial needs and stressors in contexts specific to their profession (e.g., deployments) and also when preparing to return to the civilian world. 

Important concepts and definitions: 

• Family financial socialization: Process of learning about money from parents and caregivers.

Highlights of the sample population: 

• 441 U.S. Air Force personnel were sampled, 

• Nearly 75% of the sample were men and almost half (49.4%) were married, 

• The mean age of participants was 28, ranging from 18 to 51. 

Citation Information: 

O’Neal, K. W., Lucier-Greer, M., Okamoto, R. M. (2025). Family Financial Socialization and Financial Capabilities of the U.S. Military Service Members: Do Demographics Matter? Journal of Financial Counseling and Planning, 36(3), 123-137. 

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Here are the lessons and my observations:

Lesson 1. The cost of Gas. 

Driving across the country was a great learning laboratory for experiencing the varying prices of gas.  When we started our trip from the West Coast, we filled up our tank at $4.97 per gallon (yes, I kept all the receipts to compare).  As we drove through varying states, the price of gas per gallon changed significantly. We made note of the cost at each gas station and even took photos at the pumps to document the prices.  

Observation: Once we started talking about the price of gas per gallon, so did our kids.  They began “calling out” gas prices at gas stations we weren’t even stopping at.  This provided an opportunity to talk about cost-of-living expenses that vary based on where you live.  We also talked about how the money you earn can feel more,  or less, based on the cost of living or where you live.  This conversation helped breakdown and normalized the term “cost of living” in a relevant manner. 

Lesson 2. The cost of Food. 

During this cross-country trip, we set a budget each day for our meals.  We explained to our kids that we selected hotels with complimentary breakfast as a way toto minimize the daily amount of money we needed to spend on meals.  We also told the kids our dinner meal budget which helped them keep an appropriate number in mind when selecting from the menu.  Note: Our dinner meal budget also included an amount set aside to tip our server.  

Observation: Tthe kids valued eating their morning hotel meal and were conscious about ordering conservatively from the menu at dinner.   

Lesson 3. The cost of Entertainment.

We weaved some fun activities into our drive across the country.  You guessed it, each scheduled day of rest/fun had a preplanned budget for the day’s events. When our kids requested souvenirs or anything extra at these places, we provided them with a budget and let them choose how they would spend their money. 

Observation: When we walked into a gift shop, the first question our 7-year-old asked was, “what is my budget?”.? In my mind, the previous conversations had taken root and now shopping from a budget was becoming the norm. 

Lesson 4. Plan to be Generous. 

This topic may seem contrary to someone whothat loves to save money, but please know that generosity brings greater joy (to me) than saving money.  As we traveled, we usually paid our expenses with our card, however I intentionally had cash readily available for the specific purpose of giving to others.  Our girls watched us tip our restaurant servers generously in cash, tip the helpers at the hotels (think housekeepers and bell persons), and give to a little boy selling candy bars as a fund raiser for his basketball team. 

Observation: We talked about how restaurant servers are sometimes paid much lower wages because of anticipated tips.  We also talked about being grateful for the service providers that cleaned our room, being kind, communicating verbal appreciation, and providing monetary tokens of appreciation. The kids commented “the little boy selling candy bars has d been outside of our tourist hotel area all day and hopefully he raised enough money” …win for growing empathy in their hearts.   

Lesson 5. The cost of Laundry. 

As we traveled, we decided to do laundry every few days just to ensure we didn’t have suitcases full of dirty laundry once we arrived at our destination.  We packed laundry pods and dryer sheets so that we didn’t have to pay for those resources.  We ended up doing laundry at 3 hotel locations.  The first two hotels charged $3 per wash load and $3 per dryer load. I told the kids how much laundry costs each time, and they were super helpful in ensuring all their dirty laundry made it into the basket on wash day.   

Observation: When we finally arrived at the hotel where washing and drying machines were free, the kids verbally commented “that’s so much better than paying $6 every time we need to do laundry”.  I heard those words and thought…. They are getting it!   

Putting it into practice. 

You can also have everyday money conversations with the kids, adolescents, teens, and young adults in your life.  My hope is, the more we talk about personal finance topics in a casual manner, the more this topic will be understood and normalized. Please feel free to take lessons from my “Family Personal Financial Literacy Playbook” and help raise the next generation of financially literate, confident and competent adults. 

The post Kids Korner: Let’s Talk About It…. Summer Money Conversations with Kids appeared first on AFCPE.

