The following resources (see the document and tabs with linked resources below) are offered as a self-service starting point for some of the most common financial wellness topics mentioned in the UW Odyssey Project intake forms. Talking about finances can be stressful – thus I am happy to chat in person, on the phone, or via e-mail about any specific needs or goals you may have.
General Thoughts: When finances are involved I tend to suggest you start with the business relationships you have now – your bank, your credit union, your insurance agent. They already have a relationship with you, so make an appointment and talk to them about starting a business, buying a car, or creating a workable budget. Many times they can guide you and give referrals if wanted. Always comparison shop loans and interest rates.
Regards,
Jeff Pfund
Assoc. Director Office of Student Financial Aid
333 East Campus Mall #9701 Madison WI 53715
Phone: 608 263 7100 / Fax: 608 262 5727 / E-mail: sls2@em.wisc.edu
Financial resources overview
View the Financial Wellness resources document
This document contains various financial resources in the Madison area.
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UW Odyssey Community Resources
Community Resources the UW Odyssey Project team put together
Click here for the Resource List from the UW Odyssey Project
Understanding Finances and Money
Ever wonder what a stock is ? Curious to what type of jobs most millionaires have ? Want to get control of your debt or choose who should get paid first ?
The Wall Street Journal Guide to Understanding Money and Investing by Kenneth M. Morris
Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy by Stanley & Danko
Surviving Debt; Expert Advice for Getting Out of Financial Trouble by National Consumer Law Center
Money advice and reviews of credit cards, loans, and insurance
Understanding Debt and How to Manage It
Bills got you down ? Wish you could better understand how to get out of debt ? Is your credit card taking you to court ?
Surviving Debt; Expert Advice for Getting Out of Financial Trouble by National Consumer Law Center
*Some chapters may be available for free online
Financial Calculators
Curious on how much a car loan will cost ? Free financial calculators for savings, car loans, car leases, loans, credit cards, home loans, and more
Auto refinance, leasing, retirement, and more
Cars, homes, savings, and more
Spending Plans & Budget
Looking for advice on how to set up a spending plan or budget?
General budgets, Spending/budgets
UW-Madison Money Matters, Division of of Extension
Credit Bureau Reports
Your credit score can impact your car insurance, if you get a job or housing. JP suggests you review your score once a year on your birthday – it is free !
Get your free report here – the only authorized source
Resources for a small business
Curious on how to start a business ? Looking for a mentor to help with your business ? Need financing to grow your business ?
Small Business Administration (national) and finding a local office
Housing Resources
Need help finding housing ? Curious on if you can get free or reduced internet ? Trouble with your landlord ?
Assistance
Housing Programs via Dane County Housing Authority
Utilities / Internet assistance
Tenant resource center
Homeless & Housing Resources
Financial Aid for College & Shopping for Post-Secondary Education
Looking for resources to qualify for financial aid or how to compare schools ?
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
General financial aid and school resources
Comparison shop schools and expected aid offers
How to choose and apply for school:
https://studentaid.gov/resources/prepare-for-college/students/choosing-schools
https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
Student loans & consolidations/refinanced
Curious who has your student loans ? Interested in forgiveness options ?
General resources for Federal loans
Consolidation of Federal Student loans
Public Student Loan Forgiveness
Want to find out who has your federal loans
Private loans – see credit reports
General loan repayment advice
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