We are fortunate to have Hunter Field, NEFE’s manager of Policy & Advocacy, serves on the AFCPE Government Relations Task Force, consistently bringing us updates on advocacy efforts related to youth financial education. As of Q3 2025, 29 states now require high school students to take a stand-alone personal finance course before graduation. However, the nationwide effort is still a work in progress, as we’ve seen dramatic differences in how individual states choose to fulfill the statutory requirement. Are we making progress? Yes. Is the lack of standardization concerning? Also, yes. 

In my role as the Financial Education Manager at the University of Michigan Credit Union, it’s fairly common to teach 2 to 3 personal finance classes per week, to students of all ages, all socio-economic backgrounds, and all levels of educational achievements. However, if you asked me what the one constant is to all my presentations – it’s that I never assume that these students come to my sessions having already mastered the “financial basics”. We cover effective budgeting, because many times I’ve had second-year medical students ask me to explain the difference between a fixed expense and a variable expense. We cover credit, because I’ve had graduate level business students ask me to explain what happens if they only make minimum payments on their credit cards. We cover financial fraud because I have experience with sophomore students losing thousands of dollars to fake rental scams or busy students falling victim to a phishing scheme where they unknowingly provided access to their bank account to a scammer. At the School of Engineering, we cover the importance of building an emergency fund because the funds in their volatile Robinhood account will no longer cover a plane ticket home. 

I often share this statement with many of the college students I work with – “There is no opting out of personal finances. We ALL must navigate our way through the system, and the quicker you can develop confidence with the intersection of your financial literacy (knowledge) and your financial capability (decision-making) the better off you’ll be.” 

The importance of investing in our K-12 youth with reliable, time-tested financial education is long overdue. Young adults  in their early 20’s with little to no experience with managing money, building credit, loans, or even investing, are ripe for some serious challenges. Unfortunately, many fall victim to predatory lending, scams, or ridiculous financial advice provided by someone on a TikTok video.  

Let’s stop settling for “slow and steady” progress with this effort because some say change is hard and we’ve done it this way for years. Let’s stop having to constantly defend the importance of embedding personal finance into K-12 schools because some say parents can handle it just fine. Let’s stop worrying that our local teachers might not be “financial gurus or experts” themselves. The goal is progress, not perfection. The time for mandatory financial education across all fifty states with clear national standards for youth is now. 

The post AFCPE Government Relations Task Force Spotlight appeared first on AFCPE.

In this guide, the AFC Government Relations Task Force breaks down the top 7 consumer protection laws every financial counselor should know. Because in a world of rapid political shifts, it’s more important than ever to know which rights remain and how to help clients defend them.

Truth in Lending Act (TILA):

TILA ensures that when people borrow money, they aren’t being misled. It requires lenders to clearly spell out the terms of credit—like the APR, total finance charges, and the full payment schedule. Borrowers also have the right to cancel certain types of loans within three business days without penalty (Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, 2019)

Both the Office of Financial Readiness and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency offer handouts that summarize key points of TILA for financial professionals to share with clients. However, TILA doesn’t cover everything. For instance, business loans and certain student loans (like those over $50,000) are exempt (Truth in Lending, 2009). This can leave graduate students particularly vulnerable. That’s why counselors should always encourage clients to read the fine print and understand the full cost of borrowing before signing anything.

Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA):

Credit reports affect everything from mortgages to job applications, so the accuracy of that information is crucial. The FCRA gives people the right to know what’s in their credit reports and to dispute any errors they find. It also limits who can access this information—for example, an employer needs written permission first (Federal Trade Commission, 2013).

Clients can check their credit for free once a year at AnnualCreditReport.com. And if they’re ever denied credit or a job because of something in their report, the company must let them know why and provide the name of the credit bureau that reported it.

Financial counselors can offer clients a summary of these rights through a handy FTC handout that also explains how to file a complaint if their rights are violated.

Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA):

Let’s set the record straight: debt collectors are not allowed to harass or threaten people. The FDCPA makes it illegal for third-party collectors to use abusive, deceptive, or unfair practices when trying to collect a debt.

Many borrowers already carry a sense of guilt about their debt, which can make them more vulnerable to mistreatment. This guilt may cause them to tolerate behavior they shouldn’t. As counselors, we can help them recognize that no one deserves harassment, no matter their financial situation.

Some common FDCPA violations include contacting people at odd hours, using threatening language, or pretending to be law enforcement. Counselors can use checklists from the Office of Financial Readiness and the Volunteer Lawyers Network to help clients identify and report illegal collection behavior.

Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA):

The ECOA makes it illegal to discriminate against someone applying for credit based on race, color, religion, sex, marital status, age, national origin, or receipt of public assistance. In theory, everyone should be judged based on their financial profile, not their personal identity.

But there are gray areas. For instance, lenders can ask about language preferences on applications—something that could be misused. Similarly, while creditors may inquire about financial obligations related to child dependents, they are not allowed to ask about a client’s intention to have children, their ability to bear children, or their use of birth control. (“V. Lending -Equal Credit Opportunity Act V-7.1 Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA),” n.d.).

Counselors should advise clients to document any experiences that feel discriminatory. The FDIC offers detailed guidance on what’s allowed and what’s not under ECOA—a must-read for anyone working with underserved or vulnerable communities.

Credit CARD Act of 2009:

This law was a game-changer for credit card users. It limits when and how issuers can raise interest rates and requires that billing statements be easy to understand.

For new cardholders, issuers can’t hike up interest rates during the first year, unless the card has a variable rate, a promo rate expires, or the cardholder is more than 60 days late on a payment. These rules apply to existing balances too (Consumer Action Fact Sheet, n.d.).

Young adults under 21 face extra hurdles. They need proof of income or a co-signer who’s 21 or older. It’s critical both the applicant and co-signer understand how credit behavior affects them both. Counselors can use educational tools from Consumer-Action.org to help young clients build responsible credit habits.

Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA):

The Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA) protects consumers when they conduct electronic transfers of funds, such as ATM withdrawals, debit card payments, and online banking transactions. Any transfer initiated through an electronic terminal, telephone, computer, or magnetic tape falls under this protection. This includes person-to-person (P2P) payments made through platforms like Venmo or PayPal (Electronic Fund Transfers FAQs | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 2025).

 If something goes wrong—like a fraudulent charge or an unauthorized withdrawal—banks are required to investigate, not pass the buck to the merchant or app (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 2025). But there are deadlines. If a client reports an issue within two business days, their liability is capped at $50. Wait longer than that, and it could be up to $500. After 60 days, the client could be responsible for the full amount (1005.6 Liability of Consumer for Unauthorized Transfers, n.d.).

Regular account monitoring and prompt reporting are key. Make sure clients know how to spot suspicious activity and what steps to take if they find it.

Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA):

RESPA is all about transparency in real estate deals. It requires lenders to clearly outline costs like title insurance, escrow fees, and closing costs. No more mystery fees at the signing table.

RESPA also bans “kickbacks,” where one professional (like a mortgage broker) pays another (like a real estate agent) for referrals. This helps keep client interests front and center (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 2024).

When clients ask for referrals—which they often do—encourage them to ask smart questions: “Do you receive compensation for referring me?” or “Are you affiliated with any financial institutions?” These questions can help them spot conflicts of interest before they sign on the dotted line.

References:

AnnualCreditReport.com. (2019). Home page. https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action

Consumer Action. (n.d.). Consumer Action fact sheet. https://www.consumer-action.org/downloads/alerts/CC_law.pdf

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (2024, March 15). Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act FAQs. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/compliance/compliance-resources/mortgage-resources/real-estate-settlement-procedures-act/real-estate-settlement-procedures-act-faqs/#respa-section-8-general

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (2024, December 12). CFPB closes overdraft loophole to save Americans billions in fees. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-closes-overdraft-loophole-to-save-americans-billions-in-fees/

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (2025, January 15). Electronic fund transfers FAQs. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/compliance/compliance-resources/deposit-accounts-resources/electronic-fund-transfers/electronic-fund-transfers-faqs/

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (2025, April 25). Providing equal credit opportunities (ECOA). https://www.consumerfinance.gov/compliance/compliance-resources/other-applicable-requirements/equal-credit-opportunity-act/

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (n.d.). 1005.6 Liability of consumer for unauthorized transfers. https://www.consumerfinance.gov/rules-policy/regulations/1005/6/

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. (n.d.). V. Lending – Equal Credit Opportunity Act V-7.1. https://www.fdic.gov/resources/supervision-and-examinations/consumer-compliance-examination-manual/documents/5/v-7-1.pdf

Federal Trade Commission. (2013, July 19). Fair Credit Reporting Act. https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/statutes/fair-credit-reporting-act

Federal Trade Commission. (n.d.). A summary of your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/sites/default/files/articles/pdf/pdf-0096-fair-credit-reporting-act.pdf

Office of Financial Readiness. (n.d.). Fair Debt Collection Practices Act: Consumer protection for borrowing money overview – What does the FDCPA do? https://finred.usalearning.gov/assets/downloads/FINRED-FDCPA-FS.pdf

Office of Financial Readiness. (n.d.). Truth in Lending Act: Consumer protection for borrowing money overview – What does the TILA do? https://finred.usalearning.gov/assets/downloads/FINRED-TruthLendingAct-FS.pdf

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. (2019). Truth in lending | OCC. https://www.occ.treas.gov/topics/consumers-and-communities/consumer-protection/truth-in-lending/index-truth-in-lending.html

Truth in Lending. (2009, August 14). Federal Register. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2009/08/14/E9-18548/truth-in-lending

The post The Top 7 Consumer Protection Laws All AFCs Should Know appeared first on AFCPE.

During the morning session, two presenters spoke to us about the art of storytelling. Key takeaways (and a Franklin D. Roosevelt quote): “be sincere, be brief, be seated.”  I’ll also add, it’s okay to be vulnerable. 

Later that day, the lessons they shared came full circle, when long-time AFCPE partner and friend, Dr. Billy J. Hensley, received the William E. Odem Visionary Leadership Award. In Billy’s acceptance speech, he shared the story of his mother, and his upbringing in a way that was not only deeply personal, but that also helped underscore the critical importance of our field and the agency that it brings to millions of people. 

It reminded everyone in that room about the power of their work, the meaning it holds for each one of us, and the impact we are making in the lives of individuals and families every day. 

The tagline on the homepage of AFCPE’s website is:  

“If you are passionate about helping people with their money to improve their lives, then you are in the right place.”  

This passion is a common bond in the work that we do. What brought you to this career path? What inspires you to be a financial counselor, coach, educator, researcher, planner…? Why do you do this work?  

Was it a person?  

Was it an experience?  

Was it a lesson that you learned?

From a young age, my parents taught us the importance of building and supporting our community. Every holiday we would “adopt” a family and deliver food and toys to ensure that their holiday was as magical as ours. Most years, it was only adults that met our arrival, but when I was 7 or 8, we were greeted by a young girl about my age. Our eyes met in familiarity, and we smiled sheepishly at one another, not knowing what to say. Gracie was someone I played with at recess every day. We didn’t say much that day, and we never talked about that moment, but it was the first time that I realized that financial struggles could affect anyone. That encounter made it feel personal.

I was fortunate to be raised by a mom who uncharacteristically managed our family finances and by a dad who was the first person in his family to go to college and later medical school. My grandpa – who became a farmer at the age of 9 when his dad passed away – read the Wall Street Journal every day and spent hours talking to us about investing. They believed in saving for the future, but just as importantly, they gave generously of their time, talent, and resources.

This Financial Literacy Month, I encourage you to share the story that led you to this field or inspires you to do this work. Tell it to a friend, to a colleague, to a client. Put it in the comments below. Share it on social media and tag @AFCPE so we can help amplify. 

When we share our stories, we build bridges, we break down barriers, we begin to understand, empathize, and relate. Through our stories we elevate the importance of financial literacy and empowerment – not just for us, but for all people. 

Rachael DeLeon, Executive Director

AFCPE 

Thank you to the Jump$tart Coalition for planting this seed of storytelling. If you are looking for resources for K-12 Education, be sure to check out the Jump$tart Clearinghouse. 

Happening in the AFCPE Community: 

• In honor of Financial Literacy Month, all Essentials courses are 15% off when you use cod: FinLitEssentials. Add a new tool to your toolbox: 

• Money Management Essentials – 10 AFC® CEUs and 8.5 CFP® CEs  

• Financial Inclusion Essentials – 10 AFC® CEUs and 5 CFP® CEs 

• College Finance Essentials – 8 AFC® CEUs and 2 CFP® CEs 

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Essentials – 12 AFC® CEUs and 2.5 CFP® CEs 

• AFCPE Symposium Invitation to Present is open through May 9  

• Think about how you might weave storytelling into your presentation. 

• The Money Mindset Blog just launched on FindanAFC.org. Geared toward everyday individuals and families, the articles are all contributed by AFC® professionals,  offering you an opportunity to share your wisdom while raising awareness for your practice. Interested in contributing? Contact AFCPE Communications.  

• Upcoming Events: Check out the AFCPE Calendar for great networking and professional development opportunities.  

• Best Deal: Join AFCPE Membership to get access to this content live and on demand all year round.  

• Tune into AFCPE’s Podcast, Real Money, Real Experts every other Tuesday where we interview leading financial professionals – sharing their stories, their challenges, and their advice for helping people manage money in the real world. Give us a follow and leave us a rating and review – it helps others discover the podcast! 

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